Howth's waterfront pubs, harbour bars and historic venues will come alive this August as the Howth Roots and Blues Festival returns with 40 free live performances. The internationally recognised festival runs from 7 to 9 August, bringing Irish and international roots, blues, Americana, country and bluegrass artists to seven locations around the north Dublin fishing port.
Many of the performances will take place in harbour-side venues overlooking Howth's East Pier, marina and fishing fleet, giving visitors the chance to combine live music with one of Ireland's best-known coastal settings.
Headline ticketed concerts will be staged at the Abbey Tavern and Summit Inn.
Hothouse Flowers will top the bill at the Abbey Tavern with an acoustic performance. They are joined by Cork blues-rock trio Crow Black Chicken, The Rob Strong Band and Americana singer-songwriter Zoé Basha. The Summit Inn will host two themed mini-festivals.
The Guitar Legends Triple Bill features Mik Pyro with Dublin Blues Cartel, American guitarist Silas Caldwell and award-winning Irish guitarist Paul Sherry.
The Women in Blues Triple Bill includes Niamh Strong, French performer Elise Frank and blues singer Mary Stokes and her band.
Harbour Sounds — More than 40 free performances and headline concerts will take place across seven venues around Howth, with many events staged in waterfront pubs and harbour-side locations overlooking the fishing port
Festival Director Paul Byrne said the event continues to attract audiences from Ireland and abroad. "We are delighted to confirm our amazing line-up of acts for this year's Howth Roots and Blues Festival," Byrne said. "The weekend has become a staple Irish and international music festival that offers a bit of everything in one of Ireland's most scenic places."
Festival organisers are encouraging visitors to explore the harbour village on foot and follow the free gig trail between venues.
The festival stages include the East Pier Stage at O'Connells, The Smokin' Stage at McNeills, The Phil Lynott Stage at The Bloody Stream, The Garden Stage at The Harbour Bar and the Roots & Blues Barstool Stage at Wrights Findlater.
To support festival-goers, Irish Rail will extend DART services until 12.25 a.m. throughout the weekend. Camper van parking will also be available at nearby Suttonians RFC. Full programme details and ticket information are available from festival organisers.
