Until 4 October, Workman’s, Dublin, more info here
Ireland Music Week is an important event in an artists’ development and profile in the music industry. The main aim is to allow both industry and fans to witness the next crop of Irish talent. The showcases and the robust and busy conference schedule maintain IMW’s essential presence as a key international-facing showcase event. Key acts performing this year include Maria Kelly, Niamh Bury, and I Dreamed I Dream.
4-13 October, Ballina, Mayo, more info here
Ballina Fringe Festival is an annual celebration of the arts, culture, and creativity in Mayo. The festival aims to showcase the rich artistic talents of the local community while bringing international influences to the town, creating a vibrant and inclusive cultural experience for all. Highlights include comedy performance Frigid, a discussion with music journalist Simon Price about his book Curepedia, and a special wrap party with a stellar line-up of acts.
8-18 October, Tipperary, more info here
Heading into its 15th year of celebrations, Tipperary Dance is an artist-led, non-profit organisation that acts as an international creative space engaging with artists and citizens while building and providing infrastructure(s) for the art form of dance. The selection of workshops and performances programmed to take place over ten days in Tipp is incredible, so make sure you check it out.
14 October, Dublin Royal Convention Centre, more info here
The next IMAGE Business Club Live event takes place on Monday 14 October, when we’ll take a look at the seductive world of retail – how it has evolved, how to nail the sale, what the big names do to attract attention, the role of online and digital, and how to retain a treasured customer long into the future.
14 & 21 October, Killarney, West Cork and Waterford, more info here
From the founders of Bingo Loco, Oktoberfeis features some of Ireland’s top-selling musicians, such as Whistlin’ Donkeys, George Murphy & The Rising Sons, Rake the Ashes, and much more across 10 locations nationwide. An Irish twist on the traditional Bavarian experience, think Irish trad bands and dancers, tankards of Irish stouts and beers, authentic Irish food and an eclectic mix of entertainment and competitions across the evening.
16 October, The Helix, Dublin, more info here
Dr. Brian Pennie is hosting an evening of hope, fun and powerful life tools at The Helix. Through stories, comedy, interviews, and experiential exercises, this event promises an uplifting and inspiring experience. Speakers include wellness guru Niall O’Murchu, who will be leading a breathwork session, comedian Dermot Whelan who will keep us laughing, and broadcaster Anna Geary, who’ll be giving us a game plan for life.
16 October — 26 November, Belfast, more info here
Our 62nd Festival returns with a new season of contemporary arts and culture in over 30 venues across the city, featuring the very best international and homegrown artists in theatre, dance, music, visual arts, literature and film. Highlights include a world premiere of Aurora: A Modern Myth, an interactive installation and immersive dance performance Touch, Hear, Feel, and Yerma, a powerful tragedy set in contemporary Ireland.
24 October, Blackrock, Dublin, tickets here
Nordic Elements will host their first Design & Supper Club this month in collaboration with Blackrock’s Sea Shanty and Danish textile brand TAMEKO Design. Dinner tables will be styled with beautiful tableware selected from their collections, and decorated with seasonal stems by Appassionata. There’ll be canapés and cocktails, followed by a four-course dinner with wine pairings.
24-28 October, Cork city, more info here
An annual celebration of jazz music and community spirit, Cork Jazz Festival is a firm favourite on the Irish event calendar. Heading into its 46th year, there’s a stellar line-up of Irish and international musicians, both veteran and emerging talent to look forward to across the five days, including Gregory Porter, Todd Terje, King Kong Company, and Qbanaa.
25–28 October, Dublin, more info here
Get ready for four days and nights of deadly adventures as Dublin gets gloriously gothic this October bank holiday weekend. One of Dublin’s biggest festivals, where the ordinary fades into the shadows and the extraordinary comes to life, the lineup features events and activities for gothic enthusiasts and families alike. Slaughterhouse of Horrors at the IFI is a particularly enticing event.
25-28 October, Kilkenny, more info here
The 16th annual Savour Kilkenny Food Festival features a bustling 100-stall market, cookery demos by top chefs, dining and drinks events for every taste, interactive talks and workshops, and live entertainment for the whole family. The 2024 line-up includes Rachel Allen, Derry Clarke, Kevin Dundon, Edward Hayden, James Kavanagh and William Murray, Jeeny Maltese, JP McMahon, Anne Neary, Rory O’Connell, Gary O’Hanlon, and lots more.
31 October — 2 November, Athboy and Trim, more info here
As the nights lengthen, the Púca Festival casts its magical glow upon Ireland’s Ancient East. Rooted in the mystical traditions of Samhain, yet brimming with contemporary energy, this immersive festival invites you to a realm where folklore comes alive. Dance with otherworldly creatures, revel in the richness of Irish music and storytelling and experience Halloween in its most authentic form. The line-up includes Bell X1, Kingfisher, Jenny Greene, and Panti Bliss.