Every October, Open House Dublin invites the public to step inside some of the capital’s most interesting buildings, explore hidden architectural gems and discover the stories behind the spaces that shape everyday life. Hosted by the Irish Architecture Foundation, this year’s free festival runs from 10–18 October, with more than 200 events taking place across Dublin city and county. Under the theme Dublin Is Living, the 2026 programme celebrates the people, communities and cultures that make the city what it is, while exploring how architecture can help shape its future.

Step Inside Dublin’s Architectural Gems

Of course, architecture remains at the heart of the festival, with hundreds of free tours offering access to everything from historic landmarks and contemporary developments to private homes and public spaces. Highlights for 2026 include the newly opened TU Dublin Academic Hub and Library in Grangegorman, designed by O’Donnell + Tuomey, and 11 Parnell Square, a beautifully restored Georgian townhouse reimagined by McCullough Mulvin Architects. For a glimpse behind the scenes, Open Studios, presented in association with the Architectural Association of Ireland, invites visitors into architectural practices across the city to meet the people shaping Dublin’s built environment and discover the creative thinking behind their work. Whether you’re passionate about design or simply curious about the buildings you pass every day, it’s a chance to see the city from an entirely new perspective.

A City Powered by People

Beyond its iconic landmarks, historic streets and striking architecture, Dublin is defined by the people who live, work and connect here. This year’s programme puts communities at its heart, with a series of events exploring how the city is changing and what it takes to create neighbourhoods where people can thrive and belong. Open Table, a series of four lunchtime conversations hosted by housing and urban design expert Lorcan Sirr, invites local people to share their experiences and ideas for the future. These discussions will feed into the Dublin Is Living Town Hall at Wood Quay on 15 October, bringing residents, business owners and community advocates together to discuss everything from affordable housing and vacant buildings to greener spaces, safer streets and sustainable transport. Elsewhere, O’Connell Street Cultures explores the history, identities and communities that shape one of Dublin’s most recognisable streets, opening up a conversation about its cultural significance and what lies ahead.

Something for Everyone

Open House Dublin also has plenty to offer younger visitors and families, with Open House Junior returning on 10–11 October. The programme features hands-on workshops, creative activities, LEGO challenges and guided walks designed to encourage children to explore their surroundings and imagine new possibilities for the city. This year also sees the launch of the first Open House Youth Council, bringing together 14–17-year-olds to share their ideas and perspectives on the places they call home. With Irish Sign Language tours, tactile tours and sensory experiences also included, the festival continues to make architecture more accessible and welcoming to everyone. From discovering hidden spaces to joining conversations about the future of local neighbourhoods, there are countless ways to get involved.

Discover Dublin Through Open House

Open House Dublin is an invitation to look beyond the familiar and discover the stories, people and ideas that make the capital such a fascinating place to live and visit. Whether you’re exploring a landmark building, stepping inside a private home or joining a discussion about the future of the city, the festival offers a fresh perspective on Dublin and the communities that bring it to life.