Two Spectacular Days on Land and Water!

Come down, get on the water, explore the quays and join in the fun

Dublin City Council Liffey Festival brings together a fantastic programme of activities, performances, maritime experiences and family-friendly entertainment along the quays and on the river in the heart of Dublin. Step aboard visiting ships, try a new sport, follow the historic Liffey Swim, join walking tours, discover the stories of the river, watch spectacular aerial and jet pack displays, enjoy live music and street theatre performances, and gather along the quays for Sunday’s Dublin City Council Liffey Festival Flotilla.

Cheer on the 106th Liffey Swim

One of Dublin’s great sporting traditions will open Dublin City Council Liffey Festival on Saturday as the 106th Dublin City Council Dublin City Liffey Swim takes to the water.  Swimmers will race through the heart of the city from the start at Rory O’More Bridge to the finish at the steps of Custom House Quay.

Try a new sport

Take to the water to experience the river. HQ2O Watersports will offer discounted pre-booked opportunities to try out a katakanu, currach or hydrobike. The on-water activities include a variety of paddle activities in conjunction with Canoeing Ireland.

Visit an historic Tall Ship and a brand new Cutter

The impressive Class A Tall Ship Pelican of London and the RCC Cosaint, the Revenue Commissioners brand new cutter which patrols Ireland’s coastline, will be among the visiting vessels. Step aboard selected ships for free public visits. Further visiting vessels will be announced ahead of the festival.

Enjoy history, heritage and storytelling at Live at the Liffey

A varied programme of talks will explore the many layers of the river’s story, from Dublin’s maritime and archaeological heritage to the lives and memories of its dock workers and the social history of the city. The programme will also bring the past to life through storytelling with Candlelit Tales, alongside further sessions exploring themes including the biodiversity of the Liffey and Dublin’s Viking heritage.

Explore and discover hidden histories

Guided tours will take the story beyond the stage and onto the waterfront. The Liffey Waterfront: From Boom to Decline and Back Again will reveal the characters, landmarks and hidden histories that have shaped the river and its quays.

Immerse yourself in Live Performances

Watch spectacular aerial and jet pack displays on the River Liffey, sing and dance along to live music and experience enthralling street theatre along the quays.

Friendly fun for everyone

With craft workshops, fairground attractions, face painting, food and drink, there’s plenty to discover and enjoy.

A musical celebration to wave off Dublin City Council Liffey Festival Flotilla 

Everyone is invited to line the quays for a fitting finale as the river becomes the main stage for the Dublin City Council Liffey Festival Flotilla. Local boats, rowing clubs and community vessels will gather at Custom House Quay before travelling together along the Liffey towards Dublin Port, with Glasshouse Ensemble providing an eight-piece orchestral and vocal performance.

Further programme information, additional visiting ships and details of activities requiring advance booking will be announced shortly on http://www.dublinliffeyfestival.ie