28 Apr 2026
From Writing Workshops to Live Music: Bealtaine 2026 Has Something for Everyone Across Donegal
Donegal County Council officially launched the 2026 Donegal Bealtaine Fesitval in Ballyshannon, marking the beginning of a month-long celebration of arts and creativity as we age, taking place across the county throughout May.
Organised by Donegal County Council’s Culture Division, Bealtaine continues to place older people at its heart – as artists, performers, participants and audiences – while welcoming everyone to get involved.
The Donegal Bealtaine 2026 programme highlights the breadth of activity happening across Donegal’s libraries, cultural venues and community spaces. Creative writing features strongly, with workshops such as The Artist’s Way for Writers and weekly Shut Up & Write sessions offering welcoming, supportive spaces for people to explore or rekindle their creativity.
Visual arts and hands-on creativity are also central to the programme, with painting workshops and printmaking sessions giving participants the chance to try something new and develop their skills.
Music and performance play a key role throughout the festival, with a mix of local and international acts, including live concerts, choral performances and major productions such as Shirley Valentine and Miss Saigon.
The programme also reflects Donegal’s strong sense of heritage with events such as reminiscence sessions and genealogy workshops. Coinciding with the recent release of the 1926 Irish Census, the county-wide Branching Out – Discover Your Family Story initiative encourages people to explore their past using the free online resources available in their local library., such as Find My Past.
Talks throughout the festival offer opportunities to learn, reflect and be inspired. A fascinating talk on vintage Irish fashion and costumes will draw on decades of collecting and bring Donegal heritage to life in an entertaining way. Meanwhile those with a sense of adventure can explore the idea of walking the Camino de Santiago, with practical and inspiring advice designed to show that the iconic journey is achievable at any stage of life.
Exhibitions running throughout the month will showcase everything from Donegal’s rich architectural heritage to contemporary Irish portraiture, ensuring there is something to interest and inspire everyone.
The launch event in Ballyshannon featured a lively and uplifting music performance from the Ballyshannon Active Retirement group, whose talent and enthusiasm set the tone for the festival ahead.
Speaking at the launch, Maureen Kerr, County Librarian said:
“Bealtaine is a celebration of creativity at every stage of life. It reminds us that creativity doesn’t diminish with age, it grows. We are especially delighted to launch this year’s festival in Ballyshannon, a town with such a strong tradition of artistic expression and to celebrate the incredible talent of the Ballyshannon Active Retirement Group.”
Sinead Noonan, Donegal Bealtaine co-ordinator added:
“If you’ve ever said, ‘I must try that someday’, Bealtaine is your chance. You don’t need to be an artist or a performer to take part. It might be your first time writing, painting, or even just showing up to something new, and that’s exactly what the festival is about.”
Members of the public are encouraged to explore the full programme of events by picking up a Bealtaine brochure in their local library. Details and booking information are also available at https://www.donegalculture.ie/en/explore/festivals-programmes/bealtaine/ or by contacting (074) 91 75384.