5 must-see events at this week's Dublin Gallery Weekend

This weekend, there will be more than just trendy young people and TikTok "street photographers" hanging out in Dublin's bustling streets, as Dublin Gallery Weekend returns for another stretch of arty events.

The three-day event is a collaboration between 11 Dublin galleries and organised by Contemporary Art Gallery Association (CAGA) - which represents commercial art galleries in Ireland - and is now in its second year, after launching in 2023.

So whether you're an art fanatic or want to dip your toe into the vibrant contemporary art scene, there's bound to be an event for you. Here's our pick of just some of the events you can enjoy.

Delve into contemporary Irish art at the group show
Mary Lavin Place, 8 - 21 November

The jewel in the crown of Dublin Gallery Weekend, this spellbinding show is the central exhibition of the event, curated by Patrick Murphy (Director of the Royal Hibernian Academy) featuring work by contemporary artists from 11 participating galleries, including: Fergus Martin, Alan Butler, Siobhan Hapaska, David Eager Maher, and many more.

Learn about the Irish visual arts sector and its potential
IPUT Real Estate's Studio, 9 November

If you're thinking of entering the art world, or are simply curious about how it all works, this is the event for you. This rousing discussion will bring together leading voices from the Irish and international art worlds, including the Directors of top museums and institutions and instrumental figures behind world-class public, private, and corporate collections.

Drop by the Book Fair to nab yourself the perfect coffee table book
Kevin Kavanagh Gallery, 8-9 November

The Kevin Kavanagh Gallery will be opening its treasure trove of artist books for visitors to pick up. Featuring works such as Stephen Loughman's The Lake and Salvatore of Lucan's Fancy Situations, Dead Present etc …, the collection holds a number of books which document and preserve past exhibitions, filled with thought provoking texts and essays to complement the work of the artists.

Enjoy a bubbly brunch event in a glamorous gallery
Kerlin Gallery, Sunday 10 November

Eat and drink in the art in style at this glamorous brunch, where you can enjoy nibbles, bubbles and music, offering an informal and sociable environment in which to view Justin Fitzpatrick's exhibition A Musical Instrument and meet the gallerists. Runs from 12pm-2pm, book your slot on Eventbrite.

Educate your smallies at a free family-friendly art tour
Kerlin Gallery, 9 November

Perfect for art-loving kids, this is a fascinating glimpse into real working galleries. Facilitated by artist/curator Claire Halpin, join a free guided tour of two contemporary art galleries in Dublin 2 including: Kerlin Gallery and Taylor Galleries.