Are you ready to explore the vibrant festivals in Longford this autumn? This charming Irish county has a fantastic lineup of events for 2025. From music and culture to food and craft fairs, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the latest festivals that promise to make memories to last a lifetime.
Key Takeaways
- Longford Lights Festival 2025 returns from 23-25 February, promising an even bigger event than last year’s 11,000-strong attendance
- Twenty-three artists contributed interactive installations with the involvement of forty-three schools and community groups
- Festivals in Longford this autumn 2025 offer a diverse range of cultural, musical, and family-friendly events
- Community support and partnerships are essential, with funding from organisations like Creative Ireland and Longford County Council
- Attendees can expect a fantastic atmosphere and an opportunity to experience Irish traditions and talent
Introduction
Longford County, in the heart of Ireland, is a hidden gem. It comes alive with vibrant festivals and events in autumn. The Longford Lights Festival, Irish traditions, and music and arts scene are highlights. This charming place has something for everyone in 2025.
Longford’s festivals show off the county’s rich culture and friendly people. Visitors can dive into the enchanting atmosphere. They can explore historic landmarks, taste local cuisine, and check out unique crafts.
Exploring Longford’s Vibrant Festivals
If you love music, art, literature, or just want a memorable cultural trip, Longford has festivals for you. The Oliver Goldsmith Festival honours the famous Irish writer. The Winter Walking Festival lets you see the county’s beautiful landscapes.
“Longford’s festivals are a true reflection of the county’s rich cultural heritage and the warmth of its people.”
When planning your autumn 2025 visit to Longford, don’t miss the Longford Lights Festival. The town turns into a magical light show with performances. It’s a feast for the senses, showing Longford’s creativity.
Explore Longford’s hidden spots and dive into its cultural scene. Enjoy the music, arts, traditions, and outdoor activities. This Irish destination promises a memorable autumn trip.
Longford Lights Festival
The Longford Lights Festival is Ireland’s biggest arts lights festival, run by the community. It has thousands of lights across twenty-eight art installations. Artistic Director Caroline Conway leads the festival, promising more performances and interactive fun this year. This includes acts from the famous Spanish troupe Cal y Canto Teatro.
Visitors will embark on a light-filled journey through Connolly Barracks. Expect to see samba drummers, fire dancers, and huge video projections. The festival runs from February 23 to 25, from 6pm to 9pm each night. It’s set to draw in more people than the 11,000 who came last year.
Illuminated Installations and Performances
The festival 2025 will showcase twenty-eight art installations with interactive parts. These were made by twenty-three artists, working with forty-three schools and groups. It’s a sensory-friendly event, with options for those needing disabled parking.
The festival is run by Longford County Council’s Arts Office and Mide Arts Group. It’s backed by the Arts Council, Creative Ireland, and Longford Tourism. Make sure to dress for the February weather and wear comfy shoes. The festival is mainly outdoors, so bring waterproofs.
| Festival Highlights | Key Statistics |
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The Longford Lights Festival is set to be an unforgettable event. With its stunning light installations and lively performances, it’s a must-see for locals and visitors alike.
Festivals in Longford autumn 2025
Longford County is buzzing with festivals and events in autumn. There’s something for everyone, from the Longford Lights Festival to music and arts festivals. You’ll find food and craft fairs and family-friendly activities too.
The Longford Lights Festival is a big highlight, lighting up the county in autumn 2025. Last year, it drew in over 11,000 people. This year, with 23 artists and 43 groups joining, it’s expected to be even bigger.
There’s more than just the Longford Lights Festival. The county is full of cultural events, music festivals, and food fairs. You can dive into Irish traditions, enjoy live shows, try local food, and see handmade crafts.
If you’re looking for a visual feast, cultural experience, or arts celebration, Longford has it all in autumn 2025. Plan your visit to this lively Irish spot and join in the autumn festivities.
“The Longford Lights Festival is a true testament to the county’s commitment to arts and culture. We’re thrilled to see the event grow in popularity and engagement with the local community.”
– Longford County Council Chief Executive
Cultural Celebrations
Longford’s autumn is full of cultural festivals that show off Ireland’s rich heritage and traditions. Come join us and dive into the local culture at these events. They celebrate Irish customs, music, and stories. You’ll enjoy interactive shows, traditional tunes, and community events that highlight Longford’s unique spirit.
Experiencing Irish Traditions
At Longford’s heritage celebrations, you’ll feel the pulse of Irish culture. You’ll see traditional music, dance, and storytelling. There are skilled artisans, local food, and history to explore. It’s a chance to see how this lively region has been shaped.
- Attend lively céilís and learn the steps to classic Irish dances.
- Immerse yourself in the rhythmic melodies of traditional Irish music, performed by talented local musicians.
- Explore interactive exhibits that delve into the customs and folklore that have been passed down through generations.
- Participate in hands-on workshops and discover the art of Irish craftsmanship, from weaving to pottery making.
These cultural festivals in Longford give you a peek into Irish traditions and heritage celebrations. They invite you to really feel the soul of this amazing county.
“Attending these festivals has been a truly transformative experience, allowing me to forge a deep connection with the cultural identity of Longford. The sense of community and the passion for preserving traditions is truly inspiring.”
Music and Arts Festivals
Longford’s autumn season is a vibrant celebration of music and arts. It offers live performances and thought-provoking exhibitions. There’s something for every cultural enthusiast. Get ready to be captivated by the creativity at these events.
In July 2025, Longford will host many festivals. You’ll find traditional Irish music, jazz, classical, electronic, and blues. Festivals in cities like Lisbon, Berlin, Chicago, and Budapest will also be part of the lineup. This shows a mix of cultural influences.
Some festivals focus on specific instruments or styles. For example, the International Festival for Irish Harp and the Irish Composition Summer School. Others cover a wide range of arts and culture, including literature, visual arts, and theatre.
| Festival | Location | Date | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Granard Booktown Festival | Longford | April 2025 | Celebration of literature and the written word |
| Festival of Gardens & Nature | Laois | April 20 – 21, 2025 | Outdoor art installations and nature-inspired exhibits |
| K-FEST Arts and Music Festival | Killorglin, Kerry | May 31 – June 3, 2025 | Diverse lineup of music, visual arts, and cultural performances |
The festival season continues into August and September. Places like County Mayo, Galway, and Cork host many events. These areas are key cultural spots.
There are also educational events like music schools and masterclasses. These show a focus on nurturing talent. The festival calendar includes both long-standing events and new ones, enriching Longford’s music and arts scene.
Food and Craft Festivals
Food lovers and craft fans, get excited for Longford’s autumn festivals! The county is hosting a range of food festivals and craft fairs. These events will treat your senses and celebrate Longford’s cultural heritage.
Longford’s food festivals are at the heart of the local culinary scene. You can enjoy the best local produce and taste traditional Irish flavours. From rich stews and rustic breads to sweet treats and artisan cheeses, these festivals offer a true taste of Longford.
For craft lovers, the Longford craft fairs are a must-see. You’ll find skilled artisans selling their handmade items. From textiles and pottery to metalwork and wooden sculptures, these events let you dive into Longford’s artistic community. You’ll find unique artisan products you won’t find anywhere else.
| Event | Date | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Longford Food Festival | September 2025 | Locally-sourced produce, traditional Irish cuisine, culinary demonstrations, and food-themed activities. |
| Longford Craft Fair | October 2025 | Handmade textiles, pottery, metalwork, wood carvings, and other artisan products, plus live music and demonstrations. |
Whether you love food or crafts, Longford’s autumn festivals are unforgettable. They celebrate the county’s vibrant culture. Dive into the sights, sounds, and flavours of Longford and experience the heart of the community.
Family-Friendly Festivities
Fun for All Ages
Longford’s autumn festivals are perfect for the whole family. They offer a mix of activities and entertainment for everyone. You can enjoy interactive light shows and performances together, making memories that last.
Center Parcs Longford Forest is a great place for families in autumn. It has over 100 indoor and outdoor activities. The resort is set in 400 acres of forest and has a warm swimming area all year.
There are activities for all ages, like Willow Workshop for kids over 8, Archery for 10-year-olds, and Roller Skating for 6-year-olds and up. This means there’s something fun for everyone in your family.
As autumn comes, Longford gets into the Halloween spirit with fun activities. Kids can make broomsticks, carve pumpkins, and decorate lodges. There’s also the Wizard Academy for spell-learning and crafts, sparking imagination.
Looking for a weekend or a longer break? Longford has many places to stay. You can choose from cosy lodges to big retreats, making your stay unforgettable.
“The 2025 Longford Lights festival was a hit, drawing thousands. It was so popular, McDonalds ran out of food. This shows how much families enjoyed it.”
At night, enjoy autumn feasts and dining at local restaurants. The beautiful autumn colours make your time in Longford Forest magical.
Whether you want a short weekend or a longer break, Longford has many places to stay. Choose from cosy lodges to big retreats for a memorable family holiday.
Outdoor Adventures
Longford’s autumn festivals are more than just cultural events. They let us dive into the great outdoors. We can enjoy adventure events and activities in nature. From thrilling hikes to peaceful walks, there’s something for everyone who loves the outdoors.
The Ontario Slipstream 2025 is a must-visit event for outdoor lovers. It’s a three-day festival happening from September 27 to September 29, 2025. You can sign up by September 13, 2025, and pay CAD$450. But, if you pay early, it’s CAD$425.
This festival offers many outdoor activities. You can try archery, kayaking, and even forest bathing. There’s also high ropes courses, climbing walls, and stand-up paddleboarding. Plus, axe and stone throwing are on the list too.
If you prefer a calmer outdoor experience, check out the Kenmare Hillwalking Club’s Autumn Gathering. It’s in Sneem, Co. Kerry, and costs €50. This includes talks, activities, workshops, dinner, and transport if needed. It’s perfect for nature lovers of all levels.
For mountain biking fans, the Nire Valley Drop MTB challenge in Ballymacarbry is a great choice. It’s a 45km race every October Bank Holiday. The ‘Run The Line’ race in Glencullen offers two courses: 26km and 13km. It’s ideal for runners who love a scenic route.
These are just a few of the outdoor events in Longford and nearby for autumn 2025. Whether you want excitement or peace, there’s something for you. Get ready for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Community Celebrations
Longford’s autumn festival season is filled with community-driven celebrations. These events bring people together, showing off the county’s culture. They make everyone feel part of something special. Come join us to see the community spirit that makes Longford unique.
The Longford Lights Festival shows how much the community loves to celebrate. Last year, it drew almost 11,000 people. This year, it’s even bigger, with 23 artists, 28 art installations, and 43 groups involved.
There are over 1,000 lanterns, made by locals and schools. The festival is open from 6 pm to 9 pm, from February 23 to 25.
Longford also has many local festivals and community events. The Longford County Council Arts Project Awards 2025 help fund these events. They offer up to £5,000 for projects, with a minimum of £1,000. The deadline to apply is March 1, and a team of two assessors will review the applications.
The St. Patrick’s Day parade is a big event in Longford, happening on March 17, 2025. The parade will go through several streets, with lots of music and a special area for people with disabilities.
| Event | Details |
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| Longford Lights Festival |
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| Longford County Council Arts Project Awards 2025 |
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| Longford St. Patrick’s Day Parade |
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Don’t miss these community events in Longford. They’re a great way to dive into the local culture and feel the county’s spirit.
Historical and Literary Events
Longford’s autumn is filled with events that explore its history and literary past. You can enjoy historical re-enactments, talks, and literary celebrations. These events let you dive deep into Longford’s cultural history.
Exploring Longford’s Past
Discover the stories and figures that shaped Longford’s history. Historical festivals bring history to life with interactive displays and costumed performances. You can also learn about Longford’s literary tradition through readings and discussions with famous authors.
The Granard Booktown Festival is a key literary event in Ireland. It’s inspired by the global Booktown movement. The festival offers talks, workshops, and readings by famous writers like Sinéad Gleeson and Richard Flanagan. It celebrates Longford’s culture and literary impact.
“The Granard Booktown Festival is more than a local event – it’s an international gathering that attracts speakers and attendees from around the world,” shares the festival organiser.
Renowned poet Noel Monahan will be the festival’s artist in residence in 2025. He will perform powerful verses, including those in Irish. The festival planning starts soon after the previous year’s event, showing its importance.
Longford’s autumn also features other literary events, like the Strokestown International Poetry Festival. These events highlight Longford’s literary heritage. They invite visitors to explore the county’s stories and influential figures.
Accommodation and Travel Tips
Are you planning to visit Longford for the autumn festival season? We have all the key info you need for a smooth visit. Our guide covers where to stay and how to get around, helping you enjoy Longford to the fullest.
Accommodation in Longford
Longford has many places to stay, from cosy B&Bs to historic hotels. You’ll find the ideal spot to relax. Most places are in the town centre, close to the festivals.
For something special, try a heritage accommodation. These places show off Longford’s history and have stunning architecture. Or, if you prefer modern comforts, there are new hotels and guesthouses too.
Getting to and Around Longford
Getting to Longford is easy, thanks to good transport links. It’s just a short drive from Launceston, perfect for a day trip or weekend break. Bus Eireann offers regular services from Dublin, Cork, and Waterford, dropping you at the festival site.
Once you’re in Longford, getting around is simple. Most festival spots are within walking distance. Or, cycle at the Longford Velodrome for a fun, green way to move around.
First-time visitors or returning guests, our tips will make your stay in Longford great. Dive into the culture, see the beauty, and enjoy the festivals fully.
Conclusion
Longford’s autumn festival season is a special time to visit this Irish county. It offers mesmerising events like the Longford Lights Festival and diverse cultural celebrations. There’s music, arts, food, and craft fairs, and activities for families too. Immerse yourself in Longford’s rich heritage and vibrant community spirit.
Start planning your autumn adventure in Longford today! Whether you’re into the enchanting lights and performances or Irish traditions, Longford has something for you. Enjoy the local food and crafts, and explore the outdoor adventures and community events.
Longford’s autumn events show its deep cultural roots and aim to give visitors unforgettable experiences. There are historical and literary events and activities for all ages. Plan your visit now and dive into the magic of Longford’s autumn festivals.
