
The sun’s out (mostly), the summer festivals are in full swing, and Dún Laoghaire Rathdown is absolutely buzzing this week. Whether you’re plotting a family day out, a cheeky night of live music, or a seaside yoga session with a side of techno, we’ve got your weekend plans covered.
Here’s what’s in store:
🚂 Dart disruption and a new play park in the works
🛥️ The Volvo Regatta and a boatload of fun
🎨 Neon painting, techno yoga, and drag bingo
🎶 A tidal wave of live music from Daft Punk to Alanis tributes
🦄 Unicorn hunts, family raves, Zumba by the sea and more!
Let’s dive in.👇

⛵ Volvo Dún Laoghaire Regatta – Thurs 10 to Sun 13 July
Four days of world-class sailing returns to our harbour as modern and classic boats race for glory. One of the highlights of the summer – and a great one to watch with a 99 in hand. More info
🚤 MGM Boats Summer Showcase – Fri 4 to Sun 6 July
New and used boats on display in the Coal Harbour, from sailboats and yachts to inflatable fun. Open to all, even if you’re just there to dream. See what’s on show

💃 Drag Bingo – Sat 12 July, 8pm @ The Play Space
Bingo like you've never seen before. Hosted by the fierce Viola Gayvis with DJ Maria Lawlor, this is pure sass, sparkle and cheeky banter. Tickets €10 with a drink included. Book now
🧘♀️ Techno Yoga – Fri 11 July @ The Play Space, 6pm
Yoga meets rave in this high-energy vinyasa class with a live DJ and Rituals goody bag worth €70. Glow sticks optional. Join in
🎨 Neon Painting – Thurs 10 July @ The Play Space
A glow-in-the-dark art session for kids and parents, complete with UV paint, stencils, and blacklight magic. Book now

🎶 New Jackson + The Drifter – Fri 11 July, 11pm @ The Lighthouse
Boiler Room vibes hit the harbour in this one-off club show with electronic maestro New Jackson and support from The Drifter. Get tickets
🎤 ABBA Interactive – Fri 11 July @ The Lighthouse
Live performers, karaoke screens, glitter galore and over 2 hours of ABBA classics. Costumes encouraged, singalongs guaranteed. Join the party
🎸 Frank & Walters – Sat 12 July @ The Lighthouse
90s indie legends play an intimate acoustic set as part of Summerfest, plus support from Gerr Walsh. Book here
🎧 The Daft Punk Experience – Sat 12 July @ Summerfest
From "Around the World" to "Get Lucky" – all the robot hits in one explosive tribute show with visuals, energy and guest acts. More info

🎤 Alanis Morissette Tribute – Sun 13 July @ The Lighthouse
Rugged Little Pill brings the iconic 90s hits to life. Expect raw vocals, big feels, and the perfect closer to your Summerfest weekend. Grab tickets
🎶 Plus: Niamh Strong, Marcus O’Laoire, Bobby MC & The Dukes, and more live acts all weekend long.

🥂 Bottomless Brunch – Until 13 July
Mimosas (€20), beers (€25), or G&Ts (€30) for 90 mins at Gourmet Food Parlour. Part of Summerfest. Sip responsibly.
📸 Instagram
☕ Rave to Remember x Smooch – Fri 11 July
This €5 “Rave Roast” includes coffee, açai/ice cream, live DJ, and… bubble machines.
📸 Instagram
🌊 Water Fest 2025 – Sat 12 July, 10am–4pm
Live music, jellyfish talks, fancy dress paddleboarding, harbour tours, food and face paint.
📸 Instagram

🛶 Coastival Kayaking – Wed 9 July, 6:30–7:30pm
Try kayaking with Irish National Sailing School for just €5. Beginners welcome.
📍 Event info
🚨 Emergency Services Open Day – Sun 13 July, 11am–4pm
St Michael’s Pier will be buzzing this Sunday with boats, fire engines, Garda cars, rescue vehicles and animal heroes. No tickets needed – just bring your little ones and let them live out their fireperson dreams.
📍 Event info | 📸 Instagram
🦄 Unicorn Family Day – Sat 12 July
Cabinteely Library is celebrating Summer Stars with a magical unicorn hunt and themed activities. Perfect for little bookworms and believers.
📍 Event details
🎨 Extra Activities at Airfield Estate – Tues & Thurs, 12–6pm
Face painting, puppet shows, playtime and more—on top of their usual fun. Bonus: €5 entry after 5pm.
📍 Full info
⛴️ Kids Cruise the Bay – Ongoing
Dublin Bay Cruises are offering kids tickets for just €10 on these sailings:
• 9:30am Dún Laoghaire → City
• 11am City → Dún Laoghaire
📸 Instagram post
🪩 Kidsyard Family Rave – Date varies
Presented by Bodytonic, it’s a throwback rave for adults and a sensory playground for kids. No hangovers, just beats and bubbles.
📍 Event details
🌈 Crazy Colourful Kingdom – Sat 12 & Sun 13 July
For ages 2–4: explore castles, pink mountains, rainbow volcanoes and jelly squish under your toes at this immersive play environment.
📍 Event info + times
🖼️ Eco Printmaking Drop-In – Sat 12 July
Use recycled Tetra Paks to create your own prints. Messy fun guaranteed—bring an apron or wear your oldest tee.
📍 Event info
📸 Reader Photo of the Week
A sunrise seagull perched atop Roger Casement. Moody and majestic.
📸 View on Irish Examiner
🖼️ Elizabeth Corbet Yeats: A Neglected Heroine – On until 26 July
Visit this free exhibition at Dundrum Library, celebrating an artist, educator, and printing pioneer.
📍 More info
🎥 DLR First Frames Scheme – Apply by 21 July
Funding and mentorship for emerging filmmakers through IADT and dlr.
📍 Apply here
🎨 Call for Curators – Deadline 10 July
Looking for inclusive arts curators for a 2026 exhibition at dlr LexIcon.
📍 Apply here
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