TRADITIONS IN DUBLIN

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

  • Overview: St. Patrick’s Day, celebrated on March 17th, is a national holiday in Ireland. The Dublin parade is a grand spectacle featuring vibrant floats, performances, and a lively atmosphere.
  • When and Where: March 17th, throughout the city center.
  • Website: St. Patrick’s Festival

Bloomsday

  • Overview: Bloomsday honors James Joyce’s masterpiece, “Ulysses.” Participants dress in Edwardian attire and follow the route taken by the novel’s characters on June 16th.
  • When and Where: June 16th, various locations in Dublin.
  • Website: James Joyce Centre

Halloween Bram Stoker Festival

  • Overview: Dublin pays homage to Bram Stoker, the author of “Dracula,” with a thrilling Halloween festival featuring gothic events, performances, and eerie experiences.
  • When and Where: Late October, various venues.
  • Website: Bram Stoker Festival

TradFest

  • Overview: TradFest is a celebration of traditional Irish music and culture, attracting musicians from around the world. It offers concerts, sessions, and a vibrant atmosphere.
  • When and Where: Late January, Temple Bar and other venues.
  • Website: TradFest

Dublin Horse Show

  • Overview: The Dublin Horse Show, held at the historic RDS, is a prestigious equestrian event featuring showjumping, style, and a fantastic social scene.
  • When and Where: August, Royal Dublin Society (RDS).
  • Website: Dublin Horse Show

GAA All-Ireland Senior Football and Hurling Finals

  • Overview: The pinnacle of Gaelic Games, these finals draw passionate crowds to Croke Park to witness top-tier football and hurling competitions.
  • When and Where: September, Croke Park.
  • Website: GAA

Christmas Lights Switch-On

  • Overview: Dublin transforms into a festive wonderland during the Christmas Lights Switch-On, featuring illuminations, entertainment, and a magical atmosphere.
  • When and Where: Late November, O’Connell Street.
  • Website: DublinTown

Yeats Day

  • Overview: Yeats Day celebrates the renowned poet W.B. Yeats on his birthday. Events include poetry readings, performances, and cultural activities.
  • When and Where: June 13th, various locations.
  • Website: Yeats Society

Dublin LGBTQ+ Pride Parade

  • Overview: Dublin Pride is a vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ rights, featuring a colorful parade, performances, and festivities promoting equality.
  • When and Where: June, throughout the city center.
  • Website: Dublin LGBTQ+ Pride

Blessing of the Boats

  • Overview: In Howth, the Blessing of the Boats ceremony takes place, seeking safety for fishermen and vessels. It includes a procession to the harbor and a traditional blessing.
  • When and Where: July, Howth Harbor.
  • Website: Howth Peninsula

Dublin Bay Prawn Festival

  • Overview: Celebrating the Dublin Bay prawn, this festival offers seafood delights, cooking demonstrations, and family-friendly activities.
  • When and Where: Late March, Howth.
  • Website: Dublin Bay Prawn Festival

Penny Dinners

  • Overview: The tradition of Penny Dinners dates back to the 19th century when a charitable meal could be purchased for a penny. Today, it continues as a symbol of community support.
  • When and Where: Ongoing, various locations.
  • Website: The Penny Dinners

Dublin Bay Cruises

  • Overview: Experience the tradition of maritime exploration with Dublin Bay Cruises, offering scenic voyages, historical insights, and stunning views of the coastline.
  • When and Where: Regular departures, departing from various locations.
  • Website: Dublin Bay Cruises

Grafton Street Buskers

  • Overview: Grafton Street comes alive with talented street performers, creating a lively and musical atmosphere for shoppers and visitors.
  • When and Where: Throughout the year, Grafton Street.
  • Website: Visit Dublin – Grafton Street

Kilmainham Gaol Historical Tour

  • Overview: Explore the history of Kilmainham Gaol through guided tours, unraveling the stories of Irish independence and the struggle for freedom.
  • When and Where: Ongoing, Kilmainham Gaol.
  • Website: Kilmainham Gaol