HomeIrish Fest Live Music & Entertainment Lineup

The Lineup

Pre-Fest Kick-off at Quigley's Irish Pub - Thursday, September 17
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.

"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

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

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.

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.
Learn more about McNulty Irish Dance

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.
Learn more about Mulligan Stew

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.

Learn more about On the Lash

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.

Learn more about Classical Blast

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.
Learn more about the Firefighters Highland Guard of Naperville

Bailey Murray Academy of Irish Dance

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.
Learn more about Bailey Murray Irish Dance

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.
Learn more about The Joyce Boys

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.
Learn more about Bentley Irish Dance

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.
Learn more about Celtic Roots

The Chancers
Chicago based Irish rebel folk music delivered with reckless enthusiasm and loads of craic. Risteárd Ó Mórdha, born and reared in Dublin, Ireland & Patrick Dillon of Chicago, IL. The lads bring Irish folk and rebel tunes to life at any venue, singing in both English and Irish (As Gaeilge). You can expect wit, humor, and an Irish history lesson along the way – all brought to you in the form of a lively musical act. The Chancers play all the traditional Irish favorites, along with contemporary Irish tunes you never knew you needed.

Learn more about The Chancers

Reilly
Two-time Wisconsin Area Music Industry (WAMI) Award winners for Celtic/Folk Rock, Reilly brings more than 20 years of high-energy performances to stages across the U.S. Known for their dynamic blend of Celtic tradition and rock, Reilly has performed at major festivals and events including Milwaukee Irish Fest, Will County Celtic Fest, Bastille Days, the Chicago and Waukesha Highland Games, and countless St. Patrick’s celebrations. Over the years, Reilly has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in Celtic music, including Gaelic Storm, Flogging Molly, Enter the Haggis, The Prodigals, Barra MacNeils, Seven Nations, and more.

20+ years. Two WAMI Awards. One unforgettable Celtic/Folk Rock experience.

Learn more about Reilly