What’s on in Dublin: November

Grey skies, glowing pub windows, and the faint smell of roasted chestnuts: November might be an in-between month, but Dublin is full of ways to brighten the darker days – even if you’re not quite ready for Christmas yet. Whether you’re wandering through bookshops, catching a local gig, or seeing a new play, there’s lots to enjoy this month. ✨

Looking for things to do in Dublin this November? Here’s your ultimate guide.

☘️CULTURAL SPOTLIGHT: Storytelling in Ireland

Every culture has its own unique storytelling tradition, but Ireland has some of the richest folklore in the world. Long before books and literacy, there were the seanchaíthe (pronounced ‘shanna-key-huh’), respected bards who preserved history, myth, and legend through the spoken word. In the Celtic world, bards were considered second only to the king, a reflection of just how much power a good story can hold.

When the weather is dark, cold, wet – or as it often is in Ireland, all three – storytelling was a way to bring light to darker times in the warmth of pubs and homes. So, this November, why not brighten up the darkening days with a few stories by the fire?

Here’s how you can get involved:

• Visit ‘Ireland’s Best Traditional Pub’, The Stag’s Head, for a magical evening filled with folklore and fantastical tales.
• Attend Dublin’s Storytelling Trail and uncover myths and legends in the city’s hidden corners, told right where they happened.
• Stop by the National Leprechaun Museum, Dublin’s immersive hub for folklore, fairies, and of course, leprechauns.

🌆 DUBLIN HIGHLIGHTS

• Dublin by Night Fest, 1st November – Watch the city come alive at night with street performances, live music, and light installations along Dame Street, College Green, and Capel Street.
• Wild Lights, Dublin Zoo, 6th November – Wander through spectacular animal-shaped lanterns and glowing tunnels at this unique event at Dublin Zoo before stopping by at the Winter Glow Village.
• Wonderlights, Malahide Castle, from 14th November – Explore Malahide Castle’s grounds after dark through an immersive magical light trail through the woods.
• Angst from the Archives, The Tara Building, 6th November – An open mic where only your worst work is welcome. Time to laugh, cringe, and relive your teenage angst.
• Picasso: From the Studio, National Gallery of Ireland, until 22nd February – Discover Picasso’s creative world in this exhibition focused on his artistic process.
• Dun Laoghaire Comedy Festival, 5th to 9th November – Head to one of Dun Laoghaire’s 30+ comedy shows this month for laughs by the sea.
• Dublin Book Festival, 5th to 9th November – Celebrate Dublin’s love for literature with author talks, readings, and workshops across the city.
• Science Week, 9th to 16th November – Follow your curiosity at science fairs, workshops, and interactive events across museums and universities.

🎭 MUSIC & THEATRE

• The Dead by James Joyce, UCD Newman House, 21st Nov to 1st Feb – An immersive stage adaptation of James Joyce’s beloved short story, set in the Museum of Literature.
• Zara Larsson, 3Arena, 7th November – See Swedish pop powerhouse in Dublin for one night only.
• Oh Wonder, 3Arena, 4th November – Also playing at 3Arena is London alt-pop duo Oh Wonder, bringing brand new songs from their latest album.
• A Christmas Carol, Gate Theatre, 15th Nov to 18th Jan – A Christmas classic: Watch Scrooge rediscover his humanity in this heartwarming adaptation.
• The Nutcracker, Bord Gaìs Energy Theatre, 10th to 15th November – Ballet Ireland’s production of the timeless tale is here to kickstart the Christmas vibes.

🎄EARLY FESTIVITIES

• Christmas at the Castle, Dublin Castle, 28th Nov to 18th Dec – Enjoy traditional wooden stalls, Irish crafts, mulled wine against the fairytale turrets of Dublin Castle. Even better: it’s free!
• Christmas Lights Switch-On – Dublin no longer has an official light switch-on event, but you can see several stunning displays across the city as November progresses. Head to O’Connell Street and Grafton Street for the best views.
• Ice Skating, Blanchardstown Centre, 14th Nov to 1st Feb – Every year, Dublin re-opens Ireland’s largest ice rink.

Study and explore in Dublin with Twin English Centres

Want to experience Ireland while improving your English? Study with Twin! From Viking castles to traditional markets, it’s time to wrap up and embrace Dublin’s cosiest season.

Explore our immersive English courses in London, Eastbourne, and Dublin.