Ireland’s Summer Festival 2025: music, arts and flavour in every corner

Summer season

When summer hits Ireland, the island transforms into a stage—alive with music, art, and the irresistible aroma of local food.

July and August promise to be one of the most exciting months yet, with a lineup of festivals that span genres, generations, and counties. 

Whether you're dancing in Dublin, soaking up culture in Galway, or tasting your way through Cork, there’s something unforgettable waiting for you.

Here’s your guide to some of Ireland’s top festivals in July and August 2025, plus a few essentials to help you make the most of your summer adventure.

Longitude Festival – Dublin’s biggest music festival

Marlay Park, Dublin 

5–6 July 2025

Visit the official website

If you’re craving a weekend of high-energy beats and global headliners, Longitude is your answer. Set in the vibrant surroundings of Marlay Park, this two-day festival is a celebration of hip hop, house, and electronic music that draws fans from across Ireland and beyond.

2025 headliners include:

  • David Guetta – returning to Ireland after 13 years with his massive Monolith stage production;
  • 50 Cent, Belters Only, AJ Tracey, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, Sonny Fodera, blk., and more.

With over 20 acts performing across multiple stages, Longitude is more than just a concert—it’s a full cultural experience. Expect immersive visuals, including high-energy stage designs, dazzling lighting effects and large-scale production. 

The festival also boasts a diverse range of street food, from classic bites to gourmet favourites, catering to all tastes. 

Add to that an electric atmosphere—consistently described as vibrant, energetic and welcoming—and you’ve got one of the standout events of Ireland’s summer.

If you’re heading to Dublin for Longitude, start your weekend with a proper brunch at one of our three Happy Out cafés. Then, when the music fades away,  enjoy a glass of wine, tasty nibbles, and uninterrupted views of Dun Laoghaire Bay at our seaside location. Make your reservation.

Galway International Arts Festival – a creative odyssey

Galway City 

14–27 July 2025

Explore the programme

From the cobbled streets of Galway to the banks of the River Corrib, the Galway International Arts Festival (GIAF) turns the city into a living gallery.

With over 100 events spanning theatre, music, circus, dance, visual arts, and public talks, GIAF is Ireland’s most ambitious arts festival.

Highlights for 2025 include:

  • Heineken® Big Top Concerts featuring Mogwai, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Picture This, and The Mary Wallopers;
  • Immersive theatre like The Baby’s Room and Why the Moon Travels;
  • Visual art installations including David Mach’s Burning Down the House;
  • First Thought Talks with global thinkers and journalists.

Whether you’re enjoying a late-night show at the Róisín Dubh or browsing art in Eyre Square, Galway in July is pure magic.

What to pack:

A reusable Fellow Move Mug to keep your coffee warm between shows;

An Ocean Bottle for cold drinks on the go;

An organic tote bag for programmes, snacks and souvenirs.

Eco friendly merch

Kilkenny Arts Festival – culture in a medieval city

Kilkenny 

7–17 August 2025 

See what’s on

For over 50 years, the Kilkenny Arts Festival has brought world-class musicians, writers, and performers to Ireland’s medieval heart. Set against the backdrop of Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice’s Cathedral, and historic courtyards, this 10-day festival is a feast for the senses.

2025 Programme Highlights:

  • Custom of the Coast – a new Irish opera in collaboration with Irish National Opera;
  • Neon Dusk – a solar-powered circus show;
  • Secret Byrd – immersive music in candlelit chapels;
  • Martin Hayes' Marble City Sessions – a celebration of traditional Irish music.

Kilkenny’s charm lies in its intimacy. You’re not just watching performances—you’re part of them. From pop-up poetry readings to late-night jazz in hidden gardens, this festival invites you to slow down and soak it all in.

On-the-go?

Pack your Ocean Bottle to stay hydrated, perfect for both hot and cold drinks as you wander from venue to venue.

Ocean bottle

Cork on a Fork fest – Ireland’s tastiest celebration

Cork City 

13–17 August 2025

Explore the event

Cork on a Fork Fest, now in its fourth year, is a five-day celebration of Cork's food culture, showcasing local produce, chefs, and innovators. The festival, established by Cork City Council, offers over 100 events, including chef collaborations, food trails, and family-friendly activities. It runs from August 13th to 17th, 2025, and highlights the city's vibrant culinary scene.

What to look forward to:

  • Tasting trails and food tours of Cork’s best kitchens;
  • Live cooking demos by Ireland’s top chefs;
  • Workshops and talks on sustainability, fermentation, and food culture;
  • Family-friendly events, including kids’ cook-alongs and farmers’ markets.

Whether you’re grabbing a snack at the English Market or joining a sea-to-table dinner, Cork on a Fork is a food lover’s dream.

Don’t forget your organic tote bag—perfect for carrying artisan treats, local produce and cookbooks.

From world-class music to captivating theatre and mouth-watering food, summer in Ireland invites you to do more than attend an event—it invites you to join the community, meet the locals and feel something real.

Whether you’re a music lover, foodie, art enthusiast, or curious traveller, July and August offer the perfect excuse to explore Ireland in full colour.

And if you’re looking for travel-friendly gear to keep up with your festival adventures, check out:

Happy season, we hope the days feel golden and full of good vibes!☀️

 

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