January is one of the most atmospheric times to visit Dublin. The city settles into a calmer pace after the festive season, yet bursts into life with music, culture and creativity as Dublin TradFest takes over venues across the capital. Taking place this January (Wednesday 21st- Sunday 25th), Dublin TradFest is Ireland’s largest celebration of traditional and folk music, welcoming visitors from across Ireland and beyond. The festival offers a unique opportunity to experience Irish culture through live performances in some of Dublin’s most iconic settings.
What Is Dublin TradFest?
Dublin TradFest is a multi day festival dedicated to traditional Irish music, folk performances and contemporary interpretations of classic sounds. Events take place throughout Temple Bar, the city centre, Fingal and South Dublin, making it a truly city wide celebration.
The programme includes headline concerts, free live sessions, workshops and family friendly events. Performances are hosted in historic venues such as St Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle, as well as more intimate pub settings that allow visitors to experience traditional music up close.
One of the most popular elements of the festival is the Smithwick’s Sessions, which feature free performances by leading Irish musicians in Temple Bar pubs throughout the weekend.
Highlights to Look Forward to
Each year the festival showcases a diverse mix of established artists and emerging talent. Visitors can enjoy powerful traditional performances alongside innovative collaborations that push the genre in exciting new directions.
An Sesh Mór is a standout event on the festival calendar, bringing together musicians and audiences for an energetic celebration of Irish music and dance. Smaller sessions and concerts throughout the city offer the chance to discover new artists in warm and welcoming settings.
Explore Dublin During TradFest
A TradFest visit is the perfect excuse to explore Dublin at a relaxed winter pace. Between performances, visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the River Liffey, explore museums and galleries, or settle into one of the city’s many cafés and restaurants.
With excellent public transport links across Dublin, travelling between venues is easy, allowing you to make the most of everything the festival has to offer.
Stay at Aspect Hotel Park West
Aspect Hotel Park West is an ideal base for your TradFest stay. Located just outside the city centre, the hotel offers easy access to Dublin’s festival venues while providing a calm and comfortable place to unwind after a busy day.
Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a welcoming atmosphere and a hearty breakfast to set them up for a day of music and exploring. Our team is always happy to help with directions, transport tips and local recommendations.
Easy Access to Dublin City Centre
Aspect Hotel Park West benefits from excellent transport links, making it easy to travel into Dublin city centre throughout your stay.
The hotel is just a short walk from Park West and Cherry Orchard train station, located approximately two minutes away. From here, trains take around 8 to 10 minutes to reach Dublin Heuston or Pearse Station, placing you right in the heart of the city.
There is also a bus stop directly outside the hotel, offering regular services into Dublin city centre. For those using the Luas tram, the Red Line can be accessed at nearby stops and brings you into central Dublin in approximately 30 minutes. If you are travelling by car or hiring one during your visit, Aspect Hotel Park West offers free on site parking. This is a valuable benefit, as city centre parking can be limited and expensive. Guests can leave their car securely at the hotel and use public transport to explore Dublin with ease.
Book Direct with Our Best Rate Guarantee
For the best value on your TradFest stay, book directly through the Aspect Hotel Park West website and take advantage of our Best Rate Guarantee. We promise that you will always receive the lowest available rate when you book direct with us. If you find a lower rate elsewhere, we will match it.
Booking direct also gives you access to exclusive offers, flexible booking options and direct support from our team, ensuring a smooth and stress free stay.
