Howth Roots & Blues Festival
The internationally celebrated Howth Roots and Blues Festival returns from 7–9 August 2026. It brings three days of live music, atmosphere, and coastal scenery to one of Ireland’s most iconic seaside locations.
Across the weekend, audiences can enjoy 40 free live performances. These take place across pubs and venues throughout Howth. In addition, several headline ticketed shows will run at the historic Abbey Tavern and the Summit Inn.
Since its launch in 2019, the festival has grown steadily. As a result, it is now recognised on both the Irish and international festival circuit. It features roots, blues, country, bluegrass, Americana, and blues-rock.
This year’s programme features a strong lineup of artists. For example, Hothouse Flowers will perform an acoustic headline set. Likewise, Cork blues-rock trio Crow Black Chicken will take to the stage. In addition, The Rob Strong Band will deliver a blues and soul performance. Meanwhile, rising Americana artist Zoé Basha brings a fresh international sound to the programme.
For the second year running, the Summit Inn hosts two “mini festival” events. Firstly, The Guitar Legends Triple Bill features Mik Pyro with Dublin Blues Cartel. It also includes US guitarist Silas Caldwell and his band, as well as Paul Sherry and his group. Secondly, the Women in Blues Triple Bill brings together Niamh Strong, Elise Frank, and Mary Stokes and her band. Together, these showcases add both variety and energy to the weekend programme.
Festival Director Paul Byrne describes the event as a celebration of music, community, and place. Moreover, performances unfold against the backdrop of Howth’s harbour and coastline. In addition, visitors are encouraged to explore the free gig trail. As they do, they can enjoy live music across the village in a relaxed festival setting.
Overall, the festival spans seven key venues. These include The Abbey Tavern, The Summit Inn, The East Pier Stage at O’Connells, McNeills, The Bloody Stream, The Harbour Bar, and Wrights–Findlater.
For more festival information >>
Howth Roots & Blues Festival
Howth,
Co. Dublin
