Irish Wedding Bands for Hire in the UK

Irish wedding bands are one of the most requested acts on FixTheMusic.

Whether you're planning a traditional ceilidh, a St Patrick's Day celebration or simply want the energy and warmth that Irish folk music brings to a dance floor, there's an act on this page to suit.

Most Irish bands on FixTheMusic perform a mix of traditional folk and contemporary hits -- think Mumford & Sons, The Pogues and Christy Moore alongside modern crowd-pleasers. Many also offer ceilidh sets, making them ideal if you want to get every generation up and dancing.

What is an Irish wedding band?

An Irish wedding band typically performs a mix of traditional Celtic folk music and contemporary pop and rock covers. Many also offer ceilidh sets -- guided group dances that are a staple of Irish and Scottish weddings and work brilliantly as an icebreaker early in the evening.

What's the difference between an Irish band and a ceilidh band?

A ceilidh band specialises in traditional called dances, with a caller guiding guests through each dance. Irish bands tend to be more flexible -- many can do a ceilidh set as part of a broader evening of live music. If you want a full ceilidh with a caller, it's worth specifying this when you enquire.

Are Irish wedding bands suitable for non-Irish weddings?

Absolutely. Irish bands are popular at all kinds of weddings across the UK, not just those with Irish heritage. The energy, warmth and singalong quality of Irish folk music tends to go down well with guests of all ages and backgrounds.

You can see more of our UK folk bands for hire.

How much does an Irish wedding band cost in the UK?

Prices on FixTheMusic start from around £430 for a duo and range up to £4,500 for larger acts. Most four-piece Irish bands fall in the £800 to £1,500 range for a UK wedding.

Can Irish bands travel across the UK?

Yes. Most of the Irish bands on FixTheMusic are based in London, Manchester or the North of England and travel widely for weddings and events. Travel costs are usually included in the quote or added as a modest supplement depending on location.

What songs do Irish wedding bands typically play?

Most Irish wedding bands on FixTheMusic cover a mix of traditional Irish folk songs, Celtic classics and popular modern hits. Expect songs like Galway Girl, The Rattlin' Bog, Whiskey in the Jar and Teenage Kicks alongside contemporary crowd-pleasers. Many bands will also learn a specific song for your first dance with enough notice.

Do Irish wedding bands include a DJ set between performances?

Most do. The majority of bands on FixTheMusic provide background music or a DJ set during their breaks so there are no gaps in entertainment. It's worth confirming this when you enquire, as some bands charge a small supplement for a full DJ package.

How long do Irish wedding bands typically perform for?

Most bands offer two 45-minute to one-hour sets as standard, usually beginning after the wedding breakfast. Some bands are happy to extend their performance or add an earlier acoustic set during the drinks reception for an additional fee.

When should I book an Irish wedding band?

As early as possible -- popular Irish bands on FixTheMusic get booked up quickly, particularly around St Patrick's Day in March and during peak wedding season from May to September. Booking six to twelve months in advance is advisable for a Saturday wedding.

Can an Irish band perform at my wedding ceremony as well as the reception?

Yes. Many Irish bands offer acoustic or stripped-back sets suitable for the ceremony or drinks reception, in addition to their main evening performance. This is usually available as an add-on -- mention it when you enquire and the band can include it in their quote.