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Buskers from Newry are being invited to register for Buskfest, Banbridge's annual music festival, which returns on Saturday 20 June 2026. Now in its 22nd year, the festival this year introduces a new youth category alongside its existing categories, with performers competing for a share of a prize pot of £4,500.
The festival welcomes solo acts, groups and street entertainers, with Banbridge town centre hosting performances throughout the day. The artisan market returns to the town centre on Bridge and Scarva Streets from 12pm to 5pm, with a range of food and handcrafted goods from local businesses, alongside family entertainment including face painting and puppet shows. Busking gets under way at 2pm, with prize-giving at 5pm and evening performances continuing until 8.30pm.
A panel of 12 judges will adjudicate the competition, including BBC Radio Ulster presenter Ralph McLean. He said: "Buskfest is one of the highlights in both the Banbridge and local music calendar. No matter what side of the performance you're on, the streets are immersed in an unmatched environment of musical creativity and community spirit, making it a fantastic day out for all. It also provides a particularly important platform for emerging local talent, introducing hundreds of individuals to their work. With awards across an array of categories, the festival celebrates talent of all kinds, recognising the outstanding array of performers we have right here at home."
Last year's winner Luke Bell of the 4AM Club said: "I know first hand just how special an experience Buskfest can be for any artist. Music as a medium brings both peers and the wider community together. Winning last year gave us a real boost and showed us that people continue to connect with our music and enjoy what we do. Even if you're not competing, but just starting out, it gives you an amazing opportunity to expand your audience and gain some experience, so I'd encourage any musician to sign up."
Registration is open now at www.buskfest.com and closes on 19 June at 4pm.
