Tadhg and Derry Fleming rev up excitement for Retro Cannonball 2026 with proceeds to Ronald McDonald House
June 5th-7th | Cannonball.ie
On June 5th to 7th, Retro Cannonball rolls once again featuring 100 classic cars, free family live entertainment and that unmistakable festival atmosphere the event is known for. This year, for the first time, the event will commence in Dún Laoghaire and spectators can view the cars gathering at The Royal Marine Hotel from 6pm on Thursday June 4th. They depart at 10am on June 5th for a tour of the Sunny South East. Dynamic Duo Tadhg and Derry Fleming officially launched the charity partnership for 2026 with Cannonball Ireland and Ronald McDonald House bringing their trademark humour and nationwide following behind a cause that provides vital support for families across Ireland when children need hospital care.
Alan Bannon, founder of Cannonball, also welcomed Ella O’Connor (6) and her family from Brosna who came out to support the event following the fantastic support they received during Ella’s treatment at Crumlin Hospital when Ronald McDonald House was their home from home for nearly two years. Ella joyfully rang the bell on St John’s ward last year when her chemotherapy was officially finished and is doing great.
Retro Cannonball is the classic car road-trip and will include rare cars such as the Lamborghini Diablo, Jaguar E-Type, Ferrari 348 GTS, Mercedes-Benz SL Classics, Lancia Beta, BMW 635CSI, Porsche 911 Carrera and Targa, MG Midget, Ford Escort Cosworth, Chevrolet Corvette, VW Beetle, Ford Thunderbird, mini cooper and many more. Spectators can get up close, view the cars and take photographs at each of the start and finish lines, pitstops and lunch stops.
Retro Cannonball will commence in Dún Laoghaire at the Royal Marine Hotel on June 5th and this year takes in the Sunny South East through Wicklow and down to Wexford with a lunch stop at Mount Wolseley Hotel in Co Carlow on day one. On day two, the classic convoy takes on the famous Vee drive, Clonmel for lunch and then a big spectacular Cannonball finish line in Waterford City. Spectators and families can get up close, see some rare classic cars, take photographs, meet the drivers and enjoy the timeless allure of vintage automobiles.
Cannonball has already raised €2,271,716 for Irish children’s charities and this year are raising funds for Ronald Mac Donald House. When a child is sick, they need the best care possible even if it is hundreds of miles away. Ronald McDonald House allows families across Ireland to stay close to their child for as long as they are undergoing treatment. Since they opened their House in November 2004, they have provided accommodation, care and support for 5,413 families from all over Ireland.
Classic cars are all about the experience, style, exclusivity and craftsmanship, all of which are universal and timeless. Featuring cars from the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s & 90’s from vintage Mustangs to sleek Corvettes, an impressive array of iconic automobiles will rumble together, creating a nostalgic symphony as they roll through the picturesque landscapes.
Registration is also now open for Cannonball Ireland, the supercar event, taking place on September 13th-15th this year and a firm favourite with both drivers and spectators. RETRO Cannonball is an altogether more laid-back experience but drivers and spectators still enjoy one of the most unique motoring fraternities in the world with breath-taking driving routes, luxurious hospitality and that rare ‘camaraderie’ that makes Cannonball a truly unforgettable experience. See www.cannonball.ie for details of all events.