The History of the Festival
The first festival was launched in 1996 by the then President of Ireland Mary Robinson, it has since grown into one of the biggest Irish Festivals in Europe. The festival has played host to the likes of Shane McGowan, Toss the Feathers, Riverdance, Lord of the Dance, Westlife, The Corrs, Van Morrison , Mary Black, Sharon Shannon, Hazel O'Connor, Stocktons Wing and The Oyster Band.
Irish Comedians involved have included Ardal O'Hanlon,Peter Kay, Tommy Tiernan, Jason Byrne and Dylan Moran.
Levenshulme village, which is home to the biggest Irish community outside of London will once again be turned green when it stages over forty events with over one hundred performers. All but three of these events are completely free of charge.
For any events which take place in Levenshulme Village you can contact the ‘levenshulme office’ on 0161 257 2484."
Previous Festival Information
We still have information on the Manchester Irish Festivals in Previous Years
The Photographs of Events during the 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 Manchester Irish Festivals are still on this website
Manchester Irish Festival 2007
Manchester Irish Festival 2006
Manchester Irish Festival 2005
Manchester Irish Festival 2004
Manchester Irish Festival 2003
Manchester Irish Festival 2002
Manchester Irish Festival 2001
Photos of the 2004 Parade
by Dave Brunton
Photos of the 2004 YGG Final
by Dave Brunton
More photos of the 2004 Parade taken by Bill Miller are on his website gallery
More photos of the 2004 Parade taken by John Bruinsma are on his website
Photos of the 2002 Manchester Irish Festival Launch
Photos of The Manchester Irish Festival Parade 2002
Photos of The Manchester Irish Festival Craft & Gift arket 2002
Photos of The Boddingtons Unsigned Bands Final 2002
Photos of The Manchester Irish Festival Parade 2001
Irish Post Photographer
Danny Claffey's photographs
of the 2001 Manchester Irish Festival Parade