Opera Friday, a new partnership between RTÉ Lyric FM and Limerick Opera Festival, has been created to celebrate Limerick's thriving operatic culture and to bring world‐class music into everyday spaces.
On Friday, May 1st, 2026, Niall Carroll's Classical Daytime on RTÉ Lyric FM will broadcast a specially chosen selection of operatic arias at noon. Businesses across Limerick and the surrounding areas are invited to join by tuning their in‐house radios or speakers to Lyric FM for this 15‐minute celebration of music.
Purpose of the Initiative
Celebrate the 5th birthday of the Limerick Opera Festival with a shared musical moment across the city.
- Support local culture by spotlighting opera as an accessible, vibrant art form.
- Enhance visitor and customer experience through a unique, atmospheric musical interlude.
- Strengthen community connection by uniting local businesses in a simple, collective action.
What We Are Asking From Local Businesses
Participating is simple and requires no preparation or cost.
On May 1st, 2026 at exactly 12:00 noon:
- Turn on your radio or audio system.
- Tune to RTÉ Lyric FM for 15 minutes.
- Allow the operatic arias to play for 15 minutes.
- Enjoy the shared citywide experience with your customers, guests, and staff.
Arias for Peace — A Free Open-Air Concert in the Heart of Limerick
Arias for Peace is a free public concert taking place at the iconic Milk Market on Friday, May 1st, 2026 at 1.30pm.
Created to make world-class operatic performance accessible to all, the Opera FRIDAY initiative brings together artists, audiences, and communities through the power of live music. This special Arias for Peace concert will feature uplifting selections from the operatic and classical repertoire, celebrating unity, hope, and the shared human spirit.
Set in the vibrant atmosphere of Limerick’s city-centre market space, the event invites lunchtime audiences, families, music lovers, and curious passers-by to enjoy a spectacular cultural experience—completely free of charge.
A Message of Peace Through Music
Arias for Peace is designed to use the universal language of song to foster connection during a time when cultural expression plays an increasingly vital role in community wellbeing. The concert will highlight Irish and international vocal talent, accompanied by esteemed musicians associated with the Opera FRIDAY programme.
About Opera FRIDAY
The Opera FRIDAY initiative is dedicated to nurturing opera engagement across Limerick City and County offering regular public performances, educational outreach, and collaborative artistic programming. Partnering with RTÉ Lyric FM, Opera FRIDAY continues to champion accessibility to the arts and support Limerick's vibrant cultural landscape.
