Downpatrick singer-songwriter Brigid O’Neill is one of the most versatile, unique and fearless storytellers on the island, and her music effortlessly weaves elements of folk, country and jazz into relatable tales of happiness, heartbreak and the human condition. Accompanied by the wonderfully talented Christine Jeans, Geordie legend, George Welch, will be supporting Brigid with consummate musicianship, brilliant songs and his own brand of wit and wisdom.

Join local artists at St Mary’s Parish on Bridge Street in Sunderland for another installment of our Raised on Songs and Stories project, where we sing songs, play tunes and encourage anyone to get up and perform bringing together old friends and new, bringing together Irish emigrants who settled in the North East region during the 50s, 60s and 70s to celebrate their cultural heritage.

Fianna Ni Chonnail, a traditional Irish and Celtic harpist based in Limerick, and Imogen Gunner, an award winning fiddle player and lecturer in folk and traditional music at Newcastle University, are here for a night of candlelight music to celebrate Ireland’s National Harp Day at the perfect setting of Trinity Church, Sunderland. Local musicians are also welcome to join in for the final part of the night.

South Shields-based playwright Ed Waugh is here to show a short film about the Cramlington Train Wreckers, accompanied by a performance with songs and recitations. This unique film features interviews with the surviving striking miners imprisoned for their participation in derailing the Flying Scotsman at Cramlington during the 1926 General Strike.

Join local artists in Consett for another installment of our Raised on Songs and Stories project, where we sing songs, play tunes and encourage anyone to get up and perform bringing together old friends and new, bringing together Irish emigrants who settled in the North East region during the 60s and 70s to celebrate their cultural heritage.

Join this award-winning harp and guitar duo (plus support acts) who are once again playing for the Tyneside Irish festival. Máire, one of Ireland’s most important and influential traditional musicians, and Chris, a prolific composer ,arranger and record producer, have played at hundreds of festivals worldwide, including the All-Ireland Fleadh in Mullingar, Co Westmeath this past summer.

This is our family fun day for young people to celebrate their Irish heritage. We’ll have Pat the Hat with his music, magic and tales, the Comhaltas showing the musical skills of our young people, as well as Feis and Festival dancing, plus activities from the GAA in the morning, perfect for the whole family to get involved!