FEIs

Feis (plural feiseanna) is a Gaelic term for a festival, used in modern times to denote a competitive event in Irish traditional arts. A feis brings together musicians, dancers, singers, and storytellers to perform in classes arranged by age, ability, and repertoire. Participants compete for medals, cups, or certificates, while audiences enjoy performances and social exchange. Feiseanna can be single-day events or extend over a weekend and are typically hosted by local Gaelic clubs, schools, or cultural organizations in Ireland and among Irish communities abroad.

Originating from the Irish word for festival, feis emerged during the Gaelic revival as a practical platform for practicing and showcasing traditional art forms. They helped preserve Irish music, song, dance, and language outside formal institutions and continue as community gatherings that blend competition with learning and cultural exchange.

Typical feiseanna feature divisions for Irish dance (soft shoe and hard shoe), instrumental performances (fiddle, flute, pipes, accordion, harp), sean-nós singing, and storytelling. Adjudicators assess technique, rhythm, musicality, and presentation, following each organization's rules. Prizes usually include medals or cups; many events emphasize participation and skill development alongside competition.

Formats vary by region and organization, but feiseanna are generally run by local councils, cultural organizations, schools, or dance and music schools. They are an important part of the Irish arts ecosystem, supporting training, community networks, and the transmission of heritage to younger generations and Irish-descendant communities worldwide.