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It’s fluffy. It’s a little ugly. It clips on perfectly to your handbag - few collectibles have crossed so many borders, both cultural and literal, as Kasing Lung’s snag-toothed sprite, Labubu .  Released in 2019 by Chinese designer-toy powerhouse Pop Mart, the palm-sized monster has Gen-Zers queuing for blind boxes - yet tracking down an authentic Labubu on Irish soil can feel impossible. Here’s your up-to-the-minute guide. 1. Forbidden Planet D u blin If you’re visiting the capital, Forbidden Planet  on Crampton Quay by Temple Bar remains the steadiest (if still sporadic) source of Pop Mart stock. The cult-comics retailer receives small, allocated drops of Labubu blind boxes and the occasional 37 cm plush; staff report every batch selling through within hours. Your best tactic is to: Follow their Instagram Stories  for restock alerts. Arrive early  - queues form before opening on release days. Bring cash-plus-card ; some limited editions are capped at one per customer, and the basement can have spotty connection for contactless. 2. Pop-Ups - Watch Arnotts Henry Street Ireland still lacks a dedicated Pop Mart flagship, and the company’s global store map lists the Republic as “coming soon” rather than confirmed. That said, summer 2025 introduced a tantalising stop-gap: a Pop Mart vending machine (dubbed a “Robo Shop”) on the first floor of Arnotts, Dublin 1 , complete with snaking queues of thirty-somethings reliving Beanie-Baby flashbacks. Stock is refreshed unpredictably, so treat it as a bonus rather than a guarantee. 3. Ordering from Across the Irish Sea Until Pop Mart opens an Irish warehouse, most collectors supplement local hunts with online orders: Route Pros Cons Pop Mart UK Webstore Official stock, fixed RRP £-€ exchange + shipping; customs if over €150 ForbiddenPlanet.com Ships to Ireland, occasional Labubu bundles Drops announced with little notice Designer-toy specialists (e.g., OneKickIreland, TofuCute) Curated selections Smaller allocations, higher markup Always factor VAT and import duties when the basket total (item + shipping) clears €150. Dodging the “Lafufu” Trap Because demand outstrips supply, entire Telegram groups are dedicated to exposing counterfeits, nicknamed “lafufus.”  Telltale red flags include: Teeth count:  authentic Labubu has exactly  nine fangs. Paint tone:  Pop Mart uses a soft peach base; neon pink or orange suggests a fake. Packaging:  real blind boxes carry Pop Mart’s silver hologram and a QR code that scans to the company’s authenticity app. If a price seems too good to be true, or a seller won’t provide close-ups, assume lafufu and walk away. Or give in - no one counts teeth anyways…right? Tips for First-Time Hunters Budget realistically.  Standard blind boxes retail around €17–€25 in-store; limited plush versions are near €40. Swap, don’t scalp.  Dublin’s anime conventions (DCC, Eirtakon) host trade tables where doubles can be exchanged at cost. Store them correctly.  Ireland’s humidity can yellow vinyl; keep figures in a polybag with silica gel if you plan to display later. Pop Mart’s European roadmap hints at a flagship opening once logistics for VAT-inclusive pricing stabilise. Until then, Forbidden Planet  remains Labubu lovers first port of call, and vigilance your best defence against lafufus. Happy hunting!

When the sun makes its rare but welcome appearance over Dublin Bay, there’s only one thing to do - grab your togs and head for the water. The city and its surrounding coastline are brimming with swimming spots perfect for a cool dip. Here’s our guide to the best places for a splash this summer. Forty Foot First up, no list of Dublin swim spots would be complete without the iconic Forty Foot  in Sandycove. This deep-water gem, immortalised by James Joyce and beloved by generations of hardy swimmers, is not for the faint of heart. Once an exclusive male-only haunt, it became famously inclusive thanks to the “Bikini Brigade” of the 1970s. Today, it's open to all and buzzing year-round, though summer is when it really shines. With recent upgrades including showers and a spruced-up shelter, it’s never been more inviting - if you can brave the cold Atlantic waters. Clontarf Baths Over on the north side, Clontarf Baths  offers a different vibe entirely. This large seawater pool is tidally filled and partially filtered, complete with proper changing facilities and hot showers. It's ideal for swimmers who like the idea of the sea without the unpredictability of open water. You’ll pay around €10 for a two-hour session, and while it's less wild than the Forty Foot, it's every bit as refreshing, especially if you follow up with a drink from the poolside bar. Portmarnock Beach Further along the coast, Portmarnock Beach , nicknamed the Velvet Strand, provides a gentle introduction to sea swimming. Thanks to its wide expanse of sand and shallow entry, it’s perfect for families, paddleboarders, and those who prefer to ease into the water rather than take the plunge. The views are stunning, stretching toward Howth Head and the Dublin Mountains, and on a sunny day, it feels more like the Riviera than North County Dublin! Burrow Beach Just a bit farther down the road, Burrow Beach  in Sutton is a lively alternative. Popular with younger crowds, it buzzes with energy during the summer. The atmosphere can be fun and sociable, but it’s worth noting that the beach saw a bit of controversy in 2023 when large gatherings led to a few headline-grabbing scuffles. While the local authorities have since upped patrols and management, it's best to visit early in the day if you're after a calmer experience. Either way, the swimming is great here. Balscadden Bay For those who prefer a bit of seclusion, Balscadden Bay  in Howth might just be your secret summer sanctuary. Located behind the East Pier, this tiny cove is accessed by a steep flight of steps and offers an escape from the bustle of Howth village. It 's a popular place among strong swimmers and offers incredible views out to Ireland’s Eye. It's not one for the timid, but if you're up for a refreshing dip and a fab view, this is the spot. Dublin’s swimming culture is as strong as ever, but it pays to be prepared. Always check tide times, mind water quality updates (remember: no swimming for 48hrs after heavy rainfall!), and bring a buddy where possible, especially if venturing into less lifeguarded territory. The city has no shortage of swimmers’ groups if you fancy joining a community for a morning dip.

There’s no better time to take advantage of the sunny weather and treat your kids to a day of fun at one of Ireland’s fantastic outdoor aqua parks. Here’s a roundup of the top outdoor aqua parks in Ireland, perfect for a summer adventure! These water parks have everything from slides to lazy rivers, so you can have a day packed full of both excitement and relaxation for the whole family. 1. Inish Adventures Location: Moville, Co. Donegal Website: Inish Adventures Entry Price: €20 per person Inish Adventures is home to an absolutely exhilarating waterpark in Ireland, featuring a giant inflatable assault course on the water. You can have fun jumping and sliding on the inflatable toys and see beautiful views. The best part? It’s for everyone! Families, those going solo, or a bunch of friends! 2. Splash Valley Aqua Park Location: Mallow, County Cork Website: Splash Valley Entry Price: €18 per person Splash Valley Aqua Park in Mallow, Cork, has inflatable water slides, climbing frames, and obstacle courses. It’s a great spot for a family day out, with plenty of picnic areas around to relax post-swimming. 3. Baysports Location: Hodson Bay, Athlone, County Westmeath Website: Baysports Entry Price: €20 per person Baysports is made up of the biggest collection of original, one off, award winning floating slides, rockers and challenges, entertaining and delighting people of all ages and abilities. No matter what the weather you will have fun here! 4. Dunmore East Location: Dunmore East, County Waterford Website: Dunmore East Adventures Entry Price: €23 per person Dunmore Adventure is Ireland’s only WIBIT Wipeout Aquapark, which means it’s a unique water attraction featuring an inflatable obstacle course. It’s right in a sheltered cove, making it a must-visit spot when you’re exploring Ireland’s Ancient East. They’ve got it all: sailing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, archery, climbing, caving, and even the adrenaline rush of power fan freefall.  5.  West Lake Aqua Park Location:  Kilrush, Co. Clare Website: West Lake Aqua Park Entry Price:  €20 per person West Lake Aqua Park offers a fantastic water adventure in Ireland that suits everyone. This is where you can bounce around a massive inflatable obstacle course, going from one island to another. The water park’s Everest Island is where the real excitement happens among the five islands there - it’s a total blast! If you’re coming with little ones, they can also have a great time at the Kiddy Splash Park.

Combine wild swimming with a luxe hotel stay at Anantara The Marker Hotel! Anantara has a “wild swimming” swim safari package promoting wild sea swimming as a form of exploration and relaxation, while also paying tribute to Ireland’s breathtaking landscapes. The ‘Wild Swimming’ experience is led by the hotel’s Wild Swimming Guru , inviting saltwater enthusiasts of all levels to enjoy rejuvenating cool dips in the Irish Sea while exploring hidden beaches and little-known beauty spots. Plunging into the natural waters is a popular pastime in Ireland where numerous bathing spots are available for swimmers of all abilities. For holidaymakers and business travellers curious to dip their toe into this world, Anantara The Marker has curated a customisable Wild Swimming package to promote the many benefits of this refreshing and invigorating activity. The Package After choosing their preferred swimming spot, guests will set off in a private hotel car accompanied by the hotel’s Wild Swimming Guru, Jessica Lamb , to enjoy a two-hour swimming safari where they can take in views of the cliffs, kelp forests and the bay lined with bobbing fishing boats.  A marathon swimmer and Level 2 open water swimming coach, Jessica has spent the last 10 years immersed in Dublin Bay helping others experience the healing, grounding powers of the cold Irish Sea.  Back at the hotel, guests may choose to enhance their in-nature experience with a private rooftop Breakfast by Design or a muscle-soothing massage at the award-winning Anantara Spa. Depending on how comfortable they are with deep water, bathers can chose to picnic and swim either at Vico Bathing Place where they can float under the craggy rocks of Hawk Cliff as porpoises pop their heads above the swell; the iconic Forty Foot in Sandycove that featured in the opening scenes of James Joyce’s Ulysses and hosts many an icy Christmas morning swim; or White Rock – a beautiful sugary-white sandy beach offering safe bathing for families who can be seen swimming among diving terns and cormorants. “Anchored by a vision of integrated wellness, I am keen on opening new avenues for wellness tourism where hotels can achieve a balance by creating personalised experiences and adventures for our guests that have a direct, positive impact on their personal well-being,” said Bodina Quereshi, Spa and Wellness Director at Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel. “This Wild Swimming package is the first step towards helping guests embrace a healthy lifestyle while travelling, and I look forward to enhancing our current offering combining technology, science and holistic experiences to drive the vision and meet fast-evolving consumer expectations.” In addition to being a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors and experience the beauty of nature, swimming in natural bodies of water offers numerous mental and physical benefits, such as boosting mood, immunity and circulation, as well as connecting people with nature and each other – a refreshingly different way to start the day whether you are in town for leisure or business. The Wild Swimming package is priced at €295 per person. For more information about Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel, visit  https://www.anantara.com/en/the-marker-dublin . To book the Wild Swimming Package, email the team at  spa.themarker@anantara-hotels.com .

Dublin Like You've Never Seen It Before If you think you’ve seen all that Dublin has to offer, think again. From cobbled streets to buzzing pubs, Dublin's charm is undeniable — but nothing compares to the serene thrill of kayaking on the River Liffey. Recently, I joined City Kayaking Dublin  for a guided paddle through the heart of the city, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had in Ireland. Why I Chose City Kayaking Dublin A New Way to Explore the City I had walked past the Liffey countless times, but never imagined gliding underneath Dublin’s iconic bridges , or paddling beside historic buildings from the water. City Kayaking, located just beside the Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship  near the IFSC , offered exactly that. Easy Booking and Friendly Staff Booking was seamless via their   website . I picked a 90 minutes guided session, perfect for beginners and enthusiasts alike. The team was friendly and professional — they provided all the gear I needed, including: A high-quality kayak and paddle Buoyancy aid Waterproof gear (if requested) The Experience — A Peaceful Paddle Through a Bustling City Setting Off from the Docklands After a quick safety briefing, we launched into the calm waters near the Custom House. The contrast between the peacefulness of the river  and the buzz of city life  was striking. Even though I was in the middle of the capital, it felt like I had escaped into nature. What I Loved Most Paddling beneath the Ha’Penny and O’Connell Bridges The mirror-like reflections of the buildings on the water Catching the golden-hour light hitting the Samuel Beckett Bridge Feeling completely in the moment — calm, free, and connected to the city "There’s something almost meditative about kayaking through your own city." Top Tips for Your Own River Liffey Kayaking Experience Best Time to Go:  Try an evening slot for golden hour views What to Bring:  Comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting splashed Optional:  Bring a waterproof GoPro for unforgettable shots Pro Tip:  Don’t worry if you're a beginner — the route is gentle and perfect for first-timers How It Compares to Other Dublin Activities Activity Duration Physical Level Uniqueness Price Range City Kayaking ~2 hour Moderate Very High €49 Guinness Storehouse Tour ~2 hours Low Moderate ±€40 Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Flexible None Low €32 Temple Bar Visit Open-ended Low Typical nightlife Varies Verdict:  For a unique, outdoor, and active experience, kayaking beats the usual suspects. Why You Should Try City Kayaking Dublin Whether you're a visitor or a local, kayaking with City Kayaking offers: A fresh perspective of Dublin A fun physical activity An unforgettable way to spend an hour outdoors "I’d do it again in a heartbeat — and bring friends next time!" FAQs About City Kayaking on the Liffey Is it suitable for beginners? Yes.  The sessions are beginner-friendly and led by experienced guides. How do I book? Book online easily via   City Kayaking’s website  with real-time availability. Is it safe? Absolutely. All gear is provided, and safety briefings are thorough. Can I bring my phone? Yes, but bring a waterproof case. Is it kid-friendly? Yes, children over 8 can join with an adult. A Must-Do in Dublin In a city bursting with history, art, and nightlife, it’s easy to overlook the river running through its heart. City Kayaking Dublin  reminded me that adventure doesn’t always mean leaving town — sometimes, it’s about seeing home from a whole new angle. Ready to experience Dublin from the water?Book your kayak adventure today at   citykayaking.com  and discover the city in a way you’ll never forget!

It's time for our weekend roundup! Here's what's on this weekend, between Friday the 11th and Sunday the 13th of July across Ireland. We've got a great lineup of things to do, from Funtropolis to the Galway International Arts Festival and much, much more. Dun Laoghaire Summerfest - 4.07-13.07 Featuring over 70 acts performing at this years Dun Laoghaire Summerfest, the events will take place at the various venues around Dun Laoghaire over a two week period from Friday 4th to Sunday 13th of July 2025! Read more here. Funtropolis - 12.07-13.07 Dublin City Council Funtropolis returns to the city for its fourth year this summer – jam-packed with much loved family favourites, along with some brand new and super exciting additions sure to draw even more crowds than ever before! Read more here. Galway Film Fleadh - 08.07-13.07 Red-carpet European premieres in the Town Hall, lakeside outdoor screenings at Fisheries Field, and the industry Marketplace where filmmakers pitch projects over pints. Read more here. Galway International Arts Festival - 14.07-27.07 The 48th Galway International Arts Festival in 2025 will take place from the 14-27th of July and will feature a wealth of theatre, music, comedy, visual art, dance, and literary events from artists from Africa, America, Asia, Australia, Europe, and of course Ireland and Galway! Read more here. Earagail Arts Festival - 12.07-26.07 15 days of music, theatre, visual arts, film, literature, circus & carnival on Ireland’s North West Atlantic seaboard in 2025. Read more here. West Cork Literary Festival - 11.07-18.07 A world-class, inclusive 8-day literary festival in West Cork, featuring renowned and emerging international and Irish writers, masterclasses and events for all ages. Read more here. Comeraghs Wild 2025 - 10.07-13.07 From 10 to 13 July 2025, County Waterford will come alive with the sights, sounds, and spirit of Irish tradition as the Comeraghs Wild Festival returns beneath the majestic Comeragh Mountains. Read more here.

The Dublin Beer Festival, one of Ireland’s most celebrated events for craft beer enthusiasts, is making its grand return on September 12-13, at the RDS in Dublin! This year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever, offering more than just beer. Along with an array of over 100 festival-exclusive brews from local Irish breweries, attendees can also enjoy a range of craft cocktails , wines , kombucha , and no & low alcohol options . What’s On The festival has grown tremendously since its modest beginnings in 2011. Originally featuring just 15 brewers, it has expanded to feature a much larger lineup of local breweries alongside 10 guest brewers from across the globe, including the US, Canada, and Europe. This international flavor adds an exciting diversity to the selection of beers available for tasting. In addition to the drinks, the event boasts an impressive variety of food trucks and entertainment , including local DJs spinning tunes and fun games in a tented outdoor area. The atmosphere is festive and communal, with plenty of seating in both indoor and outdoor areas. The festival runs from 2pm-10pm each day, and tickets include a souvenir cup and access to all beer tastings, food stalls, and games. It’s a strictly over-18s event, and all payments are card-only, so cash won’t be accepted. Tickets & Accommodation Tickets are €20, with an €18pp group discount option. After paying this general admission fee, there are free food and drinks options as well as live music, entertainment and some fun retro games available. If you are planning to attend, consider taking advantage of the 15% off accommodation offer at the Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge , just a short distance from the venue. The Dublin Beer Festival has become a staple of the city’s social calendar, perfect for both seasoned craft beer lovers and casual festival-goers looking for a fun and lively atmosphere accompanied by a great drink!

Popeyes, the iconic New Orleans‑born fried chicken chain, opens its second Northern Ireland location  on Monday at The Junction, Antrim . It’s not only the first Popeyes in County Antrim—it also marks Northern Ireland’s first Popeyes drive-thru , open daily from 8 am to 10 pm  for sit-in, takeaway, and drive-thru orders. The US chain opened its first NI restaurant at Forestside Shopping Centre in south Belfast in September. There were queues out the door this morning and it's no surprise! To celebrate the grand opening, the first 50 walk-in  and 50 drive-thru customers  will receive a free Chicken Sandwich , with the first three in each queue  winning a year’s worth of Chicken Sandwiches. This new outlet brings 100 local jobs , adding to the 90 roles at the Forestside Belfast Travel2Ireland's American intern Owen Marcel- a big fan of Popeyes- tells us that the must tries on the menu are: the Popeyes Chicken Sandwich and Homestyle Mac N Cheese! The Buttermilk Ranch, Sweet Heat, Mardi Gras Mustard and Blackened Ranch. Owen Marcel is quoted as saying, "You guys don't have enough ranch here. I mean, this is a start though." But that's not all the news! 👇 According to local sources, Popeyes will also be opening in Dublin in the near future at the coveted spot on Westmoreland Street- once known to host groups of teenagers with watery cocktails with the former leasee TGIF. PLK Chicken Ireland Limited, a firm under the umbrella of Popeyes UK, lodged a planning application with Dublin City Council on 30 April so let's wait to find out! Find out more here

Located in Ballsbridge, The Schoolhouse Hotel and Gastrobar is an iconic piece of Dublin’s past, making it perfect for those looking for some boutique comfort for a stay, high quality food (and some delicious cocktails) in a gorgeous setting! Before we dive into what The Schoolhouse offers today, let’s step back in time. Built in 1859 as a school, this building played a significant role during the 1916 Easter Rising. It was used as a communications post by the rebels – talk about staying somewhere with a bit of historical weight! Because of this, the Schoolhouse is hard to miss from the outside. Its gorgeous, almost castle-like architecture stands out, with its tower and stone walls giving it a unique look. Once you step inside, it gets even better! High ceilings with large overarching beams, a gorgeous colorway over the walls – the atmosphere is instantly warm and welcoming. The Schoolhouse has plenty of fireplaces crackling away in different sections of the building, including in the dining areas, as well as lots of little nooks and crannies to discover in the upper sections of the building. Located so close to the city centre itself, it’s the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life! The rooms themselves are a lovely mix of classic and contemporary. You’ve got all the modern comforts—plush beds, free Wi-Fi, and those little touches that make your stay extra comfortable. Yet, the charm of the building remains intact, making it feel both luxurious and homely at the same time. The Gastrobar – A Foodie’s Dream Now, let’s talk food. The Schoolhouse Gastrobar is a serious gem when it comes to dining in Dublin. First of all, the setting is fantastic—like the rest of the building, it’s full of character, with an overall cosy vibe all over. They have multiple dining sections, with a garden available in the warmer months. There is plenty of seating, and is, in our opinion, the perfect place to go for high quality food and drink year round, especially because of the general ambience of the building. As for the food? It’s simply top-notch. We started off with a fruity cocktail that was super refreshing and creamy—exactly what you’d want after a long day. Then came the espresso martini, and let’s just say, they know how to make a good one! Smooth, strong, and delicious. But the real highlight was the food. We had the beef wellington, which was tender and perfectly cooked with a golden pastry crust. It’s the kind of dish that left me thinking about its comfort for days. We also tried the roasted hake with chorizo—light, fresh, and packed with flavour. Every bite was a treat, and the whole experience just felt like a special occasion. The Schoolhouse menu also changes seasonally, so get ready for their Christmas 2024 offering…from what we’ve seen, it’ll be a delicious one! There’s plenty of cosy spots upstairs too, so if you’re not looking for a full meal you can settle into a comfy armchair and lose yourself in conversation—or just relax with a good book and a drink. The bartender certainly knows what he’s doing! The Conference Room The Schoolhouse is also a brilliant spot for business. They’ve got a stylish conference room that’s perfect for meetings, workshops, or small events. The room has all the modern amenities you’d need. t’s a great option if you want to impress your colleagues or clients without the usual corporate feel. And after your meeting? Head straight downstairs to the gastrobar for a post-work drink or meal. Couldn’t be easier. What You Need to Know The Schoolhouse Hotel is located on Northumberland Road in Ballsbridge, just a few minutes from Dublin’s city center. It’s a great base whether you’re here for business, sightseeing (the trail by the canal is lovely during every season!), or simply to unwind. For more details or to book a stay, head over to their official website at schoolhouse.ie . Want to see more? Head over to our Instagram @Travel2Ireland for a reel of the Schoolhouse!

Mark your calendar for the 40th Kilmore Quay Seafood Festival , running from Thursday 10th July to Sunday 13th July  in the fishing village of Kilmore Quay, Co. Wexford! Hosted in and around the centrepiece Stella Maris Centre, this four‑day feast has freshly caught fare and plenty of family fun. While the action officially begins on Thursday the 10th of July, the energy builds early in the week with Red Moon Theatre’s summer drama camp, designed for children aged 7–12. The real kickoff, though, is the Opening Parade - a procession through the village, complete with music, art, and community groups. All roads lead to the Stella Maris Centre, where seafood platters are available to eat in or take away all weekend! Fish Friday The festival fully kicks off with Fish Friday , a market-style celebration where local fish processors showcase their daily catch at great prices. Watch demonstrations, sample world-class chowders, seafood platters and even tasty fish tacos - available at the Centre on Saturday and Sunday. Family-Friendly Festivities The festival delivers fun for all ages: Parade and official opening  by the marina on Thursday evening. Artisan food and craft fair , cooking demos (with celebrity chefs like Derry Clarke, Bernie Doyle, Brian O’Driscoll and more), and wine tasting sessions on Friday and Saturday. Red Moon puppet theatre , beach games, sand‑castle competition, paddle‑boarding, and a Teddy‑Bears’ Picnic for the little ones on Saturday. Sunday chill : sunrise yoga, coastal run, a guided nature walk to Ballyteigue Burrow, and live entertainment including The Wires, DJ Bodie and more A Community Fundraiser with Soul Attendance to the festival itself is free, but some activities require a small donation. The festival is the main annual fundraiser for the Kilmore Quay Community Development Association and the Stella Maris Centre. Each raffle ticket, plate, or pint contributes to enriching local life and funding activities that resonate long after the weekend ends. Plan ahead, taste the sea, and enjoy this Wexford coast celebration!

Dublin is set to sizzle as the Big Grill Festival returns to Herbert Park from August 14th to 17th! If you’re a fan of smoky flavours, meats, and all things barbeque, then this is the event you simply can’t miss. The Big Grill Festival celebrates live fire cooking, where chefs from around the globe gather to showcase their skills and share their passion for grilling. What’s On at The Big Grill? This year’s lineup is hotter than ever! Expect four days packed with mouth-watering food, fiery competitions, and cooking demonstrations: International and Local Pitmasters: Watch and learn from the best in the business as they cook over live flames. Live Music and Entertainment: The festival is not just about food. Enjoy live music from while you eat! There’s also a designated kids’ area with activities to keep the little ones entertained. Craft Beer and Cocktails: What’s a BBQ without the perfect drink to wash it down? The Big Grill has a fantastic selection of craft beers, cocktails, and soft drinks to complement your meal. Workshops and Demos: From butchery classes to BBQ masterclasses, there’s something for everyone. Learn new skills or perfect your technique with hands-on workshops led by top chefs. Ticket Prices and Opening Hours The Big Grill Festival is a ticketed event, and you can choose from several options depending on how deep you want to dive into the BBQ experience: Adult Day Passes: Starting at €20, giving you full access to all the day’s events. VIP Packages: If you’re looking to add a little extra luxury to your festival experience, there are VIP tickets available that include exclusive access to certain areas, private bars, and more. These start at €70+ The Big Grill Festival promises to be a fantastic weekend of food, fun, and fire! For more details and to purchase your tickets, visit the official Big Grill Festival website . See you there, and don’t forget to bring your appetite!

Ready to indulge in a weekend full of delicious seafood, great music and coastal summer vibes? The Dalkey Lobster Festival is back August 23-24th 2025! Celebrating the best of Irish seafood, particularly the star of the show—the lobster—this festival is for foodies who want to try something really special. The event will take place from Saturday, August 23rd to Sunday, August 24th, in Dalkey, Dublin. What’s On at the Festival: This year’s Dalkey Lobster Festival promises to be bigger and better than ever, with a lineup that’s sure to satisfy your seafood cravings and keep you entertained all weekend long. Here’s a taste of what you can expect: Seafood: The heart of the festival is the incredible spread of seafood dishes on offer, with lobsters taking centre stage. From lobster rolls to grilled lobster tails, seafood paella, and more, you’ll be spoiled for choice as local chefs serve up their finest creations. Gourmet Street Food: Beyond lobsters, the festival will feature a wide selection of gourmet street food stalls, offering everything from fresh oysters to artisan cheeses and delicious desserts. There’s something for every palate! Live Cooking Demonstrations: Watch and learn from top chefs as they demonstrate how to prepare and cook seafood like a pro. These live cooking demonstrations are not to be missed for anyone looking to up their kitchen game. Live Music & Entertainment: The Dalkey Lobster Festival isn’t just about food—it’s also about fun! Enjoy live performances from a fantastic lineup of local bands and artists throughout the weekend. Family-Friendly Activities: The festival is perfect for all ages, with plenty of family-friendly activities to keep the little ones entertained. Face painting and kids’ workshops ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Pricing: Admission to the Dalkey Lobster Festival is free, making it accessible to everyone. However, be sure to bring some cash for the delicious food, drinks, and other goodies available throughout the event. With so many tempting options, you’ll want to try a bit of everything! For more information on the event and to stay updated on the latest news, visit the official Dalkey Lobster Festival website .