Hire Ceilidh bands in the UK

We have over 100 Ceilidh bands for hire across the UK. From the traditional, to much more modern and diverse takes on Ceilidh, we’re sure you’ll find the best one for your event.

Celtic groups and Ceilidh Bands perform traditional folk music suitable for a wide variety of events. Performing time honoured Irish, Scottish, Welsh and English folk songs, a ceilidh band often features ‘callers’ and a backing band whilst a Celtic group usually performs the songs without a caller, but still producing a foot stomping party atmosphere.

The job of the caller is to call out the various dances to the audience, who in turn are expected to dance in formation. Circle dances, long-way sets, squares and waltzes… there is plenty of dances to choose from and everyone gets to make a new partner through every dance.

Ceilidh groups come in various shapes and sizes, depending on which instruments the musicians play. Fiddles, guitars, accordions and whistles are popular instruments among many backing bands but some choose keyboards, electric guitars, harmonicas, mandolins and varying choices of percussion, occasionally even choosing to include a full drum kit.

Whilst folk and traditional music is the staple repertoire of a Celtic group or ceilidh band, many also reserve other, more contemporary songs to suit every audience - although you’re unlikely to hear Justin Beiber or Rhianna! Some Celtic groups also choose to perform theme songs from popular television shows or films in their repertoire.

Ideal for:

Traditionally Scottish ceilidh bands are a popular choice of entertainment at celebrations including St. Andrew’s Day, Burn’s Night or Hogmanay, not to mention standard birthday parties, weddings and upbeat corporate events.

As audiences are expected to dance, hiring a ceilidh band can work as a great icebreaker for guests who do not know each other. They are also ideal at parties where the age of guests is varied; everyone can pick up the dance moves easily and have fun whilst learning.

How does a booking work?

When booking a Celtic or ceilidh band, it is important that the client explains any exceptional circumstances that may affect their performance. Many musicians are happy to perform one or two requested songs and will need to be given at least a few weeks notice of which songs to learn before the event.

As with most musicians, Celtic and ceilidh bands will need to know where they are able to park to unload their equipment and must have suitable power access to plug in amps and other equipment. See the Last Minute Musicians checklist on booking a band.

History of Celtic groups and Ceilidh bands

Dating back centuries, Celtic and ceilidh music originates from the folk songs of Ireland, Scotland, Wales and England. Ceilidh is a Gaelic term for a social gathering involving the performance of poetry, dancing and music. Whilst Celtic music is pioneered by musicians such as The Coors and The Chieftains whilst ceilidh bands tend to be confined to entertainment groups for weddings and parties. This keeps within the tradition of folk music and celebrating a sense of community.

The Celtic Groups & Ceilidh Bands featured on this page are all members of the LastMinuteMusicians.com entertainment directory. Use the refine section at the top of this page to find ceilidh bands for hire close to you. Simply choose a county or enter a post code into the "available in" box to refine the listings to your local area. Click the "visit listing" button to see the full profiles of the individual Celtic Groups & Ceilidh Bands. With over 3300 active listings you are sure to find the perfect entertainer, musician, band or entertainment service to make your event just perfect. Each act features reviews and recommended prices/rates. Don`t forget you can use our online chat (below) to get instant help with your booking.