The scheme, administered by the Council's Events Unit, will open for applications on Wednesday, 14 October 2026 and close on Wednesday, 16 December 2026, with funding up to €25,000 for eligible small, medium and large-scale festivals and events. 

From community festivals and family events to large-scale cultural and sporting occasions, Fingal’s festival and events calendar continues to grow, with more than 100 events taking place across the county each year. The Council’s funding scheme has supported hundreds of festivals and events since the introduction of the scheme, helping organisers develop and deliver events in towns, villages and communities throughout Fingal. 

In 2026, 101 volunteers, groups and organisations were awarded funding through the Festival and Event Funding Scheme. Together, these events play an important role in strengthening communities, animating public spaces and generating economic activity across the county.

Recent events supported through the scheme included Balbriggan Summerfest, Howth All Shucked Up, Donabate/Portrane Summer Festival, St Patrick’s Day parades, Rush Airshow, Leinster Pipe Band Championship and more. Demonstrating the breadth and diversity of events that can benefit from the funding.

1. Small Scale and New Festivals and Events: Grants of up to €8,000 for events with previous or expected audiences of fewer than 1,000 people.
2. Medium and Large-Scale Festivals and Events: Grants of up to €25,000 for events with audiences of more than 1,000 people and a minimum of two fully programmed days.
3. Festival and Events Economic Development and Sustainability: Grants of up to €10,000 to support longer-term development, including business planning, audience development, training and collaboration.

Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tony Murphy said: "Fingal has a fantastic tradition of festival and events, with communities across the county coming together to showcase their talents, culture and their place they call home. 

These events make a real difference to the experience of living in Fingal. They create opportunities for people to connect with their communities, while giving local organisers and businesses a platform. I am delighted that Fingal County Council is continuing to provide support to the organisers and volunteers behind these events.

I encourage anyone planning an event in 2027 to consider these opportunities available through the scheme and take advantage of the support on offer.” 

Paul Barnes, Events Manager with Fingal County Council, said: "Festivals and events are at the heart of community life in Fingal. They bring people together, showcase local talent and culture, support local businesses and create memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike."

"Through this funding scheme, Fingal County Council is committed to supporting both established events and innovative new ideas. We encourage organisers to begin preparing their applications now and to take full advantage of the opportunities available through the scheme. We look forward to supporting another exciting and vibrant calendar of events across Fingal in 2027."

Applications must be submitted online at www.eventsinfingal.ie. Organisers are encouraged to review the scheme guidelines and eligibility criteria in advance and to prepare all required supporting documentation before submitting their application. Late or incomplete applications cannot be considered.

For further information and to apply, visit: www.eventsinfingal.ie/event-resources/funding-scheme