Best Things to Do in Dublin in October 2025: Culture, Events & Halloween Spectacular
Dublin comes alive in October, and there’s no better place to experience Halloween than in its birthplace. Ireland gave the world Samhain, the ancient Celtic festival that evolved into modern Halloween, and Dublin celebrates this heritage with unmatched authenticity and flair. Add world-class art exhibitions and one of Europe’s most celebrated marathons, and October becomes the capital’s most thrilling month. Whether you’re here for spine-tingling gothic adventures, cultural masterpieces, or athletic glory, Ireland’s capital offers unforgettable experiences rooted in centuries of tradition. Here’s your insider guide to making the most of October in Dublin.
Picasso: From the Studio at The National Gallery
Running from 9 October 2025 to 22 February 2026, this major exhibition brings Pablo Picasso’s artistic journey to life. The National Gallery of Ireland presents Picasso: From the Studio in collaboration with the Musée national Picasso-Paris, featuring paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and works on paper that explore the key locations that defined him throughout his career.
Just a short walk from O’Callaghan Collection hotels, the gallery provides an intimate look at how Picasso’s studios shaped his creative process. Tickets start from €5, making this world-class exhibition accessible to all art enthusiasts.
Insider Tip: Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter experience, and don’t miss the related drawing workshops and curator talks scheduled throughout the exhibition period.
Irish Life Dublin Marathon
The Irish Life Dublin Marathon returns on 26 October 2025, bringing thousands of runners together for Ireland’s leading running event as participants push their limits and fundraise for charity. The city buzzes with energy as marathoners wind through Dublin’s iconic streets.
Where to Fuel Up & Celebrate
The Bistro at The Green Hotel is your perfect pre-race spot. Located right at the corner of St Stephen’s Green, this newly refurbished venue serves a hearty full Irish breakfast buffet, ideal fuel for runners and spectators alike. After the race, keep the celebrations going at The Sin Bin at The Mont Hotel for well-deserved drinks, or treat yourself to an elegant dining experience at The Secret Garden at The Alex Hotel.
Bram Stoker Festival
From Friday 31 October to Monday 3 November, Dublin City Council Bram Stoker Festival transforms the city with four days and nights of deadly adventures, featuring everything from spectacular parades to haunted screenings, late-night cabaret, and candlelit choirs.
The festival honours Dublin’s most famous gothic son with an intoxicating programme:
World-renowned spectacle makers Macnas return with An Treun: The Summoning of the Lost, a brand-new parade on Sunday 2 November weaving through the North East Inner City, featuring giant puppetry, live music, and otherworldly enchantment inspired by Bram Stoker’s long-lost tale, Gibbet Hill.
Beyond the main parade, expect immersive theatre experiences, gothic walking tours through Stoker’s Dublin, Dracula’s Disco at the Mansion House for families, and the free Stokerland fun park at St. Patrick’s Park.
Insider Tip: The Macnas parade route is new this year, so arrive early to secure viewing spots. For a truly atmospheric experience, join the Spooky Stories at Marsh’s Library, the same darkened galleries that inspired young Bram Stoker himself.
Classic Dublin Experiences
Trinity College & The Book of Kells
No October visit is complete without exploring Ireland’s oldest university. The Book of Kells, an illuminated medieval manuscript, remains one of Ireland’s greatest cultural treasures. The Long Room library is equally breathtaking with its towering oak shelves.
Guinness Storehouse
Learn the story behind Ireland’s most famous export with interactive exhibits culminating in a pint at the Gravity Bar, offering 360-degree views over Dublin.
Temple Bar
October sees Temple Bar fully decorated for Christmas, creating a magical festive atmosphere earlier than you might expect. The cobblestone streets, live music pouring from pubs, and twinkling lights make evening strolls particularly enchanting.
Insider Tip: Temple Bar can be touristy and pricey. For authentic Irish pub experiences, venture slightly off the main drag to spots like The Palace Bar or The Brazen Head. Visit Temple Bar during the day for photography and atmosphere without the evening crowds.
Plan Your Stay
O’Callaghan Collection hotels place you at the heart of Dublin’s October action. Within walking distance of the National Gallery, minutes from marathon routes, and perfectly positioned for festival hopping, our hotels provide the ideal base for your Dublin adventure.
From world-class art to gothic thrills and marathon excitement, October proves why Dublin remains one of Europe’s most dynamic city destinations. Book your stay today and experience the capital at its vibrant autumn best.
