Blackstairs Blues Festival Upcoming Blues Concerts, Festivals & Events in Ireland

The Blackstairs Blues Festival returns to Enniscorthy, County Wexford, for a full weekend of live music from Friday 11th to Sunday 13th September 2026.

First established in 1995, the event holds a legendary place on the Irish music calendar as Ireland's longest continuously running blues festival. What started as a modest gathering in Bob Rackard's pub on Rafter Street has grown into a landmark regional event, taking over the entire town every September.

Across the three-day weekend, Enniscorthy comes alive with an extensive gig trail featuring top local, national, and international blues acts. Music lovers can experience a massive variety of styles, from intimate acoustic sessions and traditional Chicago blues to high-energy blues-rock performances hosted across local pubs, hotel stages, and community venues.

With the vast majority of performances offering free admission, the Blackstairs Blues Festival is one of the most accessible and vibrant music weekends in the Southeast-offering visitors the perfect excuse to explore historic Enniscorthy, support local hospitality, and enjoy world-class live blues.