O'Carolan Harp Festival and Summer School 28th July -4th August

August 09, 2025

O'Carolan Harp Festival and Summer School Concludes with Resounding Success, Dominating Social Media with Record Engagement

KEADUE, CO. ROSCOMMON – The annual O’Carolan Harp Festival and Summer School, held in the picturesque village of Keadue, has concluded its most successful year yet, celebrating the life and musical legacy of Turlough O'Carolan. The festival, which took place from July 28th to August 4th, 2025, not only drew musicians and enthusiasts from around the globe but also achieved unprecedented levels of engagement online, solidifying its status as a major cultural event.

According to a review of the event's social media channels, including its official Facebook page, the festival’s online presence has experienced explosive growth. In the last 28 days alone, the event's online content has recorded over 457,134 views, a testament to the powerful resonance of its music and mission. This remarkable digital success highlights the festival’s ability to connect with a broad, international audience and share the rich traditions of Irish music and harping.

The 2025 Summer School proved to be a major draw, offering an extensive range of workshops and masterclasses for all ages and skill levels. Participants immersed themselves in traditional music and dance, with classes in harp, tin whistle, fiddle, flute, button accordion, banjo, and the uniquely Irish Sean-Nós dancing. The festival's commitment to education was further underscored by its certified Set Dancing course, approved for primary school teachers, providing a valuable resource for preserving cultural heritage.

Beyond the summer school, the festival's programme was packed with acclaimed performances and competitions. Highlights included the international harp competitions, a concert with the legendary Seán Keane, and the popular "Harps Together" recital, which showcased a mix of renowned harpers and local talent. The festival's vibrant atmosphere was also maintained with daily music sessions, céilithe, and a community parade.

As one of the longest-running and most respected traditional music festivals in Ireland, the O'Carolan Harp Festival continues to be a beacon for harpers and music lovers worldwide. Its recent digital success demonstrates a powerful new avenue for sharing the magic of Turlough O'Carolan's timeless compositions and ensures the festival’s legacy will continue to grow for years to come.

For more information, please visit www.ocarolanharpfestival.ie.

O'Carolan Festival Harp Recital 122 O'Carolan Festival Harp Competitions and Tour