From one of Ireland's oldest agricultural shows to mountain music festivals, Wicklow's events calendar runs year-round. A curated list of what's worth the trip — with walks to match each one.
One of Ireland's oldest and largest agricultural shows, running since 1897. Cattle and sheep classes, show jumping, vintage machinery, craft tents, music and thousands of visitors. Bank Holiday Monday in August, on the Showgrounds just outside Tinahely.
Ireland's biggest free air show, held annually on Bray seafront in late July. Jet formation teams, historic aircraft, helicopter displays. Over 90,000 spectators in recent years. Combine with the Bray to Greystones cliff walk before or after.
Intimate village arts festival at the southern end of the Wicklow Way. Music sessions in Osborne's and local halls, spoken-word events, visual art trails, and walking tours of Huntington Castle gardens. Mid-October.
Guided walks along the ancient pilgrim route to Glendalough, led by volunteers from the Wicklow Heritage Society. Spring (May) and autumn (September) weekends. Suits moderate walkers. Optional mass at the monastic site on arrival.
Free weekly guided walks led by park rangers — covering ecology, geology, folklore. Run from May to October, usually on Saturdays. Meet at the National Park Information Office at the Upper Lake in Glendalough.
Harbour-side festival celebrating Arklow's deep shipping and fishing heritage. Tall ships in port, lifeboat displays, harbour walking tours, food stalls and live music on the seafront. Weekend closest to the autumn equinox.
A small, friendly celebration of Irish food in the handweaving village of Avoca. Artisan producers, cooking demos, pop-up pubs, Meeting of the Waters walking tours. First weekend in June.
Christmas market on Fitzwilliam Square, carol services in Saint Thomas's church, the "light-up the gaol" event at Wicklow Historic Gaol, and a 10 km Santa Run along the harbour. Weekends throughout December.
WalkWicklow.ie lists all significant events in County Wicklow free of charge. Send us the details — date, venue, website — and we'll add it to the calendar.
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