About Us
Sligo Live – North West Ireland's Premier Music Festival
Sligo Live is a community centred festival created by musicians and music lovers to showcase the very best of talent – internationally established and emerging.
Time | Name/Description | Genre | Tickets | |
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Thursday, October 24th | ||||
8:00pm | Des Bishop + Fiona FrawleyKnocknarea Arena, ATU Sligo – Thu October 24th, 8:00pm Legendary Irish/American comedian Des Bishops brings his brand new stand up comedy show ‘Lately’ to Sligo Live Festival 2024! | Comedy | €33.00 + s.c. |
Time | Name/Description | Genre | Tickets | |
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Friday, October 25th | ||||
1:00pm | Sound JobBus Eireann, Lord Edward St – Fri October 25th, 1:00pm Five-time All-Ireland bodhrán and bones champion Junior Davey joins Joanna Sweeney (tin whistle/vocals) and friends to bring an entertaining, upbeat traditional Irish music session to travelers as they come and go during lunchtime at Sligo Bus Station | Trad | Free | |
8:00pm | John Paul White + Campbell JensenHawk’s Well Theatre, Temple St – Fri October 25th, 8:00pm John Paul White is a four-time Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter and co-founder of Single Lock Records who proudly resides in Florence, Alabama. He has cultivated a music career in Nashville for two decades, first as a songwriter, then half of The Civil Wars – a groundbreaking duo that won four Grammy Awards before disbanding in 2012. | Folk/Americana | €29.50 + s.c. | |
8:30pm | Paul Brady + Brigid O’NeillKnocknarea Arena, ATU Sligo – Fri October 25th, 8:30pm Paul Brady, singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist is one of Ireland’s most enduringly popular artists. He returns by popular demand to Sligo Live for a trio performance with two of his long time collaborators, Bill Shanley and Steven Fletcher. With classics such as ‘The Island’, ‘Nobody Knows’, ‘Arthur McBride’ and many more, this is an evening not to be missed! | Folk | €47.00 + s.c. |
Time | Name/Description | Genre | Tickets | |
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Saturday, October 26th | ||||
11:00am | TessioLyon’s Café, Quay St – Sat October 26th, 11.00am Tessio is a singer-songwriter duo from Derry, consisting of Jude McCandless and Callum Feeney. Playing acoustic guitars and singing close harmonies reminiscent of The Everly Brothers, their songwriting has been praised as “beyond their years” by Martha Greer. Tessio has supported bands such as Hothouse Flowers and The 4 Of Us. Following the recent release of their single Back Again, they plan to release their debut album later in 2024. | Singer-Songwriter | Free | |
12:00pm | Stephen O’DowdW.B’s Coffee House, Stephen St – Sat October 26th, 12:00pm Stephen O’Dowd, born in Sligo on Ireland’s west coast, is a fourth-generation musician from a family deeply rooted in Irish traditional music, including his father, Seamie, and brother, Rory. Immersed in music from an early age, Stephen graduated from BIMM Dublin in 2021. Drawing influence from folk artists such as Thom Moore and John Martyn, his sound blends 12 and 6 string guitar, harmonica, concertina, vocals, and a touch of Irish traditional flair to tell stories and evoke vivid landscapes. | Folk | Free | |
3:00pm | Some RemainMaeve’s Bar, Queen Meave’s Square – Sat October 26th, 3:00pm Some Remain is a Sligo-based alternative punk four-piece, showcasing a vigorous blend of jagged ’70s post-punk, sharp noise, and catchy hooks. Known for their high-energy live performances, the band has honed their sound across Ireland’s independent music scene. Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of influences, including Idles, Shame, Fontaines D.C., Pixies, Gang of Four, MF Doom, Blur, Nick Drake, and Gwen Stefani, this is the perfect opportunity to see them perform in a fresh setting on home turf. | Post-Punk | Free | |
4:00pm | Rodney OwlLillies Cocktail Bar, Bridge St – Sat October 26th, 4:00pm Rodney Owl (aka Mark McConville) hails from Lurgan, Co. Armagh. He describes his music as Electric Folk—immersive, thought-provoking, quirky, and whimsical. His second album, Truth is Broken, released in April 2023, showcases McConville’s unique songwriting and musicianship. Influenced by a wide range of artists, from Aldous Harding to Velvet Underground and The Smiths, this gig is not to miss | Alt-Folk | Free | |
5:00pm | ScustinFurey’s, Bridge St – Sat October 26th, 5:00pm Scustin are the self-proclaimed purveyors of “Post-Funk,” blending humorous storytelling with a jazzy, funk-infused take on indie rock. Their unique sound was born from imagining what would happen if Blindboy, Mike Skinner, and Jamiroquai went on a boozy night out in Bray and decided to write an album about it. | Post-Funk | Free | |
8:00pm | This Flight Tonight – Songs of Joni MitchellHawk’s Well Theatre, Temple St – Sat October 26th, 8:00pm This Flight Tonight is a celebration of Joni Mitchell’s music that the duo has had in the making for many years, and now 2023 will see them finally take this show on the road for the first time. The carefully crafted set list will feature songs from Joni’s million-selling albums such as Clouds,Ladies of the Canyon,For The Roses,Court and Spark, featuring many cuts from her 1972 landmark release ‘Blue’. | Folk | €28.00 + s.c. | |
8:30pm | Dermot Kennedy + MorganaKnocknarea Arena, ATU Sligo – Sat October 26th, 8:30pm Sligo Live presents Dermot Kennedy for two very special acoustic shows in the Knocknarea Arena at ATU Sligo over the October bank holiday weekend on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th. Platinum selling, BRIT nominated singer-songwriter Dermot Kennedy released his acclaimed #1 selling second album ‘Sonder’ in 2023 and has now amassed over 7 billion streams. His last tour saw him perform headline shows at the likes of New York’s Madison Square Garden and Colorado’s Red Rocks Amphitheatre, The O2 Arena London alongside headlining All Points East Festival and performing at Glastonbury Festival. | Indie/Pop | Sold Out |
Time | Name/Description | Genre | Tickets | |
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Sunday, October 27th | ||||
3:00pm | Erin & The LensMaeves Bar, Queen Maeve’s Square – Sun October 27th, 3:00pm Erin & The Lens are set to take you on a journey of sonic emotion. Raised in Sligo, Erin Luna Gallagher is a versatile singer and songwriter whose writing paints a detailed picture of life, struggles with mental health, love and the mystical. Known for her powerful vocals, she will be joined on stage at Sligo Live Arrivals by her fantastic band – Billy Whelan, Frédéric Bodichon & Jason McCloskey. Prepare to enjoy an eclectic mix of music portrayed through a soul-full lens. | Psychedelic-Soul | Free | |
4:00pm | The Savage HeartsSwagman, Wine St – Sun October 27th, 4:00pm Headed up by former Strypes drummer Evan Walsh, The Savage Hearts have been collaborating in secret and putting together a setlist of wild and unhinged rock ‘n’ roll songs that are sure to thrill. In July 2023 they opened for The Boomtown Rats The band’s debut single ‘Gang War’ shot to No. 1 on the Irish Downloads Charts. | Blues/Rock | Free | |
5:00pm | FinnianThomas Connolly, Markievicz Rd – Sun October 27th, 5:00pm Finnian, a Singer-Songwriter from Dundalk, captivates with a soulful voice that fills any venue. His music, reminiscent of Americana legends like Bruce Springsteen and James Taylor, offers a refreshingly original sound enriched by his Irish heritage. Since the release of his acclaimed debut album Under the Influence in 2020, Finnian has garnered impressive reviews and built notable momentum. | Folk | Free | |
8:00pm | Enya Martin + Dame StuffyHawk’s Well Theatre, Temple St – Sun October 27th, 8:00pm “Enya Martin is a comedic machine” – Joanne McNally. That is indeed high praise from Joanne. Enya is one of the best stand-up comedians on the scene. Her show is a powerhouse of high energy, cracking comedy stories with laser sharp delivery. | Comedy | €25.00 + s.c. | |
8:30pm | Dermot Kennedy + MorganaKnocknarea Arena, ATU Sligo – Sun October 27th, 8:30pm Sligo Live presents Dermot Kennedy for two very special acoustic shows in the Knocknarea Arena at ATU Sligo over the October bank holiday weekend on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th. Platinum selling, BRIT nominated singer-songwriter Dermot Kennedy released his acclaimed #1 selling second album ‘Sonder’ in 2023 and has now amassed over 7 billion streams. His last tour saw him perform headline shows at the likes of New York’s Madison Square Garden and Colorado’s Red Rocks Amphitheatre, The O2 Arena London alongside headlining All Points East Festival and performing at Glastonbury Festival. | Indie/Pop | Sold Out |
Time | Name/Description | Genre | Tickets | |
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Monday, October 28th | ||||
1:00pm | Laura RyderPink Clover, Drumcliff – Mon October 28th, 1:00pm Laura Ryder is a piano-wielding songwriter and composer from Mayo. She will be joined by the incredible Rí Dunne on cello, playing special stripped-back arrangements of songs from her upcoming sophomore album. For fans of the likes of Fiona Apple, Regina Spektor, Ben Folds, and Joanna Newsom, Laura writes piano-based songs which range from classical-influenced lyrical pieces to energetic full-band alt-pop arrangements. | Alt-Pop | Free | |
3:00pm | The Kings of Cool (acoustic)The View Bar, The Glasshouse Hotel – Mon October 28th, 3:00pm Hailing from Ballyshannon, The Kings of Cool released their debut album Angels In Disguise last year, earning praise for its “sparkling melodies” and fusion of rock, pop, and country. Their latest single, “Elvis, Me And Jerry Lee,” is receiving airplay across Canada, the US, and Australia. Expect an intimate acoustic set featuring classic melodies with influences from Squeeze, ELO, Joe Jackson, The Beatles, Waylon Jennings, and Guy Clark. | Country-Rock | Free | |
4:00pm | Lorraine NashOsta Café, Garavogue Weir View – Mon October 28th, 4:00pm Lorraine Nash, 25-years-old from Kerry, was hailed as “The Future of Irish Folk” by the Irish Independent. Her debut album, All That I Can Be, earned praise for heartfelt songwriting and drew comparisons to Neil Young. A gifted multi-instrumentalist, she blends Irish music with Folk, Country, and Americana. In 2024, she performed at top Australian festivals, Cambridge Folk Festival UK, Ray d’Arcy’s RTÉ show, All Together Now, and Electric Picnic. This is the perfect opportunity to catch the rising star in an intimate setting. | Folk | Free |
Time | Name/Description | Genre | Tickets | |
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Tuesday, October 29th | ||||
8:00pm | Crash Test Dummies + Dean GurrieHawk’s Well Theatre, Temple St – Tue October 29th, 8:00pm Crash Test Dummies add a Sligo date to their mammoth 30th anniversary tour of Grammy nominated and platinum certified album ‘God Shuffled his Feet’. Their global hit singles ‘Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm’ and ‘Superman’s Song’ hold a special place in the hearts of many. | Rock/Folk | €33.00 + s.c. |
Time | Name/Description | Genre | Tickets | |
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Wednesday, October 30th | ||||
8:00pm | JargonHawk’s Well Theatre, Temple St – Wed October 30th, 8:00pm Jargon, the highly talented multi-instrumentalist acoustic quartet, has returned to launch their new album recorded at Sligo Live last year ,revisiting their interpretations and original songs in Ragtime, Blues, Folk and Bluegrass styles. Formed by Charlie McGettigan , he is joined by Gerry Grennan, Liam Gilmartin and Brian Mulligan to perform a delightful selection of their much-loved set list. | Folk | €24.00 + s.c. |
Time | Name/Description | Genre | Tickets | |
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Thursday, October 31st | ||||
8:00pm | Susan O’Neill + BrídínHawk’s Well Theatre, Temple St – Thu October 31st, 8:00pm Susan O’Neill is a songwriter of hidden depths, with a timeless voice that is equal parts balm and blowtorch, she is audacity personified, a free spirit, a real performer. | Folk/Indie | €26.50 + s.c. |
Time | Name/Description | Genre | Tickets | |
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Friday, November 1st | ||||
1:00pm | Philip Duffy, P.J. Hernon, Pat Sweeney and Brian McDonaghHawk’s Well Theatre, Temple St – Fri November 1st, 1:00pm Hawk’s Well Theatre and Sligo Live are proud to co-produce a special lunchtime show with four superb musicians who retain a freshness and sparkling rhythm in their music. Philip Duffy on Fiddle; P.J. Hernon on accordion; Pat Sweeney on Banjo and Brian McDonagh on mandola have been at the heart of Sligo music for the past three decades and all famed for their prowess in both performance and session. | Trad | Free | |
8:00pm | The Felice Brothers + No Oil PaintingsHawk’s Well Theatre, Temple St – Fri November 1st, 8:00pm The Felice Brothers’ gloriously ramshackle sound draws on everything from Woody Guthrie and Bob Dylan to Walt Whitman and Flannery O’Connor. In just a few short years, the group went from busking in the subway to playing the Newport Folk Festival to Levon Helm’s Midnight Ramble. | Folk/Indie/Americana | €29.50 + s.c. |
Time | Name/Description | Genre | Tickets | |
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Saturday, November 2nd | ||||
12:00pm | Kate DineenW.B’s Coffee House, Stephen St – Sat November 2nd, 12:00pm Hailing from South-West Ireland, Kate grew up immersed in music through her family’s love for singing and CDs. Beginning with traditional Irish tin-whistle lessons, she switched to guitar and vocals, discovering a deep connection with her voice. After moving to Cork and then Dublin, she joined bands, released an acclaimed EP, and won a songwriting prize. Kate’s folk/Americana style, influenced by artists like Gillian Welch, is marked by heartfelt performances and engaging lyrics. | Indie Folk-Pop | Free | |
1:00pm | Myles McCormackInsomnia, O’Connell St – Sat November 2nd, 1:00pm Multi-instrumentalist Myles McCormack is a vital presence in Belfast’s world-class folk clubs. Recent collaborations with the likes of Réalta and Cathy Jordan have doubled down on the strengths of his solo work. His latest solo LP, To Better All Things, follows the acclaimed Real Talk and showcases his harmonies and fingerpicking to wonderful effect. Recently selected for the NI Arts Council’s ACES, McCormack’s performances are celebrated for their depth and sincerity, making him a standout artist to see live. | Psychedlic-Folk | Free | |
2:00pm | ReyltaSligo Library, Stephen St – Sat November 2nd, 2:00pm Reylta is a singer/songwriter from rural Ireland. Her music combines sweet & lamenting sounds coupled with a complex alternative view providing the ultimate juxtaposition. She is deeply connected with Irish traditions and heritage – the poetry, the music, the landscape and the storytelling. These influences have nurtured a unique and haunting perspective, illuminated through poetic lyrics, luscious string arrangements and rich choral harmonies. | Folk-Pop | Free | |
3:30pm | No Oil PaintingsFurey’s, Bridge St – Sat November 2nd, 3:30pm No Oil Paintings are a rowdy Americana four-piece from Belfast. Their mix of folk instrumentation, four part harmonies and high energy live shows serves to create their own brand of genre-bending roots music. The band switches and shares lead vocals, with each member delivering their own style and strength to the songs they bring to the table. Expect to hear everything from swampy blues rock to straight-up country waltzes. | Americana | Free | |
5:00pm | Steve KnightleyLiber Bookshop, O’Connell St – Sat November 2nd, 5:00pm Steve Knightley is a multi-award-winning singer-songwriter and prominent folk/acoustic and roots musician. As a founding member of the revered ‘Show of Hands,’ Knightley’s musical journey is deeply intertwined with a profound connection to places, particularly the West Country, where he currently resides. His solo show infused with a love of English traditional folk music, the songs of Bob Dylan and the poetry of Ted Hughes showcases a unique ability to craft compositions that bridge historical narratives with contemporary themes. | Singer-Songwriter | Free | |
8:00pm | Séamus & Caoimhe Uí Fhlatharta + Dylan Carlos, Dave Sheridan & John McCartinHawk’s Well Theatre, Temple St – Sat November 2nd, 8:00pm This Double Bill combines two unmissable ensembles playing cutting-edge Irish traditional and folk music. Dylan Carlos, Dave Sheridan and John McCartin are one of the premier examples of the quintessential North Connacht fiddle/flute/guitar combination. Brother and sister, Séamus and Caoimhe Uí Fhlatharta won Best Emerging Artists at the 2024 RTÉ Folk Awards.. Their exquisite sibling harmonies transcend both traditional and modern songs. | Traditional/Folk | €24.00 + s.c. | |
8:30pm | Villagers + Rachael LavelleKnocknarea Arena, ATU Sligo – Sat November 2nd, 8:30pm Critically acclaimed, Villagers have been awarded Ireland’s Choice Music Prize, nominated for UK’s Mercury Music Prize and Conor has been awarded two prestigious Ivor Novello’s for his songwriting. Villagers sixth studio album, ‘That Golden Time’ was released in May 2024 (via Domino) underlines O’Brien’s unwavering commitment to a uniquely nuanced, literate and melodic fusion of folk, pop and rock that has won awards and accolades from peers such as Paul Weller, Elvis Costello, Damon Albarn and Guy Garvey. | Folk/Indie | €36.50 + s.c.
€38.50 + s.c. |
Time | Name/Description | Genre | Tickets | |
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Sunday, November 3rd | ||||
4:00pm | HerOrangeCoatOsta Café, Garavogue Weir View – Sun November 3rd, 4:00pm HerOrangeCoat is an upcoming indie-folk artist from West Yorkshire. Her music is a beguiling mixture of her life experiences, woven into a rich tapestry of sound. Armed with her ukulele, she crafts songs that turn melancholy into a musical journey that demands to be heard. The much-anticipated EP Ballads for this Age will be released in November. | Indie-Folk | Free | |
5:00pm | Cathal ConnollyShells Café, Strandhill – Sun November 3rd, 5:00pm Cathal Connolly is a singer-songwriter from Co. Mayo, who creates music in his home studio, playing piano, guitar, and synthesizers. Cathal collaborated with artists like David Doocey and Zoe Conway on his debut album before performing it across Ireland. As a one-man band, he uses loop pedals and encourages audience interaction. He is currently working on his second album. | Folk-Pop | Free | |
8:00pm | Luka Bloom + Sabrina DinanHawk’s Well Theatre, Temple St – Sun November 3rd, 8:00pm As a solo acoustic act with a big voice and intense guitar style, Luka Bloom channelled the energy and power of rock into his many albums, rising to international acclaim and becoming one of Ireland’s best-loved contemporary folk artists. | Folk | €28.50 + s.c. |