Ireland Music Week returns from 30 September to 2 October 2026 in Dublin, showcasing 50 new and emerging Irish artists chosen from nearly 900 applicants, alongside a three-day music industry conference.
Ireland's independent music scene is preparing for one of its most important dates of the year. Ireland Music Week is set to return in 2026, once again turning the spotlight on the new and emerging artists who are helping to shape the future of music in the country.
The event has become a key fixture for musicians hoping to make their mark, as well as for the wider industry that surrounds them. This year's edition promises a packed programme of live showcases and industry gatherings spread across the capital over several days.
A showcase for new talent
At the heart of Ireland Music Week is its showcase of emerging talent. According to the information released, 50 new and emerging Irish artists have been selected to perform, chosen from close to 900 acts that applied through the Breaking Tunes platform.
That level of competition gives a sense of just how deep the pool of new Irish music currently is. Securing one of the coveted slots is widely seen as a valuable step for artists who are still building their audiences and their wider careers in music.
When and where
The event is scheduled to take place from the 30th of September to the 2nd of October 2026, with Dublin serving as the host city. Over the course of those days, the programme moves between live performances and a series of conference sessions.
The main showcases are due to be held on Thursday the 1st and Friday the 2nd of October, spread across three well known Dublin venues: The Grand Social, The Workman's Club and The Button Factory. Daytime shows are set to take place at The Grand Social.
More than a showcase
Ireland Music Week is not only about the performances on stage. Running alongside the concerts is a music conference that stretches across all three days of the event, bringing together artists, industry figures and others working within the sector.
According to the details announced, the conference hub is set to be based at Lost Lane, which acts as a central gathering point throughout the week. It is here that much of the networking and discussion around the wider industry is expected to take place.
Behind the event
The event is organised by First Music Contact, a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting Ireland's independent music sector. Its work is focused on helping artists at the earlier stages of their careers to find new opportunities and connections.
By running an event of this scale, the organisation aims to give emerging acts a genuine platform in front of the people who can help move their careers forward, from promoters and bookers to members of the media and international guests.
The names to watch
The 2026 lineup features a broad mix of styles and voices from across the country. Among the acts named in the selection are Shamrock Showband, Maicín, Sei Green, Rua Rí, Blue Niall and Kiiko, alongside many others spread throughout the programme.
Further names on the list include Girlfriend, Filmore and Alex Gough, part of a roster of 50 acts in total. The variety on show reflects the range of genres and influences that run through the current generation of Irish artists making music today.
A platform for the future
For many of those taking part, an appearance at Ireland Music Week can act as an important stepping stone. Past editions have helped introduce new acts to wider audiences and to the industry figures who attend the event each year in Dublin.
As the dates approach, attention will turn to which of this year's acts manage to make the strongest impression. Whatever the outcome, the event once again underlines the strength and depth of the new music emerging out of Ireland right now.
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