The Urban Beach at Steamboat Quay is already welcoming sunseekers as the countdown continues to the official start of Limerick’s Summer in the City, with an exciting programme of events, attractions and activities getting underway from Saturday, 1 August.
Limerick City and County Council is encouraging residents and visitors to start planning their August and make the most of a programme that will transform streets, quaysides and public spaces into places to gather, play, relax and enjoy.
Funded by the 2026 Mayoral Fund, Summer in the City features a diverse mix of culture, sport, community events, family activities, wellness experiences and outdoor dining, with many events free of charge and open to all ages.
The month-long programme begins this weekend with the The Obstacle Course Racing World Championships bringing competitors from around the globe to the heart of Limerick at the Crescent, O’Connell Avenue, while visitors can also enjoy the Urban Beach at Steamboat Quay, creating a unique summer destination in the city centre for the month.
Across August, highlights include the TAFISA European Sports for All Games at various city centre locations, the All-Ireland Skateboarding Championships at Mount Kennett Skate Park, dining at the Long Table at The Crescent, and a host of family-friendly performances, street entertainment and community events.
Summer in the City forms part of a wider effort to showcase how public spaces can be used in new ways, creating opportunities for people to spend more time in the city centre while supporting local businesses, hospitality venues and cultural attractions.
A Gift for Limerick’s Economy
The Summer in the City programme has been designed to boost footfall, bring added vibrancy to the city centre, and support local businesses throughout August.
As an added economic boost, the TAFISA European Sport for All Games has purchased €30,000 in Limerick Gift Cards for athletes and delegates attending the international event.
The gift cards will be spent with participating businesses across Limerick - including, bars, restaurants, retailers, beauty salons, stays and experiences - delivering a direct financial benefit to local traders while complementing the increased visitor numbers the event will bring to the city.
Temporary Road Closures
To facilitate Summer in the City activities, a number of temporary road closures and traffic management measures will be in place at various locations throughout August.
Motorists are advised to plan journeys in advance and allow additional travel time when visiting the city centre. Signage and local diversions will be in place where required.
Among the areas affected will be sections of:
- O'Connell Avenue and The Crescent
- Lower Cecil Street
- Mallow Street
- Hartstonge Street
- Barrington Street
- Pery Square and surrounding streets
Details of all road closures, dates and diversion routes are available at Limerick.ie.
While some temporary changes will be in place for motorists, visitors are encouraged to take the opportunity to experience the city centre in a different way, whether attending an event, enjoying outdoor spaces, supporting local businesses or simply spending time with family and friends.
From beach days on the quayside and world-class sporting events to live performances, street animation and unique dining experiences, Summer in the City offers something for every age group throughout August.
The full programme, event listings and updates are available at Limerick.ie/Summer with further additions to come.
