The Westport Folk & Bluegrass Festival in Westport, County Mayo in the Republic of Ireland, is excited to enter into a partnership with Irish Guide Dogs for their 20th anniversary festival in 2026.
Scheduled for June 4-7, the festival will bring talented artists from across Ireland, Europe, and the US for four days of high-quality entertainment dedicated to both bluegrass and traditional Irish folk music.
During the weekend, volunteers from Irish Guide Dogs will be visible at festival venues to talk and engage with the audience, and offer demonstrations of the dogs who they train to assist people who are visually impaired and the families of children with autism.
Westport festival organizer Uri Kohen says that the two organizations fit together well.
“Music has always guided us — to moments, to memories, to each other.
And now, we’re proud to partner with Irish Guide Dogs, because finding your way — to music, to life, to connection — should belong to everyone.”
Tim O’Mahony, CEO of Irish Guide Dogs, agrees saying…
“We are delighted to partner with the Westport Folk and Bluegrass Festival as they celebrate this important 20-year milestone. At Irish Guide Dogs, we believe in creating a society where people can live their lives confidently and independently — values that resonate strongly with the spirit of this festival. As we mark 50 years of Irish Guide Dogs in 2026, this partnership represents a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the power of connection, generosity, and belonging.”
Full details about the Westport Folk & Bluegrass Festival can be found online.