This week in DLR: things are heating up — and not just the sea temperatures (balmy, we swear).
We’ve got everything from regattas and padel courts to Smurf meet-and-greets and Kate Bush tributes. Whether you’re planning a big night out, a quiet gallery wander, or just want to eat fish and chips in the park (yes, that’s now a thing), we’ve got something for you.
Here’s what’s in store:
Dalkey Regatta, Pride Quiz Night, and Bulmers Live
New padel courts and public consultations
Creative exhibitions and heritage walks
Mindful kids, messy bugs, and brunch in Glasthule
A sustainable fashion find and a motorway that almost happened
Let’s dive in👇
🚣♀️ Dalkey Regatta Returns
Head to Scotsman's Bay this Saturday (June 28) to catch Dalkey Rowing Club's annual regatta in action. Expect competitive spirit, sea spray, and plenty of local pride.
🌊 Monkstown Beach Clean-Up + Coffee
Pinecone Coffee is fuelling a community beach clean-up in Monkstown. Pop down, lend a hand, and grab a free caffeine fix for your good deed.
Join in
🚫 No Swimming at Colliemore Harbour
Just one no-go this week: Colliemore Harbour is off-limits due to water quality. Luckily, you’ve still got plenty of options along the coast.
Details
🛝 Playground Upgrades Incoming
DLR Council is upgrading Pearse Park (Sallynoggin) and Carysfort Park (Blackrock) and wants your input on making these play spaces more inclusive.
Give feedback
🎾 New Padel & Junior Courts in Shankill
Shankill Tennis Club just unveiled two new padel courts, a hitting wall, and new junior courts — a great win for local sports.
Read more
🏙️ Shape the Future of Sandyford
Have your say on the Sandyford Urban Framework Plan. The council is looking for feedback on how to transform the area into a thriving, people-friendly district.
Take the survey
🎨 Last Call for Showcase Ireland Applications
Craft, design, or fashion creator? Applications are closing soon for Showcase Ireland — the go-to platform for Irish makers.
Apply here
🎤 Bulmers Live at Leopardstown (June–July)
Racing meets revelry at Bulmers Live, with five nights of music, comedy, Irish food stalls, trad sessions, and a Gaeilgeoir corner. Don’t miss the mix of big acts and emerging local talent.
Grab tickets
🌊 Coastival Countdown
Just one week to go before Coastival kicks off — start planning your week of seaside art, culture, and fun.
Full lineup
🎭 A Streetcar Named Desire at Pavilion Theatre
Catch Gillian Anderson (yes, that Gillian Anderson) in a powerhouse production of Tennessee Williams’ classic. A rare chance to see a star-studded staging on screen.
Book tickets
🎤 Army Dreamers: Kate Bush Tribute @ Purty Kitchen
The iconic music of Kate Bush brought to life at one of Dun Laoghaire’s cosiest venues. It’s one night only — don’t miss it.
Details
🎸 Ste Carolan Duo at Walters Pub
Live pop and indie hits from 9pm — ideal for a laid-back Friday night.
Event page
🌈 Kara Kalua’s Big Fat Pride Quiz @ Lighthouse Dublin
Heels, shade, and trivia with a drag twist. Saturday 28 June, 8pm. Expect glitter, games, and giggles.
RSVP
🪴 House Plant Masterclass @ Airfield Estate | 26 July
Keep your monstera alive and thriving. This one’s for anyone ready to become a proud plant parent.
More info
🎉 Riggers South Turns One
Celebrate with brunch in Glasthule — the food is on point, the vibe is cosy, and it’s the perfect post-swim pitstop.
Instagram
🐟 Fish & Chips Now in People’s Park
That’s right — seaside eats meet seaside strolls. Your park picnic game just levelled up.
🔵 Meet the Smurfs @ IMC Dun Laoghaire | Sat 28 June, 12–1pm
Get your camera ready for some classic cartoon nostalgia — the Smurfs are making a live appearance.
🐛 Bugs & Critters Workshop with Nessa Darcy | Sat 28 June, 3pm
A storytelling-meets-science adventure for kids. Explore Monkstown’s tiny residents up close.
More info
🧘 Mindfulness Storytelling @ Cabinteely Library | Sat 28 June
Sarah Tully’s gentle session helps children relax, imagine, and reset — a peaceful break in a busy week.
Book by email
🖼️ No Illusions Exhibition by Brian Fitzgerald
Known for children’s books, Fitzgerald’s new oil paintings take a more abstract, freeform turn. A thoughtful shift in style.
Event details
🏡 Returning / Heritage by Maeve McCarthy @ dlr LexIcon
A touching exhibition tracing generational stories and family memory. Expect paintings, film, and personal objects.
View info
📜 Summer of Heritage 2025 Kicks Off
Free guided tours return from June 30–Sept 6. Visit Joyce’s tower, Dalkey Castle, historic churches, forgotten addresses, and more.
Full list
🎥 From the Archives: Booterstown Showdown (1987)
A planned motorway through booterstown bird sanctuary? It nearly happened. Watch the RTE report from 1987 featuring playwright Frank McGuinness and some very concerned residents. They fought and won and the bird sanctuary is still there today.
Watch on RTE Archives
👗 Up to 50% Off @ s.l.o.w.s.t.r.e.e.t, Blackrock
Sustainable women’s fashion that looks good and does good. Ethical brands, big discounts, and a minimalist aesthetic.
Shop the sale
Slow Street was born from a vision to make environmentally friendly, ethically made clothing more accessible and enjoyable to shop
-Founders Evelyn Browne & Evelyn O`Regan