Dublin City Council has introduced the Dublin City Council Luke Kelly Bursary 2026, a new programme designed to identify and support the next generation of singers within the Irish folk tradition. The bursary is being launched in conjunction with the upcoming Dublin City Council Luke Kelly Festival, which will take place in Smithfield Square on 23 and 24 May.

The initiative aims to provide a platform for artists who embody the musical legacy of the iconic Dublin performer, prioritising those who demonstrate a deep connection to lyrical storytelling and the power of acoustic, stripped-back performance. Welcoming the launch, the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam, said: "Luke Kelly was one of Dublin's greatest voices, and it is fitting that our city continues to honour his legacy by backing new and emerging talent in Irish folk music. As Lord Mayor of Dublin, and as a City Councillor for the North Inner City where Luke grew up and where members of his family still reside, I know the pride that his name still inspires in communities across our capital. This bursary reflects the very best of my mayoral theme of Celebrating Dublin by paying tribute to our cultural inheritance while giving a platform to the next generation of artists who will keep that tradition alive."

The bursary is open to singers of all ages, with entries split into two age categories: under 30s and over 30s. Applicants under the age of 18 will require consent from a parent or guardian. A total of six recipients will be chosen by a panel comprising industry experts, members of the Kelly family, and representatives from Dublin City Council.

Selected artists will each receive a €1,000 bursary, a dedicated mentorship opportunity with acclaimed folk artist George Murphy, and a high-profile performance slot on the Main Stage at the Luke Kelly Festival.

Interested singers are invited to submit a video performance of one song for consideration. Submissions open on Friday 17 April and must be received by midnight on Sunday 3 May via the official website, lukekellybursary.ie.

The free-to-attend Luke Kelly Festival will return to Smithfield Square on 23 and 24 May, bringing together a mix of established and emerging artists to celebrate Dublin's musical heritage. Further details regarding the festival programme are expected to be announced soon.