By 1808Delaware
Celtic rhythms will once again echo through Coffman Park as the Dublin Irish Festival returns August 1–3, transforming the heart of Dublin into a global stage for all things Irish. Whether you’re drawn by the fiddles and flutes, the family fun, the savory fare, or the sheer scale of celebration, the world’s largest three-day Irish festival is gearing up to be unforgettable.
With early bird pricing available through July 19 at dublinirishfestival.org/tickets, now is the time to plan your weekend of discovery.
An Award-Winning Celebration of Culture
This year’s festival carries more than just the sounds of bodhráns and bagpipes—it comes with accolades. The event was named the USA TODAY 10Best 2025 Readers’ Choice Award winner for Cultural Festival, took the top prize as Best Suburban Festival in CityScene’s Best of the ‘Bus, and claimed the No. 2 spot for festivals in Columbus Monthly’s readers’ poll.
“Each year we look for ways to create new moments of discovery and delight for our guests,” said Alison LeRoy, City of Dublin Director of Events. “Whether it’s your first time or your thirty-eighth, we want every visit to the Dublin Irish Festival to feel like an adventure worth taking.”
New in 2025: Tastings, Carvings, and Pop-Ups
Beyond its signature seven stages, over 800 performers, Highland Games, and Celtic Canines, this year’s festival introduces some exciting twists:
- Irish Whiskey & Cheese Pairing: Taste the magic of Jameson whiskey and Black Radish Creamery cheeses in exclusive sessions on Saturday at 3:00 PM and Sunday at 2:00 PM. Tickets are $85.
- Star Power on Stage: Experience the viral charm of the Gardiner Brothers alongside new acts like The Jeremiahs, The Narrowbacks, Bracken, and more.
- Pop-Up Headliner Shows: Surprise performances will appear across the grounds. Download the award-winning festival app for push notifications.
- Gadan + Ukulele Club: Don’t miss a collaboration between 46 ukulele players and Irish-Italian folk band Gadan—a one-of-a-kind musical moment.
- Live Wood Carving: Watch chainsaws become chisels of art as Ravens Retreat creates massive sculptures in real time.
- Fresh Flavors and Finds: From Hangry Planet to Heritage Meat Pies, and shops like Whisker Biscuits and Scottish Attire, a mix of new food and vendor stalls adds even more variety.
Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present
History buffs will be drawn to the 2nd Cavalry Brigade Band Demonstrations on Sunday at 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM in the Greenfields Sports Area. Mounted musicians and living history reenactors will honor the legacy of Irish immigrants in the Civil War.
Ways to Save, Serve, and Celebrate
Beyond early bird deals, there are plenty of ways to attend for free or at a discount:
- Stay at a participating Dublin hotel and receive two free tickets per night.
- Run in the July 31 5K or Kids Dash and get a one-day festival pass.
- Volunteer with the help of OhioHealth and receive a ticket and official shirt.
- Attend one of the Sunday church services between 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM and get in free while supporting the Dublin Food Pantry with donations.
- Children 11 and under are always free.
Plan Your Pilgrimage
There’s a reason thousands make the Dublin Irish Festival an annual tradition. It’s more than music or dance or food—it’s a vibrant expression of heritage, hospitality, and shared celebration.
For full schedules, maps, performer lineups, and more, visit DublinIrishFestival.org or follow along on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
See you at Coffman Park, where the craic will be mighty.
Image by safiul islam from Pixabay
