The Old Fort Quarter Festival returns to Portlaoise for the last weekend in June from June 27th to 30th, 2024.

The Old Fort Quarter is the area of Portlaoise town centre in which the original 'Fort of Maryborough' was situated.

The Old Fort Quarter Festival combines the history and heritage of Portlaoise with music, food and family entertainment in one unforgettable weekend.

Over three days, the Old Fort Quarter will come alive with traditional medieval activities such as archery and shield-making.

Of course there’s lots of other family fun over the weekend along the main street with comedy and family friendly shows, giant games, face painting and lots more to keep everyone entertained.

This year sees some new acts like Ballet Poulet and Ronaldo Fanzini bringing their madcap shows to the festival.  The main street is pedestrianised for the full weekend making it the perfect spot to spend the day enjoying music, heritage, food and entertainment.  2 stages will provide daytime family entertainment, an artisan market with food stalls and food demonstrations will make sure everyone is well fed. 

The main street will be bursting with Free Family fun and two stages of entertainment.  Join us from 12pm to 6pm on Main Street for jam packed days of activities, music and fun.  Also on Main Street: 

Drumming Circle– Come along and take part in the Drumming Circle from 12.30pm each day at Lower Square
Children’s Treasure Trail – Self guided trail running from 1-4pm on both days, meet at Lower Square
Heritage Talks – Delivered by Laois Heritage Society at 2pm, 3pm and 4pm on Saturday. Heritage walk at 4.30pm in Kavanaghs Bar Garden Room
Experience Laois, Family Friendly Heritage Walk at 12.30pm and 4pm both days, meeting at Lowe Square.

Also enjoy face painting, giant games and street theatre from 12-6 on both days.

The whole street event is wrapped up in the local heritage stories, characters and re-enactments and overall good fun.