Limerick City and County Council is delighted to announce a major addition to the Riverfest Limerick 2026 programme with the Irish Naval Service vessel LÉ George Bernard Shaw due to dock in Limerick City and open its decks to the public for FREE.
LÉ George Bernard Shaw is one of the Irish Naval Service’s most modern offshore patrol vessels and plays a key role in maritime security, fisheries protection and humanitarian operations. Her visit provides a rare opportunity for the public to meet Naval Service personnel and gain first‑hand insight into life and work at sea.
This special Riverfest appearance has been made possible through the co-operation and support of the Minister for Defence, Helen McEntee and her Department, the Irish Defence Forces and Shannon Foynes Port Company. This support is warmly acknowledged by Riverfest Limerick organisers, Limerick City and County Council.
Members of the public will have the opportunity to tour the impressive offshore patrol vessel on:
Times
Saturday: 10.00am – 3.00pm
Sunday: 10.00am – 3.00pm
Access
Entry via the Main Gate, Limerick Docks
Walk‑up, free‑access event
No booking required (capacity subject to demand)
Previous visits by Irish naval vessels to Limerick Docklands for Riverfest have proven extremely popular, attracting large crowds and becoming standout moments of the festival. Visitors are advised to arrive early as capacity may be limited at busy times.
Get Ready for a Packed Festival Weekend
With Riverfest Limerick 2026 already set to draw large crowds into the city centre, organisers are advising the public to plan their visit, allow time for queuing, and follow stewarding instructions on the day.
The festival runs throughout the May Bank Holiday weekend, turning Limerick city into a massive outdoor playground with a range of activities across the 4 days, including Fashionfest, on-street entertainment, creative activities, fun on the river, The Regeneron Great Limerick Run, vibrant nights out and the spectacular Riverfest Fireworks display.
Riverfest Limerick 2026 is brought to you by Limerick City and County Council and produced by Grooveyard.
Riverfest Limerick 2026 Festival Friends are: Re-Turn | Mr Binman and Citylink.
Media Partners are | Live 95 | Limerick Leader | Limerick Post | Spin Southwest
For full details of all events and times visit Limerick.ie/Riverfest
Stay up to date on Riverfest Limerick 2026 social media: Facebook | Instagram | X | TikTok
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