Runners from across the island of Ireland are being invited to the RDS in Dublin 6-7 February 2027 for the Irish Running Show, a weekend of expert advice, running brands and activities designed, organisers say, for everyone from first-time 5K participants to experienced marathon runners.

The event builds on the Northern Ireland Running Show, which welcomed around 5,000 visitors to the Eikon Exhibition Centre outside Lisburn in February 2026. Following that response, organisers are aiming to attract 10,000 visitors to the Dublin show, with around 100 brands and service providers and more than 40 speakers and experts.

The planned programme will cover training, nutrition, recovery, injury prevention, women’s health and mental wellbeing, alongside personal stories from people whose lives have been shaped by running.

Hourly yoga classes are included in the ticket price and pilates for runners, interactive activities and family-friendly experiences will complement the exhibition and talks.

The show was founded by Oonagh Cattigan, an events professional from the Glens of Antrim whose own running journey began with a Couch to 5K programme.

Cattigan began her exhibitions career at the RDS around 20 years ago, going on to work at major venues in the UK and internationally. Having returned home to Northern Ireland for a career break and to raise her family, she joined a running club, she said, inspired the idea of creating an event where the wider running community could come together.

“When I started Couch to 5K, I wasn’t thinking about race times or medals. I wanted to get out of the house, meet people and do something for myself. What I found was a community that gave me confidence, friendships and a real sense of belonging.

“That experience is at the heart of the Irish Running Show. Whether you’re thinking about your first run, taking part in parkrun at the weekend or training for your next marathon, we want you to feel that this is an event for you.

“The response to our first show in Northern Ireland was hugely encouraging… Now we’re looking forward to welcoming runners from across the island to Dublin. You’ll be able to ask questions about your training, explore equipment, discover a new race or simply spend time with people who share your interest.”

Kieran McNicholl, marketing manager for official hydration partner Deep RiverRock, said: “From the first training session to crossing the finish line, we’re proud to support the people who make Ireland’s running community what it is. Through our longstanding involvement with the Belfast City Marathon and local running events, we’ve seen how running brings people together.

“We’re excited to build on that at the Irish Running Show, meeting runners of all abilities and keeping them refreshed as they plan their next challenge.”

For information about the Irish Running Show, visit: www.runningshowsireland.com