Harvest Time Blues Festival – Monaghan, Northern Ireland 2026
Overview
Harvest Time Blues Festival, also known as the Monaghan Rhythm and Blues Festival, is one of Ireland’s leading live music events, established in 1990 to enrich the cultural life of Monaghan and the North-East region. Held annually in the charming town of Monaghan, this beloved festival celebrates the soulful strains of blues with a mix of international headliners, emerging talents, and local favorites, drawing thousands to its vibrant multi-venue lineup of concerts, pub sessions, and community gatherings.
Over the first weekend of September, Monaghan transforms into a haven of rhythm and groove, honoring its title as “the home of the blues in Ireland.” From raw Delta influences to rockin’ gospel vibes, the event blends tradition with contemporary flair, offering an eclectic program that captivates blues enthusiasts in a welcoming, atmospheric setting amid the town’s historic streets and cozy venues.
Event Highlights
- Main activities and performances: Headline concerts on the main stage marquee featuring acts like Bronagh Gallagher’s Irish soul and Sari Schorr’s powerhouse blues-rock; intimate pub sessions along the Blues Trail; workshops and free-entry gigs in venues like Terry’s Bar and The Squealing Pig.
- Special traditions and features: Since 1990, the festival promotes cultural enrichment with community-led events, including acoustic sets at the Market House and diverse lineups spanning traditional ballads to modern fusions; emphasis on accessibility with many free performances.
- Unique attractions for visitors: The Blues Trail for wandering between town-center pubs; ties into Monaghan’s heritage with storytelling and jam sessions; family-friendly daytime events blending blues with local history for an immersive Irish experience.
Why Attend
Harvest Time Blues Festival captures the timeless allure of blues in Monaghan’s intimate embrace, where every venue pulses with soul-stirring riffs and heartfelt tales that bridge continents and generations. The multi-venue setup lets you hop from marquee anthems to pub-side jams, fostering serendipitous encounters with artists and fellow fans in a town that feels like an old friend—perfect for escaping the ordinary with authentic, groove-filled nights.
For newcomers and die-hards, the blend of free trail gigs, eclectic headliners, and community warmth creates electric, unpretentious magic. Amid Monaghan’s rolling drumlins and welcoming pubs, you’ll recharge with melodies that linger, forge bonds over shared choruses, and rediscover why this “home of the blues” delivers Ireland’s most soul-deep festival escape year after year.
Date & Duration
Dates: September 5 – September 8, 2026
Duration: 4 days
Venue / Location
The festival centers on a main stage marquee in the New Road/Glen Road car park for headline concerts, with the Blues Trail spanning town-center pubs like Terry’s Bar, The Squealing Pig, McKenna’s, The Westenra Arms Hotel, and TÃr na nÓg for sessions. Additional spots include the Market House for acoustics and community halls—all within easy walking distance in Monaghan’s compact layout.
Google Maps address: Monaghan Town, Monaghan, Ireland
Ticket Information
- Tickets are sold online via Eventbrite and the official website; weekend combo passes for main stage access; many Blues Trail events free or low-cost, with on-site availability for select gigs.
- Admission is a mix of free and paid; pub sessions and daytime events often free, paid for headline marquee shows.
- Ticket pricing in USD: Weekend combo tickets approximately $52 USD (€48 EUR); single night tickets $26-39 USD (€24-36 EUR).
- Special seating or VIP options: Limited reserved seating for main stage; no formal VIP, but combo passes include priority entry.
- Minimum ticket pricing: $26 USD for single night tickets.
- Maximum ticket pricing: $52 USD for weekend combo passes.
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Contact Information
- Email: info@harvestblues.ie (general inquiries and bookings).
- Phone: Not specified; use email or check website for updates.
- Website: https://harvestblues.ie (See Official Site).
- Social Media: @harvesttimeblues (Facebook, Instagram).
- Key Staff: Festival committee; contact info for specific roles.
- Press/Volunteers: Email info@harvestblues.ie for press or volunteer opportunities (roles include trail coordination and setup).
- Note: Response time ~24–48 hours. English support available; follow social for lineup teasers.
Getting There
- Nearest airports: Dublin Airport (DUB) 1.5 hours south by car; Ireland West Airport Knock (NOC) 1 hour west via motorway.
- Public Transport: Trains from Dublin to Monaghan Station (1.5 hours); buses from Dublin or Belfast to Monaghan Bus Station; local walks to venues (~10 minutes).
- Driving: N2 from Dublin (~1 hour) or N54 from Cavan; free parking at town edges, paid near marquee.
- Other options: Bike rentals for town trails; taxis ~$20 USD from station; carpool encouraged.
- Accessibility: Venues like The Westenra Arms have ramps; buses offer low-floor access; contact for assisted navigation.
Accommodation Options
- On-site camping: No on-site; nearby sites like Lough Muckno Leisure Park, $30-50 USD/night.
- Glamping: Limited options via local partners ~$100-150 USD/night near town.
- Nearby hotels: Westenra Arms Hotel and Hillgrove Hotel (town center, $100-180 USD/night); budget at Ash Hotel $80-140 USD.
- B&Bs and self-catering: Cozy spots like Ramonan House B&B, $70-120 USD/night; cottages via Airbnb $90-160 USD.
- Other: Hostels in nearby Carrickmacross ~$40-60 USD/night shared; book via VisitMonaghan for deals.
Reviews
- Bronagh Gallagher’s set lit up the marquee—raw soul in Monaghan’s cozy vibe; Blues Trail hops were pure joy, total weekend win.
- Sari Schorr brought fire from NY; free pub jams kept the groove alive—felt like Ireland’s best-kept blues secret.
- Eclectic lineup nailed the harvest mood; from Delta roots to Irish twists, left humming with that post-festival glow.
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
What blues styles and acts define the festival lineup?
Expect a soulful spectrum from Delta blues and rockin' gospel to Irish-infused folk-blues, with 2026 poised to echo past gems like Bronagh Gallagher and Sari Schorr. The marquee hosts headliners, while the Blues Trail features emerging locals and internationals. Curated for depth, it blends tradition with fresh voices—perfect for purists and explorers. Full reveals via website closer to dates.
Are there family-friendly or beginner activities?
Yes, daytime free events on the Blues Trail suit all ages, with acoustic sets at the Market House and community gigs that introduce blues gently. Many venues are kid-welcoming, and Monaghan's parks offer breaks. Affordable combos make it accessible; it's a low-key entry to the genre without intensity.
How accessible are the venues for disabilities?
Town-center spots like the marquee and Westenra Arms feature ramps and level access; Blues Trail is walkable with minimal steps. Free parking for blue badge holders near venues. Organizers provide assistance on request—email for BSL or mobility support. The compact layout ensures ease.
What food and drink options are available?
Pubs along the Trail serve hearty Irish fare—stews, seafood, and veggie bites—from $10 USD, with live blues enhancing meals. Festival stalls offer street food and local ales; BYO picnics for daytime. Over 10 venues ensure variety, fueling late-night sessions with Monaghan hospitality.
How do I navigate the Blues Trail during the festival?
The Trail is a self-guided loop of 10+ pubs within 5-10 minute walks from the marquee; grab a free map at info points. Shuttles for outskirts; taxis for evenings ~$5 USD. Weather can be crisp—layer for that authentic Irish autumn.
