Semantic Coherence: Dublin.ie – Signal Evidence & AI Readability

Dublin.ie – https://dublin.ie/

[H1] Always i gcónaí

[H3] Your guide to live, work, invest & study in Dublin

This is a dedicated section relating to the Night-Time Economy in Dublin, where you’ll find updates on what Dublin’s Night-Time Economy Advisor has been up to, along with various initiatives Dublin City Council is implementing to enhance our city after dark.
Dublin by Dusk

From innovative tech giants to financial powerhouses, life sciences leaders to creative pioneers, the Dublin region is home to some of the world’s most innovative companies.
As a result of our success, Dublin is ranked #1 Small European Region of the Future for 2025 by the Financial Times’ FDi Intelligence awards. Dublin was also ranked #1 for business friendliness and economic potential.
Why do leading global multinationals choose Dublin?
A spirit of ingenuity which drives breakthrough ideas
A can-do attitude and proven track record of fuelling success
Unmatched connectivity to global markets
An exceptional talent

[IMG: A Book Lover’s Guide to Dublin]

Dublin’s greatest treasures emanate from her books, literary tradition, and the ancient art of storytelling. Her love affair with words is woven into the living fabric of life here, from the mountains to the sea.

The evolution of Dublin’s creative spaces
In recent years, Dublin has lost some of its most important creative spaces to a building boom that’s reminiscent of the Celtic Tiger era.
Block T and South Studios were both closed down in 2016 with a significant loss of square footage for artists, photographers, designers and writers. Since then, The Joinery, Moxie Studios, Monster Truck and Richmond Studios have all followed suit.
Our vision was to create a unique, shared workplace in Dublin city centre.
In their place, however, a new generation of coworking spaces have come along. And many of them are aimed specifically at servicin

[IMG: Irish Literature Festival Dublin]

Merrion Square Park
Fri 15th May - Sun 24th May
On an island of storytellers and in a city where books are treasured, International Literature Festival Dublin (ILFD) is Ireland’s leading literary event. Since 1998, we have brought the world’s finest writers together to enthral, engage and excite audiences.

In readings, conversations, debates, screenings, guided walks, events, podcasts and broadcasts, we’re proud to celebrate the very best Irish and international fiction and non-fiction authors, poets, lyricists, playwrights and screenwriters. Irish language writing and emerging talent are always supported, and new voices championed

[IMG: Business Ecosystem image]

Read More

Various Locations
Fri 22nd May - Fri 29th May
What is Dublin Tech Week?

Dublin Tech Week is a community-driven initiative designed to bring together stakeholders across Dublin’s tech ecosystem and wider community for a vibrant week of tech related events.

What's On

With a wide variety of events taking place across the city, there's something for every interest:

Tech Conferences & Keynotes: Hear from the people shaping the future of technology, globally and right here in Dublin.
Company Open Houses: Step inside some of Dublin's leading tech companies for a rare behind-the-scenes look.
Innovation Showcases: Explore

Various Locations
Fri 1st May - Sun 31st May
The 2026 Bealtaine Festival, Ireland’s national celebration of creativity in older age (run by Age & Opportunity), takes place throughout May with events nationwide. It features a diverse mix of arts, film, performance, and community engagement, promoting the artistic contributions of older people.

Proudly funded by the Arts Council and the HSE, with the support of communities nationwide and a vast network of accomplished local and national bodies.

The New Theatre
Tue 19th May - Sat 30th May
After ten years together, Rhys walks out on Bishop. Seven weeks of silence later, Rhys returns for a midnight visit. They make a pact: a scientific experiment where they must tell absolute truth to each other, over a night of drinking, forcing the argument of them. Then it’s either a fresh start together or a clean break. No regrets.

Hidden resentments and heartfelt longings are brought to the surface, but soon deeper secrets emerge threatening their very existence. How far can a couple descend into the unexplored realms of the heart to save their relationship? And can they survive it?

James Joyce Centre
Tue 19th May
After a sell-out premiere in LA and a BBC radio adaptation broadcast to great acclaim, we are proud to bring Stewart Roche’s SHARD to an Irish audience.

​You wouldn’t think it to look at him now but Spooner was once quite the whizz in finance. Good in presentations, great at crunching numbers, a real company man. But the veneer of success hides a desire for something different in life.

So when offered the opportunity to join a community by the charismatic Kemp, he jumps at the chance. However, Spooner discovers more than he bargained for in his new surroundings, making him realise

Bord Gáis Energy Theatre
Tue 19th May - Sat 23rd May
“Treat yourself to a slice of five-star musical pie” (The Times) as Carrie Hope Fletcher (Calamity Jane, Heathers, The Addams Family) stars as Jenna for 1 week only!

Meet Jenna, a waitress and expert pie-maker who dreams of some happiness in her life. When a hot new doctor arrives in town, life gets complicated. With the support of her workmates Becky and Dawn, Jenna overcomes the challenges she faces and finds that laughter, love and friendship can provide the perfect recipe for happiness. 

Brought to life by a ground-breaking, female-led creative team, this ‘warm, witty, wise a

O'Reilly Theatre
Thu 21st May
This best-selling programme by Mystery Ensemble is coming back to Dublin!

The Miyazaki Dreams concert is an immersion in the fabulous atmosphere of the films of the world-famous Japanese director and Oscar winner Hayao Miyazaki. Mystery Ensemble has collected magical music from his anime and compositions inspired by his creations.

The evening programme includes renowned works composed by ingenious Joe Hisaishi, including My Neighbour Totoro, the legendary anime Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, Laputa: Castle in the Sky and others. The programme also includes works by other composer

Gaiety Theatre
Sun 24th May - Sat 30th May
Irish National Opera presents Bellini’s NORMA.
Passion. Betrayal. Divine Music.

In the hauntingly beautiful world of Bellini’s Norma, a Druid high priestess is torn between her sacred vows and forbidden love for an enemy commander.

Norma has secretly had two children with her Roman lover, but when he turns his affections to another, his betrayal ignites a harrowing chain of events, forcing her to contemplate unthinkable revenge.

Presented by Irish National Opera, Bellini’s score is a masterwork of bel canto brilliance with some of opera’s most emotionally charged music, from

THE BEST OF DUBLIN, STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX

[IMG: Jennifer Rothwell, fashion designer.]

In conversation with Jennifer Rothwell
Jennifer Rothwell is an Irish fashion designer, who spent many years living between the Big Apple and the Fair City.
After graduating from Dublin’s NCAD in 1995, she gained practical experience with some of New York’s biggest design companies. Then, upon her return to Dublin, she launched her own brand: Jennifer Rothwell Design. By the following year, she had won the ‘Brown Thomas Designer Award’ at Dublin Fashion Week. And, since then, her designs have attracted celebrity cli

Ireland might be a small country, but our universities and colleges are incredibly diverse. Every year, tens of thousands of students from over 130 countries come here to study.

[IMG: image of dog strolling through old-fashioned park gate]

Down by the Secret Garden
On the south side, the secret garden was always the Iveagh Gardens. However,  music, comedy and food festivals have taken place there in recent years, meaning that the garden isn’t so secret anymore.
These days, to find the city’s true secret garden, you have to head north. Up O’Connell Street, then North Frederick, across Dorset Street and on up Blessington Street until you come to black wrought iron gates. In you go. And you’re there.
What to expect at Blessington Street Basin
The Blessington Street Basin

The importance of sustainable and social enterprises
Making your startup or existing business sustainable or ethical is a smart, future-proof option. Customers are now much more informed and aware of the environmental impact of their purchases. A more sustainable product or service will create a positive brand image that will impact the bottom line of many businesses.

[IMG: Ruth Johnson - Dublin City Archaeologist charged with protecting, managing and investigating our oldest heritage.]

Dr. Ruth Johnson is Dublin’s City Archaeologist and she is charged with protecting, managing and investigating the city’s oldest heritage – much of which is underground.
As well as conservation projects, Ruth has input into new developments across the city and a role in policy development advocacy. We spoke to her about how she works and what’s going on across the city – under the ground, in our oldest graveyards and in half-hidden houses.
In conversation with Dr. Ruth Johnson
Ruth began her career working on a community excavation project in Yorkshire, while doing her A-levels. This piqued her interest in archaeology and she went on to do

[IMG: caryna camerino leans against the doorways of camerino bakery]

Stress baking. It’s a thing, you know. It’s what Caryna Camerino used to do after another difficult day at her old job in human resources.
It was also the starting point of her successful Dublin startup: Camerino Bakery.
HR to hotbuns: Caryna Camerino’s startup story
Caryna Camerino, a first generation Canadian who has lived in Dublin for the past 17 years, wasn’t always a baker.
However, food was always a big deal at home – partly because her father, who was from Rome, is a stickler for authentic Italian cooking. Such a stickler, in fact, that she loved going to friends’ houses where she could enjoy a regular TV dinner, like n

Dublin.ie – https://dublin.ie/whats-on/

Featured

Bewley's Cafe Theatre4th May - 30th May
First presented to great acclaim in 2010, Barry McKinley’s Elysium Nevada was nominated for the Irish Times Best New Play Award. Bewley’s Café Theatre is delighted to present this timely new production. In a sun-blasted retirement home on the edge of the Mojave Desert, two residents pass their days trading barbs, jokes and grievances as they wait for time to…
Read More

[H3] Curated events from Dublin.

James Joyce Centre
Tue 19th May
After a sell-out premiere in LA and a BBC radio adaptation broadcast to great acclaim, we are proud to bring Stewart Roche’s SHARD to an Irish audience.

​You wouldn’t think it to look at him now but Spooner was once quite the whizz in finance. Good in presentations, great at crunching numbers, a real company man. But the veneer of success hides a desire for something different in life.

So when offered the opportunity to join a community by the charismatic Kemp, he jumps at the chance. However, Spooner discovers more than he bargained for in his new surroundings, making him realise

Various Locations
Mon 18th May - Wed 20th May
Pint of Science brings some of the most brilliant scientists to your local pubs and cafes to discuss their latest research and findings with you. You don't need any prior experience, and this is your chance to meet the people responsible for the future of science (and have a drink with them). The festival runs over a few days in May every year, but we occasionally run events during other months.

Pint of Science Ireland will be hosting our 2026 festival on May 18th, 19th and 20th.

Topics for the festival include:

Beautiful Mind - neuroscience, psychology, and psychiatry
Atoms to G

Bord Gáis Energy Theatre
Tue 19th May - Sat 23rd May
“Treat yourself to a slice of five-star musical pie” (The Times) as Carrie Hope Fletcher (Calamity Jane, Heathers, The Addams Family) stars as Jenna for 1 week only!

Meet Jenna, a waitress and expert pie-maker who dreams of some happiness in her life. When a hot new doctor arrives in town, life gets complicated. With the support of her workmates Becky and Dawn, Jenna overcomes the challenges she faces and finds that laughter, love and friendship can provide the perfect recipe for happiness. 

Brought to life by a ground-breaking, female-led creative team, this ‘warm, witty, wise a

[IMG: Irish Literature Festival Dublin]

Merrion Square Park
Fri 15th May - Sun 24th May
On an island of storytellers and in a city where books are treasured, International Literature Festival Dublin (ILFD) is Ireland’s leading literary event. Since 1998, we have brought the world’s finest writers together to enthral, engage and excite audiences.

In readings, conversations, debates, screenings, guided walks, events, podcasts and broadcasts, we’re proud to celebrate the very best Irish and international fiction and non-fiction authors, poets, lyricists, playwrights and screenwriters. Irish language writing and emerging talent are always supported, and new voices championed

Various Locations
Fri 15th May - Sun 24th May
National Biodiversity Week is all about connecting you with nature. It’s about communicating the importance of biodiversity and providing motivation and know how to play your part in protecting it.

It’s also about entertainment! Find fun and wonder outdoors with ten days of celebration!

National Biodiversity Week is organised by the Irish Environmental Network (IEN), with thanks to funding from the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). Events are run by IEN member groups, as well as by Local Authority Biodiversity Officers, through the Heritage Council's Ceangal programme, NPWS

National Concert Hall
Sat 25th Apr - Sat 30th May
Christy Moore is set to return to the National Concert Hall for four highly anticipated performances between April 25th & May 30th 2026.

Fans can also look forward to an Expanded Edition of his Number 1 album A Terrible Beauty, which will be released later this year on Claddagh Records. The new edition will include five brand-new tracks, adding to the original 13-song collection.

Among the standout tracks is the single Boy in the Wild, co-written by Christy and the late Wally Page. The powerful video for the song recently earned top honours at the 2025 Shark Music Video Awards in London,

Viking Theatre
Mon 18th May - Sat 30th May
A riveting comedy drama delving into the relationship between two sisters, Bridget and Frances, who meet for the first time after their Mother’s death. Eternally at odds, they bicker as only sisters can over everything from the wine to the will! Exploring the fallout of being left behind, loves and losses are examined and re-examined with acerbic wit and delicious put downs. Can Bridget and Frances’ searching need for sisterly support help to mend their broken relationships, not only with each other but with their loved ones, before it’s too late?

Bewley's Cafe Theatre
Mon 4th May - Sat 30th May
First presented to great acclaim in 2010, Barry McKinley’s Elysium Nevada was nominated for the Irish Times Best New Play Award. Bewley’s Café Theatre is delighted to present this timely new production.

In a sun-blasted retirement home on the edge of the Mojave Desert, two residents pass their days trading barbs, jokes and grievances as they wait for time to do what it always does. Their brittle comedy masks deeper fears about decline, memory and the approach of death. When a mysterious outsider joins them, the familiar rhythms of their banter begin to fracture, and what starts as a da

The New Theatre
Tue 19th May - Sat 30th May
After ten years together, Rhys walks out on Bishop. Seven weeks of silence later, Rhys returns for a midnight visit. They make a pact: a scientific experiment where they must tell absolute truth to each other, over a night of drinking, forcing the argument of them. Then it’s either a fresh start together or a clean break. No regrets.

Hidden resentments and heartfelt longings are brought to the surface, but soon deeper secrets emerge threatening their very existence. How far can a couple descend into the unexplored realms of the heart to save their relationship? And can they survive it?

Various Locations
Fri 1st May - Sun 31st May
The 2026 Bealtaine Festival, Ireland’s national celebration of creativity in older age (run by Age & Opportunity), takes place throughout May with events nationwide. It features a diverse mix of arts, film, performance, and community engagement, promoting the artistic contributions of older people.

Proudly funded by the Arts Council and the HSE, with the support of communities nationwide and a vast network of accomplished local and national bodies.

Gate Theatre
Fri 8th May - Sat 11th Jul
Corrupt politicians. Everyday blackmail., Shade and side-eye: sound familiar? Welcome to Wilde’s AN IDEAL HUSBAND.

Step into a world of wit, intrigue, and timeless charm with our thrilling new production of Oscar Wilde’s An Ideal Husband. Experience the sparkling dialogue, sharp social satire, and a story layered with secrets, scandal, and unexpected romance. This classic play invites you to explore moral dilemmas and the complexities of human nature.

“Morality is simply the attitude we adopt towards people whom we personally dislike”.

Oscar Wilde revolutionised theatre with

National Gallery of Ireland
Thu 16th Apr - Sun 19th Jul
William Blake, a visionary artist and poet, was a defining force in Romanticism. His imaginative and unconventional works continue to inspire today. This exhibition, curated by Tate in partnership with the National Gallery of Ireland, presents a selection of Blake’s most iconic works of art, alongside paintings and drawings by his contemporaries.

Blake’s world was one of fantasy, imagination, and the ancient past, filled with fantastical creatures and visions of the underworld, expressed through a wide variety of media. By placing him in context - among the artists he admired and those

Alliance Française Dublin
Wed 20th May - Sat 23rd May
Alliance Française Dublin and Illustrators Ireland have joined forces to present the 11th edition of the Comic Book Festival Dublin, celebrating the vibrant worlds of comics and illustration. This year’s programme features a series of creative events designed to inspire, entertain, and amaze.

Building on the success of last year’s festival, this edition expands in scope and introduces some exciting new elements.

The opening evening will feature acclaimed French comic creators Fabien Tillon and Gaël Remise, alongside outstanding Irish artists Sarah Bowie and Sheena Dempsey.

In ad

Wood Quay Venue
Wed 20th May
In recent decades, particularly when viewed through a media lens, Irish Travellers have been frequently depicted as a single homogenous group of people, all of whom share the same cultural traditions and history. This narrative is partly a remnant of colonial discourse whereby all Irish Travelling people and nomadic groups were “classified” as one and the same -e.g. “masterless men and women”, “wandering Irish”, “wild Irish” etc. Under colonialism, administrators made little or no distinction between different cultural and minority groups who travelled for a living and the rest

3Arena
Wed 20th May
PAUL SIMON announced he will continue the "A Quiet Celebration Tour," following a highly successful and critically acclaimed US tour, and bring this special concert series to Europe, the UK and Ireland this Spring 2026 including a Dublin Show at 3Arena on May 20.

The show opens with the performance of the Grammy nominated masterpiece Seven Psalms. This beautiful 33 minute continuous piece of music was heralded by the press worldwide - the Guardian called it “a masterful suite” and Times of London “a remarkable album.” After a brief intermission, the show continues with many of Simon

O'Reilly Theatre
Thu 21st May
This best-selling programme by Mystery Ensemble is coming back to Dublin!

The Miyazaki Dreams concert is an immersion in the fabulous atmosphere of the films of the world-famous Japanese director and Oscar winner Hayao Miyazaki. Mystery Ensemble has collected magical music from his anime and compositions inspired by his creations.

The evening programme includes renowned works composed by ingenious Joe Hisaishi, including My Neighbour Totoro, the legendary anime Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, Laputa: Castle in the Sky and others. The programme also includes works by other composer

The Workman's Club
Thu 21st May
Pôt-pot are an Irish quintet based in Lisbon, Portugal. The band infuse the propulsive rhythms of krautrock with a phosphorescent psych-rock radiance, all underscored by harmonium drones, hypnotic vocal harmonies, and layers of rough-hewn texture. They deal in deep grooves and cooking listeners to completion.

They released their debut EP Ode To A in 2023, earning it a spot on The Thin Air’s “Best of 2023” list. “Ode To A succeeds not just in the artistic practice of the avant-garde, but as piece of an engaging, genuinely psychedelic experimental drone rock” – Stevie Lennox, The

Civic Theatre
Thu 21st May
Dublin darling Shane Daniel Byrne is back, just about. The award-winning stand-up has become a leading act in Ireland at breakneck speed. Shane is the boy from school who was capable of more, the kid who could always do better. Well, just try catching him now. Expect rapid-fire craic and big-hearted feelings in his brand-new show about bellies and bullies.

The Sugar Club
Thu 21st May
Two leading voices in Irish music, harper Cormac De Barra and singer Lisa Lambe present a night of harp and voice in the iconic Sugar Club. Two leading voices in Irish music, harper Cormac De Barra and singer Lisa Lambe, perform at Harp Sessions at The Sugar Club, the second in our 2026 series. Cruit Éireann is proud to premiere their collaborative work, Macalla na Mara | Sea Echoes; a new composition for harp and voice, inspired by our deep connection to the sea and a response to climate change and rising sea levels. Commissioned by Cruit Éireann, with support from dlr County Council, Macal

The Lark Concert Hall
Fri 22nd May
Oh, it’s all there! All the trademarks are in evidence in Ardal’s latest show. Beautifully crafted stand-up comedy? Yes. Celebrated use of language? Tick. Lateral thinking, surreal flourishes, sharp observations? Of course. As for the occasional profundity? Maybe.

Despite his best attempts over many decades to put the world to rights, it is still a colossal mess. And so, Ardal has no choice but to go out on the road again. Like the good comedy doctor he is, he fearlessly diagnoses the various pathologies and neuroses that are currently ravaging humanity. Disclaimer: No solutions provid

The Séamus Ennis Arts Centre
Fri 22nd May
The 4 of Us has been captivating audiences for over three decades with their soulful melodies and compelling lyrics.

With brothers Brendan and Declan Murphy at the helm, The 4 of Us has left an indelible mark on the Irish music scene. Their journey began in the late ’80s, and since then, they’ve evolved into one of Ireland’s most beloved and enduring musical acts. Known for their distinctive sound that seamlessly blends rock, folk, and pop influences, The 4 of Us has produced a string of hits that have become anthems for fans across generations.

Brothers Brendan & Declan Murphy wil

Howth
Fri 22nd May - Sun 24th May
Dive into Howth in 2026!

Get ready for a splash of excitement as the Howth Maritime & Seafood Festival sails into the picturesque fishing village of Howth on the evening of Friday 22nd May and on Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th May 2026 from 12-6pm daily. This is your invitation to a fantastic weekend filled with everything you love – from free family fun to toe-tapping live music – all while supporting our beloved local businesses.

Celebrate the Sea and Beyond:

The Howth Maritime & Seafood Festival is a celebration of our deep-rooted maritime heritage and the delectable b

Various Locations
Fri 22nd May - Fri 29th May
What is Dublin Tech Week?

Dublin Tech Week is a community-driven initiative designed to bring together stakeholders across Dublin’s tech ecosystem and wider community for a vibrant week of tech related events.

What's On

With a wide variety of events taking place across the city, there's something for every interest:

Tech Conferences & Keynotes: Hear from the people shaping the future of technology, globally and right here in Dublin.
Company Open

Dublin.ie – https://dublin.ie/live/stories/a-book-lovers-guide-to-dublin/

There are capitals piled with ancient monuments and iconic architecture. But here in Dublin, our monumental works are far more intangible.
Dublin’s greatest treasures emanate from her books, literary tradition, and the ancient art of storytelling. Her love affair with words is woven into the living fabric of life here, from the mountains to the sea.
This city will greet you with lines of poetry at the airport. Where a simple plaque on a Georgian door will more than likely reveal a literary birthplace. A city where your very pub seat could easily have been shared with a famous writer in the last century. Where one could happily stumble into a storytelling space every evening.
[H3] Traverse This City of Storytellers
Did you know Dublin is one of the first cities in the world to be designated a UNESCO City of Literature?It has a global literary footprint for many reasons.
Four Nobel Prizes in Literature have called this city home: W.B. Yeats, George Bernard Shaw, Samuel Beckett, and Seamus Heaney. James Joyce mapped every street into a modernist masterwork. Oscar Wilde sharpened his wit in its drawing rooms.
Today, contemporary authors such as Sally Rooney evoke the city’s lived experiences, whilst household names such as Anne Enright, Paul Murray, and Colm Tóibín continue to appear on Booker Prize shortlists.
Many Dublin writers have even brought their stories to Hollywood’s silver screen.
[IMG: Red Line Book Festival – Paul Lynch and Ben Ryan]
Red Line Book Festival – Paul Lynch and Ben Ryan
[H3] Linger in These Literary Landmarks
If you are a booklover, Dublin is more than just a stopover. This literary capital must be truly inhabited from the coastline of Dún Laoghaire to the medieval streets of Swords.
Every respectable book-loving pilgrimage here should include Ireland’s oldest university, Trinity College. It occupies the spiritual heart of the city, with past students including Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker, Samuel Beckett, and, more recently, Sally Rooney.
[IMG: Trinity College Dublin]
Trinity College Dublin
Trinity houses one of the world’s most breathtaking literary spaces, the Long Room of the Old Library, home of the Book of Kells. The fact that Trinity holds a copy of every book published in Ireland and the UK under legal deposit underlines the significance of this literary destination.
Or head to the sheltered Trinity College Rose Garden for a read. Enjoy it in summer, with the cricket playing nearby, or in autumn, when the campus trees put on a spectacle of colour.
Nearby, you will also find Marsh’s Library, one of the oldest public libraries on the island, physically unchanged since 1707. Where Bram Stoker and James Joyce worked amongst its oak-panelled alcoves, where you may even spot bullet holes from the Easter Rising.
For a more modern destination, travel along the coast to Dún Laoghaire to enjoy the architectural jewel that is dlr Lexicon. Light-filled reading rooms, minimalist precision joinery, and panoramic views of the pier and harbour make this landmark municipal library one of the most glamorous reading spots.
If you’re looking for a central community hub for learning, you will also feel at home at The County Library in Tallaght. It features a 10,000-item Local Studies repository, a specialised teen zone (“The Loft”), and a dedicated digital Tech Room with 3D printing.
[H3] Step Inside the Story of Irish Literature
We put literature on a pedestal here in Dublin.
Dublin is also home to the Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI), housed within one of the city’s most beautiful Georgian buildings. Immerse yourself in groundbreaking, interactive multimedia exhibitions that range from ancient Irish storytelling to the voices of living Irish writers. Literary treasures include James Joyce’s handwritten notebooks for Ulysses and Finnegans Wake, as well as his “Copy No. 1” of Ulysses.
A few paces from MoLI’s delightful Commons Café and back garden, you will find a little gate in their back wall. Like a scene from The Secret Garden, it opens into the romantic landscaping of the Iveagh Gardens. Pause here, reflect and read in peace.
Across the river in the heart of Inner City Dublin, the James Joyce Centre is home to the original, iconic door of No. 7 Eccles Street (Bloom’s home in Ulysses), dramatic Ulysses courtyard murals, and interactive exhibitions.
Start here with walking tours that explore Joyce’s Dublin, or congregate outside with fellow fans on Bloomsday itself.
[IMG: Bloomsday Festival]
Bloomsday Festival
[H3] Discover Hidden Book-loving Spaces
Dublin gives the book lover beautiful, free, unhurried space.
Start with the iconic Hodges and Figgis. Walk past its vintage curved glass shopfront to four floors of retail dedicated to books and literature, famously mentioned in James Joyce’s ‘Ulysses’ and modern works like Sally Rooney’s ‘Conversations with Friends’. You will find one of the widest selections of book releases, evening gatherings, book launches and staff with considered, encyclopedic knowledge who happily converse.
Books Upstairs, Dublin’s oldest independent bookshop, is a much-loved shop on D’Olier Street, combining eclectic, well-curated stock with the kind of browsing culture that lets you linger.
For a true hideaway, dive into the bijou Stokes Books in George’s Street Arcade, known for its large, varied collection of used, rare, and new books.
Need a bookish lunch spot?
Head to The Winding Stair (named after a Yeats poem), a charming independent bookshop that resides on the ground floor facing the Ha’penny Bridge. Upstairs, there is a bistro and restaurant with views of the Liffey, surrounded by bookshelves from a past life.
[H3] Plan Your Literary Escape: See What’s On
Dublin’s literary calendar runs almost year-round, and there is always a reason to gather around books.
Each April, the ‘One Dublin One Book‘ Festival invites the whole city to share a single read, supported by Dublin City Council and the UNESCO City of Literature designation. This simple, generous idea works beautifully in practice.
[IMG: One Dublin One Book]
One Dublin One Book
Explore the capital during the Dublin Book Festival in November, with events hosted across various venues. A must for anyone out to discover the best in Irish writing and publishing.
[H3] Join Literary Celebrations in the Heart of Dublin
Every spring, the International Literature Festival Dublin (ILFD) transforms Merrion Square Park into an outdoor literary stage over ten days, bringing together international writers and Irish voices before audiences of over 30,000.
[IMG: International Literature Festival Dublin]
International Literature Festival Dublin
Bloomsday Festival is the Jewel in the crown of the Joycean calendar, with the whole city of Dublin as the setting. Witness grassroots groups performing and celebrating Joyce’s “Ulysses” on June 16th. Produced by the James Joyce Centre, it boasts Edwardian cosplay, citywide events, and grassroots pop-up gatherings across Dublin.
[H3] Head South For More Storytelling
Enjoy intellectual conversations with international writers in the intimate, charming surroundings of a coastal village at The Dalkey Book Festival. It takes place every June in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown.
[IMG: Dalkey Book Festival Roddy Doyle. Image courtesy of Conor McCabe]
Dalkey Book Festival Roddy Doyle. Image courtesy of Conor McCabe
The Red Line Book Festival takes place in South Dublin in October. Now in its fourteenth year, it boasts more than 40 events in distinctive South Dublin venues such as Rathfarnham Castle and the Pearse Museum, featuring local and international writers and diverse family programming.
[H3] Head North For More Festivities
Over on the opposite side of Dublin Bay, Swords Castle in Fingal also serves as a vibrant hub for literary programming, having hosted The Magic of Stories, the annual Fingal Festival of Children’s Literature.
The Fingal Write Time Literary Festival happens every September at libraries in the Fingal area. This month-long, craft-focused fest is filled with free workshops and author talks.
[IMG: The Fingal Write Time]
The Fingal Write Time
To plan your perfect day out at the next literary event taking place in Dublin, check out our What’s On Listings section.
Arts & Culture
People & Community
Things to do

[IMG: blue sign on the railings of the james joyce centre]

Have we had enough of Joyce? Never!
All is quiet on a sunny morning on Dublin’s North Great George’s Street when I make my way to Number 35. The Georgian building has housed the James Joyce Centre since 1996 – when the building was valiantly saved from demolition through the efforts of Senator David Norris, who is also a resident of the street.
The house was once the location of a dance academy run by Professor Denis J. Maginni – a colourful Dublin character who appears often in Ulysses. He is described as wearing a “silk hat, slate frockcoat with silk facings, white kerchief tie, tight lavender trousers, canary gloves and pointed pat

Discover Ireland’s rich literary heritage from past to present here in the historic UCD Newman House on St Stephen’s Green in the heart of Dublin...

MOLI.IE

We asked Martin Colthorpe, Programme Director of the International Literature Festival Dublin, to select a quintet of his own must-see events at this years ILDF, which runs from 17-26 May. A music programmer friend of mine once described her job as ‘like having your own personal jukebox and getting to select all the songs’. I’m not sure what the equivalent metaphor for a literature programmer might be? Perhaps having your own literary magazine? Or compiling your own anthology? But most anthologies confine themselves to one genre of writing, and even the finest literary magazines struggle to equal the sheer breadth of what a festival can offer.
This year at International Literature Festival Dublin we’re full of new ideas and new directions, remixing the classics, premiering the very contemporary, and shredding the hardcovers of the traditional book to bring literature onto the stages, streets, bridges, art galleries and cafes of the city.

RTE.IE

Published: 30th April 2026

Dublin.ie – https://dublin.ie/live/dublin-nights/

This is a dedicated section relating to the Night-Time Economy in Dublin, where you’ll find updates on what Dublin’s Night-Time Economy Advisor has been up to, along with various initiatives Dublin City Council is implementing to enhance our city after dark.
[H2] Dublin by Dusk
Dublin by Dusk is a new citywide initiative inviting people to experience Dublin late into the evening on the last Thursday of each month, beginning May 28. Bringing together culture, hospitality, retail and experiences, venues across the city will extend opening hours and programme special events and added-value activity. From National Gallery of Ireland and National Library of Ireland to National Museum of Ireland, alongside spaces like Trinity College Dublin and Bewley’s Grafton Street Café, the programme highlights the breadth of what the city has to offer. Activity ranges from exhibitions and late openings to more social and creative experiences such as pottery painting, live music, and immersive events including painting in the dark with ultra-violet light. With strong interest already from businesses and cultural partners, Dublin by Dusk is expected to generate significant participation and bring a new energy to the city as evening turns to night.
[H2] Dublin Nights Mapped
Dublin Nights Mapped shows you what’s on in Dublin after 6pm — from late cafés and culture to free activities and more — all in one interactive map.
If you have a business or event you’d like to include, please email [email protected].
Click the link below to open the map in Google Maps.
Dublin Nights: Mapped – Google My Maps
[H2] Dublin’s Night-Time Economy Strategy: One Year On
Dublin City’s Night-Time Economy Strategy has just passed its first year and is already delivering major results. By the end of 2025, almost 200 cultural events will have been supported or directly managed in just 18 months.
Key milestones include the launch of the Dublin Nights Help Zone (The Nee-Naw) ?, new safety initiatives, and progress on late-night transport improvements with the NTA.
A highlight of the year is the Dublin by Night Festival, taking place on Saturday, November 1st, across Capel Street and Dame Street. The festival is expected to attract over 50,000 people, offering free cultural experiences, music, and community activities after dark.
For the first time, the Nee-Naw will operate in two city locations on the same night, underscoring its growing role in Dublin’s nightlife infrastructure.
Together, these initiatives reflect the core aim of the Night-Time Economy Strategy: to make Dublin a vibrant, safe, and inclusive city after dark.
[H2] Safe & Sound:
Free Safety Training for Dublin’s Night-Time Economy
The Safe & Sound initiative offers 12 months of free online training for businesses and workers in Dublin City and the other eight Night-Time Economy pilot areas.
The short, practical modules cover:
Anti-sexual harassment
Bystander intervention
Drink spiking awareness
Safeguarding
Violence against women and girls (VAWG)
Alongside the training, 17 new policy templates are available nationwide to help pubs, venues, festivals, restaurants, and cultural spaces adopt best practice in safety, welfare, and vulnerability support.
Developed by Night-Time Economy Solutions (NTES) in partnership with Ireland’s nine Night-Time Advisors and funded by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, Safe & Sound is a key part of Dublin’s Night-Time Economy Strategy.
How to get involved:
Businesses in pilot areas, including Dublin, can sign up via the Bundle: Irish NTE Advisors
Learn more about the Dublin_City_action_Plan.pdf
[H2] What Else Is Happening?
There’s plenty happening behind the scenes! We’re collaborating with various venues and promoters, as well as engaging with Dublin’s top cultural institutions. We’re also in discussions with the NTA, Irish Rail, and other transport agencies to develop late-night transport solutions. Working closely with the DCC City Coordination Team, we’re developing safe spaces and initiatives, with even more projects in the pipeline. Stay tuned!
The links below will give you a comprehensive look at what’s been happening over the last few months.

Dublin City Council Night-Time Economy Strategy
The Dublin City Council Night-Time Economy Strategy is a comprehensive plan designed to cultivate a thriving night-time culture in our city. By focusing on transport connectivity, safety, and cultural diversity, we aim to make Dublin a vibrant and inclusive destination after dark—offering something for everyone, from live performances to safe social spaces. Let’s elevate Dublin to be one of the best cities in Europe for night-time experiences
Download the Dublin City Night-Time Economy Strategy (2Mb) or

Dublin Nights Help Zone “The Nee Naw” Impact Report
The six month pilot, delivered by Dublin City Council and funded by the Department of Justice, provided a visible late night welfare and medical support presence in Dublin city centre from July to December. During that period, the service recorded approximately 2,000 engagements, including 141 medical intervention

Late in D8 2026
A late-night music trail, supported by the Night-Time Advisor, was part of this year’s Culture Date with Dublin 8 festival that ran from May 4th to 10th. The Late in D8 series saw churches, distilleries, pubs and cultural spaces across the district host a diverse programme of live music, performances and after-dark events.
Highlights included Dami

Dublin.ie – https://dublin.ie/invest/local-ambition-global-success/

From innovative tech giants to financial powerhouses, life sciences leaders to creative pioneers, the Dublin region is home to some of the world’s most innovative companies.
As a result of our success, Dublin is ranked #1 Small European Region of the Future for 2025 by the Financial Times’ FDi Intelligence awards. Dublin was also ranked #1 for business friendliness and economic potential.
Why do leading global multinationals choose Dublin?
A spirit of ingenuity which drives breakthrough ideas
A can-do attitude and proven track record of fuelling success
Unmatched connectivity to global markets
An exceptional talent pool full of industry experts
A dynamic, business-friendly ecosystem
Strong local and national support for global operations

[H1] Invested In Dublin

Companies including Salesforce, Microsoft, MSD, Amgen, Dublin Fields and Walkers are experiencing the benefits of doing business here. Discover what makes Dublin a world-class investment destination by checking out our latest stories below.

Once a historic port, the Dublin Docklands has evolved into one of Europe’s most sophisticated business districts.
Encompassing the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC), North Wall Quay, and Grand Canal Dock, this strategically located area has emerged as a top destination for foreign direct investment. The district is now home to leading global firms in finance, technology, and professional services, many of which have established their European headquarters in the heart of Dub

Strategically positioned between Dublin Bay and the Dublin Mountains, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown (DLR) offers a rare combination of commercial opportunity and liveability. Just a short Luas journey from Dublin City Centre, this region is home to key business districts including South County Business Park, Sandyford, Leopardstown, and Pottery Road.
As part of the Greater Dublin Area, which accounts for more than 42% of Ireland’s GDP, DLR has become a magnet for foreign direct investment (FDI), with a diverse ecosystem that spans technology, life sciences, digital media, and f

Positioned in the centre of Fingal, just minutes from Dublin Airport and north of the capital, the Swords Business District has evolved into one of Ireland’s most dynamic commercial locations. Over the past two decades, the town has nearly doubled in size, reflecting its strong population growth, economic momentum, and long-term potential.
Now recognised as a rising hub for foreign direct investment (FDI), Swords offers connectivity, infrastructure, and scalability. Anchored by commercial centres such as Airside Retail Park and Airside Business Park, the district continues to attract both international en

Located just outside Dublin City in the heart of South Dublin County, Grange Castle Business Park has is now a premier destination for global enterprise. Offering best-in-class infrastructure, access to a highly skilled workforce, and a strong quality-of-life, the region is gaining recognition as a strategic hub for foreign direct investment in Ireland.
At the centre of this growth is Grange Castle Business Park, a purpose-built, future-focused environment designed to support high-value sectors including technology, biopharma, and advanced manufacturing. Backed by progress

Dublin.ie – https://dublin.ie/invest/why-invest-in-dublin/business-ecosystem/

[H2] What sets Dublin apart on the global stage?
While many global cities compete for investment, few can match the business environment Dublin offers. Despite its compact footprint of just 115km², Dublin has exceptional value, as it combines world-class infrastructure with an ecosystem that welcomes companies of all sizes.
From global multinationals to early-stage startups, the region has strong connections between tech innovators, professional services, government agencies, and creative industries. This interaction fuels collaboration and opens the door to new opportunities.
With low levels of bureaucracy and consistent policies, Ireland’s state agencies are important in connecting investors with decision-makers, funding opportunities, and the wider business community.
If you are expanding an established global enterprise or launching a high-potential startup, Dublin provides a strategically positioned business environment designed to facilitate long-term growth.
[H2] Business supports
The Irish government has implemented a suite of policies and established key agencies to strengthen Dublin’s position as a global business hub. These support enterprise at every stage, whether you’re a multinational expanding into Europe or an early-stage startup.
The IDA
As Ireland’s inward investment promotion agency, the IDA partners with multinationals help them with their relocation to Dublin. It provides both well-established and emerging companies with funding and other incentives to set up operations here.
Enterprise Ireland
Enterprise Ireland is a government body that promotes the development of Irish enterprises globally. It partners with countless businesses to help them reach a wider audience. Its Employment and Investment Incentive programme provides tax relief for those who invest in certain startups.
Enterprise Ireland is also responsible for attracting and assisting high-potential international startups – many of which are based in Dublin. These startups are chosen based on their sustainability and scalability.
Tax incentives
Ireland offers one of the most competitive tax environments in Europe, with the third-lowest corporate tax rate in the EU and robust R&D tax incentives designed to stimulate innovation and investment.
[H2] Industry and business networks
Dublin offers professional networks and industry communities. For executives and entrepreneurs looking to build connections, engaging with sector-specific organisations or joining established business groups is an important way to integrate:
Business groups

Irish SME Association
Business in the Community Ireland
Dublin Business Network
Irish Business and Employers Confederation
Irish International Business Network
Dublin Chamber of Commerce
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Chamber of Commerce
Fingal Chamber of Commerce
South Dublin Chamber of Commerce
Network Ireland
Meetup’s Dublin ‘career and business’ groups

Technology groups

Technology Ireland
Meetup’s Dublin tech groups
Dublin Tech talks
Tech For Good Dublin

Creative and skill-focused groups

Creative Ireland
Animation Skillnet
Meetup’s art groups in Dublin
Actors’ workshop Meetup
CreativeMornings

Industry organisations

Irish Business and Employers Confederation
Industry Research and Development Group
Irish Platform for Patient Organisations, Science & Industry
Irish Congress of Trade Unions
Institute of Creative Advertising and Design
Institute of Advertising Practitioners in Ireland

Architecture, engineering and construction

Irish Architecture Foundation
Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland
Engineers Ireland
Association of Consulting Engineers in Ireland
Construction Industry Federation
Lean Construction Ireland

Business and finance

Meetup’s Dublin ‘career and business’ groups
Financial Services Ireland

Film and photography

Meetup’s Dublin photography groups
Irish street photography Meetup
Dublin Camera club
Photography Ireland
Meetup’s Dublin film groups
Dublin independent movie lovers Meetup
Irish Film Institute
The Irish Professional Photographers and Videographers Association
Screen Ireland

Food and beverage

Food Drink Ireland
Food Works Ireland
Teagasc
Bord Bia
Vintners’ Federation Ireland
Irish Beverage Council
Drinks Industry Group of Ireland

Health

Community healthcare organisations
Irish Nutrition & Dietetic Institute
Mental Health Ireland
Irish Hospital Consultants Association
Irish Medical Organisation
Health Tech Ireland
Health Research Board

Legal

Law Society of Ireland
Public Interest Law Alliance
Irish Refugee Council
Free legal forum for startups
Irish Women Lawyers Association
The Bar Council of Ireland
Dublin Solicitors Bar Association

Professional

Institute of International and European Affairs’s Young Professionals’ Network
Professional Women’s Network
Marketing Institute of Ireland

Science and environment

Science Federation Ireland
Research Centre for Future Networks and Communications
Data Science Festival Dublin Meetup
Women in Technology and Science
Irish Environmental Network
Irish Wildlife Trust

Export networks

Enterprise Ireland
Irish Exporters Association

[H2] Collaboration with research centres
According to the Global Innovation Index 2025, Ireland ranks among the world’s top 20 countries for innovation, with Dublin positioned as the country’s leading innovation cluster.
Dublin’s RDI sector is fuelled by collaboration across industry, academia, government agencies, and regulatory bodies, creating an environment for innovation. This positions the region as a strategic location for research and commercialisation.
Global leaders across sectors such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical technology, ICT, and financial services have formed partnerships with Dublin-based research centres, using local expertise to accelerate innovation. (View our curated list of the city’s leading innovation hubs to learn more)
Ireland’s favourable tax framework, combined with strong support for research and innovation, is a key reason why global industry leaders continue to choose Ireland for high-value R&D activity.
In 2024, IDA Ireland reported a record level of R&D investment commitments, with clients pledging €1.9 billion across 64 projects. This reflects Ireland’s rising stature as a global centre for innovation and research.
With the Irish government significantly increasing investment in research and innovation, companies are well-positioned to leverage Dublin’s pro-business environment to accelerate product development and scale operations with confidence.

[IMG: young workforce sitting in office typing on computer]

An exceptional workforce
Ireland is the most competitive economy in Europe and ranks as the seventh most competitive globally, according to the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking for 2025. This is a direct result of the flexibility, adaptability and productivity of its workforce, which remains a cornerstone of Ireland’s economic success.
Investments by IDA Ireland client companies continue to make a significant impact across the country, part

In an increasingly interconnected global economy, connectivity is more than convenience, it is a catalyst for innovation, productivity, and scalable growth.
For multinationals, startups, and scale-ups alike, Dublin offers a world-class environment with top-class physical and digital infrastructure.
The city’s exceptional connectivity is just one of many reasons to consider investing in Dublin.
Digital connectivity
As Ireland’s capital, Dublin is a transport and logistics hub with multimodal connections linking the city to every corner of Ireland and to key markets across Europe, Nort

[IMG: google office in dublin]

Since the 1950s, Ireland has pursued a vision of ‘industrialisation by invitation’. Today, it benefits hugely from the welcoming business environment it has created. Over the years, many FDI companies from the US, Europe, and further afield have all invested in Ireland.
Why FDI companies come to Ireland
Ireland’s strong legal and regulatory landscape contributes to Dublin’s reputation as an attractive and stable place to do business.
EU and Eurozone membership, a young, well-educated,