While summer may be coming to a close, that doesn’t mean the fun is about to stop. With the season slowly winding down, now’s the perfect time to squeeze in some last-minute summer adventures. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Dublin has something for everyone. Grab your calendar and get ready to mark down these six must-do experiences before summer bids us farewell.  

Experience the Dublin Irish Festival

August 1-3 | Coffman Park

DIF 2023 Crowd

The Dublin Irish Festival signals the end of summer in Dublin with a bang! Drawing over 100,000 visitors and showcasing more than 800 performers, it's the ultimate party you don’t want to miss. Get all the info you need to join the fun right here.

Light Up Your Night at the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival

Thursdays - Sundays | July 31 - October 5 | Columbus Zoo & Aquarium

Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival

The Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival brings a whole new light to this beloved attraction. This family-friendly event produced by Hanart Culture illuminates the Zoo with more than 70 sets of stunning LED lantern displays, featuring brilliantly lit animal scenes that captivate and inspire. In addition to the breathtaking lanterns, guests can explore various aspects of Asian culture by enjoying two incredible shows each evening, which may include acrobats, kung fu demonstrations, puppetry shows, or folk music performances.

*The Lantern Festival is a separate ticketed event and not included with Zoo admission. Admission rates for non-members are $26.99 for adults and $23.99 for children. Columbus Zoo members receive a discounted admission rate of $19.99 for adults and $16.99 for children.

Sip & Stroll Through Bridge Park 

August 14 & 28 | North Market Bridge Park

Street market at North Market Bridge Park with vendor tents, people walking and shopping, a man playing cornhole, and signage on nearby buildings. The scene is lively and crowded, with a mix of food and retail booths.

Get ready for a night full of fun at North Market Bridge Park! The popular Night Market is back, and it’s bringing all the good vibes with it. Picture this: more than 50 local vendors lining the streets, live music filling the air, delicious food around every corner, and refreshing DORA beverages in hand as you explore it all.

Check Off Parks on the Dublin Parks Pass

All Summer Long | Dublin Parks  

Two kids running around each other on the boardwalk at Glacier Ridge Metro Park

With everything from public art and waterfalls to river access and historical assets, Dublin's parks offer endless adventure in every season. The Dublin Parks Pass, in partnership with OhioHealth, is your all-access pass to discovering hidden gems, wildlife, your next picnic spot, and much more. Any Dublin Park Pass holder who checks in at 15 Dublin parks by June 30, 2026, can redeem an exclusive Dublin Park Pass in partnership with OhioHealth belt bag with sunscreen! Download your pass today!

Rock Out to Free Music

August 6, 13 & 20 | Riverside Crossing Park

MidWeek Music Series

Looking for the perfect way to spend a summer evening? Head to Riverside Crossing Park every Wednesday for the Midweek Music Series, proudly sponsored by Visit Dublin Ohio! From 6 to 8 p.m., the park comes alive with local sounds, laid-back vibes, and a whole lot of fun. Bring a blanket, grab your favorite DORA beverage, and settle in for a midweek music break under the summer sky. It’s the perfect mix of community, rhythm, and relaxation — and best of all, it’s totally free!

Go Back in Time on the Historic Dublin Walking Tour 

All Summer Long | Historic Dublin

HDWT Guide

Take a walk down memory lane with the Historic Dublin Walking Tour! This self-guided tour takes you back to the mid-1800s, with cozy houses and landmarks like the original spring and the first Christian Church from the 1840s. Each step reveals unique stories of early villagers. Grab a guide at the Dublin Visitor and Information Center or download one here and start exploring!

Summer may be coming to an end, but there's still so much to do in Dublin. Don't forget to share your final summer memories with us using #SoDublin.  

For more inspiration on things to do in Dublin, click here.