Play Streets Initiative Citywide

Times & Dates

Sunday 21st September 1pm to 4pm
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Dublin Celebrates 25 Years of Car Free Day with 25+ Play Streets Across the City

To mark the 25th anniversary of Car Free Day, Dublin City Council is proud to launch 26 Play Streets across the city—transforming neighbourhoods into vibrant, traffic-free zones where children and families can play, connect, and celebrate community life.

The initiative was officially launched by Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam, on Harold’s Road in Stoneybatter, Dublin 7.

What to Expect

On Sunday 21st September, from 1pm to 4pm, 26 streets across Dublin will be temporarily closed to traffic, giving residents the chance to enjoy:

  • Safe outdoor play for children
  • Neighbourhood-led activities
  • A chance to meet and connect with neighbours
  • A celebration of sustainable, people-first urban spaces

Where It’s Happening

Here are the streets participating in Play Streets 2025:

Dublin 7

  • Annaly Road
  • Cabra Drive (Northern & Southern Sections)
  • Great Western Villas
  • Fontenoy Street
  • St Ignatius Road
  • Ellesmere Avenue
  • Shandon Drive
  • Harold Road
  • Norfolk Road

Dublin 9

  • St Brigid's Road Lower
  • St David's Terrace

Dublin 17

  • Woodlawn Walk

Dublin 3

  • Haverty Road
  • Melrose Avenue

Dublin 6

  • Wasdale Park
  • Church Gardens

Dublin 8

  • Sandford Avenue
  • Donore Road
  • Swifts Alley
  • Garden Lane
  • Margaret Kennedy Road
  • Gray Street
  • Bulfin Gardens
  • Mountshannon Road, Mayfield Road & Maddison Roads
  • Warren Street
  • Ovoca Road

Why Play Streets Matter

Play Streets revive the tradition of street play—once a common part of growing up in Ireland. These events promote:

  • Children’s independence and wellbeing
  • Physical activity and creativity
  • Safer, more inclusive public spaces
  • Reduced reliance on cars in urban areas

Please check the list of road closures listed in your area