Summer has just started (although we wish someone could let the weather know!), and there is plenty of time to add to your ‘things to do in Dublin’ list. Although voted the most expensive European City break, Dublin can be enjoyed on a budget if you know where to look. There are a great selection of free events in Dublin from culture and history to markets and street parties. Get the best value for money from your Dublin accommodation when you choose a serviced apartment. PREMIER SUITES offers exclusive access to our lowest rates and special offers when you book using our website.
Markets in Dublin
Summer is a great time for open-air markets. Whether you’re looking for artisan food and drink or a handmade gift for a loved one, our markets are eclectic and exciting. Times and dates vary per market but they’re usually a weekend activity. Bushy Park Market has 30 stalls with hot food, independent producers, crafters, and makers and takes place every Saturday. Digital Hub Market happens on the last Saturday of the month and has everything from antiques to artisan food. Temple Bar market every Saturday has records, books, and a farmers market for fresh fruit and veg. Bray’s new market has over 40 stalls selling clothes, food, trinkets and more. Blackrock Market has over 30 stalls, ranging from antiques, bric-a-brac, clothing, home furnishing and more. Entry is free and you could spend all day browsing the stalls.
Parliament Street
Dublin City Council have Parliament Street (from City Hall to the Liffey) will be closed for traffic every Saturday and Sunday from 01 July until late August. To make the most of the open, car-free space, there is a schedule of music and entertainment every Saturday and Sunday from 1 pm to 6 pm. There’s something for everyone with face painting, stilt walkers, giant games plenty of fun props. For adults, a selection of pubs, bars and cafes to enjoy an al fresco drink or a bite to eat. All activities are free of charge so everyone can enjoy them. It’s great to make the most of the car-free city in the sun, while it lasts.
Keep it Educational
Our national museums and galleries are always free to visit. You can use them as a place to get out of a summer shower or as a place to admire the beautiful art and artefacts. During the summer, there is an influx of families – parents who want to keep little minds entertained and educated during the school break. There are a range of family-friendly events in each museum too like Pop Up Chats at the Wonder Cabinet in the Natural History Museum, happening on various dates and times. National Museum of Archaeology on Kildare Street has highlight tours, ideal for children over 8 years. Hugh Lane Gallery has Sunday Sketch sessions for all ages, all free of charge.
Culture Night in DublinÂ
One of the most anticipated nights of the year returns on Friday 22nd September. Culture Night is a celebration of culture, creativity and the arts. It takes place all over the country with various organisations and groups celebrating in their own way. Doors open to some of the most prestigious buildings in Dublin and guests are free to explore and enjoy the festivities inside. Doors open outside of usual business hours so you can experience these places in a unique way, not usually available to the public. Thanks to support from the Art Council, all events for culture night are free of charge but advance booking may be required.
Open House DublinÂ
Much like Culture Night, Open House Dublin allows you to experience some of the most beautiful and mysterious buildings in Dublin, after hours. Organised by the Irish Architecture Foundation, this unique celebration allows the public to explore behind the doors of some of the most beautiful and prestigious buildings in the capital. There are guides available to take you around and explain some of the building’s features and answer those burning questions a Google search won’t help with. Open House happens from 7-15th October and is a truly unique chance to discover something new about the city.
We’ve just tipped the iceberg for free events in Dublin, there are so many more to discover that even we don’t know about! Save even more on your Dublin trip by making the most of the in-suite facilities offered by PREMIER SUITES. Book our best available rates exclusively on our website.
