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
Planning Sep 12–13, 2026 in NYC?
This list keeps changing as events are verified. We'll send you the final version the Thursday before — and you can unsubscribe right after if that's all you need.
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.'
