Luke Kelly festival returns to Smithfield in May

Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, The Dublin City Council Luke Kelly Festival returns to Smithfield Square on Saturday the 18th and Sunday the 19th of May 2024.

Running from 12pm to 6pm, this free family-friendly festival offers a wide array of music, discussion, singalong-sessions, sport, arts and crafts and more in celebration of Dublin’s favourite son.

“The success of last year’s event proved something that most of us already knew, Luke Kelly is a true Dublin legend,” said the Lord Mayor of Dublin Daithí de Róiste. “Not many people have 2 statues in their own home town, but there’s a reason Luke does! I can’t wait to see some of the top-class musicians we have turning out to pay tribute to him. So if you’re a Luke fan, or you’re new to his music, make sure you get yourself down to Smithfield for what promises to be a great weekend.”

Throughout the weekend, the Luke Kelly Stage, ably hosted by Luke’s niece Paula McCann, will play host to some of our best-loved musical acts in Mary Black, Lisa O’Neill, Phelim Drew and The Dublin Legends. Across the programme, Luke’s native North Inner City will be represented by singer-songwriter Ciarán Moran from Smithfield and R&B artist Temi NLA from Sheriff Street. And to complete the bill, local folk artists Daoirí Farrell and Caoimhe Hogarty and a trio of George Murphy, Ger O’Donnell and Trevor Sexton will bring a selection of folk favourites for all to enjoy.

For those looking to learn more about Luke, the Dubliners, and the Dublin folk scene, the dedicated workshop and discussion tent The Bailey will play host to conversations with Irish folk legend Andy Irvine (Planxty/Sweeney’s Men) and US folk royalty Peggy Seeger. Also on the bill is a ‘Banjo for Beginners’ workshop (no experience necessary!). Historian and Podcaster Donal Fallon (Three Castles Burning) will chat to Phelim Drew and Brian Hand on their memories of The Dubliners, and writer Jimmy Murphy will take festival goers on a journey through Dublin’s bohemian arts scene in the mid-20th century.

For those attending with children, feel free to join the fun at the dedicated football area The Centre-Half paying tribute to Luke’s love of the beautiful game. And over at the Arts and Crafts Tent, families can enjoy an array of workshops in memory of Luke’s creative spirit.

Finally, a new edition to this year’s festivities is the O’Donoghue’s Tent where festival goers can join in on a good old-fashioned sing-song.