Why Resonance Is Moving; and What’s Happening in September
For two fantastic years, Resonance Lough Derg has brought people together in Ballina/Killaloe to connect, share ideas, and experience something unlike anything else on the Irish festival calendar. A unique blend of intellectual exploration, artistic expression, and well-being; set against the stunning backdrop of Lough Derg. Fostering connections and inspiring new ideas, our aim is for the event to be immersive, intimate, and genuinely memorable.
As we look ahead, we’re making a big move: Resonance is shifting its main festival to February 2026.
Why the Change?
September has served us well, but it’s getting crowded. It’s a really busy month! Accommodation is stretched and we still see plenty of tourism. Our academic speakers and our volunteers, many of whom are students, are busy during the back-to-college rush. We want Resonance to grow slowly, sustainably, and with integrity.
February is a time when we’re slowly waking up. We’re coming back to life after the darkness of winter. It aligns beautifully with our core theme: creativity and innovation in a place that connects.
What to Expect in February 2026
We’re scaling up, but not out. The vibe will stay intimate and connection-focused, with:
- More venues, more great talks in more small spaces
- More speakers, themes, and immersive formats
- More topics; Adding Rhythm, Media and Comedy to Innovation, Creativity and Nature-based Connection
- No queues, more surprises
Workshops will remain hands-on and personal: from AI and sustainability to drumming circles and sound baths. We’re keeping the soul of Resonance intact, but we’re expanding the constellation.
What’s Happening In September 2025?
Before we leap ahead, we’re pausing to reflect; and to build.The Resonance UnConvention.
This September, we’re inviting festival founders and cultural instigators to gather in Killaloe for a special event designed to support those running microfestivals and niche gatherings across Ireland.
We’ll share insights, swap challenges and discuss tools, marketing, accessibility, and sustainability. Our aim? To create an industry leading whitepaper that articulates the real value our festivals bring and the supports we need to thrive.
A Public Art Project with David Speed
Together with local councils, stakeholders, and art students, we are collaborating with celebrated UK street artist David Speed to create a visual addition to walkable areas through the village; celebrating Ballina/Killaloe’s layered heritage and encouraging exploration. David was a guest speaker at Resonance 2024, and is donating his time and expertise to help bring more art into our community.
Panel Discussion on Art, Music & Community
Taking place between the artwork’s completion and the UnConvention kickoff, an ppen-access panel will feature artists, founders and innovators. We’ll chat about the power of culture in place-making. This is a free event, please sign up to our newsletter for more information.
And finally…
We’re building something that doesn’t fit the standard box, and that’s exactly the point. Resonance exists to explore what happens when creativity and innovation collide in the right place, at the right time, with the right people.
We hope you’ll be one of them!
