July 2026

The popular Ballina Salmon Festival will run from Saturday 12th July to Sunday 19th July 2026.

It celebrates the community of Ballina, the culture, the heritage, the music and sports of County Mayo on the shore of The River Moy.

The event is set to feature once more the most popular events, such as the Teddy Bears Picnic, National Heritage Day, the River Moy Swim, and the fireworks display on the closing night.

On Sunday 12th July the Teddy Bears Picnic will take place in Tom Ruane Park. This year the iconic children’s event will offer more than 60 activities and entertainment.

The iconic Car Treasure Hunt will take place on Monday 13th July.

The “Gathering of the Boats on the River Moy”, Cruinniú na mBád, wil take place from 7 pm to 9.30 pm on Friday 17th July. The boats will gather and glide along the River Moy showing the connection of Ballina to its river.

On Wednesday 15th July, the flagship event, National Heritage Day, will take place from 10 am to 6 pm. The four central streets and Market Square of Ballina town will be transported back in time to showcase the very best of traditional Irish crafts, skills and entertainment.

On Saturday 18th July there will be the River Moy Swim Race. With over 70 years of history, it is one of the oldest river swims in Ireland and offers two distances: 600 m and 2.5 km.

Saturday night will be special closing night with amazing fireworks and music.