Mondello Park, Co. Kildare | 9–10 May 2026
Ireland’s premier historic motorsport celebration, the Carole Nash Historic Festival, returns to Mondello Park on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th May 2026, promising an unforgettable weekend of racing, heritage and family entertainment.
As Ireland’s only historic motor race meeting, the festival celebrates vintage, classic and racing cars and motorcycles from the glamour of the 1920s through to the 1960s. The event offers a unique opportunity for motorsport enthusiasts, classic car lovers and Formula 1 fans to experience the sights, sounds and style of motorsport’s golden age.
Thrilling On-Track Action
Spectators can look forward to a full programme of live racing, including:
- The Irish International Grand Prix Trophy, honouring the legacy of the original 1929 Phoenix Park Grand Prix, awarded to the Frazer-Nash class
- The Dublin Grand Prix Trophy, featuring stunning pre-war cars from the 1920s and ’30s, including marques such as Alvis, Austin and MG
- The inaugural Alec Poole Trophy, celebrating pre-1966 classic racing
A Weekend of Entertainment On and Off Track
Beyond the racing, visitors can enjoy a wide range of attractions for all ages, including:
- A free vintage funfair
- Face painting and family entertainment
- Street food pop-ups
- Special celebrations marking 50 years of the iconic Volkswagen Golf GTI, with display models and parade laps
- A chance to explore the renowned Martin Birrane Collection, featuring iconic race cars from Formula One, Le Mans, NASCAR and manufacturers such as Porsche, Jordan, Jaguar, Benetton and Ford
Festivalgoers are also encouraged to embrace the spirit of the era by dressing in period attire, adding to the immersive atmosphere of this unique event.
Headline Sponsor Highlights
Headline sponsor Carole Nash will bring an exciting addition to this year’s festival, hosting well-known motoring personality Tim Shaw, presenter of Fifth Gear and Car SOS. Tim will be appearing at the Carole Nash stand on Sunday, meeting fans and sharing his extensive knowledge of classic cars and restoration.
Visitors to the Carole Nash stand will also have the opportunity to enter a prize draw to win €250 towards Carole Nash insurance.
Entrants must be aged 18 or over, resident in the Republic of Ireland and hold a valid EU or UK driving licence (if taking out a classic car, car or bike insurance policy).
Full terms and conditions apply.
Industry Voices
Colm Tully, Carole Nash Ireland, commented:
“We are delighted to be returning as headline sponsors. Where else can you experience the thrill of live racing with vintage and classic models alongside outstanding displays of classic cars? This unique combination makes for a fantastic day out for classic car lovers, motorsport fans and families alike.”
Roddy Greene, Managing Director of Mondello Park, added:
“The Carole Nash Historic Festival is a cornerstone event in our calendar and a celebration of Ireland’s rich motorsport heritage. Each year, it brings together incredible machinery, passionate enthusiasts and families for a truly memorable experience. We’re proud to see it continue to grow and welcome visitors from across the country and beyond.”
Unmissable Experience
With exhilarating racing, rare vehicles, immersive vintage style and a vibrant festival atmosphere, the Carole Nash Historic Festival 2026 promises to be one of the highlights of Ireland’s events calendar.
Event Details
Event: Historic Festival sponsored by Carole Nash
Dates: 9–10 May 2026
Location: Mondello Park, Co. Kildare
Website: Mondello Park
