Arts & Cultural Events in Dublin
Dublin’s creative spirit can be found in its galleries, theatres, museums and historic streets. From internationally acclaimed exhibitions and West End productions to literary celebrations and contemporary art, the city offers something to inspire throughout the year.
Whether you’re planning a weekend break or extending your stay, discover the best arts and cultural events taking place across Dublin, all within easy reach of The Dean Dublin Docklands.
Featured Events
William Blake: The Age of Romantic Fantasy
16 April – 19 July 2026 | National Gallery of Ireland
One of the National Gallery’s headline exhibitions of 2026 explores the visionary works of William Blake, bringing together masterpieces from Ireland and the UK.
Rembrandt to Matisse – A Celebration of European Works on Paper
18 July – 6 December 2026 | National Gallery of Ireland
Discover centuries of European printmaking and drawing through works by Rembrandt, Matisse and other celebrated artists in one of Dublin’s major art exhibitions.
AIB Portrait Prize Exhibition
Autumn 2026 | National Gallery of Ireland
Ireland’s leading portrait competition showcases outstanding contemporary artists alongside emerging talent from across the country.
Hilma af Klint: Artist and Visionary
15 October 2026 – 7 February 2027 | National Gallery of Ireland
Experience one of Europe’s most influential pioneers of abstract art as the National Gallery presents a landmark exhibition of Hilma af Klint’s visionary work.
Jan Steen: Sacred and Profane
21 November 2026 – 25 April 2027 | National Gallery of Ireland
A major exhibition dedicated to Dutch Golden Age painter Jan Steen explores his masterful storytelling through religious and everyday life.
Bord Gáis Energy Theatre Season
July 2026 – June 2027 | Bord Gáis Energy Theatre
From major West End musicals and ballet to concerts, comedy and family productions, Bord Gáis Energy Theatre hosts one of Ireland’s busiest performing arts programmes throughout the year.
Abbey Theatre Productions
Throughout 2026–2027 | Abbey Theatre
Ireland’s National Theatre presents new Irish writing alongside contemporary interpretations of classic works in the heart of Dublin.
Gate Theatre Season
Throughout 2026–2027 | Gate Theatre
One of Dublin’s most celebrated theatres continues its acclaimed programme of international drama, Irish classics and contemporary productions.
Irish Museum of Modern Art Exhibitions
Throughout 2026–2027 | IMMA
Explore rotating exhibitions from leading Irish and international contemporary artists within the historic surroundings of the Royal Hospital Kilmainham.
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
Open Year Round | CHQ Building, Docklands
Discover Ireland’s global story through immersive exhibitions combining technology, personal stories and interactive experiences.
Chester Beatty Library Exhibitions
Throughout 2026–2027 | Dublin Castle
Home to one of Europe’s finest collections of manuscripts, rare books and artistic treasures from across Asia, the Middle East and Europe.
Dublin Castle Cultural Programme
Throughout 2026–2027 | Dublin Castle
Historic exhibitions, state apartments, archaeological displays and rotating cultural exhibitions showcase more than 800 years of Dublin history.
National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History
Open Year Round | Collins Barracks
Explore Ireland’s military history, decorative arts, fashion and design collections inside one of Europe’s finest historic barracks.
Hugh Lane Gallery Exhibitions
Throughout 2026–2027 | Parnell Square
One of Dublin’s leading contemporary galleries, home to Francis Bacon’s reconstructed London studio alongside rotating exhibitions.
Book of Kells Experience
Throughout 2026–2027 | Trinity College Dublin
See one of the world’s most famous illuminated manuscripts before exploring the magnificent Long Room Library at Trinity College Dublin.
Other Arts & Cultural Experiences
|
Event |
Location |
|---|---|
|
National Concert Hall performances |
Earlsfort Terrace |
|
Irish National Opera productions |
Various Dublin venues |
|
Dublin Chamber Music concerts |
Various venues |
|
Project Arts Centre exhibitions |
Temple Bar |
|
The Ark children’s cultural programme |
Temple Bar |
|
Royal Irish Academy exhibitions |
Dawson Street |
|
Science Gallery Dublin exhibitions |
Trinity College |
|
Irish Architectural Archive exhibitions |
Merrion Square |
|
Photo Museum Ireland exhibitions |
Temple Bar |
|
The Complex visual arts programme |
Smithfield |
|
Temple Bar Gallery + Studios exhibitions |
Temple Bar |
|
Graphic Studio Gallery exhibitions |
North Circular Road |
|
Royal Hibernian Academy exhibitions |
Ely Place |
|
Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane talks |
Parnell Square |
|
National Print Museum exhibitions |
Beggars Bush |
Location
In the heart of the Docklands, just 15 minutes from Dublin Airport and steps from 3Arena, Dublin Convention Centre, the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre and the IFSC. We're right beside the Luas stop, Dublin's tram that takes you to the city centre in 10 minutes.
From the Airport
15 minute drive from Dublin Airport via Dublin Port Tunnel, with taxis and Ubers departing frequently from Arrivals. The Dublin Express 784 bus takes 20 minutes and drops you a 2 minute walk from the front door. The Aircoach 702 bus brings you from the airport terminals to 3Arena, less than 5 minutes' walk away.
By train
The Point Luas stop is right behind the hotel, and we're a short walk from Connolly Station.
On Foot
3Arena - 400m
Dublin Convention Centre - 450m
Bord Gáis Energy Theatre - 1km
Connolly Station - 1.6km
