Sneem International Storytelling & Folklore Festival 2025

Sneem International Storytelling & Folklore Festival 2026

This November, stories, folklore, music and theatre return to Sneem for the 13th annual Sneem International Storytelling & Folklore Festival.

Taking place from Thursday 12 to Sunday 15 November 2026, the festival brings acclaimed storytellers, performers, musicians and folklore experts to the village for four days celebrating Ireland's rich tradition of storytelling.

Visitors can enjoy everything from intimate storytelling sessions and traditional story swaps in Sneem's pubs to live theatre, music, fascinating talks and special events for children.

2026 Festival Highlights

This year's line-up includes acclaimed storytellers Órla McGovern, Paddy O'Brien, Killian Burns, Cillian Brennan and Dr Senem Donatan Mohan, with events taking place throughout Sneem.

Highlights include Batt Burns' Rambling House, bringing together the festival's storytellers for an evening of stories, music and entertainment; fascinating talks exploring Kerry's history and storytelling traditions; children's storytelling sessions; and informal story swaps where everyone is invited to listen, or share a story of their own.

Music also forms part of the weekend, with the South Kerry Rosen Choir performing at St Michael's Church.

One of the highlights of this year's festival will be The Love Hungry Farmer, John B. Keane's much-loved story adapted and performed by Seamus O'Rourke, on Saturday evening.

Storytelling at Sneem Hotel

Sneem Hotel is delighted to once again play a part in the festival, with several events taking place here throughout the weekend.

On Friday 13 November, guests can join Yarns in the Barn, beginning at Sneem Hotel before heading to a traditional barn in the foothills outside Sneem for a special storytelling experience.

That evening, the hotel hosts Batt Burns' Rambling House at 8pm, a celebration of festival founder Batt Burns featuring the festival's storytellers, music and entertainment.

On Saturday, Sneem Hotel hosts a number of events, including talks exploring the remarkable story of Monsignor Hugh O'Flaherty and the storytelling traditions of South West Kerry, as well as an afternoon with Kerry storyteller Killian Burns.

The hotel's Function Room will also provide the setting for Saturday night's performance of The Love Hungry Farmer.

Make a Weekend of It in Sneem

The Storytelling & Folklore Festival is a wonderful opportunity to experience Sneem at a particularly atmospheric time of year.

Stay at Sneem Hotel & Apartments and you'll be perfectly placed to enjoy events both at the hotel and throughout the village, while also having time to discover the spectacular Ring of Kerry landscape.

Spend your days exploring, settle in for an evening of stories and music, and enjoy a relaxing November break overlooking the waters of Kenmare Bay.

Festival Weekend: Thursday 12 – Sunday 15 November 2026

Weekend festival tickets are €75 per person, with individual event tickets also available and a number of events free to attend. For more information, see the Sneem International Storytelling Website. 

Book your stay at Sneem Hotel & Apartments and experience one of Kerry's most distinctive cultural festivals.