What to expect
The annual festival brings together local restaurants, food producers and visitors for a weekend centred on Irish seafood.
Food is naturally the main attraction. Previous festival menus have included lobster rolls, mussels, crab claws, oysters, seafood chowder, paella and fish and chips, alongside other dishes prepared by participating restaurants and food stalls.
And despite the name, you certainly do not have to eat lobster to enjoy the weekend.
More than seafood
Dalkey Lobster Festival takes over the village rather than being confined to a single venue. Alongside the food stalls, visitors can expect live music, street entertainment and artisan exhibits, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the centre of Dalkey.
The festival also includes activities for families, making it an easy option for a summer day out rather than an event aimed only at dedicated seafood enthusiasts.
A good excuse to visit Dalkey
The location is part of the appeal. Dalkey is a coastal village south of Dublin city, known for its restaurants, pubs, historic streets and proximity to the sea.
That makes the festival easy to combine with lunch, drinks or a longer walk around the area once you have explored the stalls.
Dalkey Lobster Festival 2026: practical information
Dates: 22–23 August 2026
Location: Dalkey, Co. Dublin, Ireland
Admission: Free
Getting there: Dalkey is served by DART and Dublin Bus. Public transport is recommended as parking in the village is limited, particularly during the festival.
The detailed 2026 programme may be updated closer to the event, so visitors should check the official festival website before travelling.
Official website: Dalkey Lobster Festival
