Future-Forward Event Planning in Ireland with Moloney & Kelly DMC 

Ireland 2026: Where Tradition Meets Tomorrow in Event Innovation – Exploring Ireland Event Trends 

As 2026 approaches, planners are setting their sights on destinations that deliver more than just scenery—they want innovation, sustainability, and connection. Enter Ireland. Known for its folklore and rolling green hills, the Emerald Isle is now stepping boldly into the future of event design. Almost as important is understanding the latest Ireland event trends that are essential for planners looking to create memorable experiences. 

With Moloney & Kelly DMC, a Hosts Global member, leading the way, Ireland’s event scene is evolving to meet modern expectations while honoring its timeless charm. Here’s what’s shaping the next generation of events in Ireland. 

1. Smart Spaces: Tech-Forward Venues in Historic Cities

Dublin is no stranger to innovation. The city’s tech boom has helped inspire a wave of new, high-tech event venues designed to meet global standards. The Convention Centre Dublin (CCD) is a centerpiece—sleek, sustainable, and wired for hybrid connectivity. With panoramic views of the River Liffey, it’s as stunning as it is smart. 

Dublin in classically historic city with lots of venues full of character such as Georgian townhouses and old university halls but this doesn’t hold it back from digital upgrades and capabilities ensuring the historic spaces can bridge Ireland’s past with the future of global meetings.  

2. Sustainability by Design

Ireland’s lush landscapes are more than just beautiful—they’re a catalyst for change. In 2026, sustainability isn’t an option; it’s expected. Suppliers across the country are rising to the challenge: 

• The K Club became Ireland’s first hyro-powered 5* hotel. Harnessing the power of the iconic River Liffey, the hotel is one of the most sustainable in Ireland with many more investing in their sustainability programs through zero-waste programs, solar energy projects and more.  
• Organic Food Farm to table is a way of life in Ireland and all menus on your program or meeting will be organic and locally sourced as well as seriously delicious!  
• Local gifting Partnering with local craftspeople and gifting businesses is an important element of our programs allowing guests to bring something authentic home with them as a memory of their trip to Ireland, a chance to meet with the maker as well as supporting the local community.  
• Bio-fuel Moloney & Kelly are investing with local partners to pioneer the use of HVO fuel for programs in 2026 reducing carbon emissions and making more sustainable choices.  

Moloney & Kelly has a Gold Certification with Sustainable Travel Ireland and is the most certified DMC in Ireland when it comes to sustainability. Their company ethos around sustainability is reflected in all their programs and try to help planners integrate green principles without sacrificing luxury.  

3. Immersive Irish Culture, Reimagined

Cultural experiences remain a cornerstone of Irish events—but now, they’re more interactive, personalized, and tech-enhanced. Guests expect more out of their trips but we have figured out ways to give it a little Irish twist!  

Some experiential offerings include: 

• Special “Stoutie” machines which print guests faces or their company logos on the top of their pint of Guinness 
• Instant vintage newspaper station – create a personalized front page for your event and each guest becomes the star!    
• An Irish Dancing Flashmob bursting into dance in the middle of a meeting or evening event  

4. Nature as the New Luxury

One of Ireland’s biggest event trends? Retreating into the countryside for intimate, immersive programs. Think strategy sessions in a the thoroughbred county in Kildare, wellness incentives on the Wild Atlantic Way, or executive roundtables in a medieval castle.  

These programs prioritize: 

• Digital detox and mindfulness  
• Bringing the landscape into the program and the beautiful landscape becomes the backdrop 
• An opportunity to explore rural Ireland and the fantastic experiences available such as a boat-ride across the lakes of Killarney, a lunch overlooking the Cliffs of Moher or whiskey tasting at the top of a mountain in Wicklow.   

With Moloney & Kelly’s local insight, these escapes are as logistically seamless as they are soulfully rich. 

5. Storytelling 

 A “seanachaí” (pronounced shan-a-key) is a traditional Irish storyteller who was the keeper of local oral tradition, history and folklore – they were an important part of Irish society. These days, storytelling remains a key component for all our programs transforming experiences into epic journeys. In a world where audiences crave connection and authenticity, weaving a compelling narrative into your event design creates emotional resonance and lasting impact.  

• Local Characters Incorporating locals is a must in Ireland as everyone has a story to tell; whether that is chatting to the 9th generation pub owner, the farmer whose cows make the milk that go into Baileys or your coach driver – you are guaranteed to be charmed and entertained!  
• Storytelling in event design Ensuring each program has a beginning, middle and end – we create a flow of the program ensuring that each guest is the hero of their own story.  
• Creating a narrative – bring alive your program by creating a central theme or arc; assign guests as members of a particular clan for a week, incorporate 3D mapping of Irish myths and legends or focus on the ancient Celtic festivals in 21st century.   

Why Moloney & Kelly DMC? 

With deep-rooted connections and a finger on the pulse of what’s next, Moloney & Kelly DMC transforms ideas into innovative, culturally authentic programs. Their ability to merge tradition with trend makes them the perfect guide for planners charting new territory. 

Whether you’re crafting an eco-forward leadership summit or a tech-enhanced cultural celebration, Ireland—guided by Moloney & Kelly—offers the best of both worlds.