Author: Dublin City Council

Let us entertain you

Preparations are taking place for the Velo-city 2019 social programme in Dublin.   We want to ensure Velo-city 2019 is a conference to remember, not only as a result of the amazing speakers and conference venue but due to the lively Social Programme.  What visitors enjoy the most about Dublin are the Dubliners themselves and the hospitality and warm welcome offered to our visitors.  Ireland’s wonderful capital is a place to build lasting memories, savour great experiences and celebrate the unexpected.  We will ensure all our delegates experience the best we have to offer.  Here’s a taste of what’s planned so far!

The Welcome Reception will be hosted in the Convention Centre Dublin at 6pm on Tuesday the 25^thof June.  Enjoy complimentary food and drinks and panoramic views of the River Liffey, Dublin city centre and the Wicklow mountains as you unwind after day one.  The space will allow for optimum networking and socialising with fellow cycle enthusiasts.  

Never a nation to finish a party early, and keen get to know you and show off our city, we are busy lining up the best options for the after party! 

With the Convention Centre based in the heart of Dublin’s Docklands, and just a few minutes’ walk from the city centre, we are spoilt for choice on places to visit after the reception. Whether you are seeking a quiet drink or a lively music session, you will find your perfect spot nearby.  For those looking for an ideal location to watch the sunset, a visit to the newly renovated MV Cill Airne bar and restaurant is a must.  Just a stone’s throw from the Convention Centre, floating on the River Liffey, delegates can step back into maritime history on Dublin’s famous vessel.  Deck seating allows for unrivalled views of the waterfront.

Alternatively, a short walk, cycle or tram ride will connect you to the world famous Temple Bar.  A hive of activity, there is no shortage of bars in the neighbourhood with Ceol agus Craic (Music and Fun) a plenty!

The Bike Parade will take place on the afternoon of Wednesday the 26^th of June.  Leaving from the Convention Centre, delegates will be led through the streets of Dublin towards the Sutton to Sandycove (S2S) cycle route - one of Dublin City Council’s and the National Transport Authority’s flagship cycling projects.  Here, delegates will be met by a host of community groups, school children and cycling enthusiasts who will lead the delegation along the UNESCO designated Biosphere, a location that is one of the most highly designated and ecologically sensitive sites in the world.  As participants cycle along the coastline, they can enjoy unparalleled views of Dublin Bay before completing the cycle in the beautiful surrounds of St. Anne’s Park. 

Bisected by a small river, the park features an artificial pond, a rose garden, a fine collection of trees with walks, a playground, cafe and recreational facilities including extensive GAA (national games) and soccer playing fields, tennis and golf.

In addition to the natural amenities, entertainment will be organised to create a festival vibe and a farmers’ market including bespoke foods such as artisan cheeses and preserves, organic meat, fresh baked bread, cakes and biscuits and organic produce, to allow for the replenishment of energies.

While proceedings in the Park will wrap up about 7.30pm, delegates are free to continue their cycle to enjoy further Dublin’s sights or meet back to the heart of the city to experience more of Dublin’s social scene. 

To top it all off, the conference Gala Dinner will be held in the Guinness Storehouse on Thursday the 27th.  The Guinness Storehouse is Ireland’s No. 1 visitor attraction and for the entire evening, delegates of Velo-City will be given exclusive access to the Storehouse for a night of Irish food and entertainment. 

The Guinness Brewery in Dublin is Europe's largest stout producing brewery and home to the Guinness Storehouse. Opened in 1904, the Storehouse was an operational plant for fermenting and storing Guinness. Today it houses a very fine exhibition dedicated to the Guinness story. Visitors will discover what goes into the making of a pint of Guinness - the ingredients, the brewing process, the time, the craft and the passion. The exhibition shows how the famous brew has been marketed and how it is today sold in over 150 countries.

The evening will be full of opportunities to socialise and to celebrate, with fine company in unique surroundings. Don’t miss out, register now at https://www.velo-city2019.com/

We hope to see you there!​