A Buskers Ball

A Buskers Ball Bob Dylan is 85 in May 2026.

A Buskers Ball

Celebrating 85 Years of Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan is 85 in May 2026.

Few artists have shaped music, poetry and storytelling quite like Dylan. His songs have travelled across generations, inspiring musicians, writers and dreamers around the world.

To mark this remarkable milestone, we invite you to Burtown House & Gardens for a one-day festival of music, poetry, stories and performance — a gathering of artists and buskers paying tribute to one of the greatest songwriters of our time.

Set amongst the gardens and historic surroundings of Burtown House & Gardens, the day will unfold as a relaxed and creative celebration — with music drifting through the grounds from afternoon into evening.

Event Details

Burtown House & Gardens Athy, Co. Kildare, R14 AE67

Date Saturday, 23 May 2026

Time Midday – Midnight (final schedule to be confirmed)

Line-Up

• The Bob Dylan Roadshow Band • Harry Fennell • Oracle Villa • A gathering of buskers and guest performers • More artists to be announced

Expect an eclectic mix of Dylan interpretations, original music, poetry readings and spontaneous performances throughout the day.

Food & Drink

Food and drink will be at the heart of the day, with a range of offerings across the estate to suit a relaxed, festival-style atmosphere.

At The Green Barn, guests can enjoy: Brunch from 9.00am – 11.15am Seasonal Set Lunch from 12.45pm – 3.30pm Dinner Service from 6.00pm – 8.30pm Bookings essential

Alongside this, Burtown Pantry will be open throughout the day for more casual dining — a place to drop in, gather with friends, and enjoy good things to eat and drink at your own pace.

Outdoors, we will be hosting a festival barbecue, serving: Our much-loved Burtown Burger A selection of seasonal salads Vegetarian options Sweet treats throughout the afternoon

A full bar will be open across the event, offering wines, beers, botanical cocktails and non-alcoholic options.

Whether you are joining us for a full dining experience or simply grazing as you move through the music and gardens, there will be something to enjoy from midday through to late evening.

A Day for Music Lovers

This is not a formal concert, but a buskers’ ball — a free-spirited celebration of Dylan’s music and the culture of storytelling and song that surrounds it. Bring friends, wander the gardens, enjoy the music and stay as the evening unfolds. More details and ticket information will follow shortly. See you there.