If you want to squeeze the last remaining drops of fun out of summer, August is packed full of incredible live music and theatre events, along with some very exciting festivals.
All Together Now
31 July – 3 August, Curraghmore Estate, Waterford, more info here
As is evidenced by my review, ATN24 was a real highlight of last year and I for one am already itching to get back into the throes of it comes the August back holiday. They’ve already unveiled their first acts for the line-up and it’s hard to see how it could be improved upon. CMAT, Fontaines DC, Gurriers, HINDS and Wet Leg? Oh hell yeah.
Kilkenny Arts Festival
7-17 August, Kilkenny, more info here
For over 50 years, Kilkenny Arts Festival has been one of the leading festivals in Ireland, celebrated for its effortless blend of tradition and innovation, and for its electrifying range of events, staged in some of the country’s loveliest venues. This year’s programme includes a performance from Ciarán Hinds, a talk from award-winning journalist, photographer and author Sally Hayden on reporting in the Middle East, and part theatre, part rave and part group therapy in This-Topia by Meltybrains?
Waterford Walls Festival
8-17 August, Waterford, more info here
Returning for its 11th edition, Waterford Walls Festival is an unforgettable celebration of street art, creativity, and culture across Waterford City. In 2024, over 40 national and international artists created 55 large scale mural artworks around the city and the surrounding areas. Expect live art, music, workshops, guided tours and much much more.
Puck Fair
10, 11 & 12 August, Killorglin, Kerry, more info here
The oldest fair in Ireland, Puck Fair is a street festival that has roots in the Gaelic calendar and is held without fail on the 10, 11 and 12 of August every year with free family- friendly entertainment daily. “It is a time when old friends meet, when new friendships are forged and the cares of everyday living are put on hold.”
Cork on a Fork Festival
13-17 August, Cork city, more info here
Cork on a Fork Fest is not just a festival; it’s a unique celebration of the city’s food culture. It inspires people to connect with the food, harbour, land, and each other. It’s a testament to the city’s rich culinary heritage, their commitment to local produce and sustainability, and Cork’s multiculturalism. For anyone passionate about food, this is an unmissable festival that offers magic ingredients and a true taste of Cork.
The Big Grill
14-17 August, Herbert Park, Ballsbridge, Dublin, more info here
This food festival brings the brightest and best Irish and international chefs, restaurants and barbecue experts together to create a feast of unique live-fire dishes. You’ll learn how to grill, smoke, marinate, butcher and more on their all-action Bastecamp stage, with local craft breweries, cocktail bars, dining experiences, live music, DJs, Little Grillers kids area and lots more craic to be found around Herbert Park all weekend.
Love is a Stranger, Cork
16 August, Ballyvolane House, Cork, more info here
Another Love Story continues their mission to bring its signature offering to new locations with 24 hours of music and magic in the stunning surrounds of the east cork countryside. The lineup is a carefully chosen selection of contemporary Irish artists and international guests performing across intimate and atmospheric settings throughout the day and into the long summer night. Highlights include Elaine Howley, Niamh Regan, David Kitt and Efa O’Neill.
Wider Than Pictures
19-24 August, The National Museum of Ireland, Dublin, more info here
Fast becoming a staple of summer in Dublin for its diverse roster of world-class live acts, curated by promoters Singular Artists. Now in its fourth year, Wider Than Pictures’ 2025 lineup features Father John Misty, Wunderhorse, Sharon Van Etten, and The Human League.
Another Love Story
23&24 August, Killyon Manor, Meath, more info here
Intentionally realised at a scale which fosters a true sense of community and an unparalleled attention to detail, Another Love Story celebrated its 10th birthday last year and we’re already buzzing for their 11th instalment. One of the country’s most intimate weekenders, last year’s line-up featured Modeselektor, Sampa the Great, John Francis Flynn and Jape.
Electric Picnic
29-31 August, Stradbally, Laois, more info here
An event that requires little introduction, attending at least one Electric Picnic is a rite of passage for any Irish festival goer worth their salt. It’s Ireland’s largest music and arts festival, and the 2025 lineup includes Hozier, Chappell Roan, Kings of Leon, and Self Esteem.
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