Dublin Festivals & Events Calendar 2026: What's On Month by Month
Planning a family trip to Dublin in 2026? Dublin is a vibrant city with a packed calendar of events year-round. From cultural festivals to sporting events and festive markets, there's something for everyone. This month-by-month guide will help you plan your trip around the best events, insider tips, and even the best times to find affordable accommodations.
January in Dublin
New Year's Festival Dublin (Late December - January 1st)
Dates: December 31st, 2025 – January 1st, 2026
What Happens: A multi-day celebration featuring music concerts, a family-friendly New Year's Eve procession, and a spectacular countdown event culminating in fireworks over the River Liffey.
Where to Go: Main events take place around College Green, Custom House Quay, and Dublin Castle.
Ticket Costs: Free to attend the procession and some outdoor events. Concerts and specific New Year's Eve parties require tickets (€30-€80).
How to Participate: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the fireworks. Book concert tickets in advance. Dress warmly!
Insider Tip: The New Year's Day Concert at St. Stephen's Green is a great way to start the year on a musical note.
Hotel Price Impact: High. Expect to pay a premium for accommodations around New Year's Eve. Book well in advance.
Tradfest Temple Bar (Late January)
Dates: January 21st – 25th, 2026 (Approximate)
What Happens: A celebration of traditional Irish music featuring concerts, workshops, and sessions in pubs throughout the Temple Bar area.
Where to Go: Venues across Temple Bar, including the Button Factory, Christchurch Cathedral, and various pubs.
Ticket Costs: Individual concert tickets range from €15-€40. Some pub sessions are free.
How to Participate: Check the Tradfest website for the full schedule and book tickets online. Pub sessions are first-come, first-served.
Insider Tip: Look for the free lunchtime concerts for a taste of Tradfest without the ticket price.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate. Prices increase slightly during the festival, so book your accommodation at least 2-3 months in advance.
February in Dublin
Dublin International Film Festival (Late February - Early March)
Dates: February 26th – March 7th, 2026 (Approximate)
What Happens: A showcase of Irish and international films, documentaries, and short films. Includes Q&A sessions with filmmakers and actors.
Where to Go: Screenings take place at various cinemas across the city, including the Irish Film Institute (IFI) and the Light House Cinema.
Ticket Costs: Individual film tickets range from €10-€15. Festival passes are available for those who want to see multiple films.
How to Participate: Check the festival website for the full schedule and book tickets online. Attend Q&A sessions for a behind-the-scenes look.
Insider Tip: Look for discounted tickets for matinee screenings.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate. Expect a slight increase in prices, especially during the opening and closing weekends.
March in Dublin
St. Patrick's Festival (Mid-March)
Dates: March 13th – 17th, 2026
What Happens: Dublin's biggest celebration, featuring a grand parade, street performers, live music, and cultural events. The entire city turns green!
Where to Go: The parade route winds through the city center, starting at Parnell Square and ending at St. Patrick's Cathedral. Events take place across the city.
Ticket Costs: Free to attend the parade and most street events. Some concerts and performances require tickets (€20-€60).
How to Participate: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the parade. Wear green! Book tickets for indoor events in advance.
Insider Tip: For a less crowded experience, watch the parade from a side street off the main route.
Hotel Price Impact: Very high. Expect to pay a significant premium for accommodations during St. Patrick's Festival. Book as early as possible (6-12 months in advance).
April in Dublin
Dublin Dance Festival (Late April - Mid May)
Dates: April 29th – May 16th, 2026 (Approximate)
What Happens: A celebration of contemporary and traditional dance from around the world, featuring performances, workshops, and masterclasses.
Where to Go: Performances take place at various theaters and venues across the city, including the Abbey Theatre and the Project Arts Centre.
Ticket Costs: Individual performance tickets range from €15-€45. Workshop fees vary.
How to Participate: Check the festival website for the full schedule and book tickets online. Consider attending a workshop to learn a new dance style.
Insider Tip: Look for student discounts on tickets.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate. Prices are generally stable in April, but may increase slightly during the festival weekends.
May in Dublin
Dublin Writers Festival (Mid-May)
Dates: May 18th – 24th, 2026 (Approximate)
What Happens: A celebration of literature featuring readings, discussions, and workshops with Irish and international authors.
Where to Go: Events take place at various locations, including Trinity College, the National Library, and bookshops across the city.
Ticket Costs: Individual event tickets range from €10-€25. Some events are free.
How to Participate: Check the festival website for the full schedule and book tickets online. Attend a reading by your favorite author.
Insider Tip: Many events sell out quickly, so book your tickets well in advance.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate. Prices may increase slightly during the festival.
June in Dublin
Bloomsday (June 16th)
Dates: June 16th, 2026
What Happens: A celebration of James Joyce's novel Ulysses, with readings, performances, and re-enactments of scenes from the book. Many people dress in Edwardian attire.
Where to Go: Events take place at various locations mentioned in Ulysses, including the Martello Tower in Sandycove, Davy Byrne's pub, and the James Joyce Centre.
Ticket Costs: Some events are free, while others require tickets (€5-€20).
How to Participate: Dress in Edwardian attire, attend a reading, or take a guided walking tour of Dublin's Joyce-related landmarks. Don't forget to order a gorgonzola sandwich and a glass of burgundy!
Insider Tip: The James Joyce Centre offers a full program of Bloomsday events, including guided tours and performances.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate. Prices may increase slightly due to increased tourist traffic.
Dublin Pride Festival (Late June)
Dates: June 20th – 29th, 2026 (Approximate)
What Happens: A celebration of LGBTQ+ culture featuring a parade, street parties, concerts, and cultural events.
Where to Go: The parade route typically winds through the city center. Street parties and events take place in various locations, including Merrion Square and Temple Bar.
Ticket Costs: Free to attend the parade and most street events. Some concerts and parties require tickets (€15-€40).
How to Participate: Attend the parade, join a street party, or participate in one of the many cultural events.
Insider Tip: The Dublin Pride Parade is one of the largest and most vibrant Pride parades in Europe.
Hotel Price Impact: High. Expect to pay a premium for accommodations during Dublin Pride Festival.
July in Dublin
Longitude Festival (Mid-July)
Dates: July 17th – 19th, 2026 (Approximate)
What Happens: A music festival featuring a lineup of international and Irish artists, covering a range of genres from pop and rock to hip-hop and electronic music.
Where to Go: Marlay Park, Rathfarnham.
Ticket Costs: Weekend tickets range from €200-€250. Day tickets are also available.
How to Participate: Book tickets in advance, as they often sell out quickly. Check the festival website for the full lineup and schedule.
Insider Tip: Marlay Park is easily accessible by public transport, but be prepared for crowds.
Hotel Price Impact: High. Expect to pay a premium for accommodations in Dublin during Longitude Festival, especially in areas close to Marlay Park.
August in Dublin
Dublin Horse Show (Mid-August)
Dates: August 19th – 23rd, 2026 (Approximate)
What Happens: A prestigious equestrian event featuring show jumping competitions, dressage, and other horse-related activities. Includes a Ladies' Day with fashion and style competitions.
Where to Go: RDS Showgrounds, Ballsbridge.
Ticket Costs: Day tickets range from €25-€50. Packages are available for multiple days.
How to Participate: Book tickets in advance, especially for popular events like the Nations Cup. Dress smartly for Ladies' Day.
Insider Tip: The Dublin Horse Show is a great opportunity to experience Irish equestrian culture and enjoy a day out with the family.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate. Prices may increase slightly during the Horse Show.
September in Dublin
Culture Night (Mid-September)
Dates: September 18th, 2026 (Approximate)
What Happens: A night of free cultural events across Dublin, including museum openings, art exhibitions, performances, and workshops.
Where to Go: Venues across the city, including museums, galleries, theaters, and cultural centers.
Ticket Costs: Free!
How to Participate: Check the Culture Night website for the full program of events and plan your evening in advance. Some events require pre-booking.
Insider Tip: Culture Night is a great opportunity to explore Dublin's cultural scene and discover hidden gems. Be prepared for crowds, as many events are very popular.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal.
All Ireland Football Final (Late September)
Dates: September 27th, 2026 (Approximate)
What Happens: The culmination of the Gaelic football season, with the top two teams in Ireland competing for the All-Ireland title.
Where to Go: Croke Park.
Ticket Costs: Tickets are extremely difficult to obtain and are usually distributed through GAA clubs. Prices can range from €80-€200 on the secondary market.
How to Participate: If you can't get tickets, watch the match at a pub in Dublin. The atmosphere is electric!
Insider Tip: The All-Ireland Final is one of the biggest sporting events in Ireland, and the atmosphere in Dublin is incredible.
Hotel Price Impact: Very High. Hotels near Croke Park will be charging peak prices.
October in Dublin
Dublin Theatre Festival (Late September - Late October)
Dates: September 24th – October 26th, 2026 (Approximate)
What Happens: A celebration of theater featuring a diverse program of Irish and international productions.
Where to Go: Theatres across the city, including the Abbey Theatre, the Gate Theatre, and the Olympia Theatre.
Ticket Costs: Individual performance tickets range from €15-€50.
How to Participate: Check the festival website for the full schedule and book tickets online. Consider attending a post-show discussion with the cast and crew.
Insider Tip: Look for discounted tickets for previews and matinee performances.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate. Prices may increase slightly during the festival.
November in Dublin
Savoy Series (November - December)
Dates: November and December
What Happens: The Savoy Cinema on O'Connell Street often runs special screenings of classic films and holiday favorites in November and December. It's a great way to escape the cold weather and enjoy a movie on the big screen.
Where to Go: Savoy Cinema, O'Connell Street.
Ticket Costs: Standard cinema ticket prices (€12-€15).
How to Participate: Check the Savoy Cinema's website for the schedule and book tickets online.
Insider Tip: The Savoy is one of Dublin's oldest and most iconic cinemas.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal.
December in Dublin
Christmas Markets (Late November - December 22nd)
Dates: Late November – December 22nd, 2026 (Approximate)
What Happens: Festive markets selling Christmas decorations, crafts, food, and drinks. Popular markets include the Dublin Castle Christmas Market and the Dun Laoghaire Christmas Market.
Where to Go: Dublin Castle, Dun Laoghaire, and other locations across the city.
Ticket Costs: Free to enter the markets. Prices for goods vary.
How to Participate: Browse the stalls, sample the food, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Take a spin on the ice rink (if available).
Insider Tip: The Dublin Castle Christmas Market is particularly popular and offers a range of activities for families.
Hotel Price Impact: High. Expect to pay a premium for accommodations in Dublin during the Christmas season.
Wren Day (December 26th)
Dates: December 26th, 2026
What Happens: St. Stephen's Day. A very old tradition, celebrated mainly in rural Ireland, involves dressing up in straw costumes and going door-to-door singing and playing music. While not as common in Dublin, some pubs and community groups may organize Wren Day events. Look for traditional music sessions and informal parades in neighborhoods like Ringsend and Irishtown.
Where to Go: Look for events in pubs and community centers around Dublin, particularly in older, more traditional neighborhoods.
Ticket Costs: Free to attend most events. Donations are appreciated.
How to Participate: Join in the singing and dancing, or simply enjoy the atmosphere. Be respectful of the traditions.
Insider Tip: Wren Day is a unique and authentic Irish tradition that offers a glimpse into the country's cultural heritage.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate. Prices may increase slightly due to increased tourist traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dublin Events
What is the best time of year to visit Dublin for events?
The best time to visit Dublin for events depends on your interests. March (St. Patrick's Festival) and June (Bloomsday, Pride) are popular but busy. Shoulder seasons like April/May and September/October offer a good balance of events and fewer crowds. December Christmas markets are also magical.
How far in advance should I book accommodation for Dublin events?
For major events like St. Patrick's Festival and Longitude, book as early as possible – 6-12 months in advance. For other events, 2-3 months should be sufficient.
Are there any free events in Dublin?
Yes, many events in Dublin are free, including Culture Night, St. Patrick's Day parade, some Bloomsday events, and many Christmas market activities. Look for free lunchtime concerts and pub sessions as well.
How easy is it to get around Dublin during festivals?
Dublin has a good public transport system, but it can be crowded during festivals. Consider walking or cycling, especially in the city center. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available but may be more expensive during peak times.
Are Dublin events family-friendly?
Many Dublin events are family-friendly, including the St. Patrick's Festival parade, Christmas markets, and some museum and gallery events. Check the event website for specific age recommendations and family activities.
What are some lesser-known Dublin festivals or events tourists might miss?
Besides the major festivals, look out for local events such as Wren Day celebrations on St. Stephen's Day, smaller traditional music festivals outside of Temple Bar, and community-organized events in neighborhoods like Stoneybatter or Ringsend. These provide a more authentic experience of Dublin culture.