Sunshine, History and Culture Shine at the 7th Limerick Wild Geese Festival

The 7th Limerick Wild Geese Festival concluded in spectacular fashion this weekend, with sunshine, history, music and culture drawing many people from across Ireland and beyond to celebrate the shared heritage and enduring friendship between Ireland and France.

Supported by the French Embassy in Ireland, Limerick City and County Council, Fitzpatrick & Heavey Homes, Mullock & Sons, BDS Financial, Hennessy and a range of community and business partners, the festival once again showcased Limerick’s unique place in Irish and European history.

Over three days, visitors enjoyed a diverse programme of events including historical talks, cultural activities, musical performances, commemorations and the annual Gala Banquet. Historians Randel Hodkinson and George Lee captivated audiences with fascinating insights into the lives and legacy of the Wild Geese and their impact on European history.

A particular highlight of the festival was the H.I.P.S.T.E.R. (Historically Informed Performance Series, Teaching, Education and Research) concert, which delighted audiences with performances on medieval and early instruments including the hurdy-gurdy, harpsichord and flute. Festival-goers were also treated to a memorable performance by Alpenhorn musician Stefan Kaiser, whose music added a unique dimension to the weekend’s celebrations.

The festival’s commemorative events began on Saturday morning with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Patrick Sarsfield Statue in John’s Square, officiated by Mayor John Moran. Sunday’s commemorations saw many people gather for a moving ceremony at St Mary’s Cathedral and the Patrick Sarsfield Memorial, honouring the men and women whose journeys shaped the Wild Geese story and celebrating the enduring friendship between Ireland and France that continues to flourish today.

Another highlight of the weekend was the Wild Geese Gala Banquet at the Hunt Museum, where guests enjoyed an evening of exceptional food, music and cultural exchange. The banquet welcomed distinguished guests from Ireland and France, including French Cultural Counsellor Xavier d’Argoeuves, Mayor John Moran, civic leaders, festival supporters and members of the local community. Mayor Moran’s presence at both the commemorative events and the Gala Banquet reflected the importance of the festival to Limerick’s cultural life and its strong connections with France.

Michelle Daly Hayes, President of the Alliance Francaise in Limerick, said:

“The response to this year’s festival has been truly exceptional. It has been wonderful to see so many people embracing the history, culture and friendship that the Wild Geese story represents. The festival continues to grow year on year and demonstrates the importance of preserving and celebrating the unique connections between Ireland and France.

The Wild Geese Festival is not only an important cultural and educational event, but also an important economic driver for the region. In 2025, the festival generated an estimated economic impact of more than €750,000 for Limerick. With three weeks of festival-related activity taking place this year, we expect the 2026 festival to contribute in excess of €1 million to the local economy through visitor spending, accommodation, hospitality and cultural tourism.”

Dr Loïc Guyon, Honorary Consul of France to the Mid West, said:

“The 2026 edition of the Limerick Wild Geese Festival was an immense success thanks to the work and dedication of its organising committee chaired by Alliance Française de Limerick’s President Michelle Daly Hayes and thanks to all of the festival’s sponsors and supporters. It was so heartwarming to see so many local people and also so many tourists enjoy the festivities. A reflection of Limerick’s famous European embrace. Vive l’amitié entre l’Irlande et la France !”

The organising committee would like to extend special thanks to Michelle Daly Hayes, Lorna Hodkinson, Randel Hodkinson, Anthony Gaffney and Fionnuala Bromell for their commitment and dedication in delivering another successful festival.

The committee also wishes to acknowledge and thank the French Embassy in Ireland, Limerick City and County Council, Fitzpatrick & Heavey Homes, Mullock & Sons, BDS Financial, Hennessy, the festival’s volunteers, performers, supporters and community partners whose generosity and support made the festival possible.

As the curtain falls on the 2026 festival, organisers are already looking ahead to next year, building on the success of this year’s programme and continuing to celebrate the remarkable story of the Wild Geese and the enduring friendship between Ireland and France.

Photos by various: Brendan Gleeson, Deirdre Power, Lorna Hodkinson, Evelyn Pepperrell.