Ease into festival week with a relaxed and atmospheric evening of live jazz at Solas Bhríde. Enjoy great music, warm hospitality, and the perfect setting to begin the Kildare Derby Festival celebrations.

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A highlight of the Kildare Derby Festival, Connolly’s RED MILLS Pooch Parade brings together families, dog lovers, and the wider community for a fun-filled celebration of our four-legged friends.

Back bigger and better than ever, this year’s event will feature:

• Live sheepdog demonstrations

• Ireland’s majestic wolfhounds

• Best in Breed classes

• Family entertainment and activities

• Plenty of fun for all ages

Whether you’re entering your pooch or simply coming along to enjoy the atmosphere, this is one of the festival’s most loved and family-friendly events.

€10 per Pooch to Enter. Register Here (include link to relevant page). “Hoomans” come free!

This year’s acclaimed Concert in the Cathedral welcomes internationally celebrated violinist Vladimir Jablokov for an unforgettable evening of music, storytelling, and atmosphere.

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Joined by his sister, pianist Olga Jablokov, the programme features beloved favourites including:

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• Flight of the Bumblebee

• Libertango

• Danny Boy

• My Way

• The Last Rose of Summer

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Step into centuries of history as soaring strings, powerful harmonies, and timeless melodies fill the magnificent vaulted ceilings of one of Ireland’s most treasured landmarks. An exhilarating and heartfelt night where music meets history.

Enjoy an exciting evening of racing at The Curragh Racecourse from 5pm, followed by a live performance from crowd favourites The Whistlin’ Donkeys.

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Festival goers can also experience a special “Beyond the Rails” Tour, offering a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at what happens at one of Ireland’s most iconic racecourses.

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• Racing from 5pm

• Live music with The Whistlin’ Donkeys

• Beyond the Rails Tour

• FREE transport to and from The Curragh from Kildare Town

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Tickets & Information:
Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby – The Curragh Where Champions Are Made

Saturday at The Curragh features top-class racing including the prestigious Group 1 Paddy Power Pretty Polly Stakes.

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• FREE transport to and from The Curragh from Kildare Town

Tickets & Information:  Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby 

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The Final Furlong Sessions FREE 

From 7.30pm, Kildare Town comes alive with The Final Furlong Sessions, featuring live music performances across pubs and venues throughout the town.

The amazing line up includes:

• Brian Kennedy

• Ham Sandwich

• Paddy Casey

• The Dublin City Ramblers

Keep an eye on the website and social channels for the full 2026 line-up and venue details.

The grand finale of the Kildare Derby Festival promises an unforgettable day of racing, entertainment, and celebrations.

Start the day with the Pre-Derby Brunch on the Square with Tanqueray before heading to The Curragh for one of the biggest racing events of the Irish sporting calendar.

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• Pre-Derby Brunch on the Square with Tanqueray

• Racing at The Curragh

• FREE transport to and from The Curragh from Kildare Town

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The festival closes in spectacular style with live music from The Tumbling Paddies on stage at The Curragh from 5.30pm.