IT WAS a weekend to remember for Limerick as Shannonsiders created lasting memories in the sunshine for Riverfest 2025.
More than 140,000 people flocked to the Treaty City to enjoy all that Limerick has to offer in the glorious May Bank Holiday weekend sunshine.
A further 18,000 runners, joggers, and walkers took part in the Regeneron Great Limerick Run, smashing the participation record for the event.
The 21st year of Riverfest brought a roaring trade for local businesses, with buzzing bars, packed restaurants, and bustling hotels reaping the rewards of Limerick’s biggest party weekend.
An action-packed line-up included the vibrant Riverfestival Village, the panoramic wheel, an adrenaline-pumping freefall, and the mouth-watering National All-Ireland BBQ Competition.
The festival also featured dazzling aerial performances, games, and street theatre, a spectacular fireworks display, and much more, making it an unforgettable celebration of community spirit and joy.
Music aficionado’s were treated to a host of gigs at King John’s Castle across the weekend.
The iconic venue welcomed David Grey on Thursday (May 1), followed by tribute band Qween on Saturday, before closing out the weekend with stalwarts The Coronas, who finished off just in time for the spectacular fireworks display.
After that, the festive atmosphere continued on Howley’s Quay with an after hours Riverfest Street Party.
The annual Mayor’s Charity Dinner 2025 also took place, marking the first of Mayor of Limerick John Moran’s first of his five year term.
More than 430 guests attended the black-tie formal event in the Limerick Strand Hotel, with all proceeds on the night going to the Marie Keating Foundation.
Mayor of Limerick John Moran delighted in all the celebrations over the weekend, saying that “this year’s Riverfest was nothing short of spectacular—one of the best we’ve ever seen”.
“The energy across the city was contagious, bringing people together in a wonderful display of community spirit.
“I want to sincerely thank our festival partners and the hardworking team at Limerick City and County Council for their dedication in making this event a resounding success.”
Eileen Coleman, senior executive officer for tourism at Limerick City and County Council, also remarked on another successful Riverfest said this years success, which she said “might tempt even more people to make Limerick their go-to spot for the May Bank Holiday weekend, year after year.”
Riverfest 2025 was carried out by Limerick City and County Council and produced by Grooveyard with media partners Limerick Post, Limerick Leader, Live 95, and Spin Southwest.
