Only three days to go to Irish Derby weekend in Kildare
World‑class racing with live music, fashion, great food and a vibrant, family‑friendly atmosphere
The Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival returns to The Curragh this weekend from Friday 26th June to Sunday, 28th June 2026, bringing three unmissable days of speed, style and summer celebration to Kildare.
One of Ireland’s standout seasonal events, the festival blends world‑class racing with live music, fashion, great food and a vibrant, family‑friendly atmosphere.
Across the weekend, racegoers can enjoy competitive cards on Friday and Saturday before the spotlight turns to Ireland’s most prestigious Flat race, the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby, on Sunday.
Off the track, the festival comes alive with entertainment zones, family activities and headline performances from The Whistlin’ Donkeys on Friday and The Tumbling Paddies on Sunday following racing.
This year also sees the launch of the Irish Derby Weekend Ticket, offering exceptional value at just €70 for all three days of racing and live entertainment.
To make travel easy and sustainable, a complimentary shuttle bus will run throughout the weekend from Naas, Kildare and Newbridge towns and train stations, ensuring seamless access to and from the racecourse.
Tickets, hospitality and full festival details including bus times are available at curragh.ie, with early booking strongly advised.