Banbridge streets were once again filled with music and excitement as the annual busking competition which celebrated its 22nd anniversary this year returned on Saturday 20 June 2026. This much-loved annual celebration of performance talent transformed the town centre into a vibrant, open-air stage.
The large crowd enjoyed lively music from over 60 buskers making use of their talents with a range of instruments including a ukulele band, saxophone player, electric and acoustic guitarists, electric pianist and violinist to make a great afternoon of family entertainment.
Overall, it was a busy, musical weekend with the “Behind the Beat” panel discussion led by Ralph McClean, Andrea Begley and Caitlin Henning discussing the music industry and their experiences kicking off the packed programme. Roast and Roll Games Café presented the MOBO nominated jazz artist, David Lyttle who showcased outstanding young talent from his Jazz Juniors programme.
In addition to the busking on Saturday, other entertainment during the day included The Three Billy Goats Gruff Puppet Show, an Artisan Market and a fun fair at Solitude Park.
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Councillor Mary O’Dowd, said:
“This year’s Buskfest has been an outstanding success showcasing the incredible artists we have across the North and beyond. I’d like to congratulate all of today’s winners and a special mention to the Overall Winner, Sam Brothers. The level of talent was exceptional, making it a challenging task for the judges to choose this year’s winners.
“It was wonderful to see the town buzzing with music and vibrancy throughout the day. The enthusiasm and participation from both performers and the community made this a fantastic day out for families and visitors with great shops, cafes, and entertainment to enjoy in Banbridge.”
The Overall Winner, Sam Brothers, said:
“I am shocked and excited to win this year’s Buskfest. It’s been a fantastic experience performing to the crowds here in Banbridge. The opportunity to showcase my talent and compete at an international competition has been amazing. Events like these are so important for giving up-and-coming artists the opportunity to perform and share our talent in front of crowds. I’m very grateful to Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council for this outstanding opportunity and I can’t wait to perform at the Eats and Beats Festival. It’s going to be an amazing opportunity to reach new audiences and further my musical career.”
Congratulations to all prize winners:
· Overall winner- Sam Brothers
· Best Individual – Adult- Lisa Dawson
· Best Youth- Emily Mayger
· Best Junior- Yvanna Wong
· Best Band- Mulholland Sisters
· Best Performance – Frequency
· Spirit of Buskfest- Parcel of Rogues
Following on from the lively busking throughout the day, the town centre was filled in the evening with fans eager to see a stellar performance by Anna’s Number and supported by the 4am Club and The Reillys who got the crowd moving.
Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Council extend their thanks to everyone involved in making this year’s event a great success, with special thanks to sponsors The Boulevard and Banbridge Chamber of Commerce, in addition to the Stendhal Festival, Limavady, Eats and Beats Festival, Newcastle, the Oh Yeah Music Centre in Belfast, and the AmmA Centre in Armagh for their contributions.
There are still many more opportunities to hear some great music throughout the summer in the destination with 7 Hills Blues Festival taking place in Armagh from Friday 31st July to Sunday 2nd August with a spectacular line up of over 40 bands.
The Armagh Food & Cider Weekend also takes place between September 3rd to 6th at various venues across the Borough and in November the unmissable Georgian Festival takes place from November 26-29th.
To book tickets or find out more information about events and activities taking place across the area head to visitarmagh.com
