February Guide: 15 events happening around Ireland this month

AS IF, Eamonn Doyle, Niall Sweeney, and David Donohoe

From 6 February, International Centre for the Image, Dublin, more info here

PhotoIreland presents the premiere of internationally acclaimed photographer Eamonn Doyle, artist-designer Niall Sweeney and composer David Donohoe’s new and extensive interdisciplinary body work AS IF. Shot and recorded between Ireland and Japan—in city locations, on constructed studio sets, and in the photographic darkroom—the work assembles thousands of images with composed and recorded sound.

Mind of a Serial Killer: The Experience

From 6 February, RDS Dublin, more info here

This brand new serial killer exhibition invites you to step into a world where myth and reality collide. Uncover the chilling truths behind 20 of the most infamous serial killers and the investigations that brought them to justice. This is an immersive journey that will challenge everything you thought you knew about crime.

The Chef Sessions

7-9 February, various locations across Dublin, more info here

The Michelin Guide Great Britain & Ireland Awards arrive in Dublin on Monday, February 9. To celebrate, The Chef Sessions is bringing a festival vibe with one-off events, bold culinary collaborations and late-night gatherings. From chicken in a basket and hot dogs to breakfast muffins, toasties, spice bags and discoed Chinese, this is paying homage to the current contemporary food scene.

Dublin Book Festival’s Spring Series

9 February, National Library of Ireland, Dublin, more info here

To celebrate the launch of An Asylum for My Affections: Sketches of Maeve Brennan, edited by Molly Hennigan, Molly will be joined by two of the anthology’s contributors, Roddy Doyle and Éilís Ní Dhuibhne, for readings from this compelling collection of essays inspired by the life and legacy of renowned Irish writer Maeve Brennan at the National Library of Ireland.

Dr Laura Presents: The You First Affair

12 February, Salthill Hotel, Galway, more info here

Join Dr. Laura and some very exciting guest speakers for an evening dedicated to self-love, confidence and choosing yourself. Guests on the night include Iza Clarke PT, Dr. Laura’s personal trainer who empowers women through health, strength & balance; Saffron Cull, colour analyst with a deep love for empowering women through personal style and colour; Dr. Sarah Cahill, GP specialising in women’s health with a special focus on menopause; and Nancy Belle, founder of Belle Hair Salon and The Belle Brush.

Take Off Festival

18—20 February, Dance Cork Firkin Crane & Maureen’s, more info here

Take Off Festival returns to Cork city for its fourth edition, presenting two programmes of thrilling contemporary dance from Irish artists alongside international performers. The festival also offers Professional Classes and a Roundtable Discussion for local artists to engage with, facilitated by Laurie Uprichard, Executive Artistic Director of Dance Cork Firkin Crane.

Dublin International Film Festival

19 February—1 March, various venues across Dublin, more info here

For 11 unforgettable days in February, Dublin transforms into a vibrant hub of cinematic excellence as DIFF brings the best of Irish and international cinema to the capital for a celebration of storytelling. From world premieres to intimate screenings, exclusive Q&As to parties and celebrations, DIFF offers a unique journey into the world of film, all set against the backdrop of buzz of the Irish capital.

Borderline Festival

19, 20 & 21 February, Project Arts Centre and Workman’s Club, Dublin, more info here

A celebration of creativity, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and introducing audiences to the vanguard of the international and Irish music scenes, Borderline is an intimate three-day showcase featuring a carefully curated lineup of 40 exceptional artists set to grace the Workman’s Club and The Project Arts Centre. This year’s lineup includes Mary in the Junkyard, Affection to Rent, and Prima Queen.

Mother Tongues Festival 2026

20 & 21 February, Rua Red and The Civic, Tallaght, more info here

The ninth edition of the Mother Tongues Festival celebrates Ireland’s cultural and linguistic diversity, using the arts to foster dialogue and inclusion in a joyful atmosphere. In 2026, there’s a rich programme for families with children aged 3 to 10 years old, so prepare for a day packed with fantastic, multilingual events. From dance and drama to music and hands-on workshops, this is your chance to come together, share your unique family tales and connect with cultures from around the world.

From Canvas to Cloth

21 February, Powerscourt House & Gardens, Wicklow, more info here

Claire Garvey’s first Wearable Art show is sponsored by Made in Wicklow in aid of Julian Benson CF Foundation. Expect 15 new Wearable Art pieces on display inspired by Claire’s favourite painters. The exhibition is in aid of Julian Benson Cystic Fibrosis Foundation for his Tranquility House which is Julian Benson’s legacy and helps Cystic Fibrosis families.

Picasso: From the Studio

Until 22 February, National Gallery of Ireland, more info here

Picasso lived surrounded by his art. His personal life and his work, his homes and his studios were always intimately linked. The exhibition places Picasso in the context of his studios, highlighting the various facets and phases of his art and life. It explores the key locations that defined him, from his arrival in Paris at the start of the twentieth century to his studio in Mas Notre-Dame de Vie (1961-1973) in Mougins. The exhibition features paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and works on paper, as well as photographic and audio-visual works

Howth Guinness, Oyster and Music Festival

From 27 February, Howth, more info here

All Shucked Up is a vibrant event showcasing the freshest local oysters, perfectly paired with the iconic taste of Guinness. It’s a feast for the senses with live performances from talented musicians setting the stage for an unforgettable atmosphere. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast, a music lover or simply looking for a unique experience, the Howth Guinness Oyster and Music Festival has something for everyone. This year’s headliners are Betty Boo, Jack Lukeman, and Leslie & Flo.

Ireland Reads

Throughout February, across Ireland, more info here

Throughout February and especially on Ireland Reads Day, February 28, now’s the time to get lost in a good book. Ireland Reads is an initiative of the Government of Ireland to celebrate the joy of reading. It is funded by Healthy Ireland and supported by public libraries and many organisations that promote reading, literacy and the arts. All you have to do is sit down and read, for as long or as short a time as you can, and lose yourself in an adventure, a thriller, a romance, a comedy or all of the above.

Eureka Day

Throughout February, Gate Theatre, Dublin, more info here

High up in the hills of Berkeley, California, is Eureka Day; an independent, alternative school where liberal values and inclusion reign supreme. Every child matters and is welcome in this progressive paradise. That is, until a health scare shakes the parents and community to its core. As the executive board attempts to navigate the crisis, we see that mumps might not be the only thing that’s contagious. This Irish premiere of Jonathan Spector’s timely comedy Eureka Day has taken London and Broadway by storm. Roy Alexander Weise directs an international ensemble including Philippa Dunne from Sharon Horgan’s hit comedic series on BBC Motherland and more.

Dream Point After Dark: Van Gogh, An Immersive Journey

Every Friday throughout February, Theatre of Light, Dublin, more info here

After selling out repeatedly over Christmas, Dream Point has quietly expanded their new Van Gogh After Dark to every Friday, running weekly through to March. What’s interesting is how they’ve split the day: there’s a kids/family version during the day, then a genuinely adults-only experience in the evening.