Start checking the B&Bs and ferry timetables.

Something’s brewing on Bere Island, 75 miles west of Cork City on the Beara Peninsula.

Bere Island Arts Festival has officially launched its 2025 programme, as the island gets set to open its arms to artists, musicians, writers, and audiences for four unforgettable days of creativity, performance, and connection from September  18th to 21st.

Now in its third year, the festival features a diverse programme of events ranging from music, dance and theatre to literature and visual art.

Highlights of this year’s festival include legends of Irish music, Stockton’s Wing; local writer Carina McNally’s debut of her new play; a special literary event honouring the poetic legacy of the late John O’Leary featuring Paula Meehan, Theo Dorgan, Annette Skade and Paddy O’ Conor; and a participatory workshop and the presentation of new work by acclaimed performance artist Amanda Coogan.

Other highlights include visual artists William Bock and Rachel Parry’s video and tactile installations of their work and a screening of Housewife of the Year, which will invite intergenerational reflection on Irish identity. An international poetry competition will also take place, opening a space for emerging voices to shine.

The Longtable Lunch, the choral performance at Sunday Mass, and Dancing at the Crossroads, cornerstones of Bere Island Arts Festival’s programme, will also make a welcome return this year.

“Bere Island’s model of blending local and invited artists fosters true engagement.” said poet Keith Payne, who performed at last year’s festival.

“The island and its community aren’t just a backdrop – they’re part of the programme.”

Tickets and a full programme are available now at  bereislandartsfestival.ie.