2025 Sporting Events on the Island of Ireland

Are you keen to experience the excitement of Irish sports in 2025? Ireland is home to some of the most thrilling events in the world, with plenty of opportunities to cheer, compete, and enjoy unforgettable moments. From rugby to horse racing, golf to marathon running, there’s something for every sports fan. Check out our guide to the must-see sporting events of 2025.

All-Ireland Senior Hurling and Football Championships

One of Ireland’s most iconic sporting traditions, the GAA’s (Gaelic Athletic Association) All-Ireland Championships feature some of the nation’s top amateur athletes in action. 

The 2025 National League kicks off in January, followed by the Championship season in April. The provincial series begins the action, leading up to the All-Ireland series which concludes in July. Visit GAA.ie for more details and to purchase tickets.

Dublin Horse Show – 6th to 10th August

Equestrian enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Dublin Horse Show at the Royal Dublin Society (RDS). This internationally recognized event promises world-class show jumping and other exciting competitions. 

The 2025 show will take place from the 6th to the 10th of August. For more information, head over to the Dublin Horse Show website.

Irish Open Golf Championship – 4th to 7th September

The 2025 Irish Open Golf Championship returns to the K Club in Kildare, one of Ireland’s most prestigious courses. Golf fans will remember Shane Lowry’s unforgettable victory as an amateur at this venue in 2009.

The event will run from the 4th to the 7th of September, bringing world-class talent to Ireland’s golfing scene. Learn more about the tournament on the European Tour website.

Dublin Marathon – 26th October

The Dublin Marathon is one of Ireland’s most celebrated running events, offering participants an exhilarating experience as they race through the streets of Dublin. The 2025 marathon takes place on October 26th. 

Whether you’re running or cheering from the sidelines, it’s an event you won’t forget. Visit the Dublin Marathon website for more details.

Six Nations Rugby Championship – January to March

Fresh off back-to-back wins in 2023 and 2024, Ireland will be hoping to secure a historic three-peat in the 2025 Six Nations Rugby Championship. The action kicks off in late January and continues through March, with Ireland’s home games at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin scheduled for February 1st against England and March 8th against France. 

Don’t miss the chance to be part of the action and see the champions in action. For more, visit the Six Nations website.

Galway Races – 28th July to 3rd August

Ireland’s horse racing festivals are some of the best in the world, and the Galway Races is one of the standout events of the year. The 2025 festival will take place from the 28th of July to the 3rd of August, attracting crowds of over 100,000 people. 

It’s an event filled with excitement, fashion, and unforgettable memories. Learn more at the Galway Races festival website.

Irish National Ploughing Championships – 16th to 18th September

The Irish National Ploughing Championships offers a unique glimpse into Ireland’s agricultural heritage. Taking place in Screggan, Tullamore, Co. Offaly from the 16th to the 18th of September, this event highlights the skill of ploughmen and women from across the country. 

If you’re interested in Ireland’s rural traditions, this is the event for you. Visit the National Ploughing Association website for more.

Aer Lingus College Football Classic – 23rd and 28th August

The Aer Lingus College Football Classic brings thrilling American football action to Ireland. In 2025, Aviva Stadium will host two exciting games: on the 23rd of August, K-State will take on Iowa State, and on the 28th of August, Pittsburgh faces off against Wisconsin. 

Don’t miss your chance to witness these exciting matchups on Irish soil. More information is available on the College Football Ireland website.

So, what sporting events are you most excited to attend in Ireland in 2025? Whatever sport you’re a fan of, there’s no shortage of incredible events to experience throughout the year!

Hi,

Please allow me to mention another significant sporting event due to take place this summer:

The 153rd Open - 13th to 20th July

Royal Portrush Golf Club will host The 153rd Open Championship this summer over its scenic Dunluce Links which is recognised as one of the top 10 golf courses in the world. https://www.theopen.com/royal-portrush-153rd-open    

The 148th Open back in 2019, won by Irishman Shane Lowry, was a huge success and attracted visitors from all over Ireland and the world.  We are full of anticipation and enthusiasm for this year’s Open too.

Come for the golf and also take time to explore the Causeway Coast with its world famous Giant’s Causeway. You will be most welcome!

Kind regards,
Mary

What an exciting lineup of sporting events! 😍

Here are a few extra tips to enhance your experience while attending these incredible events:

Make it a weekend adventure
Many of these events are held in wonderful locations, so why not turn your visit into a mini getaway? For example:

• The Open at Royal Portrush: Pair your trip with a visit to the Giant’s Causeway or a coastal hike along the Causeway Coast.
• The Galway Races: Spend a day exploring Galway City’s arts and food scene before hitting the track.
• Irish Open Golf Championship at the K Club: Visit the nearby Wicklow Mountains for a scenic retreat after enjoying world-class golf.

Explore lesser-known events
While the big-ticket events are amazing, don’t overlook unique experiences like the National Ploughing Championships or local club GAA matches. These events offer an authentic slice of Irish life and are great for families.

Travel green
Many venues, like Croke Park and the Aviva Stadium, are easily accessible by public transport. Opting for buses or trains not only simplifies your travel but also reduces your carbon footprint.

What event are you most excited about?
Or perhaps you've attended one of these before - feel free to share your experiences or any tips for future attendees! ☘️

Such a great collection of events! Thanks, everyone, for putting this together. 🙌

• Belfast City Marathon (4th May) - If you can’t wait until October for the Dublin Marathon, why not get ‘warmed up’ with the Belfast Marathon? The route will take you through all parts of the city and the local crowds are known to be extremely supportive. 
  
  
• Wicklow 200 (8th June) - If you’re more into cycling than running then this is your event to join. This intense cycling challenge attracts international athletes and features a stunning 200km route across the Wicklow Mountains. 
  
  
• The Wall Adventure Duathlon (26th April) - Now we’re getting a bit more extreme here, but if you’re up for the challenge, this unique race starts with a 3km trail run, followed by a 44km open road cycle, and to be finished with another 10km leg of running. 
  
  
• Waterville Trail Running Festival (3rd & 4th May) - Last, but definitely not least is the Waterville Trail Running Festival, which not only offers races at different lengths (there’s even a kid’s friendly race) but also hosts a themed Film Festival to round off your day!

Now if that’s not a motivation to get your running (or cycling) shoes on and start training… 👟