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As the Irish summer sun begins to warm the turf at the home of Ireland’s thoroughbred racing, a familiar and beloved sound returns to the air - the thunder of hooves paired with the unmistakable pop of a chilled bottle of champagne. This summer, the Curragh becomes the epicentre of Irish social life and once again Moët & Chandon returns as the Curragh’s exclusive champagne partner. From the high-stakes drama of the Tattersalls Irish Guineas Weekend to the refined elegance o

Every summer, Galway transforms into a true cultural capital with the Galway International Arts Festival. For two weeks, the city comes alive with a rich and diverse programme, attracting artists and visitors from all over the world. Theatre, music, dance, visual arts and street performances come together to create one of Ireland’s leading events, offering a unique experience in the heart of Galway. An extraordinary festival This year, the festival returns for its 49th editio

Less than two hours from Dublin, one of Northern Ireland’s most scenic summer spots has officially reopened for the season. The celebrated Bollinger Garden at Culloden Estate & Spa is back for summer 2026, bringing Champagne, cocktails and Belfast Lough views together in the grounds of the five-star estate.

Set against the backdrop of Killiney Hill, Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel is one of Ireland’s most iconic hotels and a go-to destination for wedding celebrations. Just a 30 minutes drive from Dublin city and overlooking Dublin Bay, the historic castle offers a unique blend of heritage charm, elegant interiors and breathtaking coastal views.

Bealtaine Festival, an initiative of Age & Opportunity and Ireland’s national celebration of the arts and ageing, returns this May with a dynamic nationwide programme. The festival officially opens on Sunday, 3rd May at the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) with its most anticipated event – The Big Bealtaine Tea Party.

Tenters Gastropub at Aloft Dublin City has launched an express lunch service in The Liberties, aimed at Dublin diners looking for a quick, delicious option during the working day. Available seven days a week from 12pm to 2.30pm, the menu offers a modern take on Irish classics, built for speed without compromising on quality.

Encounter a medley of mayhem this summer as the crew from Beanotown stumble into Hillsborough Castle and Gardens on a ‘blam-azing’ adventure. From 27 June – 31 August, Historic Royal Palaces invites Beano fans of all ages on a time-twisting trail through the 100-acre estate with Beano Hijinks at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens – where kids go free to the gardens all summer.

Ashford Castle has expanded its seasonal food offering with the launch of Paula Pastry at The Drawing Room, a new haute pâtisserie concept created by celebrated pastry chef Paula Stakelum (aka, Paula Pastry).

Mount Congreve Gardens is delighted to announce a new Garden Festival, taking place on Sunday, May 10th, 2026, from 9 am to 5 pm. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of one of Ireland’s most celebrated horticultural destinations, this vibrant annual event promises an inspiring day out for gardeners, plant collectors, and nature enthusiasts alike.

On May 3, the iconic Hook Lighthouse will once again open its historic grounds for the May Bank Holiday Shine A Light Festival, in association with Great Lighthouses of Ireland, offering a vibrant celebration of Ireland’s maritime heritage in a setting that blends breathtaking coastal views with centuries of history.

What better way to spend a sunny weekend than puffin watching? Visit the Saltee Islands, where puffin colonies offer an incredible wildlife spectacle between late March and early August each year.

Set just outside Killarney in County Kerry, Loch Lein Country House offers a quieter base overlooking Lough Leane, with easy access to Killarney National Park and the wider Ring of Kerry.

Looking for fresh sea air and a relaxing getaway? Head to the west of Ireland and unwind in a 4-star hotel combining comfort and tranquillity.

Looking to escape for a few days? Head to the Midlands Park Hotel, a 4-star property located in the heart of Portlaoise, perfect for discovering Ireland away from the hustle and bustle of big cities.

Summer in Dublin is all about being out and about, and where you stay makes a real difference to how easily the city fits together. With so much happening across the season, having a central base means you can move between plans without overthinking logistics.

Today, Bealtaine Festival, Ireland’s national celebration of the arts and ageing, reveals its highly anticipated 2026 programme. Kicking off on the 1st of May, this Age & Opportunity initiative brings together artists, communities, and audiences for a full month of arts, entertainment and community. From the start of the month, events unfold nationwide in arts centres and community spaces, alongside online workshops and screenings, ensuring audiences everywhere can take part.

Mount Congreve Gardens in Waterford, one of the Great Gardens of the World, has announced the return of Restival 2026, its annual wellness festival, taking place over the May Bank Holiday weekend on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd May.

Waterford’s summer events calendar is set for another major boost as The Reg has officially announced the return of its hugely popular summer music festival 'The Churchyard Sessions', bringing 23 nights of free live music to Bailey’s New Street from May through September 2026.

Sunshine, great food, and quality time with friends the perfect recipe for an unforgettable summer! If you’re in Ireland (or planning a trip), here’s a selection of food festivals you absolutely shouldn’t miss if you’re a true foodie. Taste of Dublin Every summer, Taste of Dublin transforms Merrion Square into a true paradise for food lovers. From June 11 to 14, 2026, starting at 12 PM, this four-day festival offers tastings (including wine tastings), culinary discoveries, an

Motorists travelling along the M7 motorway this week have been met with an unusual sight, not just slow-moving convoys of tractors and trucks, but now a portable toilet being delivered directly to the protest route, a signal that demonstrators are preparing to stay.