Omagh Music Festival 2025: A weekend to celebrate Arty McGlynn – The Master

THIS weekend, the town of Omagh will come alive with music, memories, and tributes as the annual Omagh Music Festival returns to the Strule Arts Centre on Friday and Saturday, November 7 and 8. Delivered by Our Music NI and proudly supported by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, this year’s festival is dedicated to honouring the life and legacy of one of Ireland’s most influential musicians, Arty McGlynn.

Born in Omagh in 1944, Arty McGlynn’s career spanned seven decades and multiple genres, from traditional Irish to blues, country, rock, and jazz. His groundbreaking 1979 album McGlynn’s Fancy redefined the role of the acoustic guitar in Irish traditional music, and his collaborations with icons such as Van Morrison, Paul Brady, Mary Black, Liam O’Flynn, and Planxty cemented his place as a master musician and innovator.

The festival’s theme, The Many Sides of Arty McGlynn, reflects the extraordinary breadth of his musical contributions. On Friday evening, audiences will be treated to a landmark concert headlined by Matt Molloy and John Carty, two of Ireland’s most revered traditional musicians. They will be joined by a stellar lineup including Cathal Hayden, Nollaig Casey, Chris Newman and Maire Ni Chathasaigh, Shane McAleer, Eamon McElholm, Paul McGlinchey, Ryan O'Donnell, and many others; all coming together to celebrate the legacy of Omagh’s finest musician.

The celebrations continue on Saturday night, with a genre-spanning concert that showcases Arty’s influence beyond traditional music. Performers include The Causeway Band, Brendan Quinn, Mark McCausland, Nicky Scott, Liam Bradley, Rod McVeigh, Jerome McGlynn, and Paul Maguire, among others. This evening promises to be a powerful tribute to Arty’s versatility and enduring impact on Irish music.

Beyond the concerts, the festival offers a rich programme of events designed to engage and inspire. A Music Heritage Walking Tour led by Declan Forde will explore Omagh’s musical landmarks and stories. Visitors can also enjoy free film screenings and a Rooftop Museum Exhibition featuring Arty’s personal instruments, photographs, and memorabilia from Omagh’s vibrant musical history.

Paul Maguire from Our Music NI remarked, “The range of musicians Nollaig and Jerome have been able to call upon is a testament to Arty's status and legacy as one of the foremost musicians in Ireland. These are two nights that will be remembered for a long time.”

Cllr Barry McElduff, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council said: “Arty McGlynn’s legacy is woven into the fabric of Irish music. It is a real privilege to honour Arty through this year’s festival in his home town of Omagh. Arty was internationally renowned for his musical genius and this is something of which we are really proud in Omagh and our wider Council area. We have an exceptional line-up and I encourage everyone to take part in this celebration of Omagh’s musical heritage.’’

Tickets are selling fast at £22 per night or £40 for both nights. Booking is advised to avoid disappointment. For tickets and full event details, contact Strule Arts Centre at 028 8224 7831 or visit struleartscentre.co.uk.

This weekend promises to be a moving and memorable celebration of a true musical legend. Join us in Omagh to honour Arty McGlynn, whose music continues to inspire generations.