Foxford Traditional Weekend begins today, Thursday 15 October, with four days of music, song, dance and storytelling in the Mayo town. For a visitor, the useful first decision is whether to listen, learn an instrument or combine both: the free session trail, paid concerts and booked workshops work differently. [1][2][3]

The organiser lists Holding the Story and a following Rambling House at the Moy Hotel from 7:30pm tonight as a free opening-evening event. The separately advertised official opening and Féile Concert take place on Friday 16 October. [2] Keeping those two evenings distinct avoids arriving a day early for the concert you meant to attend.

Build a visit around one session

The current 2026 session trail lists free gatherings from Friday to Sunday. Examples include Friday's 6pm session in Guiry's Backroom, Saturday's 1pm session at Old Salt, and Sunday's noon youth session at Foxford Mill. [3]

For a first visit, choose one venue and time as the anchor, then leave space around it. The programme is spread across different locations; a session in one building does not mean the next activity is in the same room. If travelling with children or someone who needs a particular seating or access arrangement, check the individual venue beforehand.

Saturday's new Club na Féile is listed at the Moy Hotel from 11pm to 12:30am, with free entry. [3] That late finish needs its own transport plan rather than being treated as an extension of an afternoon visit.

A harp introduction is different from a masterclass

Saturday 17 October brings a free harp recital at Foxford Mill at 1:15pm and a free Hands on Harp taster at the Mill Café at 3pm, with a booking link for the taster. [2] Hearing an ensemble and trying an instrument offer different ways into the tradition; check the booking instructions before assuming either is a drop-in place.

The workshop page also lists a paid harp class from 10am to 1pm at Foxford Leisure Centre. Its performance masterclasses have different requirements: Ryan Molloy's is for proficient musicians aged 15 and over, while David Doocey's is for advanced players aged 12 and over. Places are limited and advance booking is required. [4]

Choose the learning level before the time slot. Ask the organiser about suitability and what instrument or materials to bring if the listing leaves anything unclear.

Check the final price and keep the confirmation

The events page says ticket prices include booking fees, but some individual concert descriptions still say “plus booking fee”. [2] That inconsistent wording means the final booking total is worth checking before paying. This guide does not assume which amount the checkout will show.

Use the organiser's own ticket links and keep the confirmation showing the event, date, venue and final total. Recheck the live programme before travelling, especially if combining a workshop, recital and evening concert. The festival runs until Sunday 18 October; a free activity does not make the entire weekend programme free. [1][2]

Sources were checked on 15 October 2026.