A Guide to the Temple Bar TradFest 2025

It’s no secret that Dublin is steeped in culture, history and music, and there’s no better time to experience the city than during the Temple Bar TradFest 2025. Celebrating its 20th year in 2025, TradFest has become Ireland’s number one traditional and folk music festival, bringing the top talent and global audiences every year to Dublin to celebrate Irish trad music.

This January, TradFest will bring the streets of Dublin alive with the sounds of fiddles, flutes, and bodhráns, as venues all over the city host incredible performances from trad music legends and up-and-coming artists. We’re proud to be a part of this iconic event through the Smithwick’s Sessions: free, un-ticketed trad and folk concerts taking place in The Temple Bar Pub every day during TradFest 2025.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about TradFest 2025, from festival highlights to must-visit venues like The Temple Bar Pub. So grab a pint, pull up a chair, and get ready to dive into one of Ireland’s favourite cultural celebrations.

What is TradFest?

The Temple Bar TradFest is a celebration of Irish culture, identity, and artistry. Founded in 2005, the festival has grown into one of the best loved events on Dublin’s cultural calendar. What started 20 years ago as a small gathering of trad enthusiasts has now become a major international event, shining a spotlight on the best of Irish music while reimagining its traditions for a global audience.

At its heart, TradFest gives a stage to a mix of both established music icons and fresh new talent, offering something for every music lover. From intimate acoustic performances to energetic live gigs, TradFest invites audiences to experience the full range of Irish musical expression.

The Temple Bar TradFest will take place from 22 – 26 January 2025, with performances hosted across some of Dublin’s most atmospheric venues, think ancient cathedrals, historic halls, and lively pubs, promising an unforgettable experience for all who attend. Whether you’re a devoted fan of Irish trad or exploring it for the first time, TradFest really captures the soul of Irish music and culture.

TradFest’s 20th anniversary promises an unforgettable lineup of music and events. Daily live music sessions, including the Smithwick’s Sessions at The Temple Bar Pub, will keep the heart of the festival beating throughout Temple Bar.

The Smithwick’s Sessions at The Temple Bar Pub

One of the things that sets TradFest apart is its use of unique, historic venues to host performances. From grand cathedrals to intimate pubs, each location adds its own charm to the festival’s atmosphere. The 2025 edition promises an extra special lineup. Expect standout performances from legendary artists who have shaped the Irish music landscape, like Paddy Casey, as well as performances from the next generation of talent. 

Since 2012, The Temple Bar Pub has proudly hosted the Smithwick’s Sessions. Sponsored by Diageo Ireland, these curated trad and folk concerts feature some of the best talent from across Ireland, ranging from legendary musicians to rising stars.

What makes these sessions so special? They’re entirely free and un-ticketed, creating the perfect atmosphere for everyone to enjoy live trad and folk music. The Smithwick’s Sessions have become a staple of TradFest, offering over 50 live performances across 12 venues in the Temple Bar area, including The Temple Bar Pub itself!

With cosy interiors, a lively crowd, and great food and drinks, our pub is the perfect place to soak in the spirit of TradFest. But be sure to arrive early, these daily sessions fill up quickly!

Other key venues hosting ticketed events during TradFest 2025 include Dublin City Hall, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Smock Alley Theatre, one of Dublin’s oldest and most beloved cultural spaces. Smaller venues like The Temple Bar Pub and other cosy spots throughout the area bring the music up close and personal with un-ticketed daily events.

Over the course of TradFest, the festival events often spill into public spaces, with pop-up performances and street musicians bringing the festival to life for everyone in the city. Exploring Temple Bar during TradFest is the perfect way to discover music in unexpected places and feel the city’s vibrant energy at every turn.

Tips for Experiencing TradFest Like a Local

To make the most of your TradFest experience, follow these tips:

• Arrive Early: For free, un-ticketed events like the Smithwick’s Sessions, getting there early is key to securing a good spot.
• Explore Both Big and Small Venues: While the grand stages are impressive, don’t miss the charm of smaller pubs and intimate gigs, like the Smithwick’s Sessions at The Temple Bar Pub, where you can connect with the performers and fellow music lovers.
• Plan Your Route: With venues spread across Dublin, it’s helpful to plan your schedule and map out your walking route between performances.
• Have the Craic: TradFest is about more than just music, it’s really a celebration of Irish identity, culture and history. Enjoy your time at TradFest, engage with the musicians, sing along when invited, and most of all – have the craic! 

Why is TradFest Important?

TradFest is an important part of preserving and evolving Irish culture. Over its 20 years, The Temple Bar Trad Fest has become a global platform for showcasing traditional Irish music while introducing modern and innovative interpretations.

For emerging artists, TradFest 2025 offers a stage to gain recognition and connect with audiences who share a passion for Irish music. Many performers who started at TradFest have gone on to international success, proving the festival’s importance as a launchpad for talent.

It’s not just about the music, though. TradFest brings together locals and visitors to celebrate shared heritage.

Here at The Temple Bar Pub, we’re proud to play a role in this incredible festival. Join us for the Smithwick’s Sessions, a pint of Guinness, and the kind of atmosphere you’ll only find in Dublin.