Dublin City Council's Summer In Dublin: Free family-friendly events in the heart of the capital

With clear sunny skies over the Liffey, streets abuzz with energy, and grand stretches in the evenings, there's no doubt that summer is officially in full swing in Dublin. To celebrate, Dublin City Council are presenting an exciting line-up of free family-friendly events – kicking off on Saturday, July 4, and running across six consecutive weekends.

Many of the events are centred around Parliament Street, which followed Capel Street’s good example by becoming traffic-free last summer. The street has since transformed into a thriving social space, with outdoor seating and greenery that the whole community can enjoy – particularly in the sunshine!

First up on Dublin City Council’s Summer in Dublin line-up is Blossoms & Bees (July 4 & 5), a fun-filled family day celebrating the wonderful world of bees and nature. Expect fascinating talks from bee experts, hands-on plant-and-grow activities, face painting, interactive games, and plenty of buzzy fun for all ages. There will also be opportunities to learn how bees help our environment, and simple ways to support local wildlife – all while enjoying a fantastic day out with the family.

The family fun continues with Circus In The City (July 11 & 12). Experience all the magic of the circus right in the heart of the city, with exciting circus-themed activities, interactive games, colourful face painting and plenty of surprises along the way.

Alice In The City (July 18 & 19) is another magical family event, inspired by Lewis Carroll’s beloved Alice In Wonderland. Children of all ages can get involved with themed games, colourful face painting, and interactive activities, as part of a day-out centred around imagination and wonder.

Credit: Conor McCabe Photography

There’s also opportunities to discover your inner artist this summer, with Hearts and Crafts (July 25 & 26) – a day of fun, creative expression on Parliament Street. You can look forward to interactive activities such as art classes, bracelet making, face painting and badge making – and the opportunity to take your wonderful creations back home with you. If you’re looking for inspiration, don’t miss the mini ‘Art in the Open’ exhibition, featuring interactive art installations from some of Dublin’s most talented up-and-coming artists.

For something even more active, don’t miss Wellness World (August 1 & 2). Suitable for children and adults of all ages and abilities, the event will feature accessible movement zones and fun wellness activities, as well as interactive sports and movement demonstrations from experts. Expect everything from dance to yoga…

Capping off this year’s Summer In Dublin programme is Playtime on Parliament Street (August 8 & 9) – a celebration of fun and play for the whole family. Among the highlights is the Giant Street Games Zone, featuring novelty takes on basketball, soccer and Gaelic games. There will also be building blocks and other specially crafted games, as well as a specially dedicated family area.

Stayed tuned for even more family-friendly summer fun in Dublin over the weeks and months ahead – with music, markets and more in store…

For more information, see dublincity.ie/events