A Fleadh-Tastic Week in Wexford: Your Ultimate Guide to the Fleadh.
- Hannah
- Jul 25
- 7 min read
Updated: Jul 31
So, you've booked your tickets for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025!
Wexford is a delightful (and let’s face it, wholly underrated) spot to experience the world's largest and most prestigious Traditional Irish Music Festival.
Flying High: The dancers of Craobh Loch Garman CCE at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024.

From bustling boulevards to back end alleys, every corner will come alive with flavour, festivity and foot-tapping fun - but as an adopted Wexfordian, I'm here to give you my top tips for the very best places to eat, drink, see, and experience, all while soaking up the infectious energy of the Fleadh.
So, grab your dancing shoes (or wellies, depending on the weather), and let’s get this party started! .
Start Your Day Right: Breakfast at La Vista
If you’re looking to start your day with a serious breakfast, look no further than La Vista.
Run by the dynamic duo Karen and Tracey, La Vista is the kind of place that makes you feel like a VIP the moment you walk in.
But the real star of the show? That view!
The bistro’s panoramic view of Wexford Town is nothing short of jaw-dropping. Trust me, if you’re going to gaze out over the town while sipping a coffee, do it here.
Whether you're a fan of a classic Fry-Up, Eggs Benedict, or my favourite, the Croque Madame topped with a soft fried egg (even the staff love this dish!), La Vista has you covered.
Oh, and don’t forget the outdoor balcony. It’s perfect for pretending you're a famous foodie Instagrammer, casually sipping an Americano while “people watching.”
Pro Tip: La Vista is located on the top floor of the National Opera House on High Street - probably the most quaint and unassuming street in Wexford. You'd be forgiven for thinking you're in the wrong place but trust me, behind those walls, is a world class Opera House - and the best breakfast in Wexford!
Pint in Hand, Feet Up: Sky & the Ground Pub
What better way to continue your day than with a pint of pure bliss?
Sky & the Ground pub is where you go for the best pint in Wexford - end of story. John and his crew behind the bar can pour a pint of Guinness so perfect it might just make you weep. And if you're not into Guinness, well, don’t worry, there’s a whole range of other local brews that’ll have you feeling like a craft beer connoisseur before you can say “rissole.”
Inside, you’ll find a warm fire crackling away, cosy snugs and trad music to beat the band.
Grab a seat, sip slowly, and soak in the vibes.
You’re on Fleadh time now, and trust me, there’s no rush.
Pro Tip: Strike up a conversation with John. Not only is he a great bartender, but the man knows the best spots for after-hours mischief.
A Scenic Break: Three Sisters River Cruise
Once you’ve had your fill of pints, it’s time for a bit of classy exploration.
Hop aboard the Three Sisters River Cruise, and get ready for a trip that’s equal parts scenic and seal-filled. Yes, you heard me right - seals. They’re lounging about at Raven Point, giving you serious side-eye like they're judging your dance moves at the Gig Rig!
Chief sister Suzanne runs a really tight ship (er...I mean ferry).
This 90 minute excursion is the PERFECT mini-escape from the hustle and bustle of the Fleadh. A pre-recorded narration will guide you as you set sail from Wexford Quay, along the Slaney Estuary and out to Ravens Point.
The boat has both indoor and outdoor seating - because, hey, it’s Ireland, and the weather can be temperamental. There’s also a full bar on board, because, well, what’s a scenic boat ride without a little something in hand?
Everything in moderation, of course!
Pro Tip: Boarding starts 30 minutes before your scheduled sailing time so arrive early to catch the best seats.
"Never buy one of those cheap tin whistles.
It only leads to much harder drugs like pipes and flutes".
Coffee Break: The Clovelly
By now, your caffeine levels are probably dangerously low, and we both know that no one should go into a Fleadh weekend without a decent cup of coffee.
Enter The Clovelly.
Probably the smallest coffee shop in Wexford, but don’t let its size fool you. What it lacks in square footage, it more than makes up for in personality, charm, and some seriously top-notch brews.
Owned by local legend, Joe O’Connor, this little gem is where locals go for coffee that will change your life (okay, maybe not life-changing, but it’ll definitely make your day a whole lot better).
Whether you're craving a smooth cappuccino, a foamy flat white, or coffee over ice, The Clovelly has you covered.
Joe and his team don't just serve any old iced coffee by the way, they’ll brew it, pack it in a sleek transparent can, and hand it over like you’ve just witnessed some sort of coffee magic.
It's the kind of thing that makes you feel way cooler than you actually are!
Pro Tip: Don’t let the size of the place fool you, Joe is a pro, and he’ll make your coffee exactly how you like it. It’s small, it’s minimal, and it’s worth squeezing into.
BBQ Bliss: Simon Lambert & Sons
By now, you’ve walked enough, talked enough, and frankly, you deserve a big, juicy meal.
Simon Lambert & Sons is the place to go for BBQ that’ll have you wishing you could stay for seconds (and maybe even thirds). Their ribs are legendary, their brisket will melt in your mouth, and their burgers? Let’s just say you’ll find yourself thinking about them long after you’ve left.
The men to thank for all of this meaty glory?
Owner Simon and Manager Mick, are legends in their own right.
They know how to make you feel welcome and have a drinks menu that will knock you socks off - literally.
These guys take it seriously. They'll be flinging burgers and slinging pints as quickly as you can down them.
Pro Tip: The BBQ Chicken Taco’s and a pint of Citra, (the pubs own fruity pale ale which is brewed here onsite) is my dream come true!
Ultimate Guide to the Fleadh
Music at the National Opera House
After you’ve soaked up all the delicious food and pints, it’s time to shift gears and let your feet do the talking. And what better way to get your toes tapping than with Perfect Friction.
This trad band with a twist, is the kind of group that’ll make you rethink everything you thought you knew about traditional Irish music.
Sure, they’ve got the usual fiddle, whistle, and bodhrán, but then - bam! - they hit you with a version of “Freed from Desire” that’ll have you wondering if you’re at a céilí or a rave?!
One minute you're swaying along to a reel, the next you're busting out the “na na na na na’s" to a dance track from the ‘90s.
These guys know how to keep you on your toes.
Pro Tip: If they play their single “Irish Love” during the show, you’ll catch yourself singing it for days. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
The Gig Rig: Where the Craic Never Stops
But wait, there's more! You’re still not done.

Head on over to The Gig Rig, located on the Wexford Quayfront. This massive outdoor stage runs from 11 AM to 11 PM and is literally buzzing with trad music, dancers, and everything in between.
Whether you’re tapping your feet to a local band or catching an impromptu céilí dance, the energy here is infectious.
And hey, it’s free, which is practically unheard of these days!
Pro Tip: Directly adjacent to the Gig Rig is Cork Buzz Wine Bar - a hidden gem in Wexford. Proprietor Ioan and his team have the best Rosé wine in Ireland!
Practical Tips: Travel, Safety, and Packing
Alright, time to get serious for a second. You’re ready for the fun, but let’s talk about the practical stuff so you can survive and thrive during your time in Wexford.
Pedestrian Zone: Wexford is pedestrianised between 10:00 AM and 04:00 AM, so forget about driving right into the heart of the action. But never fear, there are Park & Ride bus services that’ll get you into the centre without the hassle.
Weather Prep: It’s Ireland, people! The weather’s as unpredictable as a trad band’s tempo. So yes, pack a raincoat or umbrella. And because we also get some unexpected sunshine, make sure to pack some SPF - because no one wants to be a lobster by the end of the day.
Footwear: Comfort is key! Whether you’re navigating the cobblestones of High Street or breaking into a spontaneous jig outside Macken’s Bar (Ireland’s only ‘Husband Daycare Centre’) make sure those shoes can keep up.
Medical Help: If you happen to overdo it on the jigs and reels, there’s a medical tent at Wexford Bridge on the Quay. You’ll be in good hands if things get….out of hand.
Pro Tip: Pack a portable charger. Between the photos, selfies, and videos, your phone will be drained by noon. Keep that battery going so you don’t miss any epic moments.
Wrapping Up Your Fleadh Cheoil 2025 Adventure
And there you have it, folks
This was my ultimate guide to the Fleadh!
From Simon’s BBQ to the Gig Rig’s ceaseless tunes, you’re in for a week packed with music, food, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Pack your bags, charge your phone, and leave room for a few spontaneous adventures - because let’s face it, that’s what the Fleadh is all about.
But don’t just take my word for it, come and see for yourself!
Whether you’re here for the tunes, the craic, or the occasional pint, Wexford welcomes you with open arms, a big smile, and 27 different renditions of Boolavogue.
Loch Garman Abú

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