7 Unmissable Irish Summer Festivals That Celebrate Culture, Food, Music and Storytelling
For Erasmus+ participants, summer CPD training in Ireland is about more than just professional development. It’s a gateway to an enriching cultural journey that combines learning with unforgettable local experiences. Ireland’s festival season provides a unique chance for educators to explore the deep-rooted traditions, artistic flair, and warm hospitality that make this island so special. From the buzz of Dublin’s city parks to the serenity of West Cork’s coastal hills, Irish festivals are about connection—between people, cultures, and ideas.
Whether you’re passionate about music, literature, food, or folklore, there’s a festival in Ireland that speaks your language. These events allow participants to dive into authentic local culture, share ideas with fellow educators, and experience the joy of lifelong learning outside the classroom.
Here are 7 unmissable Irish festivals taking place in summer 2025 that are perfect for educators and culture lovers.
1. Galway International Arts Festival
When: 14–27 July 2025
Where: Galway City
Founded in 1978, this internationally acclaimed festival has evolved from a small community event into one of Europe’s most dynamic celebrations of the arts. It brings together theatre, visual art, music, street performances, and thought-provoking talks. Educators love this festival for its creative energy, intercultural programming, and inspiring public discussions.
Galway is a medieval harbour city known for its bohemian vibe, street musicians, and strong Irish-language presence. Wander the colourful Latin Quarter, stroll along the River Corrib, or take a day trip to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher or Connemara National Park. The city’s compact centre and lively pub culture make it easy for visitors to feel at home.
Website: giaf.ie
Learn more about our Erasmus+ Training Centre in Galway
Bridge Mills Galway Language Centre add hyperlink
LINK TO https://erasmuscoursesireland.eu/centres/bridge-mills-galway-language-centre
2. Kilkenny Arts Festival
When: 7–17 August 2025
Where: Kilkenny City
Set in Ireland’s best-preserved medieval town, Kilkenny Arts Festival is a refined blend of classical music, poetry, and performance art. Since 1974, it’s been drawing artists from around the world to perform in atmospheric venues like Kilkenny Castle and 13th-century churches.
Kilkenny itself is steeped in history—home to St. Canice’s Cathedral, the Medieval Mile, and winding cobbled lanes filled with artisan shops and cafes. Ideal for those who appreciate heritage and quiet sophistication, Kilkenny also offers access to ancient round towers and walking trails in the nearby Castlecomer Discovery Park.
Website: kilkennyarts.ie
3. Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann Music Festival
When: 3–10 August 2025
Where: Wexford
The Fleadh has deep roots in Ireland’s post-independence efforts to preserve and promote traditional dance and music. First held in 1951, it has grown into the largest annual celebration of Irish music and dance in the world. Musicians and dancers of all ages compete and perform in competitions, workshops, and spontaneous street sessions.
A town with a strong artistic identity, Wexford also hosts the world-renowned Wexford Opera Festival and embraces a creative spirit year-round. Compact and walkable, it offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where visitors can enjoy spontaneous performances in local cafes and traditional pubs, making it an ideal destination for reflection, cultural immersion, and inspiration.
Website: fleadhcheoil.ie
4. West Cork Literary Festival
When: 14–21 July 2025
Where: Bantry, West Cork
Held in the serene harbour town of Bantry, this festival was founded in the 1990s and has become a haven for readers and writers alike. It features readings, writing workshops, poetry events, and panel discussions with international authors, offering a peaceful yet intellectually stimulating summer escape.
With Bantry Bay on one side and the Caha Mountains on the other, the scenery is spectacular. Nearby, you’ll find ancient stone circles, Whiddy Island, and Bantry House—a grand stately home with one of Ireland’s most celebrated gardens. It’s an ideal location for quiet reflection, walking, and creativity.
Website: westcorkliteraryfestival.ie
Learn more about our accredited Erasmus+ training centres in Cork
LINK TO
Cork English College https://erasmuscoursesireland.eu/centres/cec-cork-english-college/
CES Centre of English Studies https://erasmuscoursesireland.eu/centres/ces-cork/
5. Taste of Dublin
When: 12–15 June 2025
Where: Merrion Square, Dublin
First held in 2006, this gastronomic celebration has grown into a showcase for Ireland’s dynamic food scene. Located in the elegant Georgian heart of Dublin, Merrion Square is surrounded by historic landmarks such as the National Gallery, Trinity College, and Oscar Wilde’s birthplace.
The festival features Ireland’s top chefs, food artisans, and mixologists in a leafy city park setting. Attendees can enjoy gourmet tastings, wine pairings, and engaging cooking demos—all within walking distance of Dublin’s buzzing cultural quarter and literary heritage trail.
Website: tasteofdublin.ie
Learn more about our Erasmus+ accredited training centres in Dublin
ATC Language Schools https://erasmuscoursesireland.eu/centres/atc-language-schools/
Atlas Language School https://erasmuscoursesireland.eu/centres/atlas-language-school/
CES Centre of English Studies https://erasmuscoursesireland.eu/centres/centre-of-english-studies/
Emerald Cultural Institute https://erasmuscoursesireland.eu/centres/emerald-cultural-institute/
The Horner School of English https://erasmuscoursesireland.eu/centres/the-horner-school-of-english/
6. Puck Fair
When: 10–12 August 2025
Where: Killorglin, Co. Kerry
Believed to date back over 400 years, Puck Fair is one of Ireland’s oldest festivals with pre-Christian roots. According to legend, a wild goat warned villagers of an impending raid, and was crowned in gratitude—a tradition still honoured today. A wild goat is crowned “King Puck,” leading three days of parades, music, storytelling and street entertainment.
Killorglin is nestled on the Ring of Kerry, offering spectacular mountain and coastal views. The area is a gateway to ancient sites such as Cahergal Stone Fort and the dramatic Skellig Michael monastery (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Puck Fair’s mix of folklore, music, and high-spirited street life is unforgettable.
Website: puckfair.ie
7. The Liberties Festival, Dublin
When: 21–27 July 2025
Where: The Liberties, Dublin City Centre
Celebrating Dublin’s historic Liberties district, this week-long summer festival has grown from a local community celebration in 1970 into a major cultural highlight. It combines arts, music, storytelling, food, and family-focused events‑all deeply rooted in the vibrant spirit of the area.
- Local history & atmosphere: The Liberties is one of Dublin’s oldest neighbourhoods, blending medieval streets with modern creativity. Think centuries-old pubs and historic markets alongside new artisan cafés and street art.
- Festive programme: The festival offers everything from live community theatre and outdoor concerts to environmental workshops and sports events. It strikes a perfect balance of arts, heritage, and local engagement.
For educators on an Erasmus+ route, the Liberties Festival provides a dynamic way to engage with Ireland’s living history, community creativity, and neighbourhood-based cultural identity—right in the buzz of Dublin city.
Website: thelibertiesfestival.com/
Learn more about our Erasmus+ accredited training centres in Dublin
ATC Language Schools https://erasmuscoursesireland.eu/centres/atc-language-schools/
Atlas Language School https://erasmuscoursesireland.eu/centres/atlas-language-school/
CES Centre of English Studies https://erasmuscoursesireland.eu/centres/centre-of-english-studies/
Emerald Cultural Institute https://erasmuscoursesireland.eu/centres/emerald-cultural-institute/
The Horner School of English https://erasmuscoursesireland.eu/centres/the-horner-school-of-english/
Why These Festivals Matter for Erasmus+ Educators
These festivals offer more than entertainment—they are living classrooms where participants can:
- Engage with Irish and European identity through culture
- Find inspiration for cross-curricular teaching and project ideas
- Experience community storytelling, tradition and creativity in action
- Connect with locals and fellow international visitors
They also provide moments of rest, reflection and joy during what is often an intense professional learning journey.
Whether you’re attending a course in Cork, Dublin or Galway, these festivals are within reach and worth exploring. Why not extend your stay, or plan your mobility dates to coincide with one?