From riverside celebrations and high‑energy performances to family favourites and standout sporting moments, Riverfest Limerick 2026 is packed with unforgettable experiences.
Taking place from 1st - 4th May, this year’s programme brings together music, culture, fashion, wellness and on-water adventure, all set against the backdrop of the iconic River Shannon.
To help you plan your weekend, here are 10 events you simply won’t want to miss!
1. Riverfestival Village
Arthur's Quay Park will host an array of delicious artisan food and fabulous crafts from May 1st - 4th. Expect food stalls, crafts, roaming entertainment and music pop-ups throughout the day. It’s the perfect way to spend a long weekend by the river with family and friends
2. Riverfest Fashionfest
Join Ireland’s queen of style, Celia Holman Lee for a glamorous evening of fashion and flair where style takes centre stage in the stunning surroundings of Gardens International on May 1st. Kicking off with a drinks reception from 6pm, the evening builds to a spectacular runway show at 7pm, showcasing bold collections, emerging talent and standout looks.
3. Fidget Feet at Riverfest
Fidget Feet will 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.
4. Riverfest Limerick Music Trail
Book your tickets for the very first Riverfest Music Trail and join the guided journey through city streets and venues on May 1st from 4pm - 11pm! Expect live performances at each stop along the way, featuring a diverse mix of local, national and international artists across multiple genres - A unique way to explore the city, its river and vibrant music scene.
5. Riverfest on the Shannon
The River Shannon will come to life from 1st - 3rd May with a full weekend of activity on and around the water. From guided kayaking, paddleboarding and boat tours with Nevsail to open‑water swimming and rowing parades, Dragonboat displays and competitive races, there’s plently happening on the Shannon 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.
6. 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 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.
7. 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 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!
8. Riverfest Street Party
The Riverfest Street Party moves to George’s Quay, outside the iconic Locke Bar, bringing the celebrations right to the river’s edge on 2nd and 3rd of May. 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.
9. Red Bull – Dance Your Own Style Competition
On Sunday 3rd May at 1pm, Limerick's Milk Market will host the Limerick qualifier of Red Bull Dance Your Own Style! Sixteen street dancers will 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.
10. 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 on Saturday 2nd May. 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.
Make sure you don't miss a minute of the fun this May Bank Holiday weekend! Visit limerick.ie/riverfest for the full list of events and activities taking place from May 1st - 4th.
