Omagh Music Festival 2026 Celebrates the Legacy of Jimmy Kennedy

Music lovers, aspiring songwriters and fans of Omagh’s rich musical heritage are invited to celebrate the life and legacy of one of the town’s most successful musical exports at Omagh Music Festival 2026, taking place at Strule Arts Centre on Friday 9 and Saturday 10 October.

This year’s festival celebrates the extraordinary contribution of Omagh-born songwriter Jimmy Kennedy, whose remarkable career established him as one of the leading songwriters of his era, creating a body of work that continues to resonate far beyond his hometown.

The two-day programme will explore Kennedy’s remarkable career, the world of popular songwriting and the enduring influence of his work.

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Debbie Coyle, said: “Jimmy Kennedy’s remarkable songwriting legacy is a great source of pride for Omagh. His songs travelled far beyond his hometown, becoming international favourites and securing his place among the great songwriters of his generation.

“This year’s Omagh Music Festival provides a wonderful opportunity to explore his extraordinary career, his contribution to popular songwriting and the lasting influence of his work.

“Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is delighted to support this year’s festival, and I commend everyone involved in bringing together a programme that celebrates Jimmy Kennedy’s enduring musical legacy and his connection to our town.”

The festival opens on Friday 9 October at 8pm with ‘In Jimmy Kennedy’s Footsteps – Denmark Street Revisited’. Presented by BBC Radio Ulster presenter and Undertones bassist Michael Bradley, the festival launch will take audiences into the world of London’s Denmark Street, famously known as the UK’s ‘Tin Pan Alley’.

Michael will explore how songwriters, musicians and music publishers helped shape popular music, with a particular focus on Jimmy Kennedy and his remarkable contribution to the industry.

Drawing on his own experiences as a musician and within the music industry, Michael will also share stories and insights from behind the scenes.

The festival continues on Saturday 10 October at 10.30am with a Songwriting Workshop with acclaimed songwriter and music industry professional John Farry.

Priced at £10, the practical workshop is aimed at aspiring songwriters and will offer an opportunity to develop songwriting skills and learn from an experienced industry professional.

Drawing on his work with some of Ireland’s best-known artists, including Nathan Carter, John will explore what makes a great song, how to record your work and how to successfully pitch songs to singers and agents.

The workshop promises to be an inspiring and informative session for anyone interested in developing their songwriting and learning more about the music industry.

The weekend culminates on Saturday 10 October at 8pm with ‘My Song Goes Round the World’, a special evening celebrating the songwriting legacy of Jimmy Kennedy.

With musical direction by Niall Moore, drama direction by Leanne Daly and a script by Declan Forde, the performance will bring Kennedy’s music and story to life, placing his songs within the historical context of the golden age of popular music.

Audiences will have the opportunity to rediscover some of Kennedy’s best-known songs, including Red Sails in the Sunset, Harbour Lights, Isle of Capri and Teddy Bears’ Picnic – songs which crossed borders and generations to become part of the international popular music repertoire. Tickets for the concert are £15.

Adding to the atmosphere throughout the weekend, visitors to Strule Arts Centre can enjoy live street music for free, bringing additional live music and entertainment to the Centre and creating a lively festival atmosphere alongside the main programme of events.

Visitors can also discover a special temporary Jimmy Kennedy audio-visual display at Strule Arts Centre, complementing the Centre’s Showband exhibition.

Featuring a selection of artefacts, a timeline of Kennedy’s career and recordings charting the development of the music industry, from 78 rpm records and 7-inch singles through to CDs and digital formats, the display offers an insight into the life, career and lasting legacy of one of the 20th century’s most successful songwriters.

Omagh Music Festival 2026 provides a unique opportunity to celebrate a remarkable local talent while exploring the wider story of songwriting, popular music and the changing music industry.

With live music, a practical songwriting workshop, a fascinating festival launch, a special concert and the Jimmy Kennedy display, there is something for music enthusiasts of all ages to enjoy throughout the weekend.

Full Programme is available at: Omagh Music Festival Programme of Events

For more information on upcoming events, visit www.fermanaghomagh.com, contact the Events Team on 0300 303 1777, or email events@fermanaghomagh.com.