Internationally acclaimed indie-rock quintet Carbon Leaf will headline the first-ever Lexington St. Patrick’s Eve LIVE! concert on Friday, March 13, 2026, marking a major expansion for the city’s annual Irish celebrations. Presented by the Alltech Lexington St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival, the concert at the historic Lyric Theatre kicks off the weekend’s festivities, bringing a high-energy mix of international and local talent to the stage.
Returning to Lexington as part of their “I WANT TO BE LEAF” 2026 tour, the Richmond, Virginia-based quintet will showcase songs from their fifteenth studio album, Time is the Playground. Known for their “famously enthused” live shows and hits like “The Boxer,” Carbon Leaf brings a signature blend of folk-infused indie rock and nostalgic storytelling that has defined their 30-year career.
“Bringing a band of Carbon Leaf’s caliber to the Lyric Theatre creates a powerful new tradition for the Lexington community,” said Megan Moloney, co-chair of the Lexington St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival. “Their music perfectly bridges the gap between traditional spirit and modern energy, setting the stage for our annual celebration.”
A global and local showcase
Joining Carbon Leaf is a diverse roster of talent that celebrates both Irish roots and Lexington’s own vibrant music scene:
- The Woolly Jumpers: Making the return journey to Lexington from Ireland, this authentic traditional Irish band brings a spirited, high-energy acoustic sound to the Lexington stage. Known for their roots in the Dublin trad scene, the group delivers “supremely catchy” sets that honor the foundations of Irish music while maintaining a lively, modern edge. Find them online at @woollyjumpers.music on Instagram.
- Lucy Becker: A hometown favorite, Becker is a celebrated singer, songwriter, and fiddle player. She arrives at the Lyric Theatre as the reigning back-to-back winner of the Lexington Music Award for “Best String Player” (2024 & 2025). Follow @lucybeckermusic on Instagram for more.
- Keith Murphy: The evening will also feature a special “call to the stage” by award-winning bagpiper Keith Murphy, providing the powerful, traditional soundtrack that has become synonymous with Lexington’s St. Patrick’s festivities.
Originally formed as a college cover band in 1992, Carbon Leaf has performed over 3,500 live shows, earning a reputation as indomitable road warriors. They first captured national attention with “The Boxer,” becoming the first unsigned band to perform on the American Music Awards and winning the AMA New Music Award in 2002.
Their latest project, Time is the Playground, is their first full-length album in a decade. A 12-song rumination on time, love, and personal growth, the album was recorded in the band’s own “Two-Car Studio” and reflects their steadfast DIY spirit. From the 80s-inspired synth of “Backmask 1983” to the folk-rock energy of “Monday Night in Germantown,” the new material showcases a band that has outlasted trends by staying true to their evocative, harmony-rich sound.
The concert serves as the official prelude to the 2026 Alltech Lexington St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival, which takes place the following day, Saturday, March 14, in downtown Lexington.
Event Details
What: Lexington St. Patrick’s Eve LIVE! presented by the Alltech Lexington St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival
When: Friday, March 13, 2026
Doors: 6:00 PM | Performances begin: 6:15 PM
Where: The Lyric Theatre & Cultural Arts Center, Lexington, KY
Tickets: General Admission – $15 in advance / $20 at the door
Purchase: Tickets are available now.