July Guide: 17 of the best festivals and events happening this month


by Sarah Gill
04th Jul 2024

From music and arts festivals to exhibitions, installations, and pop-up shops, here's the best of what's happening around Ireland throughout the month of July...

Live at The Iveagh Gardens

Throughout July, Iveagh Gardens, Dublin, more info here

A wealth of talent is descending on The Iveagh Gardens this month, kicking off with none other than Van Morrison on 4 July, and continuing with an incredible lineup including Sugababes, Dropkick Murphys, Christy Moore, Pillow Queens, Damien Dempsey, and Paloma Faith, to name but a few.

 

Galway Film Fleadh

9-14 July, Galway, more info here

The Galway Film Fleadh returns for its 36th year with a programme that will most definitely pique your interest. Highlights include the Irish premiere of the Kneecap film, where the trio star alongside Michael Fassbender in their acting debut, a documentation of the making of the world’s largest light installation on an Irish mountain, and a VR ayahuasca experience — to name just a few.

Sult Féile

12&13 July, Gaoth Dobhair, Donegal, more info here

Set in the heart of the Gaeltacht in Gaoth Dobhair, this two-day outdoor music festival’s lineup includes Example, Bell X1, Welshy, the Red Hot Chilli Pipers, Alabama 3, and many more. With single day tickets and camping options still available, it’s set to be quite the weekend.

West Cork Literary Festival

12-19 July, West Cork, more info here

This incredible literary festival returns for another year with a stellar lineup of discussions, readings, and workshops in Bantry. Standout appearances include Colm Tóibín, Miriam Margolyes, Anne Enright, Dolly Alderton, and Caleb Azumah Nelson.

Belfast TradFest

21-28 July, Belfast, more info here

Belfast TradFest, the pinnacle of world-class traditional music concerts, fiery pub sessions and Ireland’s fastest growing summer school of traditional music, is set to celebrate its 6th edition across Belfast UNESCO City of Music in acknowledgement and celebration of the cultural diversity of the different traditions in Belfast.

National Gallery of Ireland’s ‘Women Impressionists’ exhibition

All month, National Gallery of Ireland, Merrion Square, Dublin, more info here

Marking the 150th anniversary of the first Impressionist exhibition, held in Paris in 1874, Women Impressionists showcases the works of four important artists. Berthe Morisot, Eva Gonzalès, Marie Bracquemond, and Mary Cassatt played vital roles in one of the most revolutionary movements in Western art. The exhibition will explore how each artist navigated complex personal and professional networks to create and exhibit her art.

Pawfect Portraits with Magnus Mudrack

25 July, The Circular & The Other Hand Bar, Dublin, more info here

For one night only, the master of pet portraits—Magnus Mudrack—will guide guests in creating their very own unique postcards, inspired by their furry friends. Perfect for sending to friends and family to share the joy your pet brings you, Mudrack will share his two decades of experience to help you craft an image that will bring a smile to your face every time.

Atelier Now presents: Dublin Block Party

25-28 July, Charlemont Square, Dublin, more info here

Straight from the creative studio of local artist Maser, this engaging self-initiated project returns for its 2nd year of celebrating community. This 4-day weekender uses creativity as a vehicle for community connections through immersive art experiences. There’ll be art exhibitions and live mural painting by Ireland’s leading creatives, the Creative Talk Series, and the Sunflower Sessions wellness offering.

AYALA Champagne Dinner at Forbes Street by Gareth Mullins

25 July, Grand Canal Quay, Dublin, more info here

The next in a series of exclusive wine dinners, Forbes Street invites you to unveil the magic of the Champagne house AYALA. Start your journey on the rooftop at 6.30pm with canapés, followed by a 5-course tasting menu featuring exclusive back vintage releases.