Limerick becomes THE destination for families, foodies and fun runners this May Bank Holiday from Friday, 1st May to Monday, 4th May 2026 for the city’s premier summer festival, Riverfest Limerick!
Highlights of the festival include Riverfest on the Shannon, the Riverfestival Village in Arthur’s Quay Park, Regeneron Great Limerick Run and a spectacular fireworks display among many other fantastic activities and events.
Riverfest Limerick marks its 22nd year with a spectacular weekend of fun and celebration, presenting a diverse range of activities and events designed to delight visitors of all ages.
From water activities on the mighty River Shannon to the mouth-watering food at the Riverfestival village. Dance the night away at the Riverfest Street Party, and marvel at the spectacular fireworks display. With live music and street performers, this year's Riverfest promises non-stop excitement. A handy Riverfest Events Map 2026 is available to download to help you navigate your way through all the fun activities across the weekend.
- Riverfestival Village
Taking place from 1st–4th May, the Riverfestival Village brings a lively mix of sights, sounds and flavours to the riverside. Expect a relaxed festival setting with food stalls, crafts, roaming entertainment and music popping up throughout the day. It’s the perfect way to spend a long weekend by the river with family and friends.
- Fashionfest
Taking place on 1st May at 6:00pm in the elegant setting of Gardens International, Fashionfest brings together bold design, emerging talent and standout style for one unforgettable night. Curated by the Holman Lee Agency, the event features collaborations with LSAD and Austin Community College (Texas), led by Nina Means, Director of the ACC Fashion Incubator. With a drinks reception followed by a striking runway show, Fashionfest celebrates Limerick’s fashion scene with a global perspective.
Ticketed Event.
- Fidget Feet
Fidget Feet bring striking aerial dance and circus theatre to Riverfest Limerick from 1st–4th May, with performances popping up at Honan’s Quay and the Redemptorist Church. Expect powerful movement, live music, fire effects and dream‑like storytelling inspired by Celtic myth and modern circus. A visually stunning experience that adds a touch of magic to the Riverfest weekend.
- Limerick City Riverfest Music Trail
On Friday 1st May, the Riverfest Music Trail leads audiences on a guided journey through Limerick’s streets and venues from 4:00pm–11:00pm. Expect live performances at each stop, featuring a diverse mix of local, national and international artists across multiple genres. A unique way to explore the city, its river, and its vibrant music scene in one unforgettable evening.
Venues include Limerick City Art Gallery, Dolans Warehouse, Savins Music, Pennylane Arcade, O’ Mahoney’s Bookshop, Steamboat Music, The Commercial
Ticketed Event
- On Water Activities
From 1st–3rd May, Riverfest’s on‑water programme brings the River Shannon to life with a full weekend of activity on and around the water. From guided kayaking, paddleboarding and boat tours with Nevsail to open‑water swimming, rowing parades, Dragonboat displays and competitive races, there’s something happening on the river throughout the festival. Visitors can also enjoy cruiser arrivals, fishing competitions, and traditional moments such as the Blessing of the Boats, all celebrating Limerick’s deep connection to its waterways.
- Great Limerick Run Weekend
Across Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd May, the Great Limerick Run takes over Limerick with a weekend celebrating movement, community and participation. The action begins on Saturday afternoon at the University of Limerick with the Kids Fun Run, offering young runners and families a joyful, supportive introduction to race day excitement. On Sunday, the city streets come alive as thousands take part in the Regeneron Great Limerick Run, featuring the marathon, relay, half marathon and 6‑mile race, making it one of Ireland’s largest and most inclusive sporting events.
- Riverfest Wellness
Taking place on Saturday 2nd May Riverfest Wellness delivers an action‑packed day of fitness with a HYROX‑style simulation event at O’Brien’s Park on Clare Street. Designed for everyday athletes, the challenge combines functional workouts and endurance in a competitive yet inclusive format, with timed slots allocated at booking. Whether taking part or cheering from the sidelines, it’s a high‑energy event with a great atmosphere for all the family, and spectators attend for free.
- Riverfest Street Party
Taking place on 2nd and 3rd May, the Riverfest Street Party moves to George’s Quay, outside the iconic Locke Bar, bringing the celebrations right to the river’s edge. Expect live DJs, great food and a buzzing street‑party atmosphere as this new location transforms into one of the festival’s liveliest evening hotspots in the heart of the city.
- Red Bull – Dance Your Own Style Competition
On Sunday 3rd May at 1:00pm, the Milk Market hosts the Limerick qualifier of Red Bull Dance Your Own Style. Sixteen street dancers go head‑to‑head in high‑energy one‑on‑one battles, with the audience voting live for who advances. A fast‑paced, interactive event where style, creativity and crowd connection take centre stage.
- A Whimsical Night with the Disco Pigs
Set inside a 300‑year‑old cornstore, this imaginative evening blends music, interpretive dance and local Pigtown lore. Vibrantly costumed Disco Pigs lead dancers of all ages as a DJ keeps the night moving, while puppetry and craft‑making add a quirky theatrical edge. A joyful, slightly mischievous celebration of creativity, community and storytelling.
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Riverfest Limerick 2026 is brought to you by Limerick City and County Council For full details of all events and times visit limerick.ie/riverfest
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