Every September, Dublin becomes a playground for theatre lovers, thanks to the Dublin Fringe Festival.
Unlike mainstream theatre events, Fringe celebrates experimentation, boundary-pushing pieces, and fresh voices. From pop-up performances on Dublin Bus to unexpected shows at the Irish Museum of Modern Art, it’s where innovation meets the city’s heartbeat.
Think short plays, dance, music, drag, and visual art, all in intimate venues and quirky public spaces.
How Fringe Evolved Into a Creative Powerhouse
Launched in the mid-1990s by Dublin City Council and arts advocates, the Festival aimed to give emerging and risk-taking artists a platform.
It’s grown alongside the Irish Theatre Institute and the Irish Times, which now spotlight standout productions. Once a small fringe event, it’s now the second-largest festival of its kind globally, with artists from Ireland and abroad applying through Fringe Lab or open calls.
That means audiences can expect a mix of theatre, performance art, and visual creativity steeped in Irish storytelling and history.
What to See and Do at Fringe
Noteworthy Performances
Keep an eye out for shows from the Irish Theatre Institute and experimental troupes working in collaboration with IMMA.
Whether you’re into dance, epic monologues, music-driven storytelling or immersive happenings, there’s something for you.
Unique Venues
You’ll find shows in surprising places, Fringe Lab venues, public parks, or basement theatres.
Some take the stage on Dublin’s buses, while others appear in art galleries. Each space offers its own ambience, making the experience richer.
Workshops and Community Outreach
Fringe runs interactive workshops on writing, performing, and creating. They’re often led by those same experimental artists, giving you a chance to connect with the process.
For students and emerging artists, these outreach sessions can lead to deeper involvement and future Fringe applications.
How to Plan Your Visit
Tickets and Tickets
Fringe offer day passes, individual tickets, and late‑ticket options. Prices range from free to €20–€25 per show. You’ll find tickets online at the official Fringe website and at box offices near venues across Dublin’s city centre.
Travel and Stays
Dublin’s public transport connects all Fringe hotspots. The Luas and Dublin Bus will drop you close to venues, including pop‑ups at cultural hubs like IMMA or the Project Arts Centre.
The Arthaus is just a 2 minute walk from the Stephen’s Green luas stop.
If you’re not local, consider staying at the Arthaus for easy walking access to venues, plus pubs and restaurants for post-show debriefs.
Accessibility
The Festival team works closely with venues to ensure wheelchair access and support services.
Audio-described dramas and relaxed performances are also on offer, check the program for details.
Stay at the Arthaus Hotel
Take the stress out of travelling and stay just seconds from Dublin’s most well-known bars & restaurants and city attractions. Enjoy a luxurious overnight stay in one of our boutique rooms in the heart of Dublin. Inspired by the best of the Bauhaus Art Movement our stylish and creative rooms are the perfect touch of luxury to begin your Dublin journey.
Stay two nights at the Arthaus Hotel and get 10% off per night.
The Wrap Up
The Dublin Fringe Festival is where theatre meets the unexpected. For Arthaus visitors who love cutting-edge performance, it’s a natural next stop.
Besides unforgettable shows, you can meet artists, take part in workshops, and enjoy Dublin’s cultural pulse during the vibrant autumn season.
Bookmark the official website, follow Fringe on socials, and get ready to step inside something fresh.