Battle for the Bay, Dublin’s free family festival, is back for its annual beach jaunt this 25th and 26th of May. What started out with an audience of just 50 has now grown into a regular on the festival calendar with audiences of over 50,000 expected over the weekend. Now in its 13th year, this event promises to deliver the usual fun, entertainment and aerial acrobatics which has helped it become one of the best free family weekends in the summer.

The extreme water show will take place this weekend at Dollymount Strand, with the best kitesurfers from Ireland and the world descending on the shore to showcase their spectacular skills and gravity-defying moves as they skim the water surface and compete for the coveted King or Queen of the Bay crown.

On dry land there will be all the usual entertainment with live music across three stages from bands and DJs, a beach market selling everything from vintage clothes to vinyl records, Arts & Crafts, jewellery, and farmers market food village, a Kids Zone with fairground rides, Big Wheel, fitness classes and amazing sand sculptures by Daniel Doyle.

This year, the festival will also introduce the new “Brazilian Beach Village” with loads of activities including capoeira and samba classes for all ages.

Beach Volleyball Ireland are also back at the festival this year, and there will be games for beginners and advanced players. Saturday 25th May will comprise of two men and two women and up to two substitutions. On Sunday 26th of May, attendees can sign up to face off in a more serious affair - 2 x 2 single-sex tournament for men & women. The top men’s and women’s pairs will take to the sand to earn the Battle for the Bay Title. These competitions are open to all players!

The Biodiversity Village is a regular feature where attendees can explore the wildlife of Dublin Bay with some very friendly experts. There will be a host of scientists, conservation volunteers and nature lovers to help those present appreciate the natural surroundings. The festival's own ‘Crocodile Dundee’ will point out the native frogs and lizards and enthral attendees with the wonders of reptiles and amphibians.

Attendees can learn about the sport, as Powerkite and SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding) introductions will be offered by qualified instructors.