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If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Ireland this May Bank Holiday weekend, you’re in luck. The first long weekend of summer is one of the most exciting times of year across the country. Towns and cities come alive with festivals, family activities, live music, outdoor adventures and food events, while Ireland’s landscapes are at their springtime best.
Whether you’re planning a family day out, romantic break, road trip with friends or last-minute staycation, there are countless May Bank Holiday events in Ireland to enjoy. From buzzing city festivals to scenic coastal escapes, this guide highlights the top experiences to make the most of the long weekend.
It’s often considered the unofficial start of summer, making it one of the most popular weekends for short breaks and outdoor events. Book a few nights away at one of Camping Ireland’s top caravan & camping sites throughout Ireland. Chose the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s Ancient East, Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, spend a few days in Dublin or a few days in Northern Ireland.
Whatever you want Camping Ireland has something to suit everyone. Enjoy the independence and flexibility that camping in Ireland can offer in quality approved sites. We look forward to welcoming you to Ireland’s outdoor living.
- Experience Riverfest Limerick
One of the biggest and best May Bank Holiday festivals in Ireland, Riverfest transforms Limerick into a vibrant celebration zone. Taking place along the River Shannon, the event typically includes:
- Street entertainment
- Live music
- Food stalls
- Family fun zones
- Water sports
- Fireworks and evening events
It’s perfect for families, couples and groups looking for a lively city atmosphere. Limerick’s riverside restaurants and nightlife also make it a great weekend getaway.
- Discover Cork Mela at Fitzgerald’s Park
Cork Mela is taking over Fitzgerald’s Park on Sunday, May 3rd from 1pm to 5pm, bringing a full afternoon of music, food, dance and colour right into the heart of the city. The best part is that it is FREE.
Inspired by traditional “mela” celebrations (basically big, joyful gatherings), this event is all about bringing people together to celebrate cultures from around the world — and Cork’s own diversity in the process.
Expect the park to be buzzing with:
- Live music and dance from across the globe
- Street performances and colourful spectacles
- Global food stalls (yes please)
- Creative workshops, storytelling and arts
- Family-friendly activities to keep the kids busy, including a ‘Baba Bollywood’ dance space for little visitors.
- Cork International Choral Festival – one of Europe’s premier international choral festivals.
The Festival attracts some 5,000 participants who bring Cork to life with song. It is noted for its diverse programme and the friendliness of its welcome.
Highlights include:
- Superb Gala Concerts
- Fringe Concerts
- Fleischmann International Trophy Competition
- Workshops & Masterclasses
- Choral Gatherings
- Fleadh na Bealtaine Galway
Galway, hosts ‘Fleadh na Bealtaine’, a new traditional music and cultural festival from 30 April–4 May 2026. Across streets and venues, enjoy four days of Irish music, dance, theatre, food, storytelling and family-friendly events, with most activities free.
Rooted in the Celtic festival of Bealtaine, the weekend celebrates the start of summer with traditions brought to life through a modern twist. Expect lively street sessions, céilís, sean-nós dancing, pop-up performances, workshops and storytelling. Highlights include the Buaile na mBó parade and a vibrant opening celebration.
- See the Rally of the Lakes in Kerry
For motorsport fans, the legendary Rally of the Lakes returns to Killarney and the surrounding roads. The atmosphere in town is electric all weekend, with plenty of scenic drives and great pubs afterwards
- Head to Bray Jazz Festival
A Bank Holiday favourite, Bray Jazz Festival is ideal for a seaside weekend with world-class jazz, beach walks, cafés and relaxed vibes.
The Bray Jazz Festival is one of Ireland’s best-loved Bank Holiday traditions. Taking place by the sea in County Wicklow, it combines world-class jazz with beachside charm.
Why people love it:
- International and Irish jazz acts
- Great pubs and venues
- Relaxed seaside setting
- Bray promenade walks
- Easy access from Dublin
- Punchestown Racing Festival
One of Ireland’s biggest sporting and social events, the Punchestown Festival runs into the Bank Holiday weekend and is a must for racing fans.
Expect:
- Elite horse racing
- Fashion and hospitality events
- Great atmosphere
- Food and drink villages
- Live entertainment after racing
Even non-racing fans enjoy the social buzz and style of Punchestown week
- Slieve Bloom Walking Festival
The Slieve Bloom Walking Festival from 2nd to 4th May takes place in spring every year as the bluebells come into full bloom and the hills are alive with birdsong.
The festival offers a choice of woodland walks, riverside and gentle rolling hills with experienced walk leaders who will enhance your hike with stories of local history, geology and fauna. They have an A, B and C walks on both Saturday and Sunday. The Monday walk is a Grade A 13k and will take about 4 hours. The C and B walks are easy to moderate with a more strenuous A walk which is more suitable for the more experienced hiker.
- Rockin’ food & Fruit Festival, Enniscorthy
The Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival will take place in Enniscorthy Town from Friday 1st until Sunday 3rd May, 2026
Get set for an incredible May Bank Holiday Weekend 2026 at the Rockin’ Food Festival! An unforgettable weekend packed with flavour, fun, and fantastic experiences for all ages. Step inside our FREE Food Marquee, where award-winning chefs, artisan makers, and special guests will take to the stage with live demos, insider tips, and mouth-watering showcases.
Wander through our Artisan Food Market, one of the biggest in the region, featuring over 80 exceptional local and speciality producers. From handmade treats to gourmet delights, it’s a paradise for food lovers. Explore a vibrant schedule of chef demonstrations, tastings, masterclasses, and food-themed events, offering something for every curiosity and appetite
These are just a few ideas to get you thinking about what to do and see over the next few weeks. So whether you are planning a few days away over the May Bank Holiday weekend or a longer break there is plenty to see and do as part of your caravan & camping holiday.
Camping Ireland has so much information to help you plan your caravan & camping trip away. The website is very user-friendly and has a number of great features which makes it very easy to navigate. You can add filters to your selection. This will allow you to get information on parks that are specific to your needs.
You can now filter for sites as follows:
Camping type – camping, glamping, mobile home hire, etc.
Holiday type – beach holiday, countryside, family-friendly, dog friendly, etc.
Facilities – beach nearby, playground, games room, shop, etc.
County
Region – Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s Ancient East, Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, Dublin or Northern Ireland
Many sites are now offering online booking which will help you secure your pitch at the click of a button.
Pitch your tent, hook up your motorhome, park your caravan and get out and experience the great country of Ireland.
