Omagh Music Festival 2026

The festival is scheduled to take place on Friday, October 9 and Saturday, October 10, 2026, with organisers aiming to build on the event’s growing reputation as a vibrant showcase of local talent, heritage and live performance.

Central to the brief is the expectation that the festival will utilise the Strule Arts Centre, alongside venues across Omagh town centre, creating a dynamic, multi‑location cultural experience that brings music into the heart of the community.

Previous festivals have leaned into this rich legacy, combining live performances with historical showcases, walking tours and exhibitions that tell the story of Omagh’s contribution to Irish music.

Omagh Music Festival 2026 – Celebrating Jimmy Kennedy

Friday 9 – Saturday 10 October 2026 | Strule Arts Centre, Omagh

Celebrate the extraordinary musical legacy of Omagh-born songwriter Jimmy Kennedy with a weekend of live music, songwriting and entertainment at Strule Arts Centre.

Friday 9 October | 8pm
In Jimmy Kennedy’s Footsteps – Denmark Street Revisited
Join BBC Radio Ulster presenter and Undertones bassist Michael Bradley for the festival launch, exploring London’s famous ‘Tin Pan Alley’ and Jimmy Kennedy’s remarkable contribution to popular music. Book for the Festival Launch

Saturday 10 October | 10.30am
Songwriting Workshop with John Farry – Tickets: £10
An inspiring practical workshop with acclaimed songwriter John Farry, exploring songwriting, recording your work and how to pitch songs to singers and agents. Book tickets

Saturday 10 October | 9.30am-8pm
Jimmy Kennedy Audio-Visual Display – Free
Discover more about the life and career of Jimmy Kennedy through a special temporary display featuring artefacts, career highlights and recordings charting the development of the music industry.

Saturday 10 October | 8pm
My Song Goes ’Round the World – Tickets: £15
A special concert celebrating Jimmy Kennedy’s best-loved songs, including Red Sails in the Sunset, Harbour Lights, Isle of Capri and Teddy Bears’ Picnic. Book tickets

Live Street Music – Free
Enjoy live street music at Strule Arts Centre throughout the festival weekend.

Full Programme available to view here: Omagh Music Festival Programme of Events