Strumming into Its 21st Year: The 2025 Clonakilty Guitar Festival
Get ready for an unforgettable celebration of all things guitar as the Clonakilty International Guitar Festival returns to the scenic coastal town of Clonakilty, West Cork, from September 17th to 21st, 2025. Marking its 21st anniversary, the festival promises another dynamic blend of artistry, community, and musical discovery.
A Fusion of Global Sounds and Local Flair
This year’s edition features a vibrant roster of talent, spanning genres and geographies. Audiences can expect everything from soul-stirring folk ballads to boundary-pushing experimental jams. Highlights from the 2025 lineup include:
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Roy Harper (UK) – A legendary figure in folk rock, known for his poetic songwriting and influence on generations of musicians.
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Mohammad Syfkhan (Syria) – Melding traditional Middle Eastern rhythms with rich textures and modern energy.
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Muireann Bradley (Ireland) – A rising star with a pure voice steeped in Irish traditional sounds.
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Muireann Ní Amhlaoibh, Gerry O’Beirne, Donál O’Connor – An Irish trio delivering immersive Celtic soundscapes.
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pôt-pot (Ireland/Portugal) – Psychedelic krautrock straight from the late '60s, reborn in modern form.
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Macdara Yeates – Blending contemporary folk storytelling with deep-rooted Irish influence.
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Bog Jazz Duo – A bold pairing that fuses jazz with the rhythms of traditional Irish music.
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John Spillane and the Band of Wrens – A lyrical journey through heartfelt melodies and Irish folklore.
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The Raines – Harmonies wrapped in Americana with a distinctly Irish soul.
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BABYRAT – High-octane punk meets sharp pop sensibility in a one-of-a-kind performance.
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Hussy Hicks (Australia) – A blues-rock powerhouse delivering grit and groove.
More Than Just Gigs: What to Expect
While the performances are the heart of the festival, there's plenty more to dive into:
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The Acoustic Forum: An intimate “in-the-round” concert where artists share stories, songs, and conversation with the audience in a stripped-back setting.
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Interactive Workshops: Musicians of all skill levels can gain insight and inspiration from seasoned performers.
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Session Trails: Wander through town and discover impromptu jams in pubs, cafés, and on street corners — a true expression of Clonakilty’s musical spirit.
Getting There & Planning Your Visit
Whether you’re traveling from near or far, Clonakilty is easy to reach, with regular bus services linking it to Cork City. Accommodation ranges from charming guesthouses to boutique hotels — though booking early is recommended, as the town fills up quickly during festival time.
Many of the events are free to attend, while select headliners may require tickets. For full details on performances, venues, and passes, head to the official Clonakilty Guitar Festival website.