About
One of New York's longest-running Irish-American celebrations returns to Coney Island with pipe bands, step dancing, live music, vendors and amusements across two days.
After decades as a Coney Island boardwalk tradition, the Great Irish Fair returns to Brooklyn for its 2026 edition, one of the city's longest-running celebrations of Irish-American culture. Expect pipe bands, step dancers, live Irish music, vendors, and amusements just a block from the beach. It is the family-friendly counterweight to the weekend's warehouse parties, with a Sunday session if Saturday is full.
What to expect
A classic community festival: pipe-and-drum bands and step dancers on stage, Irish food and merchandise vendors, and rides and games for kids. The crowd skews multigenerational — county associations, parish groups, and families making a beach day of it. Saturday opens at 9 AM and Sunday at 10 AM per the organizer's listing.
Good to know
- The 2026 lineup, honorees, and ticket prices are still to be announced — check greatirishfair.org before going
- The site is at Neptune Ave in Coney Island, a short walk from the D/F/N/Q at Stillwell Ave
- It's a family event — kids' amusements are part of the program
- Pair it with the boardwalk: the beach and Luna Park are minutes away
More festivals this weekend
Common questions
How much are tickets?
2026 admission hadn't been posted on greatirishfair.org at time of writing — the fair is ticketed, so check the official site for pricing closer to the date.
What are the hours?
The organizer's listing shows Saturday, Sep 12 starting at 9 AM and Sunday, Sep 13 at 10 AM; full daily schedules are still to be announced.
Is it good for kids?
Yes — amusements, music, and dancing are billed as 'fun for the whole family.'