*Gemma Hayes. Photograph: Charlotte (@underthefeather)
RESONANCE Festival has revealed its 2026 programme, announcing a line-up that brings together leading voices from economics, culture, sport, media and music for three days of talks, performances and shared experiences on the shores of Lough Derg.
Now entering its fourth year, the not-for-profit, volunteer-led micro-festival will run on Wednesday 11th and Thursday 12th February 2026, moving from its traditional September slot to the quieter post-Christmas period. Events will take place across Killaloe, Co Clare and Ballina, Co Tipperary.
The 2026 programme features, among others, economist David McWilliams, Olympian David Gillick, former RTÉ journalist Cathy Halloran, Body & Soul co-founder Avril Stanley, and New York Times bestselling author Monica Parker. Music at the festival’s headline event on Thursday 12th will be performed by Gemma Hayes.
As part of the festival’s 2026 announcement, Ireland’s largest car sharing service,GoCar, has been confirmed as title sponsor under a new three-year partnership, supporting the continued development of the volunteer-led festival and its focus on regional connection and sustainability.
New elements of the programme for 2026 include curated film, panel discussions and author reading events. Special film screenings will include Underland, based on the bestselling book by Robert Macfarlane, and Wilding, the acclaimed documentary exploring nature restoration, rewilding and new ways of reconnecting with the natural world.
Steve Coakley, Chair of Resonance Festival, said the February move reflects a desire to strengthen cultural life in the region during quieter months: “Resonance is about bringing people together in meaningful ways. Moving the festival to February allows us to contribute to the cultural life of the area at a time when activity is traditionally lower, while staying true to the values and pace that define the festival.”
Alongside the live festival, Resonance is launching a new podcast in 2026, supported by Irish rent-to-own platform Homely. The podcast will feature conversations with past and present speakers, including economist Stephen Kinsella and PGA Tour professional Devon Fox, extending the festival beyond the event itself.
Resonance Festival is also supported by Ei Electronics, the Western Development Commission, Clare County Council and Tipperary County Council.
Tickets for Resonance Festival 2026 range from €10 – €35 and are now on sale now. Buy tickets by clicking the link: https://resonance-loughderg.com/
