Ballina, Co. Mayo – From 3 to 12 October 2025, Ballina will once again be home to Ballina Fringe Festival – a celebration of arts, music, storytelling and creative expression happening right here in our region.
The festival starts with a raucous explosion of energy with The Dirty Circus’ first visit to Ballina – this burlesque cabaret entertainment show is a sell out all over Ireland. Happening at The Cot & Cobble on October 3rd, there’s no better way to get the weekend started.
On 8th October, Mayo IPSC presents “Spoonfed: How Irish Media Justifies the Genocide” at the Kennedy Glasgow House, The Quay. Speakers: Abubaker Abed, Eman Mohammed, Tony Groves, Audrey Kissane. More info: https://ballinafringefestival.ie/event/spoonfed-how-irish-media-justifies-genocide/
This year’s live music includes renowned Irish singer-songwriter Gemma Hayes, who performs a special solo show in St Michael’s Church on 10 October, promising an intimate, unforgettable night in a stunning space.
A festival favourite from last year, Ballina Global Kitchen returns on 12 October at St Dymphna’s School. Expect food, music and the sense of community that nourishes us all.
But that’s by no means everything. Ballina Fringe 2025 is also bringing film (including a smartphone short film festival), spoken word, workshops and other events that span visual and performing arts, word, community, and sustainability.
Ballina Fringe Festival is built by and for the people of North Mayo, drawing visitors to our community to share, engage and enjoy all it has to offer. If arts and ideas matter to you, or you just want to enjoy great music and food close to home, this is for you!
Tickets are now on sale for all events here: Ballina Fringe Festival Tickets and we encourage people to book early, as shows are expected to sell quickly.
The festival is supported by the Ice House, the Arts Council of Ireland, Failte Ireland and Mayo County Council and made possible by the huge commitment of local volunteers, venues and the wider Ballina community.
