Looking to make the most of your weekend in Ireland? Whether you’re into music, theatre, sports, or scenic walks, this weekend—Saturday 3rd to Monday 5th May 2025—is packed with events for all interests. Here’s a rundown of the most exciting happenings across the country.

Events in Ireland This Weekend

Arts & Culture

Dublin Gay Theatre Festival

Various venues, Dublin City Centre
1–14 May
Celebrating 21 years of powerful performances, the Dublin Gay Theatre Festival brings together LGBTQ+ voices through plays, cabaret, and storytelling. Expect bold theatre, diverse casts, and stories that celebrate inclusion and identity.

Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival

Belfast
1–11 May
Now in its 25th year, this Belfast festival is known for mixing music, literature, spoken word, comedy, and visual art in one eclectic programme. Venues across the Cathedral Quarter will be buzzing with creativity and live performances.

Sport & Racing

Punchestown Festival – Final Day

Naas, Co. Kildare
Saturday 3 May
The curtain closes on one of Ireland’s biggest horse racing festivals. Expect a full house, big stakes, and some of the most competitive jump races of the year. Catch it live on RTÉ One from 3pm to 5:45pm or get down to Naas for the final hurrah.

Music & Soul

Dublin City Soul Festival

Merrion Square Park, Dublin
3–4 May
Let the rhythm move you at this feel-good festival in the heart of the capital. Highlights include the beloved Soul Picnic, celebrating peace, unity, and positive vibes through live music, food, and dancing in the open air.

Charity & Outdoors

Cormac’s Coastal Walk for MOYA

Scenic routes in Co. Kerry
Sunday 4 May
Take part in a stunning walk along Kerry’s coastal paths and raise money for the MOYA (Making Our Youth Active) foundation. This community event blends fresh air, spectacular views, and a strong cause. Find out more or register via Eventbrite.

Travel Advisory

Irish Rail DART Closures
Heads up if you’re travelling in or out of Dublin by rail this weekend:

• No DART services from Grand Canal Dock to Greystones from Saturday 3rd to Monday 5th May due to engineering works.
• Affected stations include Lansdowne Road, Sandymount, and Bray.
• Dublin Bus and Go-Ahead Ireland will accept rail tickets for affected passengers.

Plan your journey accordingly to avoid delays.

Final Word

Whether you’re looking to dive into a soulful picnic, cheer on racehorses, or enjoy live theatre, Ireland is bursting with activity this weekend. From the streets of Dublin to the cliffs of Kerry, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to factor in rail disruptions if you’re planning to travel—especially to or from Dublin’s coastal areas.

Stay informed with itson.ie.