Dublin is preparing for a full-scale takeover of American football as the National Football League descends on the capital in the lead-up to Ireland’s first-ever regular season game.
With the Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings set to meet at Croke Park on Sunday, September 28, the NFL has announced a packed programme of free events and fan experiences across the city, promising what organisers describe as a “mini-Super Bowl feel.”
At the heart of the festivities will be the NFL Experience Dublin, presented by EA SPORTS Madden NFL, a three-day festival taking place from September 25 to 27 in the historic surroundings of Dublin Castle.
Fans will be able to test their skills in a field goal challenge, play flag football, and win prizes, including tickets to Super Bowl LX.
“This will be a true city takeover,” said Henry Hodgson, General Manager of NFL UK & Ireland. “We want to give fans a taste of the game whether or not they have tickets for Croke Park. Dublin is a fantastic city to host the NFL, and we can’t wait to share this moment with fans from across Ireland and around the world.”
A Showcase of Super Bowl History
For those drawn to the game’s heritage, Dublin City Hall will host the NFL Super Bowl Gallery from September 25 to 27. The exhibition will showcase all 59 Super Bowl rings alongside the Vince Lombardi Trophy, offering a rare opportunity to get up close to the icons of the sport.
Lord Mayor of Dublin Ray McAdam welcomed the festival atmosphere, saying the events will ensure that the entire city feels part of the occasion.
“We are so excited to have the Steelers and Vikings come to visit us in Dublin, along with all their legions of fans. Whether you have a ticket or not, you can still take part in this series of free fan events across the city in the run-up to game day,” he said.
A Warm Irish Welcome
The government has also lent its support, with Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport Patrick O’Donovan TD stressing the significance of the occasion.
“Dublin is hyped up for the first-ever regular-season NFL game to be played in Ireland. We offer a céad míle fáilte to fans of the Steelers, Vikings, and American football in general,” he said.
Minister of State for Sport Charlie McConalogue TD echoed the excitement:
“Fans make the game, and Dublin is ready to offer the best experience possible. I hope fans of both teams, especially those who will travel to get to Dublin, enjoy the festive atmosphere in the run-up to the game, and leave with memories that will last a lifetime.”
Retail and Team Hubs Across the City
Alongside the fan zones, the NFL is rolling out a retail presence across Dublin. From September 23, the NFL Shop presented by VISA will open at St Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre, carrying merchandise from all 32 teams and offering player signings, customisation, and exclusive Dublin game gear.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are going further, opening a Steelers Pro Shop at 40 Clarendon Street for the duration of the 2025 season, filled with black and gold gear for travelling supporters.
Supporters will also be able to gather in team-branded pubs across the city. Fitzsimons in Temple Bar will be transformed into the official Steelers Nation hub, while J.R. Mahon’s will host the Minnesota Vikings base.
As part of the NFL’s Global Market Program, the Kansas City Chiefs will take over Murray’s Public House, and the Green Bay Packers will create a fan home in Sinnott’s Bar.
Tailgate Culture Comes to Merrion Square
One of the marquee events is the Steelers Tailgate presented by Aer Lingus, taking place in Merrion Square from September 26 to 28. The three-day fan zone will feature appearances from NFL legends, giveaways, live entertainment, flag football, and Steelers-themed food and drink. A watch party on Sunday will cater for fans without game tickets.
The tailgate reflects one of the central aims of the week: to bring authentic American football culture to Irish soil. From tailgating to merchandise shopping, from player signings to pub takeovers, the NFL wants the experience to feel as close as possible to a game weekend in Pittsburgh, Minnesota, or Green Bay.
Branding the Capital
The sense of spectacle is already building. Since mid-September, NFL branding has been appearing across Dublin, from banners along the River Liffey to installations in Grafton Street and Temple Bar. The city is being dressed for what organisers hope will become a landmark moment in Ireland’s sporting calendar.
Countdown to Kickoff
The NFL has launched its OnePass app, the digital hub for all fan information, including maps, trivia, and event schedules. It will guide visitors through a week-long festival of football culminating in Sunday’s 2:30 p.m. kickoff.
“We’re committed to growing the sport internationally,” added Hodgson.
“Bringing the NFL to Dublin is about connecting with new fans, but also about celebrating the passion for American football that already exists here. We know Ireland will deliver a welcome like no other.”
With Dublin Castle, City Hall, Merrion Square, and some of the city’s best-known pubs set to be draped in NFL colours, the capital will look and feel like a gridiron city for one unforgettable week.
Image Credit Dublin City Council
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