Dublin, Ireland | 6 November 2026
Dublin Gallery Weekend 2026 brings together 140 artists, 20 galleries and 70 events, transforming the Irish capital into a vibrant celebration of contemporary art, creativity and cultural discovery from 5 to 8 November.
DUBLIN, IRELAND — Ireland’s capital is embracing a vibrant celebration of contemporary creativity as Dublin Gallery Weekend 2026 brings artists, galleries, cultural institutions and art enthusiasts together for four days of exhibitions, performances and public events.
Running from 5 to 8 November, the annual cultural event offers an opportunity to explore Ireland’s evolving contemporary art scene through an extensive programme featuring 140 artists, 70 events and 20 participating galleries across Dublin.
Presented by the Contemporary Art Gallery Association (CAGA) and produced by creative company SoSimpatico, the festival aims to make contemporary art more accessible while strengthening Dublin’s reputation as an important European cultural destination.
Visitors can explore a diverse range of exhibitions, artist conversations, film screenings, creative workshops, performances, book fairs and guided gallery tours. The programme brings together established artists and emerging creative voices, offering audiences different perspectives on contemporary Irish and international art.
Among the exhibition highlights are Elizabeth Magill’s Northern Sky at Kerlin Gallery, Sonia Shiel’s The Nature of Tables at Kevin Kavanagh, and John Kindness’s Mythologies at The Molesworth Gallery. Major cultural institutions, including the National Gallery of Ireland, the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) and the Royal Hibernian Academy, are also participating.
Film and multimedia art feature prominently this year. A dedicated three-day programme at Light House Cinema, curated by AEMI, showcases experimental films by Irish and international artists, expanding the festival beyond traditional gallery spaces.
For visitors who prefer to explore independently, four self-guided walking trails connect galleries and cultural venues across different parts of the city. These routes provide an opportunity to discover Dublin’s artistic neighbourhoods at a relaxed pace while experiencing the city’s architecture and cultural atmosphere.
Accessibility remains a central feature of the event, with most activities free to attend. Family-friendly workshops, artist demonstrations and quieter gallery experiences also make the programme welcoming to people with different interests and levels of familiarity with contemporary art.
A significant development in the 2026 edition is the introduction of the Francis Bacon Awards for Irish Visual Arts, supported by Château La Coste. The awards include a €25,000 Lifetime Achievement Award and a €15,000 Mid-Career Artist Award, recognising outstanding contributions to visual art by Irish artists and artists living in Ireland. Award recipients are also offered opportunities to present solo exhibitions at Château La Coste in France.
Beyond its artistic programme, Dublin Gallery Weekend highlights the importance of galleries as spaces for cultural exchange, public engagement and support for creative professionals. Its growing partnerships and international connections reflect a wider ambition to strengthen Ireland’s contemporary art sector.
As the celebrations continue through Sunday, 8 November, Dublin invites residents and international visitors alike to experience the city through the eyes of its artists. From established galleries to experimental film and interactive workshops, the weekend offers a fresh perspective on the creative energy shaping Ireland’s cultural capital.
With its combination of accessible events, diverse artistic voices and citywide cultural experiences, Dublin Gallery Weekend 2026 is positioning contemporary art as something to experience, discuss and enjoy beyond the walls of traditional museums.
