This April, Lower Tullow Street in Carlow will transform into a vibrant hub of music, colour, and celebration as Streetfest Pan Celtic 2025 takes over the town centre for a weekend of family-friendly fun and cultural festivities. Taking place on Friday 25th and Saturday 26th April, the event forms part of the wider Pan Celtic Festival and promises two lively days of free street entertainment, local talent, and community spirit.
Welcoming the programme , Cllr. Fintan Phelan, Mayor of Carlow Municipal District, emphasised the local pride and collective effort behind events like these by saying “Streetfest and the Pan Celtic Festival are key moments in our town’s calendar. They reflect our strong community values, our embrace of Celtic culture, and our commitment to creating positive, inclusive events that bring people together. These celebrations energise the town, create lasting memories for families, and showcase all that’s great about Carlow.”
The celebrations begin on Friday 25th April, with free face painting and balloon modelling from 12 noon to 4pm – perfect for families and young children looking to join in the fun. At 2pm, the streets will come alive with the spectacular Pan Celtic Festival Parade, a colourful procession showcasing the music, dance, and traditional dress of the Celtic nations. It’s a feast for the eyes and ears, and a key highlight of the festival calendar in Carlow.
On Saturday 26th April, Lower Tullow Street will once again be buzzing with activity. From 11am to 4pm, families can enjoy free face painting and balloon modelling, while the Pan Celtic Busking Competition kicks off at 12 noon, filling the street with live music and talented performers. Adding even more energy to the day, Juggler Brendan Show will perform twice, at 12pm and 3.30pm, offering street theatre fun and interactive entertainment for all ages. Meanwhile, from 12 noon to 4pm, children can bounce to their hearts’ content on a variety of bouncing castles provided by Scatts – completely free and open to all.
Speaking about the importance of cultural events, Cllr. Fergal Browne , Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, said: “Culture plays a vital role in the life of a town. Festivals like the Pan Celtic and community-focused events such as Streetfest give us a chance to celebrate who we are, share our stories, and create opportunities for people of all ages to come together in a spirit of joy and unity. These events aren’t just fun – they are essential to building vibrant, connected communities.”
Streetfest also provides the perfect opportunity to shop local and explore what Carlow has to offer. With thousands of visitors expected in town over the weekend, Carlow County Council is encouraging residents and attendees to support local retailers, cafés, and service providers during the event.
“Streetfest and the Pan Celtic Festival bring a fantastic buzz to Carlow town centre,” added the Cathaoirleach. “It’s a brilliant opportunity for residents and visitors alike to support local businesses. When we choose to shop local, we help strengthen our economy and sustain the vibrancy of our town – and festivals like this are the perfect time to do just that.”
The economic and community impact of such festivals goes far beyond the weekend itself. According to Kieran Comerford, Head of Economic Development and Enterprise,
“Events like the Pan Celtic Festival, Carlow Arts Festival, Borris Festival of Writing and Ideas, and Carlow Garden Festival are vital to the year-round vibrancy of our county. They showcase our creativity, attract visitors, and create important commercial opportunities for local businesses. These festivals highlight what makes Carlow special – a place where culture, enterprise, and community thrive together.”
So, whether you're enjoying a family day out, soaking up the music, or watching the parade go by, remember to pop into a local shop or grab a bite from a local café. Every purchase makes a difference. #shoplocalshopcarlow