Hugely popular Streetfest returns to Carlow for a weekend of free and fun festivities

Streetfest will take over Tullow Street at the end of April and transform it into a hub of music, colour and celebration as the Pan Celtic festival brings about a burst of energy and culture into Carlow. 

The festival kicks off on Tuesday, 22 April this year and concludes on Saturday, 26 April. The Streetfest event will then wrap up the festivities with an exciting two-days filled with family-friendly free activities from Friday, 25 April to Saturday, 26 April. 

This event promises street entertainment, local talent, and plenty of community spirit. Last year's Streetfest was a major success and this year looks set to be even better. 

The celebrations start on Friday with face painting and balloon modelling from 12pm to 4pm for the little ones. Then from 2pm, the spectacular Pan Celtic Festival Parade will take place which will be a stunning procession of colour showcasing the music, dance, and traditional dress of the Celtic nations. 

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The fun starts early again on Saturday with more free face painting and balloon modelling for kids at 11am until 4pm. Then the Pan Celtic Busking Competition will start at 12pm which is sure to be a big hit. The Juggler Brendan Show will also be performing at 12pm and again at 3.30pm, the perfect street theatre for all ages. 

As well as this, there'll be bouncing castles from 12pm until 4pm for kids - again, all completely free. 

The festival has been praised for driving people towards Carlow and for highlighting what the county has to offer. According to Kieran Comerford, Head of Economic Development and Enterprise at the Local Enterprise Office: "Events like the Pan Celtic Festival, Carlow Arts Festival, Borris Festival of Writing and Ideas, and Carlow Garden Festival are vital to the year-round vibrancy of our county.

"They showcase our creativity, attract visitors, and create important commercial opportunities for local businesses. These festivals highlight what makes Carlow special – a place where culture, enterprise, and community thrive together."

Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, Cllr. Fergal Browne, also added: "Culture plays a vital role in the life of a town. Festivals like the Pan Celtic and community-focused events such as Streetfest give us a chance to celebrate who we are, share our stories, and create opportunities for people of all ages to come together in a spirit of joy and unity. These events aren’t just fun – they are essential to building vibrant, connected communities.

"Streetfest and the Pan Celtic Festival bring a fantastic buzz to Carlow town centre. It’s a brilliant opportunity for residents and visitors alike to support local businesses. When we choose to shop local, we help strengthen our economy and sustain the vibrancy of our town – and festivals like this are the perfect time to do just that."