How to Attend the Irish Festival in Dublin, Ohio
Millions of people around the world are of Irish extraction, and if you’re one of them -- or even if you're not, but enjoy things related to the Emerald Isle -- the Dublin Irish Festival in Dublin, Ohio, is a great way to spend a weekend. Held the first weekend of every August, the Dublin Irish Festival is chock-full of Irish music, food, crafts, culture and entertainment for the entire family. Here are some tips on attending the Dublin Irish Festival.
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Instructions
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How to Attend the Irish Festival in Dublin, Ohio
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First, plan to arrive early. The Irish Festival has grown tremendously over the past few years, and attendance is sometimes up around 40,000. Because parking is at a premium, the Festival does offer shuttle service from the local high school parking lot, but once those spaces are gone, you'll have to hunt to find a space elsewhere. Some of the local businesses open up their lots for attendees, but often charge up to $10 for parking. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, because you'll be doing a lot of walking.
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If you plan to arrive in Dublin, Ohio, the night before the Irish Festival, be sure to book a room well in advance. There are a number of hotels in the area, but they tend to fill up fast, because people are attending from all over the country. There are campgrounds in the area, but all are at least fifteen miles away.
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Plan on checking out the music scene at the Dublin Irish Festival. There are multiple open stages that have performances going all the time, as well as a tent pub that typically has a band playing. In the past, noteworthy Irish bands such as Flogging Molly, the Dropkick Murphys, the Fenians, and Black 47 have played at the Festival.
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Be sure to visit the marketplace while you're there. Dozens of vendors are on hand, selling all kinds of items related to Ireland, Irish people, and Irish culture. From wood carvings to leather work to t-shirts and mugs, there's something for everyone. Shop around first, though; some of the vendors tend to price higher than others, and often you can find a better deal on an item if you take the time to check out multiple vendors.
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Stop in at the Cultural Area, to see a number of exhibitions that bring Irish ideals home. Workshops are available, on diverse topics such as baking soda bread, lace making, Celtic stone carving, and how to make chain mail. If you've brought your kids, be sure to check out the Wee Folk area. For the price of a $10 wrist band, children can enjoy unlimited games, crafts, and play in a safe and friendly environment.
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Tips & Warnings
Beverages are sold by pre-purchased tokens, and no beverages or food can be brought into the Festival. Food is available for sale, but if you plan on picnicking at your car, make sure you get your hand stamped for re-entry into the Festival.
Check the music and entertainment schedule ahead of time. Popular bands often will see ten thousand people crammed under a tent, so if you really want to see your favorite band, plan on staking out a seat at least an hour before show time.
