Along with unbearably humid days, early August means a couple of things:  we’ll start seeing back to school items in stores, the Fair will start winding down and tents covering a park in Dublin mean the Dublin Irish Festival is here again.  This year the DIF is in its 23rd year and is bigger than ever.   Being in Dublin, the event is very family-friendly (including a diaper changing tent).  Children under 12 don’t have an admission fee and also have their own special  Wee Folk Area featuring plenty of free crafts and special entertainment (we are looking forward to some of the fun Celtic storytelling).  There are also various inflatables and carnival-like attractions for an added fee.  Other activities the kids might enjoy are petting the Irish dogs, learning some step-dancing skills, watching sheep be herded, and stepping back in time at Brian Boru’s Ireland.

If you go:

• Don’t try to park close to the actual grounds.  Take advantage of the shuttle system by parking at Metro Place.  The Festival covers many acres and your feet will thank you by the end of the day.
• I suggest you don’t take young children into the larger music tents, especially at night (they get really loud and crowded).  In fact, you might want to take advantage of re-entry stamps.  Take the kids on Saturday morning, get a babysitter, and return that night for Irish adult beverages and Celtic rock.
• Take advantage of the wealth of program information provided and plan your day before you go so you don’t miss a jig or a reel.