HomeIrish Fest Live Music & Entertainment Lineup

The Lineup

Experience the best of Irish music & dance at Naperville Irish Fest!

Join us on September 18-19, 2026, in downtown Naperville’s Central Park for an unforgettable weekend celebrating Irish culture. The Naperville Irish Fest is proud to showcase an incredible lineup of Irish music and dance that will have you tapping your feet and dancing along.

CHARACTER FLEADH

Kick off the Halfway to St. Patrick's Day and the Irish weekend by listening to Character Fleadh at Quigley's Irish Pub on Thursday September 17, 2026, at 8:00 PM. CHARACTER FLEADH

"If you're looking for authentic Celtic music, Logical Fleadh is the group to call. This energetic, talented group makes you feel as if you're back in Ireland." - Mary Jean Bankmann, Geneva Cultural Arts Commission.

Finish up the Irish weekend with Small Batch at Quigley's Irish Pub on September 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM.

Small Batch

300 Small Batch 1

Small Batch

Acoustic guitar, traditional bodhran, Irish fiddle, and lush harmonies: this is the heart-warming recipe used by Jim and Patty Rielley of Small Batch to entertain festival crowds, pub-goers, private parties and hooleys of all sorts. With a repertoire that includes traditional drinking and story songs of Ireland, rousing jigs and reels, and a touch of American acoustic favorites,

Friday, September 18

Time
4:00 PM	McNulty Irish Dancers
5:15 PM	Mulligan Stew
6:45 PM	On the Lash
8:15 PM	Classical Blast

Saturday, September 19

Time

12:00 PM	Firefighters Highland Guard of Naperville
12:25 PM	Bailey Murray Academy
1:15 PM	McNulty Irish Dancers
2:30 PM	Joyce Boys
3:40 PM	Bentley Academy of Irish Dance
4:55 PM	Celtic Roots
6:25 PM	The Chancers
7:55 PM	Reilly

Check out the Musical and Dance Groups at this Year's Naperville Irish Fest!

Friday, September 18, 2026

McNulty School of Irish Dance

From humble beginnings in Naperville, the McNulty School of Irish Dance has grown into one of the largest, most active dance schools in the Midwest. Whether you have ambitions to compete in Irish dance, perform publicly, or simply to dance for the fun of it, we will help you reach your goals.

Mulligan Stew
Mulligan Stew has been a fixture in the Irish/Celtic Music Scene in Chicago since 1978. They got their start playing in several nostalgic locations such as Durty Dicks, Kilkenny Castle Inn, Glenshesk Public House, O’Sullivans, Callahans, Irish Mill Inn & Irish Eyes. More recently you will have seen them playing at many local venues like Abbey Pub, Andys, Claddagh Pub, Curragh, Moher, Celtic Knot, Bridie McKennas, Johnny O’Hagens, Carraig Pub at Gaelic Park, Fifth Province Pub at Irish American Heritage Center and many others as well as Chicago Irish Fest, Gaelic Park Irish Festival, Iowa Irish Fest and Milwaukee Irish Fest.

On The Lash

We are On The Lash

In honor of Irish traditional music, On The Lash creates timeless sounds through original voices. With new takes on classic songs and original constructions of established standards, OTL aims to explore the inherent energy and versatility of the genre.
On The Lash - Learn More

Classical Blast
Formed in 2012, Classical Blast has continued their journey to explore and combine musical genre to create new and exciting sounds. With growing popularity throughout the Midwest region and beyond, the band has opened concerts for numerous national acts, as well as headlined in intimate 100-seat to 1000-seat concert venues. Band members have impressive recording and performance street creds, including 4 albums of their own on the Toucan Cove/Universal label.
Classical Blast - Learn More

Saturday, September 19, 2026

Firefighters Highland Guard of Naperville
The Firefighters Highland Guard of Naperville is a proud and dedicated ensemble that honors the rich traditions of Scottish and Irish music while paying tribute to the bravery and service of firefighters. Comprised of skilled pipers and drummers, the Highland Guard brings the stirring sounds of bagpipes and drums to ceremonies, parades, and community events, creating a powerful and emotional connection with audiences. Their performances are a symbol of respect and remembrance for those who serve, and they play an integral role in preserving cultural heritage while fostering community spirit in Naperville and beyond.

Bailey Murray Academy

Passionate Instructors

At Bailey-Murray Academy, our passionate instructors, Kevin and Jenny, bring over 20 years of teaching experience to the forefront. Their dedication has led to over 1000 students thriving in the art of Irish dance worldwide. With 6 consecutive world championship qualifications, our academy is committed to nurturing talent and instilling a love for Irish dance in students from age 3 and above.

Beginner Basics

Our Beginner Basics class teaches the fundamental moves and techniques of Irish dance in a fun and supportive environment.

Intermediate Steps

Develop your skills with our Intermediate Steps class, focusing on more complex movements and rhythms in Irish dance.

Advanced Performers

Take your talent to the next level with our Advanced Performers class, perfecting intricate choreography and performance skills.

McNulty School of Irish Dance

The Joyce Boys
The Joyce Boys are a beloved family band that has been bringing the spirit of Ireland to life for over 50 years. Featuring brothers, cousins, and a son, they specialize in classic Irish folk and rebel songs, delivering heartfelt performances that celebrate the rich musical traditions of Ireland. Their deep-rooted connection and passion for Irish music make every performance a true celebration of heritage and community.

Connect with The Joyce Boys on Facebook and Instagram.

Bentley Academy of Irish Dance

At the Bentley Academy of Irish Dance, dancers of all ages are nurtured in an environment that celebrates the beauty and discipline of Irish dance. Through expert instruction, students build strength, health, and confidence while mastering the art form. Each class challenges dancers to grow both technically and personally, ensuring they leave feeling inspired and empowered to achieve their dreams. At Bentley Academy, a passion for Irish dance is cultivated with care and dedication.

Celtic Roots
Celtic Roots is a Chicago-based band that brings the heart and soul of Irish music to life with their vibrant performances. Known for their seamless blend of traditional Irish tunes and contemporary folk, the band delivers a fresh, energetic sound that appeals to all generations. With skilled musicianship and a deep passion for Irish culture, Celtic Roots creates an unforgettable musical experience, making them a must-see act at Naperville Irish Fest.

Reilly

Two‑time Wisconsin Area Music Industry (WAMI) winners for Celtic/Folk Rock.

More than 20 years performing across the Midwest and U.S., including Milwaukee Irish Fest, Will County Celtic Fest, Bastille Days, Chicago & Waukesha Highland Games, and numerous St. Patrick’s celebrations.

Shared stages with Gaelic Storm, Flogging Molly, Enter the Haggis, The Prodigals, Barra MacNeils, Seven Nations, and more.