2024 Experiences
Beyond The Music
In 2024, the weekend started with the Dublin Irish Festival 5K and ended with the Festival Finale, in-between there was something for everyone.
5K & Kids Dash
The 2024 Dublin Irish Festival 5K & Kids Dash presented by IGS Energy was held on Thursday, August 1, in Historic Dublin to kick off the 2024 Dublin Irish Festival. Following the race the celebration continued at the Post-Race Party and Concert!
Celtic Canines
In the Celtic Canine area, sponsored by Riverside Bank of Dublin, animal lovers had the opportunity see the animals up close and learn more about the history of Irish dogs from some of the Midwest’s top breeders.
Cultural
Visitors discovered the richness of Irish history and culture through literary and historical presentations. Hands-on workshops were offered throughout the weekend at the Music and Cultural Workshop stages.
Darts
Darts in Ireland has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Visitors learned about the game of darts in a seminar or compete in games at the dart tent.
Defenders Den
The Defenders Den was a covered rest area, which offered complimentary snacks, non-alcoholic beverages and veteran resource information to active and retired military members, veterans of all military branches, first responders and up to 3 accompanying family members.
Genealogy
The Genealogy tent at the Festival was open to all who wanted to find out more about their ancestry. We had experts on-hand to guide visitors in searches – whether just starting out or needing help with a difficult question.
Irish Plays
Visitors dove into the world of Irish Theater with "Moby Dick's Gone Missing." Written by playwright Sean Cooney, this play took attendees to a small fishing town in County Cork, Ireland where chaos ensued when the whale for the production (Moby Dick) went missing.
Shopping
More than 90 vendors from across the globe showcased their unique craftsmanship and creativity with handmade jewelry, home décor and fine art. From clothing to crystals, the Festival is the perfect place to find unique gifts and souvenir pieces of DIF swag.
Sports
The Dublin Irish Festival’s Greenfields Sports Area featured a variety of athletic demonstrations. Athletes from around the region competed in traditional Highland Games events and activities for guests of all ages.
Sunday Services
Seven different Sunday church services were offered. Guests arriving between 9:30 - 11 a.m. received free admission with a donation of non-perishable food item or monetary donation to the Dublin Food Pantry.
Whiskey Tastings
Tastings have long been a Dublin Irish Festival favorite. In 2024 tastings took take place throughout the weekend in the Whiskey Tastings Tent.
Wee Folk
Families enjoyed crafts, contests, performances and dance instruction in the Wee Folk area. The Pot O’ Gold Playland featured more than 20 inflatables and activities in the South end of the Festival. Restrooms and tented seating areas with tables were conveniently located within the playland.
Festival Map
Plan to immerse yourself in a diverse array of traditional music, dance, food, and cultural exhibits, while also exploring the vibrant marketplace showcasing Irish crafts and goods.
