Marathon, Music & the Autumn Equinox

September is one of the best months to experience the Dingle Peninsula: softer light, calmer roads, and a calendar that blends sport, culture, and quiet moments in nature. Whether you’re here to run, listen, or simply breathe, this guide will help you plan the perfect September stay.

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The Dingle Marathon – Saturday, 6 September 2025

One of Ireland's most iconic races

Held on the first Saturday of September, the Dingle Marathon is internationally renowned for its breathtaking coastal route, warm community spirit, and incredible post-race celebrations. It’s also the only day of the year Slea Head is fully closed to traffic. Magical for runners, and handy for supporters to plan around.

Race options

Half Marathon – 13.1 miles (21km) – finishes near Dún Chaoin
Full Marathon – 26.2 miles (42km) – starts and finishes in Dingle

Why it’s special

The route follows the magnificent Slea Head Drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, with cheering locals and stunning views of the Blasket Islands
Breathtaking scenery and rugged coastline keep runners motivated
Live music and festival vibes await at the finish line in Dingle Town

Check FAQs and road-closure timings

Official Dingle Marathon Website

Travel tip

Book your accommodation early! An Riasc sits right by the marathon route / Dingle Way (Section 6), with early breakfast in the B&B and full independence in our self-catering Farmhouse.

Book your stay at An riasc

Autumn Equinox & Celtic Spirituality

The Autumn Equinox marks a sacred time of equal light and darkness in Celtic tradition. It’s perfect for quiet ritual, sunrise or sunset walks, and connecting with Dingle’s spiritual landscape.

Exact time in Ireland (Dublin): Mon 22 Sept 2025 at ~19:19

Perfect for those exploring ancient monastic echoes alongside earth-based ceremonies.

Suggested activities

Sunrise walks to Mount Brandon and Brandon viewpoints
Silent meditations at Reask Monastic Site or Gallarus Oratory
Ritual circles and storytelling focused on Saint Brendan, Lughnasadh, and seasonal balance

Explore early Christian sites on the Peninsula for a deeper connection to the Spiritual heritage

Dingle's guide

Celebrate Dingle’s Culture & Flavours – Dance, Music & Markets

September in Dingle is not only about stunning landscapes but also about a feast for the senses, combining art, music, dance, and local delights.

Experience Creative Performance: On 3rd and 5th September 2025, 1975, a world premiere dance show by Teach Damhsa, comes alive at Glaise Beag, just 2 miles from An Riasc. The performance blends Irish storytelling, movement, and history, offering a truly immersive cultural experience.

👉 More info & tickets here

Taste the Harvest: After a morning of dance, explore the Dingle Market, a vibrant celebration of local produce and artisanal craft. Stalls brim with wild berries, cheeses, homemade jams, soda bread, chutneys, herbal teas, and handcrafted goods from local weavers and potters.

When & where ? – Every Friday at Holyground car park, Dingle Town, from Easter to the end of September.

Why it’s special ? – The combination of live performance, music, and local flavours makes September in Dingle a sensory adventure. Visitors can immerse themselves in Irish culture, meet artisans, enjoy local foods, and connect with the rhythm of the community.

Extend Your Trip – Dingle Food Festival (3–5 October 2025)

If your schedule allows, stay into early October for the Dingle Food Festival, a weekend of flavours, music, and community energy.

Highlights:

Taste Trail (1–5 pm Sat & Sun): sample dishes from cafés, pubs, restaurants, and galleries
Street markets, workshops, masterclasses, children’s events, and live performances
Focus on local Irish produce and zero-waste initiatives

Planning tips:

Book accommodation early ! First weekend in October is peak season for food lovers !
Buy Taste Trail tickets in advance
Expect traffic restrictions on some central streets during the festival

👉 Official programme & tickets here

Where to Stay ?

At An Riasc Bed & Breakfast or Self-Catering Farmhouse.

Located along Section 6 of the Dingle Way, near Slea Head
Minutes from Mount Brandon, Reask Monastic Site, and Gallarus Oratory
Perfect for marathon runners, festival-goers, and spiritual seekers

Self-catering | Up to 7 guests | CLOSE TO THE Wild Atlantic Way

Rates from €300/night, An Riasc Farmhouse is a beautifully restored self-catering accommodation in Dingle that sleeps up to 7 guests. Nestled in peaceful countryside near stunning Beaches and walks, the Slea Head Drive, and Dingle Town, it offers the perfect base to explore the wild beauty of West Kerry.