Your Guide to TradFest Dublin 2025

TradFest Dublin is an unmissable festival for anyone looking to experience the best of traditional Irish music. Celebrating Irish culture, music and history, the festival is set to have its best year yet as it marks its 20th anniversary in 2025.

With so many amazing performances, gigs and events spread across some of Dublin's most iconic venues, it can be hard to know where to start. That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide to walk you through some of this year's must-see events.

What is TradFest?

Simply put, TradFest is Dublin's biggest festival dedicated to traditional Irish music, arts and culture. It's where world-renowned artists, up-and-coming talents, and passionate musicians come together to bring the spirit of Ireland to life.

This year, the landmark festival runs from January 22nd - 26th. So lets dive into what you can expect at TradFest Dublin 2025 and start planning your unforgettable long-weekend.

St Patrick's Cathedral

No visit to Dublin would be complete without a stop at St Patrick's Cathedral - one of the city's most historic and beloved landmarks. As Ireland's largest cathedral, it's not only a stunning piece of architecture, but also a key location for some of TradFest's most anticipated performances - making a trip to this venue a win-win.

This year, TradFest 2025 brings some of the best in traditional Irish music to the cathedral. Get ready to see Aoife Scott and Women of Note on the opening night of the 22nd January, who are planning a musical celebration of female artists from diverse cultures and backgrounds.

You also won't want to miss Frankie Gavin & De Dannan, a legendary group known for their masterful blend of traditional music and contemporary influences.

Or if you're looking for a corss-blend of cultures, Wallis Bird is joining forces with the German classical group, Spark, to perform Visions of Venus - a cross genre concert experience that showcases female sound art from the Middle Ages to the present day.

The performances are sure to be a sell out so we recommend booking your tickets in advance. Luckily, getting to the venue is easy with our 700 service from Dublin Airport, just exit at the Leeson Street Lower stop where it is then less than a 20 minute walk to St Patrick's Cathedral.

Pepper Canister Church

For a more intimate setting, Pepper Canister Church, also known as St Stephen's Church, is the place to be. This iconic location in the heart of Dublin is known for more than just its unique pepper canister spire, its beautiful acoustics make it an ideal venue for TradFest performances.

The Kane Sisters, Séamus and Caoimhe Uí Fhlatharta and Josephine Marsh will be performing at this charming venue, offering you the chance to enjoy the traditional sounds of Ireland in a truly special setting. Whether you're into instrumental tunes or soulful ballads, the performances here are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Take some time to explore the church's stunning architecture, and of course, enjoy the fantastic music! To reach the venue, you can take our 702 service from Dublin Airport to Ballsbridge. Offboard at the Ballsbridge School House Hotel where it is then only a short 5 minute walk to Pepper Canister Church.

Castle Hall, Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle is not just a tourist hotspot - it's also home to some of the best performances at TradFest Dublin 2025. The Castle Hall is a stunning atmospheric venue that perfectly complements the festival's traditional vibes.

Expect to hear Lauren Ní Néill and Louise Mulcahy, both renowned for their performances blending Irish history and music in unique ways. These talented artists will take you on a journey through the rich cultural heritage of Ireland, with discussions on the heritage of harping with Lauren and the tracing of women piping from the 19th century to present day with Louise.

Don't forget to take in the castle's breathtaking courtyards and the State Apartments - all adding to the magic of the festival. To get to the venue, you can take our 700 or 700X service to Dublin City Centre which is then less than a 15 minute walk to the venue.

The Button Factory

If you're looking for something a little more modern or to explore other genres, The Button Factory is the venue to check out. Situated in the heart of the Temple Bar district, this iconic spot is a hub for live music across a range of genres. TradFest 2025 sees this space opening up its doors to the best of both traditional and contemporary sounds.

Dance along to performances by Ines Khai and the Yankari Afrobeat Collective on January 24th, who are playing homage to Afrobeat icons of the 1960/70's with their blend of Gwoka, soul and blues.

The next night, January 25th, TradFest 2025 will host the Dublin Pride Trad Géilí at the Button Factory, brought to you by Trad is Amach, the LGBTQ+ trad collective and Dublin Pride. It promises to be a great night for LGBTQ+ trad and folk artists and allies.

Right in the heart of the action, The Button Factory is easy to go to and our Dublin City Centre stop on the 700 and 700X service(s) is only a short 10 minute walk away.

Free Gigs at Temple Bar

If you'd like to stick to the same district as The Button Factory, exploring Temple Bar is one of the best ways to spend an afternoon or evening at TradFest. Here, you can find free performances from some of the most exciting up-and-coming trad artists. The Smithwicks Sessions will showcase emerging Irish talent, giving you the chance to discover new artists while enjoying a pint of two.

Temple Bar is the ideal place to soak up the atmosphere of TradFest without breaking the bank. So whether you're catching a busker on the street or relaxing with a traditional tune in a cosy pub, you'll find something that feels uniquely Dublin.

There are even promises of appearances from a few more popular artists, including Paddy Casey, who is scheduled to perform at The Auld Dubliner at 6pm on the 23rd.

Other Venues and Events

While these are some of our favourite performances scheduled for TradFest 2025, there are still plenty more to choose from! From the GPO Museum to the National Museum of Ireland, you'll find events that combine rich history with incredible performances. Other notable venues like the National Stadium will host fantastic acts, including The Scratch on the 23rd January, ensuring that there's something for everyone.

But don't forget - sometimes the best way to experience TradFest is to simply wander around Dublin. Expect to stumble upon craft fairs, street parades and children's activities throughout the city.

How to Get to TradFest

Getting to TradFest is easy, affordable and stress-free with Aircoach. We offer direct routes from Dublin Airport to the city centre if you're flying in for the festival, or if you're travelling from Belfast, Cork or Derry/L'Derry, our intercity services drop you directly in the heart of Dublin City with easy connectivity to all the venues and events. See our bus timetables for more information.

Plus, with TradFest encouraging everyone to use public transport to get around this year, you'll be in good company when you hop on board Aircoach. Booking your tickets online is the easiest way to ensure you get the best rates.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your tickets and get ready to enjoy TradFest Dublin 2025!