There is something special about Athlone in August. The evenings are longer, the streets are alive with music, the restaurants spill onto the riverside and every corner of town seems to have something happening. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or looking for new ways to enjoy your own town, August is the perfect time to experience everything Athlone has to offer.
Follow the Music
August is one of the liveliest months in Athlone, with traditional Irish music, outdoor performances and buzzing pubs creating an atmosphere that keeps visitors coming back year after year.
The month kicks off in style with the Athlone River Festival over the August Bank Holiday weekend. Expect Viking re-enactments, riverside entertainment, markets, family activities, live music and plenty of excitement along the banks of the River Shannon.
Taking place alongside the River Festival is Féile na Sionainne, a celebration of traditional Irish music, song and dance. Wander through the town and you’ll find talented musicians performing in venues throughout Athlone, creating the perfect soundtrack to your weekend.
Throughout the rest of August, many of Athlone’s pubs continue the music with regular live bands and traditional sessions. Whether you prefer lively singalongs, acoustic performances or traditional Irish tunes, there’s always somewhere to pull up a chair and enjoy the atmosphere.
Eat Your Way Around Town
A day exploring Athlone deserves great food and thankfully you’re spoiled for choice.
Start with brunch overlooking the river before spending the afternoon exploring the town. When evening arrives, book a table at Thyme Restaurant for an unforgettable dining experience or enjoy riverside dining at Bacchus Restaurant.
Looking for something relaxed? Grab authentic Italian favourites at Il Colosseo or enjoy lunch or dinner at The Left Bank Bistro before heading out to explore the town.
For something more casual, Athlone is packed with cafés, bakeries, pizza spots and gastro pubs, making it easy to spend an entire weekend discovering somewhere new with every meal.
Raise a Glass
As evening falls, Athlone really comes to life.
Enjoy a pint in the world-famous Sean’s Bar before wandering through town to discover cosy traditional pubs, stylish cocktail bars and lively beer gardens.
If you’re looking for live entertainment, Biddy O’Dowd’s regularly hosts live music, while Peddler Mac’s Bar & Beer Garden is a favourite for great food, drinks and summer evenings outdoors. Finish the night dancing at Piano Bar or enjoy cocktails with friends at The Brazen Monkey.
Whatever your style, Athlone has a night out waiting for you.
Make the Most of the River
No visit to Athlone is complete without spending time on Ireland’s longest river.
Take a relaxing cruise with Viking Tours Ireland or Athlone Boat Tours, stroll along the picturesque quays or simply find a bench and watch the boats drift by. During the River Festival, the Shannon becomes the centre of the action with demonstrations, boat displays and family-friendly entertainment.
Family Fun
August is also perfect for families
Enjoy a day at Elevate Entertainment Centre with bowling, crazy golf and indoor activities, take a walk through the town’s parks, explore Luan Gallery, browse the local shops or simply enjoy an ice cream by the river while soaking up the summer atmosphere.
Keep an eye on the Athlone events calendar too, with comedy shows, theatre, Battle of the Bands, workshops and family events taking place throughout the month.
Your August Starts Here
Whether you’re here for the music, the food, the festivals or simply a relaxing weekend by the River Shannon, August is one of the very best times to visit Athlone.
From mornings spent exploring historic streets to afternoons on the water and evenings filled with live music and great food, every day offers something different.
So gather your friends, plan your getaway and discover why Athlone is the place to be this August.
We’ll see you in the heart of Ireland.
