Donabate Portrane Summer Festival, a community-driven event in North County Dublin, will take place from 8 to 10 August 2025, bringing together the villages of Donabate and Portrane for a weekend of family-friendly activities and entertainment. Held primarily on Portrane Green, the festival celebrates the area’s vibrant community spirit and coastal charm, offering a diverse programme that appeals to locals and visitors alike.
With events ranging from live music to children’s activities, the festival provides an opportunity to experience the cultural and natural heritage of this scenic peninsula, located near Dublin Airport and the Rogerstown Estuary.
The 2025 programme includes a mix of entertainment and community-focused events. Visitors can expect live music on the main stage, sponsored by Glenveagh Homes, featuring local artists and bands performing a range of genres from indie to pop classics.
Previous years have included acts like All Things Eve and the L&R School of Dance, suggesting a similar line-up for 2025. Family activities are a cornerstone of the festival, with a mobile farm, bouncy castles, face painting, and magic shows designed to engage children. A circus show and vintage carousel add a carnival atmosphere, while food stalls offer local treats and ice cream. The festival also hosts workshops, such as arts and crafts or environmental sessions, encouraging creativity and exploration of the area’s coastal environment.
A highlight is the Sunday festival service at St Patrick’s Church of Ireland, reflecting the community’s strong sense of togetherness. Specific details, including the full music line-up and any themed events, will be available closer to the date via the festival’s Facebook page or Fingal County Council’s events portal.
Visitors can anticipate a welcoming environment on Portrane Green, with free entry to most events, making it accessible for families and groups. The festival’s location, near the scenic Burrow Beach and historic sites like the Balcarrick Martello Tower, offers opportunities to explore the area’s natural beauty and heritage. Attendees are advised to check weather updates, as outdoor events may be adjusted, and to arrive early for popular activities like the children’s party, which in past years has featured sensory-friendly sessions for children with disabilities. The festival’s proximity to Donabate train station ensures easy access, with a 1.
7km walk to Portrane Green, and nearby amenities like Smith’s Pub provide additional dining options.
The Donabate Portrane Summer Festival began in the late 1990s, initiated by a group of local residents and community organisations, including St Patrick’s GAA Club and local businesses like Grogan’s Supermarket, to foster community spirit and celebrate the peninsula’s identity. While specific founders are not named in available records, the festival was established through collaborative efforts, with early support from Fingal County Council and local sponsors.
By 2003, Donabate Portrane Summer Festival Limited was formed to formalise its organisation, though it dissolved in 2010, with the festival continuing under community volunteer committees. The organising committee, supported by volunteers and sponsors like Tesco Ireland and SuperValu Donabate, remains dedicated to delivering a high-quality event. The festival has grown over the years, with 2024 attracting over 15,000 attendees to the music stage alone, reflecting its importance as a cultural and social event in North County Dublin.
The festival’s history is intertwined with the area’s heritage, from its roots as a fishing and farming community to its modern role as a growing residential area. Past events have included fun runs, fancy dress competitions, and tribute band performances, such as U2’s Rattle and Hum, showcasing a commitment to diverse entertainment.
The festival also supports local talent, with initiatives like the school art competition for the programme cover, won in 2019 by Charlie McGarry of St Patrick’s Boys National School. Visitors can explore nearby historical sites, such as St Ita’s Church or Lanistown Castle, to complement their festival experience. With its blend of tradition and community engagement, the Donabate Portrane Summer Festival continues to be a cherished event, uniting residents and showcasing the peninsula’s unique character.
