Dublin City Council Ceol Country, a major highlight in the calendar for events Ireland fans, returns to Merrion Square Park, Dublin, on Saturday 29 August and Sunday 30 August 2026 with day tickets priced at just €5. The two-day country music festival brings headline performances from Nathan Carter and rising US artist Braden Hull, making it one of the standout events in Dublin and a strong pick for anyone searching for things to do in Ireland this summer.
The festival is set in the heart of the capital and blends live music, dancing, family entertainment and food into one affordable weekend. For visitors planning Dublin events this weekend or looking ahead to late-summer festivals Ireland listings, Ceol Country offers a budget-friendly option with a big-name line-up and a lively city-centre location.
Ceol Country Brings Top-Tier Events Ireland Fans Will Want to Book Early
Tickets go on sale at 10am on Friday, 24 July, and organisers expect strong demand. Nathan Carter, best known for hits including Wagon Wheel, headlines Saturday’s programme, while Braden Hull takes top billing on Sunday. The event has quickly built a reputation since launching in 2024 and is now becoming one of the more talked-about music events Ireland visitors can enjoy without spending heavily.
Other artists scheduled across the weekend include:
- Robert Mizzell
- Jimmy Buckley
- Claudia Buckley
- Cliona Hagan
- Sandy Kelly
- Declan Nerney
- The Highway Men
- Effie O’Neill
- Jack Keogh
- Clodagh Lawlor
Ronan Collins is set to host Saturday, while Clodagh Lawlor will take MC duties on Sunday. House bands The Ryan Turner Band and The Conquerors will help keep the energy high throughout the festival.
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What to Expect at Merrion Square Park
Ceol Country is more than a concert series. It is designed as a full weekend experience, which is why it stands out among weekend events Ireland and family events Ireland searches. Alongside the main stage, festivalgoers can head into the Barn Dance Hall for free line-dancing workshops and social dancing sessions on both days.
This makes the event appealing to both seasoned country fans and complete beginners. Traditional carnival rides and games will also be part of the programme, while American-inspired food and drink stalls are expected to add to the atmosphere.
For readers comparing Dublin events today, free events Ireland, and ticketed outdoor events Ireland, this festival hits a useful middle ground: low-cost entry, central access and entertainment for different age groups.
Practical details
- Event: Dublin City Council Ceol Country
- Type: Country music and family festival
- Dates: Saturday 29 August and Sunday 30 August 2026
- Location: Merrion Square Park, Dublin
- Ticket price: €5 per day
- Ticket sale date: From 10am, Friday 24 July
- Booking info: Day-by-day line-up and tickets via dublin.ie/ceolcountry
Why It Stands Out Among Summer Events Ireland Listings
With the Aer Lingus College Football Classic also taking place at the Aviva Stadium around the same time, Dublin is expected to be particularly busy. That gives Ceol Country added appeal for tourists and locals checking what’s on Ireland, concerts Ireland, and live music Ireland guides for the bank holiday-style late-summer atmosphere.
The festival also reflects a growing appetite for cultural events Ireland audiences can access at a reasonable price. While many major gigs come with premium ticket costs, this event opens the door to a wider audience, including visitors planning family days out Ireland and couples searching for things to do this weekend Ireland.
Explore more: things to do in Ireland inspiration at Luxe Digest and Daily Digest Ireland events coverage.
FAQ
Is Ceol Country family-friendly?
Yes. The festival includes carnival attractions, dancing sessions and an open-air setting that should suit a broad age range.
Do I need tickets in advance?
Yes. Tickets are priced at €5 per day and are due to go on sale online from 10am on Friday 24 July. Booking early is advisable.
How do I get there?
Merrion Square Park is centrally located in Dublin and is accessible by public transport, taxi and city-centre walking routes, making it convenient for those browsing events near me Ireland or things to do in Dublin.
Dublin City Council Ceol Country looks set to be one of the most accessible and entertaining events Ireland has on offer this August. With Nathan Carter, Braden Hull, dancing, fairground fun and €5 tickets, it is a simple, affordable answer to anyone asking what’s on in Dublin at the end of summer.
