Coastival Returns to Dún Laoghaire with Nine Days of Family Fun, Culture and Coastal Adventure

Coastival returns this July, with Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council announcing a nine-day celebration of maritime heritage, culture, and community spirit from 4–12 July, officially launched this week by Cathaoirleach Cllr Barry Saul.

Featuring family days, storytelling, arts events, water-based activities, live entertainment and spectacular kite displays, Coastival invites visitors of all ages to experience the best of Dún Laoghaire throughout a packed programme of events along the coast.

The festival gets underway on Saturday 4 July with the ever-popular Emergency Services Day at St Michael’s Pier.   Families will have the opportunity to meet the personnel who help keep our communities safe and get up close to an impressive range of emergency vehicles, boats and specialist equipment. A favourite with visitors of all ages, the event offers a fascinating insight into the work of Ireland's emergency response services.

Throughout the week, Coastival will showcase the culture, creativity, and maritime character of Dún Laoghaire. Visitors can enjoy the dlr Streets Busking Festival, film screenings, walking tours, cruises, arts events and a wide range of inclusive sports and recreation activities on land and sea.

On Saturday 11 July, families are invited to the Coastival Family Fun Day at dlr LexIcon Library. Hosted by dlr Libraries, the day will feature storytelling, creative workshops, performances and family-friendly activities designed to spark imagination, encourage creativity and celebrate community.

The festival culminates on Sunday 12 July with Atmosphere Family Day at Newtownsmith. The highlight of the afternoon will be a spectacular kite display, transforming the skies above Dún Laoghaire into a colourful celebration of flight and creativity. Visitors can also enjoy kite-making workshops, magic shows, circus performances, giant games, beach volleyball, inflatables, face painting and live entertainment throughout the day.

As part of the Council's commitment to accessibility and inclusion, Coastival Family Day will also feature a dedicated Sensory Bus, providing a welcoming and supportive space for neurodivergent children and young people and their families.