1. The Six-Nations Rugby Series. For the first time sine 1949, Ireland is the defending the title. Over half of the games will be played on home turf in Croke Park. As Croke Park prepares to host its final series, Ireland is gearing up to defend the championship. Next season Ireland will be playing in Aviva Stadium, which has a diminished capacity. The home game schedule is Italy on 6 February, Wales on 13 March, and Scotland on 20 March. While all three matches promise to be interesting, it is the Wales match that is most anticipated. In 2009, Ireland beat Wales to become the Grand Slam Rugby Champions.
2. Rod Stewart Concert. The 02 is hosting this pop star on 11 May. This concert promises to be another dazzling performance by Rod Stewart. Even if the night is sold out, keep an eye out for an encore performance that could be decided just days before the event.
3. The All-Ireland Club Hurling and Football Finals. Every year on the 17 March, club football brings out some of the best for this engrossing event. Another event at Croke Park, make sure to catch the action as contenders compete for the club championship.
4. St. Patrick’s Day Festival. Follow the fantastic All-Ireland Club Hurling and Football Finals with an authentic celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. No one can celebrate this holiday like those who hold him as their patron saint, with festivities going from 12 March until 17 March. Enjoy the street entertainment and parades as Dublin honors their own. The week-long celebration ends with a spectacular fireworks display at the River Liffey.
5. The Dublin Handel Festival. Another annual event, this time in April, that celebrates a historical figure. From 10 to 13 April, the famous composer Handel is celebrated in Dublin, with both historical and modern flair.
6. The Phoenix Park Motor Races. See what it was like to be in the 2009 Phoenix Park Motor Races. You can whip around the Oldtown Circuit either on 14 or 15 August.
7. The All-Ireland County Football and Hurling Finals. Two of the best days of the year for football and hurling, the 5th and 17th of September, will happen in Croke Park. Watch some of your favorite athletes return to defend their titles in 2010.
8. Adidas Dublin City Marathon. Join one of the world’s greatest marathons on 25 October. Race or walk around the city taking in the atmosphere and diversity as other flock to this world renowned event. While you are getting exercise and enjoying the town, why not raise money for charity? It will give you a two-fold sense of accomplishment.
9. Dublin Horse Show. An event that provides an outlet for professionals and amateurs alike, the Failte Irelnad Dublin Horse Show demonstrates what true sportsmanship should be. Come to Ballsbridge between 4 and 8 August to see some of the best horse riding in the world.
10. The Flora Women’s Mini marathon. Yes, this one is for women only. Come join or watch on 7 June as women engage in a mini marathon started in 1983. As its popularity grows, so do the charitable contributions, making this a difficult even to turn down.
