Anyone who lives in and around Dublin knows the vibrant places that the city has to offer. There is always something fun to do and lots of regular events to get involved with. However, this is not something that is confined to the bright lights of Dublin alone.
Ireland in general is known for holding a calendar full of exciting events. 2025 looks set to be no exception and has already seen events such as the Dublin International Film Festival in February make a splash. What other key events are there to seek out around Ireland this year?
BikeFest
This is set to be one of 2025’s top events to check out in Ireland and takes place in Killarney, County Kerry. It’s scheduled to run from 30th May to 1st June and is billed as the premier motorcycle/music festival in Europe.
Although it’s naturally a great event for people who are into motorbikes, non-bikers will also enjoy soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. Bands such as Live Lizzy, Qween, Whiplash and Hell’s Bells are booked to play and will make this an event to remember for music lovers.
Killarney town itself has some great places to stay for festival-goers, and these provide the perfect place to check out online games in between the action. Just remember to brush up on bingo calls if you opt for this game!
Cork Midsummer Festival
Next to Dublin, Cork has always been one of the most popular places in Ireland to spend time. It has a unique feel and plenty of top-class events to explore in 2025. Cork’s Midsummer Festival sums this up perfectly and will take place from 13th to 22nd June in the city.
It’s set to include a diverse array of performances that celebrate Irish theatre, dance and music. The event books the best local and national artists, and this year will be no exception. The organisers, for example, have already confirmed a cabaret-style performance called Happy Hour at the Everyman and a one-woman 24-hour play called The Second Woman with Eileen Walsh.
Galway International Arts Festival
There are many reasons to visit Galway and this iconic arts festival is one of them. It has been stunning audiences since 1978 and is a real showcase for all that Galway has to offer. It’s due to take place from 14th to 27th July in 2025 and is already looking to be one you won’t want to miss.
When this event is on, Galway turns into a real festival town and puts on more than 200 shows across dozens of venues. This includes drama, theatre and literature performances – and there are also many pop-up performances happening ad hoc. The blue big-top tent is the main venue for catching performances and makes for an iconic landmark.
Bram Stoker Festival
When it comes to top events in Dublin for the coming year, why not check out the Bram Stoker Festival from 31st October to 3rdNovember 2025? Stoker hailed from the city, and this event is a chance for us to celebrate his talent.
As you might expect, there is a real gothic tinge and a darkly romantic vibe to enjoy. Dublin welcomes a host of performers from around the world over the weekend to remember the man who created Dracula. Past activities have included choral shows in dark libraries and banquets in crypts. The festival organisers also go the extra mile by giving the city’s most familiar locales a period Victorian makeover.
Dublin New Year’s Festival
It might seem a long way off, but New Year’s celebrations will be key events in Ireland at the end of 2025. This means lots of individual parties across the country, and Dublin’s New Year’s Festival is the pick of the bunch.
Although no specific details have been confirmed by organisers yet, we all know when it will happen and where! Based on previous years, you can expect to see dazzling light shows and pounding music. It’s safe to assume that there will be family-friendly public events and live performances included as part of the festival.
Key events across Ireland in 2025
Although Ireland has plenty more going on to get involved with in 2025, the gatherings listed above are the cream of the crop. Whether you manage to attend all or just one of them, you’re certain to have a great time!
