IMRO Members Invited to Enter Sean McCarthy Memorial Weekend Ballad Competition
Songwriters across Ireland are being invited to take part in this year’s Sean McCarthy Memorial Weekend
Festival, with entries now officially open for its renowned Ballad Competition.
Held annually in Finuge, County Kerry, the festival has been celebrating Irish songwriting, storytelling, and
traditional music since 1994. Established in honor of Sean McCarthy—widely regarded as one of Ireland’s
most loved songwriters—the event continues to provide a unique platform for original voices and new work.
With a strong emphasis on lyrical storytelling and the tradition of the Irish ballad, the competition offers songwriters the opportunity to present their work in an intimate and attentive setting, in front of audiences who value the craft of songwriting.
For the first time, entries are being accepted online, making it easier than ever for songwriters from
across Ireland and beyond to take part. Full competition rules and entry details are available on the
festival’s website, with a closing date of midnight, 12th July. The final of the Ballad Competition will take
place on Saturday, 1st August at Teach Siamsa, Finuge. Shortlisting may take place by the judging panel.
Over the years, many of Ireland’s best-known ballad singers have performed at the festival, while the
competition itself continues to attract entries from both emerging and established writers. In addition to the competition, the festival programme includes live music and the much-loved Rambling House sessions—offering a rare opportunity to experience Irish song and story in its most authentic and
traditional setting.
The recent launch of our newly redesigned website, www.finugeweekend.com provides a fresh way to
explore the festival, enter the Ballad Competition, and access an archive of photographs, video footage,
and festival history.
Jimmy Deenihan, Chairperson of the Festival, said:
“For over 30 years, the Sean McCarthy Memorial Weekend Festival has celebrated the life and legacy of
one of Ireland’s most loved songwriters. Our Ballad Competition continues to attract entrants from across Ireland and beyond, offering a platform for both established and emerging voices. We would encourage any songwriter with an interest in ballad writing to take part and be part of this unique tradition.”
For more information and to enter, visit: www.finugeweekend.com email info@finugeweekend.com