Dr John Stafford Tradfest returns to Elphin
A session in full swing during the inaugural Dr. John Stafford Tradfest in An Bothar Rua, Elphin.
The Dr John Stafford Tradfest returns to Elphin from Friday, February 20th to Sunday, February 22nd.
Originally established in 2017, the festival built a strong reputation for celebrating traditional Irish culture before taking an unavoidable break during the Covid-19 pandemic. The 2026 event marks the official relaunch of this much-loved annual celebration.
The festival is held in honour of Dr John Stafford, the Elphin physician, cultural patron and close friend of the great harper Turlough O’Carolan. Dr Stafford is remembered not only for his work as a physician, but also for his friendship with O’Carolan, who was inspired to compose the famous tune O’Carolan’s Receipt in his honour. The festival celebrates this unique local connection while providing a vibrant and inclusive platform for traditional arts in the heart of Roscommon.
The 2026 programme offers something for everyone, with a wide range of events taking place across the weekend, including: a pop-up Gaeltacht, welcoming Irish speakers and learners alike; music and singing workshops with a lineup of world-class tutors; a junior feis competition, encouraging young musicians and dancers; the Tradfest concert and awards, featuring the O’Carolan Trio with stories and tunes of Turlough O’Carolan; a lively session trail across local pubs; and an energetic céilí in the Community Centre with the Pipers Cross Céilí Band from Mayo.
This year’s workshops will be led by a group of internationally respected musicians and educators, including Zoran Donohoe (Biird) from Cavan; James Hogan from Offaly; Jason MacAonghusa and John Dwyer from Sligo; Séamus Brogan from Wexford and Roscommon, and Aoibhinn Lynch from Longford.
Musicians and singers from Roscommon and all the surrounding counties are especially encouraged to participate in the Feis competitions and workshops, providing opportunities for emerging and established performers to learn, compete and share their talents in a supportive festival environment.
Musicians, singers, dancers, Irish speakers, listeners and enjoyers of all ages and abilities are warmly invited to take part. Whether performing, learning, competing, dancing at the céilí, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, all are welcome to join in this celebration of heritage, community and shared culture.
The relaunch of the Dr John Stafford Tradfest aims to honour its origins while looking firmly to the future, strengthening Elphin’s place on the traditional music map and fostering connections across generations.
Further programme details can be found on the tradfest’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
