CELEBRATING OUR ROOTS AND LEGACY
The Tommy Makem Folk Festival is a celebration of the life, music, and enduring legacy of one of Ireland’s greatest folk artists — Tommy Makem. Rooted in his hometown of Keady, the festival brings people together through song, story, laughter, and shared experience, echoing the values Tommy championed throughout his remarkable career.
Tommy Makem was not only a world-renowned musician, songwriter, and storyteller, but a passionate advocate for folk tradition as a living, breathing art form. He believed music should be shared, stories should be told, and everyone should feel welcome in the circle. That belief sits at the heart of everything we do.
Our mission is to preserve and promote both traditional and contemporary folk music, while creating space for new voices, fresh collaborations, and the passing on of songs and stories from one generation to the next. From intimate sessions and workshops to headline concerts and spontaneous moments of magic, the festival celebrates folk music in all its forms — old and new, local and international.
Just as importantly, the festival proudly showcases Keady, affectionately described by Tommy as the “Hub of the Universe.” During the festival, the town comes alive with music, visitors, and a sense of shared pride, highlighting Keady as a vibrant centre for culture, creativity, and connection.
The Tommy Makem Folk Festival is built on community. We are committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming, and family-friendly festival where audiences, artists, volunteers, and locals feel part of something special. We support and nurture performers, engage with local organisations and businesses, and ensure the festival remains accessible and rooted in place.
Above all, the festival is about keeping the spirit of folk music alive — a spirit of honesty, warmth, humour, and humanity. By celebrating Tommy Makem’s legacy, we aim to ensure that the songs, stories, and sense of togetherness he loved continue to be shared for generations to come.
