While June may be Pride Month, it’s crucial to acknowledge diversity and inclusion every day of the year. Dublin is a welcoming and vibrant destination for LGBT travellers. Explore the city’s best gay-friendly spots, inclusive events, and cultural highlights with this ultimate travel guide. Celebrate Pride Month in Dublin with vibrant events, inclusive spaces, and a welcoming atmosphere. Here’s how to make the most of your visit.
Yaaaaay! Planning an adventure to Dublin and identifying as LGBT? You're in for an exciting journey! Dublin, with its rich history, vibrant culture and welcoming atmosphere, is a fantastic destination for LGBT travellers. Whether you're here to experience the lively pubs, join the colourful Dublin Pride Parade or explore the city’s diverse LGBT culture, this guide will help you make the most of your stay.
Dublin loves celebrating diversity in all its forms, there’s no shortage of LGBTQ+-friendly places and activities to explore in the Irish Capital, and we are here to point you in the right direction. From iconic bars and clubs to inclusive events and parties, there’s something for everyone in the city, whether you are a local or a visitor looking for a fun night out. Get ready to immerse yourself in Dublin’s LGBTQ+ scene with this complete guide of things to do and places to go.
Discover the LGBT Social Life in Dublin
From iconic bars like The George and Pantibar to quiet spots like The Vintage Room, I’ll cover the best tips, must-visit locations and unique experiences to ensure your trip is unforgettable. So, pack your bags, embrace the rainbow and get ready to discover the magic of Dublin!
Pantibar
Owned by the well-known drag queen Panti Bliss, Pantibar is a vibrant bar with a welcoming atmosphere. Check out their events for some fun nights out. Located in the heart of Dublin, Pantibar is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable experience. This iconic bar, owned by the fabulous Panti Bliss, offers a vibrant atmosphere, drag shows, and an inclusive community that knows how to have a great time.
Street 66
A cosy and relaxed bar, Street 66 is perfect for enjoying a few drinks with friends. They have a great selection of cocktails and often host live music. Tucked away on Parliament Street, around the famous Temple Bar, Street 66 welcomes all members of the LGBTQ+ community for drinks, parties, and live performances. This intimate bar is known for its friendly staff, eclectic decor, and diverse crowd with different DJs playing each night.
Pennylane Bar
In the heart of Rathmines, Dublin 6, Pennylane Bar is a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. This laid-back bar boasts a friendly atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and regular entertainment, including live music and themed nights.
Mother Club
Mother is a popular LGBT club known for its lively atmosphere and great music. It’s particularly famous for its Saturday night parties.
The Fumbally
This café is a great spot for brunch or lunch, offering a variety of healthy and delicious dishes. It’s also known for being LGBTQ-friendly.
The George
A true institution in Dublin's LGBTQ+ scene, The George is Ireland's oldest gay bar and a cherished landmark. With its energetic ambiance, fabulous drag performances, and diverse events, The George promises an unforgettable night out. Prepare to dance the night away and immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere. Thursdays nights are the most popular, with drag performances and DJ sets all night long. You can check the full schedule on their website.
The Grand Social
Located along the Liffey River, The Grand Social is a venue that offers something for everyone. Known for its diverse lineup of concerts, DJ sets, and club nights, this LGBTQ+-friendly space welcomes all music lovers and is a perfect choice for a night of fun in Dublin.
Bernard Shaw
Experience a chic brunch and dazzling entertainment every Saturday with Eire Comme at The Bernard Shaw's Drag Brunch!
Disco Baby Dublin Party
Disco Baby Dublin takes place in some of the trendiest venues across the city and is the opportunity to dress up in your most glamorous disco-inspired outfit. Talented DJs spin the best disco hits, funk, and soul classics that will keep you dancing all night long, with special guest performances in every edition. You can check when the next Disco Baby will take place on their official page.
Rainbow Swimmers
For those who love the water, Rainbow Swimmers is a welcoming swimming group that embraces all genders and sexual orientations. Join them for regular swims and events, fostering a sense of community and a chance of exploring Dublin’s natural landscape while making new friends. You can check when their next outing will take place on their official page.
Out and About hiking group
If you're an outdoor enthusiast, join Out and About, a hiking group that organizes regular excursions into Dublin's surroundings. This LGBTQ+-friendly group provides an opportunity to connect with nature, make new friends, and enjoy breathtaking landscapes in Dublin and its surroundings. All information about their following events can be found by clicking here.
And, of course, don't forget to explore Temple Bar. While not exclusively LGBT, the Temple Bar district is a cultural hotspot with pubs, galleries and street performances. It’s a must-visit area in Dublin.
Walking Tour & Gay Spa
Join an LGBT-themed walking tour for an exciting journey through the city's vibrant past and uncover some hidden gems along the way. After all that exploring, treat yourself to some well-deserved relaxation at The Boilerhouse Sauna, where you can unwind in the saunas, refresh in the steam rooms, and chill out in the cosy café. It's the perfect way to recharge before diving back into your Dublin adventure!
Attend LGBT Film Festivals
Check out GAZE International LGBT Film Festival, held annually in Dublin (in August). It showcases a diverse range of films and is a great way to support LGBT cinema. The festival pass starts at €150.
International Dublin Gay Theatre Festival
Immerse yourself in Dublin's rich artistic scene at the International Dublin Gay Theatre Festival. This annual event showcases a diverse range of LGBTQ+ themed plays, performances, and theatrical productions from around the world. The Festival aims to provide a platform for established and up-and-coming LGBTQ+ artists to present their work.
Dublin Pride Parade
Happening every last Saturday of June, Dublin’s Pride Parade is one of the biggest events of the year, with the whole city being decorated and a big party taking up the streets. The parade takes place in the very heart of the Irish Capital, and thousands of people are expected every year to celebrate diversity together. Check the official website for specific details and additional information.
Dublin Pride Parade is a major event (happening next 29th). It’s a vibrant celebration with floats, music and a diverse crowd. Celebrate love, diversity, and unity at Dublin's Pride Parade! No registration is required — simply show up on the day and join the festivities anywhere along the route, passing O'Connell Street (meet you there!)
Dublin Pride Festival is an annual celebration of the LGBTQ+ community with a history dating back to the 1970s. It's one of Europe's oldest Pride events and Ireland's biggest Pride festivals, full of fun and acceptance. Every year various events happen at different times and places — just check it online to find out more.
And don't forget the highlight of the festival, the Mother Pride Block Party on the 29th at the National Museum. Tickets start at €45.
LGBT Dublin Culture: be respectful and stay safe
In Dublin, safety is key, so it's wise to be mindful of your surroundings and show respect for local customs. Dubliners are famously friendly, so don't hesitate to strike up a conversation or seek recommendations. The city's vibrant LGBT culture is deeply rooted in its history and progressive values. From welcoming establishments to diverse events and community centres, Dublin offers a warm and inclusive atmosphere for all travellers to enjoy.
Tip: Use platforms like Meetup to find social groups or events happening during your stay. It’s a great way to connect with locals. Also, use travel apps like GayCities or TripAdvisor to find up-to-date information on events and venues.
Learn the history
Visiting historical sites and museums can provide deeper insight into Dublin’s LGBT history and culture. Outhouse is an LGBT community centre offering various services, including a café, library and events space. It’s a good place to learn about the local LGBT scene and meet people. Also, the Irish Queer Archive is another must-go. Located at the National Library of Ireland, the Irish Queer Archive is a valuable resource for those interested in the history of the LGBT movement in Ireland.
Tip: Look for the Rainbow Sticker or similar indicators that a business is LGBT-friendly. Supporting these establishments helps foster an inclusive environment.
Top Irish LGBTQA+ Icons Who Shaped History
Ireland has a rich history of artists and activists who have sparked essential conversations about the treatment of the LGBTQA+ community. These discussions have led to profound changes, not only in Ireland but globally. To honour these influential Irish LGBTQA+ figures, we’ve put together a list of six individuals whose impact on Ireland’s history continues to inspire:
- Tiernan Brady
The Irish-Australian was the political director of the campaign that started the path to make Ireland the first country to establish same-sex marriage by public vote, “Yes Equality”. Tiernan Brady also worked as a political and LGBT rights campaigner in Australia, being behind the victorious national campaign for Australian Marriage Equality. He is a very important name in the fight for a more equal world for the LGBTQA+ community and has influenced many others activists around the world.
- Oscar Wild
One of the most respected playwrights, poets and novelists of the 19th century and definitely an Irish name that has gained the world. Oscar Wild has an important role in the queer history of Ireland and was imprisoned for having consensual encounters with men. Afraid of what could happen, Wild moved to Paris after leaving prison and spent his last years of life in exile. He has since become globally known and celebrated, seen as one of many examples of the struggles the LGBTQA+ community suffered during the last centuries.
- Francis Bacon
Francis Bacon is a queer Irish painter, famous for creating figurative paintings that often present traces of surrealism and nightmarish themes. The artist was born in Dublin in 1909 and started his artistic path around 1930, after being thrown out of the family home by his father because of his homosexual preferences and moved to London to persuade a career as a painter. Bacon and the businessmen Eric Hall had an open intimate relationship that lasted for 15 years, which put him on the list of most influential LGBTQA+ people in Ireland’s history.
- Leo Varadkar
The current vice prime minister of Ireland, Leo Varadkar, is a member of the LGBTQA+ community and has been public about his homosexuality since 2015. The Tánaiste (the Irish way of calling the vice prime minister), was one of the advocates for the same-sex referendum on 22 May 2015 and has worked for more rights for the queer population in Ireland.
- Julia Grennan and Elizabeth O’Farrel
Julia Grennan and Elizabeth O’Farrell were long-time partners and activists fighting on the front line at the Irish Rising in 1916. Julia was a nurse and was trusted to treat the wounded rebels at the GPO in the famous O'Connell Street and Elizabeth had the important job of delivering the surrender flag, stepping out into the streets while bullets were still being shot. The couple lived together after that until Elizabeth’s death in 1957. They are now buried together in Glasnevin Cemetery.
These are just a few of many Irish queers who have made an impact in the country’s history and in the world. If you want to learn more about the history of the LGBTQA+ movement in Ireland you can check our other post about the topic: “Pride movement in Ireland”.
Why choose Dublin for your LGBT trip?
As your Dublin adventure comes to a close, take a moment to reflect on the memories made, the friends met and the experiences cherished. Whether you danced the night away at Mother Club, savoured a peaceful moment in Outhouse or simply soaked in the welcoming atmosphere of this vibrant city, Dublin has left its mark on your heart.
As you bid farewell, know that you're always welcome back to this inclusive and accepting haven. Until next time, keep exploring, keep embracing your true self and keep spreading love wherever your travels take you. This guide should help you have an unforgettable and enjoyable experience in Dublin, embracing both its LGBT culture and the city's many attractions.
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Slán go fóill (goodbye for now) – we hope to see you soon!
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