The 2024 Fastnet Maritime and Folk Festival: A Celebration of Music and Song

The 2024 Fastnet Maritime and Folk Festival: A Celebration of Music and Song


Ballydehob, a picturesque village in County Cork, Ireland, is set to come alive with the melodious tunes and vibrant energy of the 2024 Fastnet Maritime and Folk Festival. Scheduled to take place from June 14th to 16th, this eagerly anticipated event promises a captivating showcase of talent with an impressive lineup of performers already confirmed.

Stellar Lineup
The festival boasts an eclectic mix of performers, ensuring a diverse and entertaining experience for attendees. Among the renowned artists set to grace the stage are Richard Grainger, Matt Cranitch, Jackie Daly, Jim Mageean, Pat Sheridan, Dick Miles, Rosie Stewart, Andrew Mackay, Carole Etherton, Andy Kenna, and the Merfolk Shanty Singers. The Cork Singers’ Club will also contribute to the musical tapestry, making it a truly memorable gathering for folk music enthusiasts.

Maritime Song Competition
A notable highlight of the festival is the Maritime Song Competition, sponsored by the Irish Music Rights Organisation (IMRO). With cash prizes totalling 250 euros, this competition adds an exciting element to the festivities. Entrants eager to showcase their songwriting prowess must perform their compositions live in Ballydehob on Sunday, June 16th, 2024.

How to Enter
Songwriters can submit their entries by emailing the lyrics of their songs to dickmiles77@gmail.com. The deadline for email submissions is midnight on June 10th, while the closing date for conventional post entries is June 5th. Physical entries must be addressed to Richard Miles, Cooragurteen, Ballydehob, County Cork, Ireland.

Live Performance Requirement
To be eligible for the competition, songwriters must be available to perform their compositions live at the festival. Additionally, all participants are required to provide legible copies of their songs to the judges at the commencement of the competition, ensuring a fair and transparent evaluation process.

Join the Celebration
The 2024 Fastnet Maritime and Folk Festival is not just an event; it’s a celebration of musical diversity and talent. Whether you’re a fan of traditional folk tunes, maritime melodies, or original compositions, this festival promises something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this enchanting experience in the heart of Ballydehob