Sean McCarthy
Memorial Weekend Festival

Welcome

We are delighted to welcome you to our newly updated website, a space that celebrates the life, music, and enduring legacy of one of Ireland’s most beloved songwriters, Sean McCarthy.

Founded in 1994 in Sean’s honour, the festival has grown into a cherished annual gathering rooted in the rich folk traditions of North Kerry. Sean’s songs, known for their warmth, wit, and humanity, continue to resonate today, receiving regular airplay on both local and national radio and inspiring new generations of musicians and storytellers.

Over the past three decades, the festival has welcomed some of Ireland’s most renowned ballad singers and songwriters, including Liam Clancy, Jim McCann, Danny Doyle, Seán Keane, Brendan Grace, Francie Conway, The Furey Brothers, The Kilkennys, Meadhbh Walsh, the late Mickey MacConnell, Pete St. John, Brendan Graham, and Philip King. Their performances, alongside countless emerging voices, have shaped the festival into a vibrant celebration of Irish culture and creativity.