We begin the 2025 Tyneside Irish Festival with a special evening of reflection, music, and celebration. The night opens with a screening of a documentary originally produced for Tyne Tees Television by Heather Ging, capturing the atmosphere and community spirit of our second-ever festival in 1988. The film includes music from Skylark and features appearances by Tim Healy and many familiar faces from the Irish Centre, offering a rare and heartfelt glimpse into the early days of what has become one of the North East’s most cherished cultural events.

Join us for a lively Saturday night at the Irish Centre for a traditional Céilí Supper. There will be live Irish music, Irish dancing and the chance for everyone to join in on the dance floor! Homemade Irish stew is included in the ticket price, making this an evening to remember.

Kevin Morrin and Vincent Crowley present an evening of rich, traditional Irish ballads, blending heartfelt vocals with expert accompaniment. Kevin, a renowned balladeer from Ballylinan, Co. Laois, is known for his stirring interpretations of songs by legends like Luke Kelly and The Dubliners, and has performed to thousands at venues across Ireland. Vincent Crowley, a skilled pianist and accompanist, brings depth and warmth to the music, enhancing each performance with subtle, expressive playing. Together, they honour Ireland’s folk heritage while offering a fresh and engaging take on classic ballads. On the evening they will also be joined by Irish country singer (and dancer!) Sally Glennon.

Dr. Connal Parr explores Solidarity and Pressure, the first full-length study of the Irish Anti-Apartheid Movement (IAAM). Founded in 1964, the IAAM became a global force in resisting apartheid. Dr. Parr, whose research spans Ulster Protestant culture and international transitional justice, brings unique insight into how Ireland’s own history of division shaped its solidarity with South Africa. The discussion will cover the IAAM’s activism, the Dunnes Stores strike, and the legacy of Kader and Louise Asmal—highlighting how arts, politics, and justice intersected in Ireland’s anti-apartheid campaign. He will be joined on the night by special guest, Irish rugby Union international Hugo MacNeill, who refused to tour South Africa in 1981 in opposition to Apartheid.

Lane to the Glen is a traditional Irish quartet from Sligo and is essential listening for all traditional music aficionados! The group consists of Oisín Mac Diarmada on the fiddle, Samantha Harvey on the Piano (both of whom have toured extensively with Téada, founded by Oisín in 2001), Daithí Gormley on the button accordian and Patrick Doocey on the guitar.

Come join us at Dorman Long United Athletic Club for an evening withLane to the Glen, a traditional Irish quartet from Sligo and essential listening for all traditional music aficionados! The group consists of Oisín Mac Diarmada on the fiddle, Samantha Harvey on the Piano (both of whom have toured extensively with Téada, founded by Oisín in 2001), Daithí Gormley on the button accordian and Patrick Doocey on the guitar.

It’s a night of music, dancing, and community spirit, supporting Cú Chulainns GAA men’s football and Caisléan Nua Tir na nÓg ladies football. Expect great tunes, good craic, and a warm welcome as we raise vital funds for our local Gaelic games teams. Wear your colours, bring your friends, and celebrate Irish sporting pride in the North East!

A product of Dublin’s famous club An Góilin Traditional Singers, since launching his own solo live career at the 2016 Celtic Connections, Daoirí Farrell has gone from strength to strength. He will be returning to the Tyneside Irish Festival this year as part of a trio with Mark Redmond on the Uileann pipes and Robbie Walsh on the bodhrán. Described by Donál Lunny as one of the most important traditional singers to emerge in the last decade, this is an evening you do not want to miss!

Join us for the end of our Irish Festival through an afternoon packed full of activities that celebrate Irish Heritage. From captivating storytelling and traditional music to hands- on arts and crafts, there is something for everyone to enjoy- young and old alike. Best of all, everything is completely free!

Cromwell and Ireland/ Deportations

1798- Wolfe Tone and the United Irishmen

New Irish language group on Wednesday evenings, meeting at 8pm in the Bar at the Tyneside Irish Centre, starting on the 12th of November. This is an initiative from Pam, a young Dublin professional, now living on Tyneside. It is inspired by her experience at the Gaeltacht in Glencolmcille, Donegal. Fáilte Isteach!