What's On in Dublin - August

Your ultimate guide to Dublin’s best free events and cool cultural happenings this summer.

Need some ideas on how to enjoy the rest of the Irish summer? August brings National Heritage Week, world-famous musicians, and plenty more festivals to add to July’s lineup. Plus, one of our favourite student-friendly cheap eats in the city.

Top Free Highlights in August

1) Hidden Gems of Dublin Walking Tours

Walking tours are the best way to get local insights into the lesser-known corners of a city – from amazing street art to quirky subcultural hubs. Dublin 360’s Hidden Gems Tour does just that, with an alternative edge. You’ll learn about the Easter Rising, the rise and fall of Moore Street, a secret bar that’s welcomed many of the rich and famous, and Dublin’s darker underbelly. If you’re tired of polished landmark tours, this is a great way to get to know the city on a deeper level – for free!

2) National Heritage Week (August 16th – 24th)

This week-long celebration of Irish heritage takes over the city with hundreds of events this month, many of them completely free – from historical reenactments to behind-the-scenes access to fascinating cultural sites. Saint Patrick’s Cathedral – Ireland’s national Cathedral – is open at night for special summer openings.

More Ideas to Celebrate National Heritage Week:

• Check out Ireland’s storytelling and mythology at the National Leprechaun Museum.
• Visit Glendalough’s monastic ruins. – link to Glendalough blog.
• Take a class in Irish language or culture.
• Visit Hodges Figgis for an overview of Irish literary classics.
• Attend an open mic night or head to Temple Bar for Irish Trad.
• Learn how to dance at a Céilí.

Cultural Spotlight: Dublin Castle

This month, Dublin Castle’s Chapel Royal is hosting Handelfest. But what makes Dublin Castle so special?

You can’t talk about Dublin’s heritage without mentioning Dublin Castle – one of the most important buildings in Irish history. It has seen Viking raids, royal visits, rebellions, and many, many state dinners.

Built on the site of a Viking settlement, the current structure dates from the 18th century and served as the seat of British rule in Ireland for over 700 years. When Ireland became a free state in 1922, however, the castle was handed over to Michael Collins.

Inside, you’ll find the lavish State Apartments, the Chapel Royal, and The Undercroft, where you can walk through the remains of Viking and Medieval Dublin.

Don’t Miss: The Dubh Linn Gardens just behind the castle, where the grass patterns are shaped like ancient Celtic knots, and the Chester Beatty Museum (free!), filled with rare artefacts and art from around the world.

Things to do this August

Howth Roots and Blues Festival (August 8th – 10th)

Escape the city for sea breeze and soul-soothing tunes at the Howth Roots and Blues Festival. This free, community driven event holds blues, folk, and Americana acts in scenic seaside pubs and outdoor spaces. Plus, Howth is a worthy day trip in itself – check out our Guide to spending a day in this picturesque fishing village. – link.

Opera in the Open (August 7th – 28th)

Every Thursday at 1pm, Opera in the Open brings opera to the public. It’s casual, accessible, and a great cultural experience – no black tie required. Held at the Amphitheatre in Wood Quay.

The Big Grill BBQ Fest (August 14th – 17th)

The Big Grill BBQ Fest is a meat-lover’s paradise and the perfect summer outing. Held in Herbert Park, this is Europe’s largest BBQ festival. Expect smoky ribs, sizzling burgers, chef demonstrations and live music. Tickets are 25 euros.

Dublin Language Exchange (Thursdays)

Held every single week at River Bar, the Dublin Language Exchange is a fantastic way to practise your English and meet locals and internationals alike. The best way to improve your fluency is, after all, to speak – add a pint of Guinness and you’re golden.

Audio Garden Festival (August 22nd – 24th)

The Audio Garden Festival is a new event held in Grangegorman centred on underground music. There’ll be electro beats, immersive art installations, and plenty of green space to chill.

Handelfest at Dublin Castle (August 15th – 17th)

Handelfest returns this year with more concerts dedicated to the iconic composer. Even if baroque music isn’t your thing, the stunning surrounds of Dublin Castle’s Chapel Royal is well worth the trip.

Storytelling of Irish Myths and Legends at Sin È Dublin (Tuesdays)

Every Tuesday night, Sin É hosts a storytelling session that brings Irish folklore to life with drama, humour, and maybe a few Guinness. Think banshees, warriors, and tragic queens in a cosy pub.

RAYE, Queens of the Stone Age, and Oasis

This month brings some world-famous artists and bands to Dublin. Soul powerhouse RAYE is playing at Royal Hospital Kilmainham on the 22nd. Meanwhile, Queens of the Stone Age play on the 20th, and you can catch iconic Brit Pop boys, Oasis, at Croke Park on the 17th.

Dublin Maker Evening (August 30th – 31st)

Enjoy getting crafty? Dublin Maker is transforming Leopardstown Racecourse into a playground of science invention, crafts, and gadgets this month, with DIY robots, 3D printing demos, textiles, art installations, and many more curiosities. And the best part? It’s all free.

Theatre & Shows

Dublin’s theatre scene is a real gem: iconic theatres and deep literary history without the prices of the West End. Most tickets range from €15 - €50, so you can enjoy top-tier performances without breaking the bank. Here’s what’s on in June:

The Rocky Horror Show (August 11th – 16th)

Time warp your way through a cult classic at one of Dublin’s biggest stages.

The Weir (until 6th September)

Conor McPherson’s eerie, award-winning play returns: a gripping tale set in a rural Irish pub where old stories resurface, and ghosts linger.

August’s Cheap Eat

KC Peaches

With 10% student discount and a budget-friendly menu, KC Peaches is one of the best places in the city to get healthy, filling food that actually tastes good.

They serve brunch and a range of hot sandwiches (we recommend The Dubliner, a 3-cheese toastie with ham, caramelised onion, and mustard mayo), plus their popular hot food and salad bar. For 12 euros, you can load up a large plate with whatever you want. Plus, it’s a great space to study, with tonnes of large tables and outdoor seating.

Tip: Visit at their last hour of opening for 50% off all their hot food to takeout.

Ready for August?

Whether you’re brushing up on your Irish, listening to blues by the sea, or dancing at your favourite artist’s concert, summer is sure to end on a high note.

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