Grohl and company bring a surreally euphoric set to Kerry – The Irish Times

In a remarkable turn of events, Foo Fighters recently delivered a surprise, intimate performance at St. James Church in Dingle, Ireland, on February 22nd, 2026. The impromptu concert, part of the 25th anniversary celebrations for the Other Voices music festival, unfolded before an audience of approximately 80 people.

A Full-Circle Moment for Dave Grohl

This performance holds particular significance for Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl. Following the death of his Nirvana bandmate, Kurt Cobain, Grohl sought solace in Ireland, specifically driving the Ring of Kerry. During this journey, a chance encounter with a teenage hitchhiker wearing a Kurt Cobain t-shirt proved pivotal.

Did You Know? Dave Grohl realised he could not outrun his past after seeing Kurt Cobain’s face on a hitchhiker’s t-shirt while travelling in Ireland.

Grohl has described this moment as a realization that he couldn’t escape his past, ultimately leading him to return to the United States and form the Foo Fighters. The band’s return to Ireland and specifically Dingle, represents a full-circle moment deeply rooted in Grohl’s personal history.

An Intimate Performance in an Unlikely Venue

The concert itself was described as “surreally euphoric.” Despite the intimate setting – a church that seats around 80 people – Foo Fighters delivered a high-energy performance, launching into songs like “A320” and classics such as “Everlong” and “My Hero.” They even included a segue from “No Son of Mine” into Motorhead’s “Ace of Spades.”

The band also played new material, including “Of All People” and “My favourite Toy” from their forthcoming album. Grohl engaged with the audience, interacting with fans and even sharing a lighthearted exchange with a concertgoer who revealed they had previously seen Nirvana perform.

Expert Insight: The choice of such a small venue underscores the band’s willingness to connect with fans on a deeply personal level, and acknowledges the profound impact Ireland had on Grohl’s journey following a period of immense loss.

Word of the performance spread quickly, with fans spotting a Foo Fighters flight case in Dingle and sharing it online. The band also announced and sold out a surprise gig in Dublin’s Academy for the following night.

What’s Next for Foo Fighters?

Following these surprise performances, Foo Fighters may continue to leverage the element of surprise in their touring strategy. It is possible they will announce additional intimate shows in unexpected locations. The band is also expected to release a new album, with songs like “Of All People” and “My favourite Toy” hinting at the direction of their upcoming work. Further promotional events and a larger tour are likely to follow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted Dave Grohl’s trip to Ireland in 1994?

Dave Grohl travelled to Ireland following the death of his Nirvana bandmate, Kurt Cobain, seeking grief and escape.

Where did the Foo Fighters play their recent intimate concert?

Foo Fighters played at St. James Church in Dingle, Ireland, on February 22nd, 2026.

How did a hitchhiker influence the formation of the Foo Fighters?

Dave Grohl saw a teenage hitchhiker wearing a Kurt Cobain t-shirt while driving the Ring of Kerry, which inspired him to return to music and start the Foo Fighters.

Considering the deep personal connection Dave Grohl has with Ireland, what other ways might the band honour this history in the future?