Liberties Festival 2025: Dublin’s Heart Beats with Community
DUBLIN — From July 21 to July 27, the 55th Liberties Festival returns to Dublin 8, transforming the historic neighbourhood into a seven-day celebration of music, art, wellness, and local lore. This free community festival features over 65 events that blend heritage and innovation, inviting all ages to discover the soul of the Liberties.
Highlighted Events
Opening Night Gala (July 21)
St Catherine’s Church welcomes bestselling authors Sheila O’Flanagan and Seán O’Connor in conversation with Festival Director Michael McDermott, exploring how the Liberties shaped their storytelling.
Sunrise Yoga & Pilates (July 22)
At 6:30 AM in the Guinness Storehouse’s Gravity Bar, greet the dawn with gentle yoga and Pilates flows overlooking the city skyline.
The Liberties Fun Run (July 23)
A four-mile urban course starting and finishing at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham:
- Distance & Route: 4 miles through Francis Street, The Coombe, Fatima, and St James’s Gate
- Time & Registration: Race begins at 9:00 AM; on-site sign-in from 7:30 AM (entries close July 20)
- Entry Fee: €35, or free for participants raising €200+ in sponsorship
- Organiser: St James’s Hospital Foundation, with proceeds supporting patient services
- Special Touch: Bespoke medals designed by artist Holly Pereira, commissioned by Diageo Ireland
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a casual jogger, this scenic urban course offers a unique way to experience Liberties streets.
Music & Performance Highlights
- Says She Spoken Word Showcase (July 24, 7:00 PM, The Digital Hub)
- World Premiere – The Singing Hollow (July 25, 8:00 PM, St Audoen’s Church)
- Blue Rinse Ball (July 26, 9:00 PM, Market Square)
Workshops & Guided Walks
- Medieval Dublin Tour (July 22, 2:00 PM, meeting at Dublin Castle Gate)
- Urban Beekeeping Masterclass (July 23, 11:00 AM, Wolfe Tone Street)
- Liberties Soundscape Recording (July 24, 3:00 PM, start at Kilmainham Gaol)
Markets & Exhibitions
- We LOVE Markets Flea (July 25–26, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, Digital Hub Courtyard)
- Untold Lives: People & Places of Dublin Photo Exhibition (July 21–27, 11:00 AM–5:00 PM, The Bank Building)
Organisers & Supporters
The Liberties Festival 2025 is delivered by the Liberties Community Project, working closely with local artists, volunteers, and businesses to curate a safe, accessible cultural programme. Support comes from Dublin City Council, Diageo Ireland, StayCity, and neighbourhood partners whose contributions make this free festival possible. Festival Director Michael McDermott leads the creative vision, securing funding through Dublin City Arts Office grants and fostering collaborations that highlight the Liberties’ unique character.
Community & Charity Partners
A cornerstone event, the Liberties Fun Run is organised by the St James’s Hospital Foundation, with all funds raised dedicated to enhancing patient services. Diageo Ireland also sponsors a limited-edition Batch Bread Red ale, brewed using Meath Street loaf and urban honey, each pint sold channels donations back into the festival and partner charities.
Whether you’re revisiting childhood streets or discovering Dublin’s oldest lanes for the first time, the Liberties Festival invites you to connect, create, and celebrate the neighbourhood’s enduring spirit. Most events are free; booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.
Hashtags: #LibertiesFestival2025 
