Summer festivals, shows and other things to do
On a summer day in Dublin city, there’s no danger of being bored. Indeed, for a relatively small city, there’s always something to do – and this is remarked on by most visitors to the city.
Yes, there are tourist attractions worth checking out. The Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College and the Book of Kells, the National Gallery, the Natural History Museum and Christchurch Cathedral are all worth a look, but Dublin really comes alive through its people and its culture.
Between theatre, live music, art exhibitions and installations, talks and workshops, comedy and family-friendly events happening Monday to Sunday, right through the year – and mostly organised and led by the citizens of the capital themselves – there are plenty of options in this seaside city built on the river Liffey and the canals.
We’ve put together some of the big highlights to check out in the summer of 2022.
Bloom, June 2nd – June 6th
This hugely popular garden festival, set in the Phoenix Park – the largest public park in any European capital – has gone from strength to strength. As well as gardens, horticulture and design, there’s also a chance to try new foods from some of Ireland’s top food producers at the food village. It’s a family-friendly day with science labs, book clinics and gardening activities for the kids.
Forbidden Fruit, June 4th – 5th
Taking place over the June Bank Holiday weekend, this music and arts festival kicks off in the heart of the city centre. There’s plenty to look forward to, including sets from Lorde, Hot Chip, BICEP, Princess Nokia and Chet Faker. Plus, homegrown acts like Gemma Dunleavy, Malaki and Kojaque will take to the stage at the grounds of the Royal Hospital in Kilmainham.
Bloomsday Festival, June 11th – 16th
James Joyce immortalised and popularised Dublin with his magnum opus, Ulysses, and Bloomsday is marked on June 16th every year when many Dubliners dress in the style of 1904. The week-long festival also includes readings, performances and visits to places marked in the book.
Dublin Tech Summit, June 15th – 16th
This conference sits at the heart of the international tech scene and is a special event for Dublin’s tech-lovers. Over two days, it will welcome over 200 speakers to Dublin’s RDS. It will also feature lots of tech demos and workshops.
Dalkey Book Festival, June 16th – 19th
Held in the picturesque south Dublin seaside village of Dalkey, this annual festival features live podcasts, writing workshops, readings and a long list of well-known speakers, which include everyone from journalist Fintan O’Toole to DJ Annie Mac.
Smithfield Fleadh, June 18th – 19th
This is a new, free music event in Smithfield Square in Dublin’s city centre. Over two days, it will showcase a range of talented folk and traditional musicians and run workshops for all the family to enjoy.
Street Feast, June 26th
Street Feast brings communities together for local lunches on the street or in the park. It’s a particularly good chance for newcomers to get to know their neighbours.
Dublin Pride Festival, June 22nd – June 26th
This celebration of LGBTQI history and culture in the city features open mic nights, a full-day festival in Merrion Square and the main event – the Pride Parade, which takes place on June 25th.
Longitude, July 1st – July 2rd
This popular three-day music festival is held in the beautiful suburban setting of Marlay Park. This year’s line-up features internationally renowned acts like Dave, Tyler, The Creator, A$AP Rocky and much more.
The Festival of Curiosity, July
This annual festival of science, technology and the arts is an engaging and imaginative opportunity for learning. It includes events and daytime activities for all ages.
The Big Grill Festival, August 11th – 13th
This is the largest BBQ and craft beer festival in Europe. You can expect chilli-eating challenges, workshops from well-known chefs, a children’s play area and much more.
