Liverpool Irish Festival
Running under the 2026 theme "I Am Here", the ten-day festival celebrates the deep cultural ties between Liverpool and Ireland through theatre, traditional music, contemporary dance and heritage walks.
Running under the 2026 theme "I Am Here", the ten-day festival celebrates the deep cultural ties between Liverpool and Ireland through theatre, traditional music, contemporary dance and heritage walks.
Overview & what to expect
The Liverpool Irish Festival is one of the most culturally significant autumn events in the city, exploring Liverpool's deep historical roots as the most Irish city outside Ireland. Over ten days, the festival presents dozens of events spanning contemporary drama, traditional céilís, visual arts exhibitions, literature discussions, and guided walking tours.
The 2026 festival adopts the theme "I Am Here", spotlighting personal identity, female heritage, community resilience, and modern Anglo-Irish creativity. Major partners include the Unity Theatre, the Liverpool Irish Centre, the Philharmonic Hall, and National Museums Liverpool.
A highlight of the theatrical programme is The Life and Times of Paddy Armstrong, a compelling one-man stage adaptation starring Don Wycherley, staged at the Unity Theatre on the closing weekend.
Key festival strands
Venue essentials & visiting advice
Age requirements
Family-friendly festival overall; specific theatre shows carry individual age recommendations.
Entry & admission
Events take place across multiple independent venues; check individual venue ticketing policies.