Ukulele players from all over the world set to descend on Dún Laoghaire for the Ukulele Hooley

Ukulele players and fans from all over the world as well as Ireland are set to descend on Dun Laoghaire in south county Dublin for the annual Ukulele Hooley.

The Hooley, which runs from Saturday, August 23rd, to Sunday, August 24th, is now Europe’s leading celebration of this unique musical instrument.

Now in its 14th year, the Hooley 2025 will welcome ukulele stars from the USA, Poland, Italy, the UK, and Portugal as well as a big selection of homegrown talent.

The annual event – now Europe’s oldest ukulele festival – will mean a financial bonanza for the south Dublin seaside town as fans enjoy a weekend of entertainment and fun.

Once again, the highlight of the two-day festival will be the free concert in the People’s Park, Dun Laoghaire, on Sunday, August 24th,  which attracts thousands of fans.

The 2025 Hooley – which is supported by Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council – will feature all of the usual attractions that fans love:

• Workshops, including one for kids
• UKE Factor competition
• Saturday Afternoon Stage – Eblana Cabana
• Flash Mob
• The Bus Busk
• Open Mic
• The Big Concert and Jam in the People’s Park

The Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, Cllr Jim Gildea, said:

“We are delighted to welcome the return of Ukulele Hooley to Dún Laoghaire this August. Now in its 14th year, the festival has become a vibrant celebration of music, community, and creativity that draws visitors from all over the world. Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council is proud to support this joyful and inclusive event, which brings such positive energy and international attention to our beautiful town.”

The Hooley Organiser Niall Carty added:

“I can promise a bigger and better festival this year. It’s a very unique music event that bring people together through the sheer joy that the ukulele brings. We want everyone to be a part of this extraordinary experience!

"This is a free, family focussed, fun event that has grown into an internationally recognised celebration of the humble ukulele which is now one of the most popular instruments in Ireland.”

Further details are available here