The Limerick Wild Geese Festival returns from 9–12 July 2026, bringing together local communities, historians, artists, musicians and international visitors for four days of cultural celebration, historical reflection and unique events honouring the enduring legacy of the Wild Geese and the historic connections between Ireland and France.
Now firmly established as one of Limerick’s most distinctive heritage festivals, the event commemorates the Flight of the Wild Geese following the Treaty of Limerick in 1691 while celebrating the rich cultural, artistic and diplomatic links that continue to unite Ireland and France today.
This year’s festival programme offers a vibrant mix of history, music, art, food and community engagement. The celebrations begin with two pre-festival events, including the popular Wild Geese Cypher – The French Takeover at The Record Room on 25 June ,apart of Twilight Thursday and a special French Connection Whiskey Tasting at Mother Macs on 3 July.
Festival week officially opens on Thursday 9 July with an elegant Wine Tasting and Garden Party at No.1 Pery Square Hotel in partnership with the Limerick and Clare Wine Lovers Club. On Friday 10 July, the annual History Lecture will explore the fascinating controversy surrounding the placement of the Patrick Sarsfield Statue in late eighteenth-century Limerick.
The festival reaches its peak on Saturday 11 July, beginning with a commemorative wreath-laying ceremony at the Patrick Sarsfield Statue in John’s Square. Throughout the day, Limerick will host artists participating in the annual Plein Air Painting Competition, while competitors gather in Corbally for the festival’s traditional Pétanque Tournament.
A major highlight of the weekend takes place at St Mary’s Cathedral, where visitors can enjoy a spectacular Re-enactment Siege Camp, living history displays, period actors and musical performances. The festival concert, running from 2pm to 4pm, will feature an exciting programme of local and international performers including the Limerick School of Music, Conradh na Gaeilge, Social Uí Ruairc Irish dancers and other guest artists. The day concludes with the prestigious Wild Geese Festival Gala Dinner at The Hunt Museum. This five course meal of French splendour is prepared by award winning chef George Casey.
On Sunday 12 July, the celebrations continue with the Limerick Plein Air Festival at Bunratty Castle before the annual French Flag-Raising Ceremony, hosted by Honorary Consul of France Dr Loïc Guyon, commemorating the Flight of the Wild Geese and celebrating the longstanding friendship between Ireland and France. The festival concludes with a unique historical and musical bus tour exploring sites connected to the Siege of Limerick.
Festival Chairperson Michelle Daly Hayes said:
“The Wild Geese Festival celebrates one of the most significant chapters in Irish history while showcasing the strong cultural ties that continue to flourish between Ireland and France. We are delighted to welcome visitors from near and far to experience a programme that brings together heritage, music, art, food and community spirit in the heart of Limerick.”
The festival is organised by the Limerick Wild Geese Festival Committee in partnership with community organisations, cultural groups, local businesses and French-Irish institutions. Organisers expect another strong turnout following the continued growth and success of recent festivals. The committee in 2026 is made up of Michelle Daly Hayes, Lorna Hodkinson, Anthony Gaffney, Fionnuala Brommell and Randel Hodkinson.
The Limerick Wild Geese Festival is supported by Limerick City and County Council and a wide range of local and international partners committed to preserving and celebrating the shared history of Ireland and France.
Main sponsors include: Limerick City and County Council, Embassy of France in Ireland, Alliance Francaise de Limerick, FitzHeavey Homes, Moet Hennessy, The Hunt Museum and Mullock and sons.
