This summer, the 7 Hills Blues Fest returns to Armagh City, promising an immersive and vibrant experience for blues enthusiasts, families and culture seekers alike. Running from Friday 31 July to Sunday 2 August, the festival will feature over 40 free gigs across 15 venues, showcasing the very best in local, national and international blues and roots music.
A key highlight of the festival is its growing reputation as a platform for discovering and celebrating fresh talent, alongside established performers. This year’s line-up includes exciting acts such as Crow Black Chicken, who regularly appear on RTÉ and have performed at major touring festivals including BBC Introducing at Glastonbury, as well as the Eric Bell Trio, fronted by the founding member of Thin Lizzy.
Led Hedley makes a welcome return to the festival, alongside Banshee Band and Rob Strong and his band, often described as the “Godfather of Irish Soul and Blues.” Other local artists performing across the weekend include Villiers and the Villains, Courtnay Giffin, The Dirt and Freedom 35s.
Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Councillor Jessica Johnston, said, “7 Hills Blues Fest has grown into one of the most anticipated cultural events in our region, boosting footfall and benefiting our local traders. It offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of blues and roots music while exploring the charm and vibrancy of Armagh City. Whether you are a passionate music lover, a family seeking quality entertainment, or someone eager to experience our city’s culture, 7 Hills has something for everyone. We look forward to welcoming everyone to this flagship event that truly connects us all through the power of music and community.”
7 Hills Blues Fest
Since its inception, 7 Hills has celebrated the rich musical heritage deeply rooted in Armagh and beyond, attracting thousands of visitors from across Northern Ireland and further afield each year.
Often hailed as Ireland’s Godfather of Soul, Rob Strong, said, “Playing here is always a highlight of the summer for me – it’s a place where the spirit of blues music truly comes alive. The city’s intimate venues create a unique connection between artists and audiences, making every performance feel personal. 7 Hills not only honours the rich traditions of blues but also pushes the music forward, keeping it fresh and exciting.”
The weekend is one of the major annual events organised by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and promises a packed programme of entertainment for all ages. The festival will kick off with lunchtime performances on the bandstand on Friday, followed throughout the weekend by the MD Rafferty Music School Live Lounge, free street acts, face painting and balloon modelling.
Adding even more excitement to the weekend, Saturday will feature an artisan market located at the Shambles Market in the city centre. Visitors can explore a wide range of artisan stalls offering tasty treats, eats and much more – creating a lively and family-friendly atmosphere throughout the city.
