What's Happening in Dublin this weekend (March 13th) - Free Events

This weekend Dublin properly comes alive.

The St Patrick’s Festival takes over the city with parades, performances, pop-up shows, street theatre, workshops, music and hundreds of free events across the city centre.

If you’ve been meaning to explore the arts in Dublin, this is the weekend to do it. From family workshops and outdoor performances to quirky tours and late-night sessions — there’s something happening on nearly every street corner.

You can explore the full festival programme here:
https://stpatricksfestival.ie/events/

But if you want a quick shortlist to get you started, here are a few great things happening this weekend:

This Week’s Picks

• St Patrick’s Festival Events Across Dublin

• No Mother’s Tae – Community Gathering at The Fumbally

• Poetry Night – Baldoyle Community Hall

• Gele Day: Give to Gain – Rush Sailing Club

• Stories, Culture, History & Songs – St Stephen’s Green Bandstand

• Pokémon Pop-Up Trading Event – Hen’s Teeth

• Children’s Willow Fish Workshop – St Patrick’s Festival Family Village

St Patrick’s Festival – Citywide

The biggest weekend in the Irish events calendar.

Expect street performances, theatre, live music, family activities and creative workshops across Dublin. Many events are completely free, making it one of the best weekends of the year to wander the city and stumble across something brilliant.

👉 Full programme here
https://stpatricksfestival.ie/events/

No Mother’s Tae
The Fumbally – Sunday | 12:30pm–3:30pm

Mother’s Day can be difficult for many people, and this event offers a welcoming space for those who might find the day complicated or lonely.

Hosted by Laura Lavelle, the afternoon blends tea, dark humour, storytelling and community. It’s about connection, laughter and sharing space with others who understand.

Tea provided by Barry’s. Bring your favourite mug if you like.

👉 Reserve a place

1983019731398

📝 Poetry Session – Baldoyle Community Hall
Saturday | 6:30pm

A relaxed community poetry night where everyone is welcome. Whether you want to perform or just listen, it’s a chance to hear local voices and enjoy an evening of creative expression.

Poets interested in performing can email:
[email protected]

Gele Day – Give to Gain
Rush Sailing Club – Friday | 4pm–6pm

A vibrant event celebrating women, community and empowerment.

Dress up in colourful attire and join a welcoming gathering designed for women to connect, share experiences and celebrate culture together.

Stories, Culture, History & Songs
St Stephen’s Green Bandstand – Friday | 3pm

Historian David O’Sullivan and singer AnnMarie O’Grady bring Dublin’s stories to life with a mix of historical tales and live music.

Expect fascinating bits of Irish history, unusual facts and plenty of songs along the way.

Pokémon Pop-Up Event
Hen’s Teeth – Saturday | 12pm–4pm

A fun event for collectors and fans. Buy, sell and trade Pokémon cards, browse themed merchandise and meet other enthusiasts.

Binders full of cards, sealed products and plenty of nostalgia.

Children’s Willow Fish Workshop
Wood Quay Amphitheatre – Sunday

A creative workshop where children can learn to weave their own willow fish with Aoife from Wicklow Willow.

Workshops run every hour from 11am–4pm as part of the St Patrick’s Festival Family Village.

👉 Book tickets there are only 2 workshops with tickets now!

That’s your Dublin Buzz for the week.

If you’re heading into the city this weekend, wander a bit. Some of the best festival moments are the ones you didn’t plan for.

And if you know someone who’s always saying “there’s nothing on in Dublin” — forward them this email.

See you out there. ☘️

I’ve published a longer form of guide with things that are always on and free to do, read the extended free to do in Dublin guide now

If you have an event to share or to support The Dublin Buzz and have a shout out, you can contact me here!