Kid-friendly picks that turn a Festival day into a full-on family adventure
Grab your crew and head to Dublin, Ohio! The Dublin Irish Festival returns July 31 through Aug. 2, and it’s packed with kid-approved fun from start to finish. With kids under 11 admitted free, you can load up your weekend with music, play, crafts and up-close encounters, all with plenty of value for the whole family.
Start with Pep in Your Step
Ready, set, go! While the grown-ups tackle the Dublin Irish Festival 5K sponsored by IGS Energy on July 30 (before the Festival kicks off), kids can jump into the action with a 1/4 mile Kids Dash race. There are two age groups, 5 and under and 6 and over. Sign up early, spots will go fast.
Pot O’ Gold Playland
Got wiggles to burn? Pot O’ Gold Playland is the ultimate run-jump-climb zone for kids ages 2–11. A Pot O’ Gold Playland ticket includes one day of unlimited play with more than 15 inflatables and activities, so they can go all-out while you soak in the Festival. Once onsite, online tickets are scanned and exchanged for wristbands at the Playland entrance.
Wee Folk Area
Even at the world’s largest three-day Irish Festival, the Wee Folk Area, sponsored by Wendy’s, is a must-stop made just for the littlest festivalgoers. Swing by the Wee Folk Stage for free family fun, including music, storytelling and dance instruction that will have everyone moving. Check the schedule on the Dublin Irish Festival app. Then slow it down at the Wee Folk Craft tent.
| Celtic Canines Calling all animal lovers! The Celtic Canine area allows kids to meet Irish dog breeds up close. Learn from some of the Midwest’s top breeders about the history of Irish dogs. Wee Folk Vendors Don’t leave without a little Festival treasure. Near the Wee Folk Stage, browse kid-friendly finds from our vendors: doll clothes, halos, children’s shields, books and more. Then head to the Temple Bar Marketplace for face painting and temporary tattoos to top off the look. |  |
Take-a-Break Space
Located by the East Entrance, this indoor, air-conditioned calming space is available for everyone’s use and includes sensory activities and equipment.
Pro tip: Purchase a family pack! Sold online only, the family package includes two one-day admission tickets and two Pot O’ Gold wristbands. Kids 11 and under are free and do not require a ticket.
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