From record fairs in Rathmines to hat parties in Temple Bar, there is plenty happening across Dublin this weekend.
The Liberties Festival
From modest beginnings in 1970, the Liberties festival has grown to become a highlight of the summer in Dublin. Running from 21 – 27 July, the festival returns with live events, walking tours, dance classes, somatic coaching, markets, family fun days, church bingo, and much more. See the full programme here.
Challengers match
In association with Kino Games, Dublin’s Lighthouse Cinema is hosting a Wii Sports Challengers Tennis tournament on Saturday, 26 July, from 7pm. Grab your best tennis attire (‘I Told Ya’ shirts encouraged), and sign up for a match ahead of a screening of Challengers at 20:45. Please note that competitors can sign up on the day but must have a ticket for a screening taking place on Saturday.
One Plate for Palestine
One Plate for Palestine is an initiative that encourages food businesses to create one Palestinian-inspired dish or drink for their menu from 22-27 July. Proceeds from plates sold will be donated to the campaign, which aims to raise at least €25,000 for NGO’s, charities and projects working on the ground in Gaza, such as Gaza Go Bragh, TEA Collective, and World Central Kitchen. You can find the list of venues taking part here.
Pillow Fight
To mark the launch of their new Dublin hotel, citizenM is hosting a public pillow fight tournament. Last Citizen Standing will see a mobile, see-through bedroom ring popping up in the city, where passers-by can climb in and go pillow-to-pillow in a showdown for prizes. The pillow fight will take place on Friday, 25 July, at Central Plaza from 1pm to 4:15pm, and Smithfield Square from 4:30pm to 7pm.
The Paddy Power Comedy Festival is set to return to Dublin from 24 – 27 July, unloading a clown car full of talent into the Iveagh Gardens. Irish audiences will enjoy both international and homegrown talent thanks to a star-studded line-up. See the full programme here.
Women of Colour Art Market
On Saturday, 26 July, Women of Colour Belfast and the Foxgluv collective are bringing the first-ever Women of Colour Art Market in Dublin to The Bernard Shaw. Celebrating creativity, culture, and community with a showcase of art, fashion, and music, it will run from 12pm – 6pm.
Hats Off
On Sunday, 27 July, Zeda & Friends bring their signature culture-led energy to Temple Bar with The Hat Party, a playful and stylish day event celebrating music, self-expression, and connection. Running from 2pm – 6pm at Curveball, Temple Bar, this stylish party invites guests to arrive in any hat from buckets to berets, fitted caps to crowns. The event will feature music from DJ Uzumaki and prizes for the best hat!
Haus of Schiaparelli: Lover’s Ball
Taking place at Smock Alley Theatre on Saturday, 26 July, from 6:30 – 11:30pm, this LGBTQ+ ball is for those aged 18 and over. A celebration of queer love and self-expression, it’s a wedding to celebrate your fiercest looks with your chosen family. Love is the theme, and ballroom is the altar. Visit Eventbrite for tickets and more info.
Mother Reilly’s Records & CD Fair
Mother Reilly’s Record & CD Fair will be held on Sunday, 27 July, from 12pm – 4pm. Listen to great tunes while you dig through crates of classics, rare finds, and hidden gems.
Flux Market
On Saturday, 26 July, Flux Studios on Catham Row is hosting a pop-up vintage and craft market featuring local design and vintage fashion. Running from 12pm – 6pm, the market is free to enter.
