Football in Ireland: Travel Packages, Tailgates, and Hosted Fan Experiences
NFL in Ireland: Dublin’s American Football Renaissance & Why U.S. Fans Are Traveling for the Ultimate Game-Day Experience
Notre Dame vs. Navy at Aviva Stadium in Dublin
Aviva Stadium
Ireland is rapidly becoming a hotspot for American football, with Dublin emerging as a premier destination for NFL fans from the U.S. and beyond. The city’s passion for the sport was on full display in 2023 when the Chicago Bears and Jacksonville Jaguars played at Aviva Stadium, drawing a sellout crowd and proving Ireland’s appetite for the NFL. The league’s return to Dublin in 2026 is highly anticipated, with fans eager to experience the electric atmosphere of an international game in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. Beyond the NFL, Ireland’s love for American football extends to college football, with the Aer Lingus College Classic bringing top NCAA teams to Dublin, including past matchups like Notre Dame vs. Navy and future games like Georgia Tech vs. Florida State in 2024.
American College Football is no stranger to Aviva Stadium in Dublin since the first Emerald Isle Classic was held in Lansdowne Road in 1988.
Aviva Stadium
The appeal of traveling from the U.S. to Ireland for these games goes beyond just the football. Fans are drawn to the unique blend of sport and culture, from tailgating with international supporters to exploring Dublin’s historic pubs, landmarks, and nightlife. For many, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to combine a passion for football with the charm of Ireland—whether it’s cheering in Aviva Stadium, visiting the Guinness Storehouse, or experiencing the legendary Irish hospitality. With rumors of future NFL games in Dublin and the continued success of the College Classic, Ireland is solidifying its place as a must-visit destination for American football fans. The combination of world-class stadiums, enthusiastic crowds, and the country’s reputation for hosting major sporting events makes Ireland an ideal location for the NFL’s global expansion.
Looking ahead, the future of American football in Ireland is bright. The NFL’s commitment to international games, coupled with Ireland’s growing fanbase and infrastructure, suggests that Dublin could become a regular stop on the league’s global schedule. Meanwhile, the Aer Lingus College Classic is set to continue bringing top-tier NCAA matchups to Aviva Stadium, offering fans a chance to see their favorite college teams compete on foreign soil. For U.S. travelers, these games represent more than just a trip—they’re an opportunity to be part of a global football community, creating memories that last long after the final whistle.
Making it all inclusive with all of the events made it very special.
Mike U.
Dublin trip
2026
Communication from Josh and that he took time to make us feel special.
Ken S.
Dublin trip
2026
It was so exceedingly well-organized. We all so appreciated that! You allowed us to "push the easy button" and just have a great time -- which we did!
Paul W.
Dublin trip
2025
We suck at planning things to do when we go on vacation, so having everything planned for us already was great. We didn’t have to think about getting game tickets, plane tickets, book a hotel, or how to go sight seeing because it was all included. For us, this was a fantastic value and experience.
