What to eat in Dublin in August: Seasonal delicacies
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Boxty at Gallagher’s Boxty House
Boxty is a traditional Irish potato pancake made with grated and mashed potato, fried or wrapped around fillings like Guinness beef stew. It is naturally filling and can be adapted with vegetarian fillings. Gallagher’s Boxty House in Temple Bar specialises in different styles and offers gluten-free options clearly marked on the menu.
A full Irish breakfast typically includes bacon, sausages, fried eggs, tomato, beans and slices of black and white pudding. It is a morning meal rather than an all-day dish and suits omnivores; veggie versions swap in meat-free items. Bewley’s Café on Grafton Street serves a classic plate in historic surroundings, usually until late morning.
A modern Dublin favourite, the spice bag is a carton of crispy fried chicken pieces, chips, peppers and onions tossed in a chilli spice mix, sold in many Chinese takeaways. It is popular as a shared late-night snack, not suited to vegetarians or gluten-free diets. Look for busy takeaways around the city centre after pub closing.
Dublin’s plant-based scene includes dishes like seitan “steaks”, vegetable stews and dairy-free desserts. Sova Vegan Butcher on Camden Street serves a fully vegan menu using Irish produce, useful for travellers avoiding animal products. It is popular in the evenings; booking is sensible on weekends.
August continues the summer buzz, with mild temperatures and a mix of sun and rain. Festivals like the Dublin Horse Show and Big Grill BBQ Festival attract extra visitors. It’s one of the wetter months, so don’t be surprised by showers. Museums often extend hours, and the city remains lively with European tourists.
Pro tips for visiting Dublin in August
Major events attract crowds—book tickets and accommodation early.
Rain is frequent; pack waterproof gear for outdoor plans.
Museums and attractions may have extended summer hours.
Public transport is busy, especially during festivals.
Hotel prices remain high; look for deals on weekdays.
Outdoor dining and food festivals are highlights—sample local specialties.
Plan indoor activities as backup for rainy spells.
Dublin in August at a glance
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Weather
Maximum temperature: 18°C
Minimum temperature: 13°C
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Daylight
Around 14 hours 45 minutes of daylight
Sunrise: 6am
Sunset: 8:45pm
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Key events
Dublin Horse Show, Big Grill BBQ Festival, All-Ireland Hurling Final, Rock 'n' Roll Dublin Half Marathon
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Crowds
Tourist-heavy, with long queues at attractions, crowded streets, and seasonal events adding to the buzz.
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What to pack
Rain jacket, light layers, waterproof shoes, event tickets, sunglasses, hat.
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Seasonal treats
BBQ at Herbert Park, oysters at Temple Bar Food Market, Irish craft beer at local pubs
Prestigious equestrian show at the RDS with international showjumping, dressage, family attractions and a large shopping village. Ladies’ Day adds a fashion element. It attracts big crowds and many stay in Dublin, so expect demand for hotels in Ballsbridge and higher summer prices.
Herbert Park becomes a smoke-filled barbecue ground with pitmasters, craft beer, live music and even hot-wing challenges. Meat lovers and food-curious travellers flock here; there are also vegetarian options. Sessions require tickets, and evenings are busier, so consider daytime visits for shorter queues.
One-day cultural festival in the Chester Beatty courtyard inspired by its Asian and Middle Eastern collections. It features storytelling, music, calligraphy and craft workshops. Entry is free and it suits families and culture-focused visitors; arrive early to secure seats for performances.
The hurling championship decider at Croke Park is one of Ireland’s biggest sporting days. Tickets are extremely hard to obtain, but the atmosphere in Dublin is electric. If you cannot attend, watching in a pub is common; arrive early to secure seating and expect packed streets around the stadium.
Music-themed half marathon starting in the Docklands and finishing in Phoenix Park, with bands playing along the route. Runners and spectators enjoy a festival-like finish area. Road closures affect central streets on race morning, so plan sightseeing around the route and start time.
Gaelic football’s showpiece final at Croke Park, often compared to Ireland’s Super Bowl. Tickets are scarce and city pubs show the match live. Even non-fans notice the colour and noise; expect busier trains, traffic restrictions and post-match celebrations or commiserations.
Plan ahead: must-visit experiences for Dublin in August
