Over 100 choirs, world-class guest artists and four days of extraordinary music – the City of Derry International Choir Festival is almost here!
The countdown is officially on! From Thursday 22 to Sunday 25 October 2026, Derry will once again become a city of song as the 14th City of Derry International Choir Festival welcomes thousands of singers from across Europe, England, Scotland, Wales and the length and breadth of the island of Ireland.
With over 100 choirs taking part, this year’s festival is shaping up to be our biggest yet, bringing together internationally acclaimed performers, exciting competitions, spectacular concerts and a packed programme of free events across the city and surrounding region.
Whether you’re a lifelong choral music enthusiast or simply looking to experience something special, there’s something for everyone!
World-class performances in the heart of Derry
The festival gets underway on Thursday 22 October with a spectacular Opening Gala Concert at the Millennium Forum.
The Ulster Orchestra, joined by our Festival Chorus and internationally acclaimed soloists Gemma Summerfield, Ryan Vaughan Davies and Alex Birkus, will perform Beethoven’s dramatic Christ on the Mount of Olives and his iconic Symphony No. 7, conducted by the outstanding Anna Handler.
On Friday 23 October, one of the world’s leading vocal ensembles, Tenebrae, takes centre stage at the Guildhall. Directed by Nigel Short and renowned internationally for their breathtaking sound and extraordinary precision, Tenebrae promises an unforgettable evening of choral music.
Later that night, The Apex Singers bring something completely different to St Columb’s Cathedral. With their fresh, contemporary a cappella sound and innovative arrangements, this special late-night concert is sure to be another festival highlight.
The celebrations conclude on Sunday 25 October with our Closing Gala Concert and Awards Ceremony at the Millennium Forum, bringing together performers and audiences for a spectacular finale.
Explore our concerts and book tickets
International talent and a little friendly competition!
Competition is at the heart of the festival, and this year promises an extraordinary standard of singing.
Seven outstanding choirs from France, Germany, Sweden, Estonia and the Republic of Ireland will compete for the prestigious Oak Tree of Derry Trophy at the International Competition in the Guildhall on Saturday 24 October. We’ll also welcome a visiting choir from Switzerland, adding even more international flavour to the celebrations.
Meanwhile, our National Competitions will bring together choirs from across the island of Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales for an exciting weekend of performances at the Millennium Forum.
From traditional choral repertoire to contemporary, light, pop and jazz music, audiences can enjoy a wonderful variety of styles as choirs compete for prestigious awards, including the coveted title of National Choir of the Festival.
Find out more about our competitions
Bringing music to every corner of the city
Of course, the festival isn’t just about what happens on the main stages!
Throughout the four days, Derry and the surrounding region will come alive with a fantastic programme of free community concerts, choral trails and pop-up performances.
Local and visiting choirs will perform in churches, schools, community spaces and public venues, sharing the joy of singing with audiences of all ages.
Whether you’re exploring the city centre, visiting a local landmark or simply out and about, you might just find yourself surrounded by music!
Explore our free Community Programme
Inspiring the next generation
Young voices will also play a huge part in this year’s celebrations.
On Thursday 22 October, the Millennium Forum will welcome hundreds of primary school pupils for our hugely popular Primary School Big Sing, while Friday 23 October sees post-primary choirs take to the stage for a day of competitions, performances and musical inspiration.
These events are an important part of the festival’s commitment to nurturing young talent and encouraging a lifelong love of singing.
A city ready to sing!
Festival Artistic Director Dónal Doherty is looking forward to what promises to be an extraordinary four days:
“I think this is shaping up to be our biggest and best festival yet; 100 plus choirs, an extensive community programme throughout the whole region, amazing local, national and international choirs, stunning guest performers and a city ready to give a welcome like no other – Derry is the place to be!”
With thousands of voices, incredible performances and music filling venues and communities across the Northwest, the stage is set for a truly memorable celebration.
We can’t wait to welcome you!
Join us from 22–25 October!
There’s still time to be part of the excitement.
Whether you want to experience a world-class concert, cheer on your favourite choir or enjoy one of our many free performances, we’d love to see you there.
Visit www.derrychoirfest.com for full details.
The City of Derry International Choir Festival is principally funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, with support from Derry City and Strabane District Council and the Enkalon Foundation, alongside our valued corporate sponsors and partners. Elements of the Community Programme are supported through the PEACEPLUS Changemakers Programme.
