Omagh Music Festival 2026 to Honor Songwriter Jimmy Kennedy

The Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is set to bring the Strule Arts Centre alive on Friday 9 and Saturday 10 October with the Omagh Music Festival 2026, a two‑day tribute to local lyricist Jimmy Kennedy. The event will chart the life and work of the Omagh‑born songwriter, who penned more than 2,000 songs over a career that spanned five decades.

Kennedy, born 20 July 1902 in Omagh, is best known for lyrics to timeless classics such as “Red Sails in the Sunset,” “Harbour Lights,” “Isle of Capri” and “Teddy Bears’ Picnic.” His songs crossed borders and generations, becoming fixtures in the international popular‑music repertoire. The festival’s programme will explore Kennedy’s contribution to songwriting and the broader history of the industry.

Opening night, Friday 9 October at 8 p.m., will feature “In Jimmy Kennedy’s Footsteps – Denmark Street Revisited.” BBC Radio Ulster presenter and former Undertones bassist Michael Bradley will guide audiences through London’s Denmark Street, the historic hub of British music publishing that earned the nickname “Tin Pan Alley.” Bradley will discuss how songwriters, musicians and publishers shaped popular music, with a focus on Kennedy’s role in the industry.

Saturday’s schedule begins with a songwriting workshop at 10:30 a.m. The session, priced at £10, will be led by John Farry, a prolific Irish songwriter and former manager of country‑and‑Irish star Nathan Carter. Farry will share insights on what makes a successful song, how to record and pitch work to artists and agents, and lessons drawn from his experience writing Ireland’s 1997 Eurovision entry.

The festival’s main concert, “My Song Goes Round the World,” will take place on Saturday 10 October at 8 p.m. Musical direction will be provided by Niall Moore, with drama direction by Leanne Daly and a script by Declan Forde. The evening will bring Kennedy’s music to life, placing his songs within the context of the golden age of popular music. Attendees can expect to hear the most famous of Kennedy’s works, including “Red Sails in the Sunset,” “Harbour Lights,” “Isle of Capri” and “Teddy Bears’ Picnic.” Tickets for the concert cost £15.

Throughout the weekend, visitors to the Strule Arts Centre will enjoy free live street music, adding to the festival’s lively atmosphere. A temporary audio‑visual display dedicated to Kennedy will complement the Centre’s existing Showband exhibition. The display will feature artefacts, a career timeline and recordings that chart the evolution of the music industry from 78‑rpm records and 7‑inch singles to CDs and digital formats.

Councillor Debbie Coyle, chair of the council, said the festival “provides a wonderful opportunity to explore Jimmy Kennedy’s extraordinary career, his contribution to popular songwriting and the lasting influence of his work.” She added that the council was proud to support the event and commended the organisers for celebrating Kennedy’s legacy.

The festival is part of the council’s ongoing effort to showcase local talent, heritage and live performance. The programme, available online, lists all events and provides contact details for the council’s events team (0300 303 1777 or events@fermanaghomagh.com).

Omagh Music Festival 2026 will therefore offer a mix of historical insight, practical learning and live entertainment, giving music enthusiasts of all ages a chance to celebrate a local icon and the broader story of songwriting and the changing music industry.

For more information, visit the council’s website or the festival’s programme page.