Brittany Festival Galway 2026

Galway will once again come alive with the sounds, stories, and spirit of Celtic tradition as Brittany Fest 2026 celebrates the rich and enduring cultural connections between Ireland and Brittany.

At the heart of this year’s festival is the evocative sound of the Breton and Celtic harp — an instrument deeply rooted in the heritage of both regions and a powerful symbol of shared identity, creativity, and storytelling across the Celtic world.

The 2026 programme places a special spotlight on the harp through an inspiring series of performances, workshops, film, and historical exploration. Audiences will experience the acclaimed Breton film Kirsten and the Harp, intimate harp and guitar performances, hands-on workshops led by Florian Blancke and Quentin Cooper, and a fascinating journey through the history of the harp presented by Natalie Surina.

This year’s festival also pays tribute to the legendary Moya Brennan, whose ethereal voice and pioneering contribution to Celtic music have helped bring the genre to audiences around the world. Her artistry perfectly reflects the festival’s spirit of cultural exchange, artistic collaboration, and deep-rooted connection between Celtic communities.

Brittany Fest 2026 also highlights the longstanding twinning relationship between Galway and Lorient — a partnership that continues to foster vibrant exchanges in music, language, education, and community life. These enduring ties remain a living example of how culture can strengthen friendship across borders and generations.

Festival organisers say Brittany Fest is not only a celebration of heritage, but also a platform for contemporary Celtic culture to evolve and thrive while remaining connected to its roots.

“Through music, storytelling, and shared traditions, Brittany Fest creates meaningful connections between people and communities. The festival reminds us that the Celtic spirit is alive, evolving, and deeply relevant today.”

Brittany Fest 2026 invites audiences of all ages to immerse themselves in a unique celebration where harps, voices, film, and shared histories come together in the heart of Galway.

Catherine Gagneux
French Honorary Consul & President Galway Lorient Twinning Committee

PROGRAMME

FRIDAY 15th MAY

3.30pm | Shantalla Community Centre | FREE
CHILDREN’S EVENT
Limited places, please contact galwaylorienttwinning@gmail.com to register

Fun Breton events for kids, with colouring, dance, music, and crépes with Mariette and FLAM Galway.

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Charlie Bynne’s | 8.00pm | FREE
KRISTEN AND THE HARP DOCUMENTARY

Although Kristen Nogués (1952-2007) has left but a few traces in her lifetime, her music still resonates today with incredible strength. It comes from an outstanding harpist and composer, who changed the approach of her instrument forever, evolving from its celtic roots to new electric sounds. There is also a story behind Kristen’s music. The movement of protest in 1970’s Brittany, a land she discovered after a childhood spent near Paris among a community of Breton exiles. There Nogués reconnected with her roots and found a way to go musically beyond them. She chose to be a “Bretonne who makes music”, rather than a mere “Breton musician’. She had to find a place on a scene mostly ruled by men, and a musical identity between folk and jazz, tradition and avant-garde. There were few recordings left — four aloums in 30 years — but each of them, as well as her live performances, display a touch of genius.

KRISTEN AND THE HARP traces back this unique musician’s journey, mixing archival footage with actual memories of those who knew Nogués and her music well, and loved her fondly. Musician or friend or both, each one tells his or her part of the story, from the stage of an old theatre. As contemporary harpists recreate some pieces of Kristen’s music, making it more alive than ever.

SATURDAY 16th MAY

11am to 2.30pm (with 30mins break) | Nuns Island Theatre | €15
BRETON & IRISH MUSIC WORKSHOPS
Limited spaced, please book via Eventbrite link

HARP WORKSHOP WITH FLORIANE BLANCKE
Explore accompaniment, rhythm, ornamentation and musical expression inspired by Irish traditional music and beyond. Suitable for harp players interested in developing their technique, repertoire and listening skills.

GUITAR WORKSHOP WITH QUENTIN COOPER
Discover rhythmic approaches, chord voicings and groove techniques drawn from Irish traditional music, as well as rock, jazz and Latin influences. Ideal for guitarists wishing to expand their accompaniment skills and musical confidence.

Both workshops will focus on musical connection, practical playing ideas and creative exploration in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. Open to intermediate and advanced players (other levels welcome to listen and learn).

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3.30pm to 4.30pm | Nuns Island Theatre | FREE
EARLY IRISH HARP TASTER WORKSHOP
Limited spaced, please book via Eventbrite link

An illustrated musical talk on the history of the Irish harp and its connections with Brittany, each historical period accompanied by a period tune played by Natalie Surina, historical harp maker and player.

The talk covers the 1000 year history of the Irish harp and highlight the development of the instrument and the music played on it from its earliest form to its modern version. It also explores structural difference between the original ancient version of the Irish harp and its modern counterpart. The demonstration will include showing the actual instruments, and sound samples played by the presenter.

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8.00pm | Nuns Island Theatre | €10 at the door
FLORIANE BLANCKE & QUENTIN COOPER
To reserve your tickets please email galwaylorienttwinning@gmail.com

An electrifying musical journey where Irish tradition meets the sounds of the world. From the haunting melodies of Brittany to the vibrant rhythms of Peru, this dynamic duo weaves rich textures, emotive storytelling and infectious energy into a truly unforgettable live performance. Don’t miss this captivating concert – a celebration of musical traditions from around the world.

Sponsors

Partners
Flam Galway, Galway Accueil, Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop

Special Thanks
Mariette & Laura Le Cleach, Peadar King, Ruth Mulhern, Vinny (Charlie Byrne’s), Johnny Shorten, Marian Ni Chonghaile, Seamus Keady, William Cahill, Julie Ann Brown, Isbeal Nic Aoidh, Lise Carrel and ALL the many friends and supporters that have been involved in twinning activities

Accessibility & Assistance
When booking your tickets, please let us know of any special requirements so we can make your visit as enjoyable as possible. If you book online, phone +353 (0) 91 565 886 or email nunsisland@galwayartscentre.ie to let us know of any special requirements.