Annual traditional Irish music festival in Ballymote honoring fiddler Paddy Killoran. It features concerts, pub sessions, workshops, and a commemorative mass for local musicians 1. Key events include the Paddy Killoran Commemorative Concert and 'Festival Mass' (Aifreann na Féile) for Patrick Killoran and deceased musicians, highlighting Sligo’s musical heritage.
Paddy Killoran (born 1903 in Sligo) was an influential Irish fiddler who emigrated to New York. The festival, organized by the local Comhaltas branch, celebrates the Sligo fiddle tradition he helped shape along with Coleman and Killoran’s diaspora legacy.
Venues and routes
Coach House Hotel · Ballymote
The dates that shape the visit.
Opening day · Thu, Sep 10
Concert with guest musicians kicks off the festival on Friday evening
Free admission; arrive early for good seating
Day 2 · Fri, Sep 11
Interactive workshop led by Mary Bergin in the Pastoral Centre (admission €10)
Bring your whistle if you have one; tickets on site (€10).
Final day · Sat, Sep 12
Ceremony at Paddy Killoran monument followed by musical bus tour
Gather at the monument by 12:45; tour requires €15 ticket (on site).
Reference notes for once this becomes a real plan.
Practical notes refreshed Apr 3.
Typical price: €0 - €15
Moderate crowds · Lively energy
Moderate crowds; busiest near main events
Small-town event in a safe region; well-organized and calm.
Variable weather (cool, occasional rain in Sept) · Events go ahead in light rain
Daily budget: €50-80, Mid: €100-150, Comfort: €200+ · Drinks: €3-5
Buy meals in town pubs or markets, share transport, stay in nearby towns.
From center: About 30 minutes by train or bus from Sligo city center · Main venues (hotel, hall) accessible
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