Calls for Kerry artists to register for national arts festival

By Alastair Tibbs, The Kerryman

Kerry artists are being called to register for a national festival celebrating the creativity of those in later life.

The Bealtaine Festival brings people together from across the country to inspire creativity in those aged 50+ through local events.

The month-long festival scheduled every May has been running since 1995, with 870 events nationally last year run by around 270 organisers nationwide.

Artists and arts organisations of all sizes in Kerry are invited to register and organise a Bealtaine event in their local area, from music and theatre to circus and comedy.

Dr Tara Byrne, Bealtaine Festival artistic director said: “The Bealtaine Festival engages thousands of people every year in a joyful coming together through the arts.”

“We want to show the value of the arts in helping us to reimagine our lives as brimming with potential, as well as supporting community and social connection.”

“We look forward to seeing each and every county in Ireland celebrating the arts as we look to support the participation and representation of all older people in creative life in Ireland.”

Bealtaine 2026 is funded by the Arts Council and the HSE via Age & Opportunity, a national organisation working to enable the best quality of life for people as they age.

This year’s theme is ‘Lust for Life’ is based on Iggy Pop’s iconic punk-era song, celebrating life’s dreams, ambitions, and excesses.

Registration for Bealtaine 2026 is now open and will remain open from February right through to May.