The Comeraghs Wild Festival 2026 has unveiled the second major announcement in this year’s programme, confirming an enchanting new live music event set to take place on Sunday, the 12th of July at Woodhouse Estate in Stradbally, Co Waterford. ‘An Evening of Song and Story’, is a special open-air concert promising to be one of the most atmospheric and memorable experiences of the summer festival.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Comeragh Mountains, the event will unfold in the beautifully restored walled garden of Woodhouse Estate as day turns to evening. Audiences can expect a unique blend of music, storytelling and shared moments, carefully curated to capture the spirit of the festival and the magic of its surroundings.
Headlining the evening are The Backyard Band, a dynamic five-piece known for their powerful live performances and rich vocal harmonies. Featuring former members of Tweed — Brendan Ryder, Dave Hallissey, Gay Brazel, Mick Grace and Peter Dowley — the group has become a firm festival favourite since forming in 2019. Their return to the Comeraghs comes by popular demand, with audiences once again set to enjoy a vibrant mix of classic songs, beloved Tweed favourites and original material.
Joining them for this special evening are the acclaimed White Horse Guitar Club, whose remarkable journey from a local pub gathering in Ballincollig to national and international recognition has made them one of Ireland’s most distinctive musical acts. Formed by Joe Carey, the eleven-piece ensemble is renowned for its powerful harmonies, storytelling and unique interpretations of folk, Americana and traditional Irish music.
An Evening of Song and Story is designed as a relaxed and immersive experience, inviting festivalgoers to bring a chair, gather with friends and soak up the atmosphere as music and stories unfold under an open sky.
This announcement marks just the second reveal in what organisers have promised will be the most exciting Comeraghs Wild Festival programme to date. It follows the recent confirmation of a major open-air concert at Cooney’s Yard featuring The Frank and Walters and Ruaile Buaile, setting the tone for a festival that continues to grow in ambition and appeal.
Festival organiser Bernadette Drohan said the Woodhouse event represents something truly special within the overall programme, offering a different pace and atmosphere while staying true to the festival’s core focus on connection, place and shared experience.
With further programme announcements still to come, anticipation is continuing to build for July 2026. Early bird tickets are now available from €30 via the festival’s official website https://comeraghswild.com/, and and www.eventbrite.ie Music lovers are encouraged to secure their place early for what promises to be an unforgettable night in the heart of the Comeraghs.
