Diverse festivals in Skerries stimulate the senses for fans of music, song, dance, drama and sport. From exhilarating motorbike and cycling road races to family-friendly festivals that entertain and educate, the culture of the town, region and nation come alive in the streets of Skerries. Many of the town’s festivals are spread throughout the seaside town, not bound by a single fairground, festival site, or venue.
Many of Skerries’ most stunning and historic sites of Skerries play host to the town’s festivals, including the Methodist Church, Holmpatrick Church and the Skerries Milles. From historic buildings to small local pubs, the entire town plays a role in organizing its festivals. Many festivals are grassroots affairs, with local volunteer and community groups playing a leading role in hosting events and activities. From street parties to fun cycling rides for all ages, events have a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. Whether enjoying a candlelit classical music recital in an opulent church or moving to the sounds of alternative rock music at an open-air concert with views of the sea, there is something special about being a festivalgoer in Skerries.
With festivals organized throughout the year, some of the best and most famous festivals in Skerries occur between May and September. The festival season comes into full gear with the thrilling finish of The Rás, a competitive cycling tour of Ireland. Following the street parties held to celebrate the end of the gruelling end to the race, another race rushes through Skerries in July. The Skerries 100 is one of the premier motorbike competitions in the country, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year. For those who appreciate music and dance, Skerries has a rich schedule of cultural festivals. The Skerries Traditional Music Festival in May brings the rhythms, steps and sounds of Irish and Celtic music and dance to local pubs and venues across Skerries. In September, the Soundwaves Festival consumes the town over three weekends with a mix of music, film, art, and family fun.