What to Do in Ireland this August Bank Holiday Weekend 2025

What to Do in Ireland this August Bank Holiday Weekend 2025

Ireland comes alive on the August Bank Holiday Weekend – and there’s no better way to experience it than with a stay in a self-catering holiday home.

Whether you’re chasing festivals, planning coastal adventures, or seeking relaxed family fun, Trident Holiday Homes has the perfect base for your long weekend escape.

Here’s our guide to what’s happening across Ireland from Friday 1 August to Monday 4 August 2025 – plus nearby places to stay.

All Together Now - Aerial View - Source All Together Now Facebook Page
All Together Now - Aerial View - Source All Together Now Facebook Page

Festival Fun

1. All Together Now Festival – Curraghmore Estate, Co. Waterford

When: 31 July – 3 August

A magical mix of music, arts, and food set on a sprawling 3,000-acre estate. The 2025 lineup includes Nelly Furtado, London Grammar, Groove Armada, Bonobo, and many more, promising an unforgettable blend of nostalgia and new sounds. Expect immersive art installations, wellness areas, gourmet food trucks, and a family-friendly vibe that feels like a creative wonderland.

Stay Nearby:  Dunmore East

2. Spraoi Festival – Waterford City

When: 1–3 August

Ireland’s leading street arts festival transforms Waterford’s streets into a living stage. Experience vibrant parades, interactive installations, acrobatics, and international street performers alongside local talent. The city buzzes with colour, music, and high-energy entertainment all weekend long — and it’s entirely free.

Stay Nearby:  Dunmore East

3. Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann – Wexford Town

When: 3–10 August (kicks off on the Bank Holiday weekend!)

Ireland’s biggest traditional music festival begins with a lively weekend of ceili dancing, open-air concerts, music competitions, and spontaneous street sessions. Whether you’re a trad fan or just love an uplifting tune, the Fleadh is a cultural celebration like no other.

Stay Nearby:  Ballygarrett  Courtown  Kilmuckridge.   Kilmore   Kilmore Quay   Rosslare

Wild Atlantic Way - sunset over Dunquin Pier
Wild Atlantic Way - sunset over Dunquin Pier

5. Wild Atlantic Way Walks – Kerry, Clare, Donegal

Stretch your legs along some of Ireland’s most stunning trails. Try the Kerry Way’s rugged coastal paths, follow scenic cliff loops in Kilkee, or wander the beach trails near Ballybunion. You’ll find sea breezes, hidden coves, and local culture at every turn – and many towns offer pop-up music gigs and local food events over the weekend.

Stay in:   Our Wild Atlantic Way collection of holiday homes

Live music - Cahersiveen Music Festival - Photo Source- cmaf.ie
Live music - Cahersiveen Music Festival - Photo Source- cmaf.ie

Family-Friendly Days Out

6. Cahersiveen Music & Arts Festival – Co. Kerry

When: 1–4 August 2025

This long-running festival offers a brilliant mix of live music, colourful parades, street entertainment, artisan markets, and hands-on workshops. Kids will love the funfair rides and circus acts, while adults can enjoy traditional music sessions and local craft displays. The setting — nestled between sea and mountains — makes this one of the most scenic festivals in Ireland.

Stay Nearby:   Cahersiveen   Kenmare   Killarney   Valentia Island   Lauragh   Ballinskelligs   Waterville   Glenbeigh

Gaze International LGBTQIA Film Festival - Photo Source GAZE phacebook page
Flying Alpacas Experience in Kilkee

Something Different

8. GAZE LGBT Film Festival – Dublin

When: 30 July – 3 August

Celebrate queer cinema and storytelling with screenings of powerful films from Ireland and around the world. The festival combines thought-provoking documentaries, vibrant short films, and standout features with panels and discussions, offering a welcoming and inclusive space in the heart of Dublin’s cultural scene.

Stay Nearby:   Swords

Dingle Dophin Boat Tours - Source Dingle Dolphin Boat Tours Facebook Page
Dingle Dophin Boat Tours - Source Dingle Dolphin Boat Tours Facebook Page

Simple Summer Joys

If big events aren’t your thing, why not…

  • Go dolphin spotting in Dingle or Courtown – take a boat trip and watch for bottlenose dolphins playing in the bay — a magical moment for all ages.
  • Visit a local market in Kenmare, Clonakilty, or Westport – browse handmade crafts, fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and baked goods while soaking up the local atmosphere.
  • Take a beach day at Garryvoe, Achill Island, or Kilkee – pack a picnic, bring a good book, and enjoy Ireland’s beautiful coastline with a relaxed day of sea air and sandcastles.
Coastal_Properties Keem Bay Achill Island County Mayo
Keem Bay, Beach on Achill Island, Co. Mayo

Book Your Bank Holiday Break Now

The August Bank Holiday is one of Ireland’s most popular getaway weekends, and our homes tend to fill up fast.

Secure your weekend escape today and