Bulmers Live at Leopardstown 2025: Darren Kiely, The Academic, Allie Sherlock and more announced for special edition celebrating "The Best of Irish" music, arts and culture

Dublin’s beloved summer racing and music series, Bulmers Live at Leopardstown, is back for 2025—boasting a bold new identity and a vibrant line-up that puts the spotlight squarely on Irish talent. This year’s theme, “The Best of Irish,” signals a new chapter for the beloved event, with organisers fully embracing homegrown music, arts and culture.

Only a 20-minute Luas ride from Dublin City Centre, the festival series offers the perfect day out with a wide selection of events to last you well into the night, from thrilling horse races and electrifying concerts, to a vibrant mix of food and entertainment, including live comedy, busking and a dedicated games zone.

For the musical main event, this year’s edition will see performances from some of Ireland’s most exciting artists, with each act taking to the stage following a thrilling evening of horse racing across five Thursdays this summer.

On June 12th, The Academic will bring their infectious indie-rock sound to the Leopardstown Racecourse with a set that is sure to dazzle. From small-town roots to global stages, The Academic have emerged as one of Ireland’s leading indie-rock acts, known for their infectious guitar hooks and heartfelt lyrics that have resonated deeply with fans who’ve followed them from pub gigs to supporting The Rolling Stones.

Next in the line-up is Jerry Fish, the cabaret provocateur who continues to remain as one of Ireland’s most elusive artists. Once the frontman of An Emotional Fish, his solo persona blends circus theatrics, poetry and rock 'n' roll. With hits like ‘True Friends’ and ‘Back to Before’, Jerry will bring his incomparable stage charisma to the festival’s second night on June 19th.

It’s over to Marcus O’Laoire next, who is sure to turn the Racecourse grounds into an electrifying night club on July 10th. Renowned for his athletic turntablism and charisma behind the decks, he blends house, disco, and techno to deliver a euphoric night of pummelling beats and heart-pounding rhythms. His set at Leopardstown promises to be a massive party—think open-air dancefloor vibes under the hot summer sky.

From the streets of Cork to stages across the world, Allie Sherlock is a busking sensation turned breakout star. The Leesider will be leading the festivities on July 17th with a set that is sure to prove Sherlock’s incomparable talent, all centred around her moving lyrics and heart-rending voice which made her a star on the busking circuit.

Rounding off the Bulmers Live at Leopardstown series on July 24th is Cork songsmith Darren Kiely, who has taken his arsenal of viral tunes to sold-out stages across the world this year. With infectious hits like ‘Sunrise’ and ‘Ocean’, Kiely will bring his signature blend of Irish trad folk and modern pop sensibilities to the stage for a show that is sure to impress as much as it tugs at the heartstrings.

This year’s event expands well beyond the stage. With a newly refreshed site layout, you can look forward to a bill complete with street performers, local food trucks, a dedicated games zone and the lively Bulmers Bar and Garden area where you can chill out with a pint of the beloved Tipperary tipple.

Another standout addition is Hurricane’s Bar, where you can enjoy open mic nights, trad sessions and even a Gaeilgeoir Corner—all in celebration of Irish culture. Reflecting the event’s commitment to supporting homegrown creatives, a second stage will also shine the spotlight on emerging Irish talent.

Just a stone's throw from Dublin city centre, Bulmers Live at Leopardstown series blends exhilitarting races, standout homegrown music and a beaming festival atmosphere for the ultimate summer day out. With “The Best of Irish” at its core, it’s a festival that promises unforgettable nights and pure homegrown magic.

For more information, see leopardstown.com/bulmerslive.