The Ultimate Guide to Events in Donabate & Portrane | 16th–24th May
Experience nine unforgettable days of music, art, culture, film, heritage, workshops, comedy, and community at the Bleeding Pig Cultural Festival 2026 in Donabate and Portrane, North County Dublin. From traditional Irish music sessions and beach art workshops to historical tours, spoken word nights, and family-friendly activities, this year’s festival promises something for everyone.
Whether you’re searching for things to do in Donabate, festival events in Dublin, Irish music festivals, or family activities in Portrane, the Bleeding Pig Festival is one of the must-visit cultural events this May.
Saturday, 16th May
Festival Launch Night – Traditional Irish Music
Time: Doors 7:00 PM | Music 8:00 PM
Location: The Brook, Portrane
The Bleeding Pig Festival officially opens with a spectacular evening of live traditional Irish music featuring renowned uilleann piper Eamonn Galldubh & Friends alongside the talented musicians of Leithinis Donabate Portrane.
Expect a lively celebration of Irish heritage filled with rich melodies, spirited rhythms, and an unforgettable atmosphere in the heart of Portrane. This opening night is a perfect introduction to the culture, creativity, and community spirit that defines the festival.
Highlights:
- Live traditional Irish music
- Community celebration
- Local musicians and cultural performers
- One of the top live music events in Donabate this May
Sand Art Workshop at Portrane Beach
Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Portrane Beach
Join environmental artist Sean Corcoran of The Art Hand for a unique beach art experience on the shores of Portrane.
Using only sand, garden rakes, and the rhythm of the tide, participants will work together to create large-scale temporary artworks inspired by nature and mindfulness. This immersive workshop encourages creativity, teamwork, and connection with the natural landscape.
Perfect for:
- Art lovers
- Families
- Mindfulness and wellness enthusiasts
- Outdoor activity seekers in Dublin
Sunday, 17th May
Seashore Foraging Workshop with Denise
Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Donabate Coastline
Discover the fascinating world of wild Irish coastal plants, herbs, seaweeds, and shellfish during this guided foraging workshop with Denise from The Herb School.
Learn how native plants have been used for food, healing, and wellness throughout Irish history while exploring the beautiful coastline between Donabate and Portrane.
Learn About:
- Wild food identification
- Coastal herbs and seaweeds
- Natural remedies
- Sustainable foraging practices
Palestine Memorial Blanket Exhibition
Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Donabate Portrane Community Centre
In partnership with Donabate Against Racism, this moving community event features the powerful 40-metre Palestine Memorial Blanket, where each square symbolises the lives of children lost to conflict.
This thought-provoking installation combines art, activism, and remembrance in a deeply meaningful cultural experience.
Sand Art Workshop – Ladies Beach
Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Ladies Beach, Donabate
A second opportunity to experience Sean Corcoran’s immersive sand art workshop, this time on the stunning shoreline of Ladies Beach.
Create collaborative temporary artwork while embracing creativity, movement, and the beauty of impermanence.
St. Patrick’s Church of Ireland Historical Tour
Time: 3:00 PM
Location: The Square, Donabate
Step back through centuries of Irish history with a guided tour of St. Patrick’s Church of Ireland, one of Donabate’s most historic landmarks.
Discover:
- Medieval church architecture
- The Cobbe family legacy
- 15th-century historical features
- Local archaeological discoveries
A must-see event for history enthusiasts visiting North County Dublin.
Live Music Night – The Bonny Men & Djouce
Time: Doors 6:45 PM | Music 7:15 PM
Location: St. Patrick’s R.C. Church, Donabate
Enjoy an extraordinary evening of contemporary and traditional Irish music featuring acclaimed folk group The Bonny Men and atmospheric trio Djouce.
Blending folk, ambient, and modern Irish sounds, this concert promises a memorable live music experience during the festival.
Monday 18th – Wednesday 20th May
The Bleeding Pig Film Festival
Time: From 7:30 PM
Location: St. Patrick’s Church of Ireland, Donabate
The Bleeding Pig Film Festival returns for its 8th edition, showcasing outstanding independent short films from Ireland and around the world.
Festival Features:
- Irish independent cinema
- International short films
- Women in Film showcase
- Special feature presentation
- Free entry with booking required
This is one of the standout film events in Dublin’s cultural calendar.
Wednesday, 20th May
Future Filmmakers Workshop
Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: Film Equipment Hire, Donabate
A hands-on introduction to the film industry with industry professionals Edelle Kenny and Jar Finnegan.
Participants will:
- Work with professional camera equipment
- Learn lighting and studio techniques
- Gain insight into media and content creation
- Explore careers in film production
Perfect for aspiring filmmakers and young creatives.
Resin Jewellery Workshop
Time: 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Donabate Community Centre
Create your own handcrafted UV resin pendant using dried flowers and natural stones in this relaxing beginner-friendly workshop with artist Monica Manzzi.
Ideal for:
- Craft lovers
- Beginners
- Creative wellness experiences
- Handmade jewellery enthusiasts
Thursday, 21st May
The Showoff Sessions – Music & Spoken Word
Time: 7:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Location: The Brook Pub, Portrane
An inspiring evening of live music, poetry, and spoken word performances featuring talented Irish artists and performers in one of Portrane’s favourite venues.
Wine & Spoken Word Evening
Time: 7:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Location: Triangle Coffee Company, Donabate
Enjoy poetry, storytelling, and spoken word performances from some of Ireland’s most exciting literary voices including:
- Shiv Hickey
- Leon Dunne
- Jess Flood
- Gerard Devine
Includes a complimentary glass of wine in an intimate café setting.
Summer Concert with The Lambay Singers
Time: 7:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Location: Donabate Golf Club
The beloved Lambay Singers Choir present an uplifting evening of music, harmony, poetry, and song.
A perfect cultural night out in Donabate with prosecco included.
Friday, 22nd May
Drawing Workshop with Artist Robert Shaw
Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Donabate Community Centre
Join acclaimed local artist Robert Shaw for an expressive still-life drawing workshop using charcoal, pastels, and mixed media.
Suitable for ages 16+ with all materials provided.
Sounds From The Square
Time: From 7:00 PM
Location: Church of Ireland, Donabate
Celebrate the incredible talents of young musicians with a vibrant evening of:
- Rock bands
- Classical music
- Vocal performances
- Live youth talent showcases
An inspiring community music event for all ages.
Saturday, 23rd May
Creative Drama Workshop for Teens
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Donabate Community Centre
A fun and supportive creative drama workshop for ages 13–16 exploring:
- Improvisation
- Storytelling
- Theatre games
- Movement and character work
Ideal for young people interested in performance and self-expression.
Pizza & Trad Céilí at The Brook
Time: From 4:00 PM
Location: The Brook Pub, Portrane
Traditional Irish céilí dancing meets delicious pizza in this lively outdoor community celebration.
Expect:
- Live trad music
- Irish dancing
- Family-friendly entertainment
- Great food and atmosphere
One of the most fun cultural events in Portrane this spring.
Comedy Night at Triangle Coffee
Time: Doors 6:30 PM | Show 7:00 PM
Location: Triangle Coffee Company, Donabate
Local comedian Sinéad Walsh headlines an intimate comedy night packed with relatable Irish humour, storytelling, and laughter.
Featuring support from Jack Shortall and complimentary wine on arrival.
Sunday, 24th May
Culture Day at the Parish Hall
Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Parish Hall, Donabate
Celebrate local creativity with a full day of:
- Art exhibitions
- Photography displays
- Drama performances
- Spoken word
- Live music
- Historical exhibits
A wonderful showcase of Donabate and Portrane’s artistic community.
Martello Tower Tours
Tour 1: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Tour 2: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Location: Tower Bay Beach, Portrane
Explore the historic Martello Tower in Portrane with expert guide Bryan Greene and discover:
- Napoleonic-era coastal defences
- Local maritime history
- Restored tower interiors
- Stunning coastal views
A fascinating historical experience in North Dublin.
Historical Bus Tour of Donabate & Portrane
Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Starting Point: Donabate Railway Station
Join local historian Peader Bates for an immersive guided journey through the rich heritage of Donabate and Portrane.
Tour highlights include:
- Newbridge House
- Lamb’s Fruit Farm
- St. Ita’s Hospital
- Portrane Martello Tower
A must for local history lovers.
Community Drumming Workshop
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Donabate Community Centre
Finish the festival with an energetic all-ages drumming session led by Neil Dowling of Drum Nature.
No experience needed — just bring your enthusiasm and enjoy a joyful celebration of rhythm, music, and community.
Why Visit the Bleeding Pig Cultural Festival?
The Bleeding Pig Cultural Festival is one of the best community festivals in Dublin, bringing together music, history, visual arts, literature, theatre, film, and family-friendly experiences across Donabate and Portrane.
Festival Highlights Include:
- Traditional Irish music
- Independent film screenings
- Family workshops
- Art and photography exhibitions
- Comedy and spoken word
- Historical tours
- Beach activities
- Community celebrations
If you’re looking for things to do in Dublin this May, the Bleeding Pig Cultural Festival offers a unique mix of creativity, heritage, and unforgettable experiences on the beautiful North Dublin coast.
