Aviva Stadium
Aer Lingus College Football Classic 2025: K-State vs Iowa State
Overview
The Aer Lingus College Football Classic brings the Big 12 rivalry between Kansas State and Iowa State to Aviva Stadium in Dublin, marking the first time either team plays a college football game outside the United States. This historic matchup kicks off the 2025 season with high stakes and a vibrant international atmosphere, as fans from both sides of the Atlantic gather for a unique sporting experience.
The Aer Lingus College Football Classic has become a marquee event in Dublin, drawing major NCAA programs to Aviva Stadium, a venue known for hosting world-class sports and concerts. Past matchups have featured Notre Dame, Georgia Tech, and Nebraska, making this the 10th college football game played on Irish soil and the first Big 12 showdown in Ireland. 
Highlights
Rivalry Game: This is the first-ever international meeting between Kansas State and Iowa State, adding a new chapter to their 108-year rivalry.
Big 12 First: The game marks the first Big 12 matchup ever played in Ireland, setting a new milestone for college football abroad.
Aviva Stadium: Dublin's premier sports venue, Aviva Stadium, offers a world-class setting with a capacity of 48,000 and a rich history of hosting major events.
Week Zero Kickoff: The game is part of 'Week Zero,' kicking off the 2025 college football season before most teams take the field.
Family Friendly: The event is designed for fans of all ages, with activities and entertainment options around the stadium.
Global Broadcast: The game will be broadcast live on ESPN and available for streaming, reaching fans worldwide.
Sentiment Analysis
Electric atmosphere and passionate fan engagement
-
Historic first for both teams playing internationally
-
Unique opportunity to experience American college football in Dublin
-
Aviva Stadium offers modern amenities and excellent sightlines
Ticket prices can be high for international fans
-
Crowds and security lines may be challenging at peak times
Know Before You Go
Aviva Stadium enforces a strict bag policy: only small bags (no larger than 35cm x 40cm x 19cm) are permitted, and all bags are subject to search. There are no age restrictions for entry, but children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Security screening is mandatory for all attendees, and prohibited items include large bags, outside food and drink, and professional cameras.
Hot Tip
Insider Tip: Arrive at least 45 minutes before kickoff to avoid long security lines and explore the pre-game festivities around the stadium.
Location
Meeting Point
Aviva Stadium Dublin IE
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Croke Park
Aug 22
5:00 PMThe Weeknd Live at Croke Park Dublin Tickets
The Weeknd: After Hours Til Dawn Tour stops at Dublin's iconic Croke Park, delivering an electrifying live music experience. This stadium event showcases the Canadian superstar's fusion of R&B, hip-hop, and electronic sounds, featuring hits from his acclaimed albums After Hours and Dawn FM.
The Weeknd, a four-time Grammy winner and one of the most streamed artists globally, captivates audiences with chart-topping songs like "Blinding Lights" and "Save Your Tears." Croke Park, renowned for hosting major concerts and sporting events, offers a grand setting with a rich history in Ireland's capital.
Croke Park
Aug 12
7:30 PMMan Utd vs Leeds Utd at Croke Park Tickets
Manchester United V Leeds United ignites Croke Park in Dublin with one of soccer's fiercest rivalries. This high-stakes clash between two historic English Premier League giants promises edge-of-your-seat action, tactical brilliance, and passionate fan support in an unforgettable neutral-venue showdown.
Manchester United, with their record 20 league titles and global fanbase, face off against Leeds United, known for their gritty style and iconic 1970s dominance under Don Revie. Croke Park, Ireland's largest stadium and spiritual home of Gaelic games, delivers an electric atmosphere for this rare soccer spectacle.
Croke Park
Aug 30
5:00 PMBon Jovi Live at Croke Park: Book Dublin Tickets
Bon Jovi returns to Dublin with a highly anticipated live concert at Croke Park, a legendary venue known for hosting epic music events and sports. As part of their 2026 Forever Tour, the iconic American rock band will perform a powerful set blending their classic hits with new material from their recent albums released in 2024 and 2025.
Bon Jovi, led by Jon Bon Jovi, continues to captivate fans worldwide after the lead singer’s recovery from vocal cord surgery. Their Dublin show follows the band's acclaimed return to live touring, and will be staged at Croke Park, Ireland’s premier outdoor venue celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and large capacity, making it perfect for such a monumental concert experience.
3Arena
Aug 08
4:00 PMBook Tickets: Zuffa Boxing 10 Live at 3Arena Dublin
Zuffa Boxing 10 marks the historic first time the Zuffa Boxing promotion has hosted a show in Ireland, taking place at the iconic 3Arena in Dublin. This elite boxing event features a curated fight card including the main event for the Zuffa middleweight championship between Aaron McKenna and Etinosa Oliha, alongside a high-stakes co-feature for the middleweight title. As the second event held outside the United States since the brand's relaunch in 2025, Zuffa Boxing 10 brings world-class professional boxing to Irish fans live on Sky Sports.
Zuffa Boxing has rapidly established itself as a premier platform for professional boxing in 2026, having already hosted four major events including the inaugural cruiserweight title match between Jai Opetaia and Brandon Glanton. The 3Arena, one of Dublin's most renowned indoor venues, is celebrated for its exceptional acoustics and capacity to host historic international sporting events, ensuring a premium atmosphere for this groundbreaking broadcast.
3Arena
Aug 25
6:30 PMBook Tickets: Diljit Dosanjh Live at 3Arena Dublin
Diljit Dosanjh brings his electrifying Aura World Tour to 3Arena in Dublin, showcasing his status as Punjabi music's global superstar. The event features high-energy performances fusing Bhangra, pop, and hip-hop with stadium-level production, celebrating his massive international fanbase across India, Canada, the U.S., and the U.K.
As a cultural icon renowned for his fashion, charisma, and crossover appeal, Diljit Dosanjh delivers unforgettable live shows that blend genres seamlessly. The 3Arena, a premier Dublin venue known for hosting world-class events, provides the perfect setting for this spectacular musical journey.
3Arena
Sep 02
6:30 PMA$AP Rocky Live at 3Arena Dublin
A$AP Rocky - Don't Be Dumb World Tour at 3Arena brings one of hip-hop's most stylish and influential performers to Dublin for a high-energy night built around sharp lyricism, modern trap production, and a reputation for unpredictable live moments. With the long-awaited 'Don't Be Dumb' era driving major fan interest, the show is set to draw listeners eager to hear how Rocky's latest creative chapter translates on stage.
A$AP Rocky has built a career that blends mainstream reach with fashion-forward artistry, from chart-breaking singles to boundary-pushing albums that helped define a new lane in rap. 3Arena is one of Dublin's best-known large-scale indoor venues, widely used for major concerts and big-ticket live events, making it a strong setting for a show of this scale.
Nearby Activities
Dublin
€135
Dublin Private Walking Tour: Uncover Hidden Gems
5.0
(701 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Dublin Private Walking Tour: Discover Dublin's magic on a private walking tour designed just for a group. This isn't just any walk; it's a personal journey through the heart of Dublin, exploring famous spots and hidden gems with a friendly, local guide. The tour has earned Tripadvisor's Best of the Best Award in 2023 and has been voted a 5-star experience, which comes highly recommended by previous guests. It's the best way to see Dublin!
During this walking tour, guests will stroll through iconic locations such as Temple Bar, known for its lively atmosphere and the Wall of Fame, where music legends are celebrated. Cross the historic Ha'penny Bridge, visit Trinity College, home to the Book of Kells, and snap a photo with the Molly Malone Statue. The guide will lead you down Grafton Street, through St. Stephen's Green, and past historical landmarks like the Bank of Ireland (once the Irish Parliament), the Department of the Taoiseach, Leinster House, and the Oscar Wilde Memorial Statue. Music lovers can explore Claddagh Records.
This private tour includes the undivided attention of an experienced and licensed tour guide, ensuring a personalized experience. Guests will receive local tips and recommendations for restaurants, pubs, and shops. The tour is suitable for all age groups, making it a perfect family-friendly activity. Photo opportunities abound, and rest breaks are accommodated as needed. Umbrellas are even provided in case of rain. Gratuities are not included.
Kilkenny
€28
Kilkenny's Hilarious History: Shenanigans Walking Tour!
5.0
(485 reviews)
Duration: 90
minutes
Shenanigans Walks offers a lively, 90-minute guided tour of Kilkenny's Medieval Mile. Expert guides blend history with engaging stories and magic, highlighting landmarks, Norman history, and figures like William Marshal and Alice Kyteler. This fun adventure is suitable for all ages.
Belfast
£35
Belfast Mural Taxi Tour: Political History Unveiled
5.0
(1160 reviews)
Duration: 60
minutes
Belfast's Political Mural Taxi Tour offers an insightful journey into the heart of Belfast's history and culture. This tour takes visitors through the neighborhoods where the story of Belfast is etched on the walls in the form of powerful murals.
Expect to see the famous Divis Tower, an iconic symbol of the city, and the imposing Peace Walls that divide communities. The tour delves into the stories behind the murals on Shankill Road and other key locations, offering a balanced perspective on Belfast's complex past and present. A certified local guide shares their personal stories and deep knowledge, providing a truly authentic experience.
The tour includes a professional guide who grew up in Belfast, but excludes food, drinks, and airport/port pickup. This taxi tour provides an intimate and engaging way to understand the city's political history and cultural identity.
Hook Lighthouse
€14
Hook Lighthouse: Skip-the-Line Ticket & Guided Tour
4.9
(470 reviews)
Duration: 45
minutes
Skip the Line: Hook Lighthouse Entrance Ticket and Guided Tour located on the rugged Hook Peninsula in County Wexford, Ireland, invites guests to explore one of the world's oldest operational lighthouses. For over 800 years, this iconic structure has guided ships into Waterford Harbour. Visitors can uncover centuries of maritime history and learn about the dedicated keepers who maintained the light.
This 45-minute guided tour allows guests to delve into the lighthouse's rich past and architectural marvels. The tour includes a professional guide who shares captivating stories and historical insights about the Hook Lighthouse. The experience also grants access to the visitor center, featuring a gift shop, art workshop, exhibits, and a café where guests can relax and enjoy refreshments. Please note that food and drinks are available for purchase separately.
The Hook Lighthouse welcomes small groups of no more than 5 people, ensuring a personal and intimate tour. Guests will visit the key stop of Hook Lighthouse, learning its history and marveling at its construction. This tour offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the maritime heritage of Ireland's Ancient East.
Kilkenny
€12
Kilkenny Historic Walking Tour: Expert Guided Exploration
5.0
(272 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Walk historic Kilkenny with a qualified tour guide and discover the heart of Ireland's medieval history on this captivating walking tour. Led by local expert John Britton, this journey explores iconic landmarks and hidden gems throughout Kilkenny.
Expect to see the Poorhouse, Church of St. John the Evangelist, and the historic Butler Family Home. The tour also includes stops at the City Library, Cathedral Round Tour, Dominican Abbey, Catholic Cathedral, and Town Hall. John shares fascinating stories and insights, bringing Kilkenny's rich heritage to life. The tour explores the historic grounds of St. Canice’s Cathedral and the solemn Black Abbey. See the majestic Kilkenny Castle.
This experience includes an in-person guide to help you learn about the culture and excludes pickup and drop-off.
Dublin
€500
Howth Private Coastal Walk & Boat Tour COMBO
5.0
(22 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Harbour Walk & Coastal Boat Tour COMBO - PRIVATE GROUP offers a captivating journey through the charming village of Howth, Ireland. This tour, led by passionate local guides, unveils the beauty and history of this exclusive coastal community. Guests will step back in time, exploring the ancient village and harbor, followed by a magical boat trip along the coast within a UNESCO Biosphere.
Visitors can expect to discover tales of Vikings, Normans, and even Pirate Queens as they walk in the footsteps of kings. The tour highlights the offshore islands of Ireland Eye and Lambay, where history is etched into the landscape. Guests learn about Howth's rich past, from the 11th-century Abbey founded by King Sitric to the impact of the French Revolution, marked by Martello Towers. The tour guides offer historical facts about Captain William Bligh and even Winston Churchill's hidden connections to Howth.
The adventure includes a guided walking tour of Howth Harbour, Howth Lighthouse, East Pier Shipwrecks, Martello Tower & Tower Hill, St. Mary's Abbey, and Balscadden Road Cliff Paths, followed by a scenic boat tour to Ireland's Eye. This private group tour ensures a personalized experience, led by an expert local guide. While food and drinks are not included, guests will be immersed in the natural beauty and historical intrigue of Howth.
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Dublin
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Dublin From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Historical Tours & Rock in Dublin. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View Dublin Activities