Set against the stunning backdrop of the Dublin Mountains, Hibernacle returns to Orlagh House in Rathfarnham on 18 and 19 July 2026, bringing with it a carefully curated weekend of music, creativity and connection.
Positioned as one of Ireland’s most distinctive boutique festivals, Hibernacle offers something increasingly rare on the summer festival circuit: an intimate, artist-led experience where collaboration, community and unforgettable performances take centre stage.
Just 30 minutes from Dublin city centre, the festival transforms the historic grounds of Orlagh House into a gathering place for music lovers seeking a more personal alternative to large-scale events. Designed around atmosphere rather than scale, Hibernacle invites audiences to slow down, immerse themselves in the music and discover unexpected moments throughout the weekend.
This year’s programme is packed with standout performances. Saturday’s headline event celebrates the 40th anniversary of Paul Simon’s iconic album Graceland, reimagined live by the Turning Pirate House Band alongside a host of acclaimed Irish singers. The special performance promises a fresh interpretation of one of the most beloved records of the modern era.
Also taking to the stage on Saturday is American singer-songwriter Carsie Blanton, making her Irish festival debut with a full band. Known for her sharp songwriting and captivating live performances, Blanton has already won over Irish audiences through her collaboration with Ye Vagabonds on Little Flame and a series of sold-out shows.
One of the weekend’s most anticipated performances will see Lisa Hannigan, Paul Noonan and Gemma Hayes come together for a special TRIO set. Bringing three of Ireland’s most respected artists onto one stage, the performance promises a unique blend of original material, shared influences and spontaneous musical moments.
Sunday takes on a more reflective mood with performances from Stockton’s Wing, whose contribution to Irish music spans more than four decades. They are joined by the legendary Scullion, renowned for their innovative approach to folk music, while acclaimed songwriter Roesy brings his distinctive lyrical style to the lineup.
Festival-goers can also look forward to a performance from Wallis Bird, the internationally celebrated singer-songwriter known for her electrifying stage presence and unique upside-down guitar playing. Spoken word artist Emmet O’Brien adds another creative dimension to the weekend with a series of thought-provoking performances.
As the sun sets, Hibernacle takes on an entirely different character. The festival’s after-hours programme moves indoors to the atmospheric spaces of Orlagh House, where cosy trad sessions, spoken word performances, fireside gatherings and DJ sets continue long into the night. The limited-capacity aftershow events run from 10.30pm until 2am each evening, creating opportunities for artists and audiences to connect in a way rarely found at larger festivals.
What sets Hibernacle apart is its commitment to creating meaningful shared experiences. Rather than focusing on big crowds and multiple stages, the festival prioritises thoughtful programming, artistic collaboration and genuine connection. It is a festival built around the moments that cannot be scheduled — the impromptu session, the unexpected conversation and the performance that becomes the highlight of an entire summer.
New for 2026, a limited number of reduced-price tickets are available for under-16s, making Hibernacle an even more welcoming event for families. Children under four can attend free of charge, while all under-18s must be accompanied by an adult.
With quality food vendors, great drinks, beautiful surroundings and an exceptional lineup of artists, Hibernacle offers a refreshing alternative to the larger, more chaotic festival experience.
Day tickets start from €65, with weekend passes and aftershow add-ons also available.
For tickets and more information, visit hibernacle.ie
