The Ballydehob Jazz Festival returns this May Bank Holiday Weekend

This May Bank Holiday weekend, May 3–6, in Ballydehob Village, West Cork, will see the return of the Ballydehob Jazz Festival. This music and art festival is organised by volunteers from the community and features a stellar roster of international dancers, spoken word poets, musicians, and street performers.

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Events at Ballydehob Jazz Festival

Over thirty free live performances by Irish and international acts, such as The Bonk, Donal Dineen, and The Lava Birds, are available during the event. Attendees can expect a range of musical genres such as jazz, funk, swing, and beats. 

In addition to the free events, the festival features ticketed headline shows at the Ballydehob Community Hall, including performances by New Orleans Jazz Punk Pianist Stephanie Nilles and the energetic Canibal Dandies. 

A new addition to this year’s festival is PIRATE TAXI, an outdoor circus show featuring aerial performances, original live music, and a creatively designed set built on an old London taxi. In addition, there is a children’s circus school and the Sunday Jazz Festival Food & Craft Market for families to enjoy. 

The festival showcases the vibrant community spirit of Ballydehob, highlighted by the New Orleans-style Sunday funeral parade themed “Carnival of Creatures.” With support from local and national arts councils, the festival also offers free workshops in art, puppet making, and performance for schools and the community. Visit the Ballydehob Jazz Festival to buy tickets for the featured acts and to find out more information.