Singers, storytellers and spectators are set to converge in Keady for the first ever ‘Banks of the Callan’ Traditional Singing Weekend.
Enjoy singing sessions, workshops, storytelling and traditional music over one weekend! The festival is being hosted by Keady CCÉ and is led by the iconic local Keady singer, Seán Mone.
Speaking of the inspiration behind the event, a Keady Comhaltas representative said:
“Keady is proudly home to Seán Mone, a widely respected traditional singer and songwriter. The singing weekend in Keady would showcase his contribution and inspire young singers.
“We want to continue supporting the growing youth involvement with large numbers of local children attending singing classes hosted by Keady Comhaltas. The Banks of the Callan festival will offer these young singers opportunities to perform and learn.”
The events will take place this weekend [Friday 6 and Saturday 7 March] with the festival being kicked off by a traditional song and storytelling session on Friday evening in the Tommy Makem Centre.
All events are open to everybody with singers, storytellers, and musicians from all over warmly welcomed!
Check out the full list of events taking place below.
Evening of Traditional Songs and Stories
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Venue – Tommy Makem Arts & Community Centre – Gallery Keady, Co Armagh
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Date – Friday, March 6, 2026
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Time – 7.30pm – 9.45pm
An evening of Traditional Songs & Storytelling – Presented & recited by local artists including Sean Mone, John Makem, Piaras Ó Lorcáin and others.
This will be a unique evening of Irish tradition with opportunity for members of the audience to take part.
Light Refreshments will be served
Admission £5 at the door
Traditional Singing Workshop
Hosted by Eímheár Mulholland
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Venue – Tommy Makem Arts & Community Centre, Keady, Co Armagh
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Date – Saturday, March 7, 2026
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Time – 1pm – 3.30pm
(To book – email ceide@armaghcomhaltas.org Or call 07881964435)
Admission – £20
Traditional Singing Session
Led by Seán Mone and Eímheár Mulholland
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Venue – Arthur’s Bar Keady, Co Armagh
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Date – Saturday, March 7, 2026
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Time – 4pm – 7.30pm
Light Refreshments served
Free Admission
Traditional Music Session
Led by Justin Toner and Paul Meehan
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Venue – Cassie’s Bar Keady, Co Armagh
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Date – Saturday, March 7, 2026
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Time – 8pm – Late.
All musicians welcome.
Free Admission
Click here to follow Keady Comhaltas on Facebook and for more information on the event.
