Beta Festival 2026: three ways to explore art and technology in Dublin

Dublin’s Beta Festival runs from 6 to 22 November 2026, bringing art and technology into exhibitions and performances around the city. For anyone still discovering Dublin’s cultural venues, the programme offers several different ways in: an interactive exhibition, a free artist conversation or an unusually ambitious day at the theatre.

The festival explores how technology shapes our perceptions and relationships with the world around us. These three picks range from sensory encounters with nature to a video game played collectively by a theatre audience. They have different opening hours, prices and participation requirements, so choose an event rather than assuming one ticket covers everything.

Explore Unmasking Nature in Dublin 8

Unmasking Nature, led by artist AlanJames Burns, brings together interactive, multi-sensory artworks drawing on Irish biodiversity. Its materials include acorns and pinecones, connecting sensory experience with ideas about neurodiversity and the natural world.

Find it at The Bank, The Digital Hub, Roe Lane, Dublin 8, from 6–22 November, Wednesday to Sunday, noon–6pm. The organiser’s event page also links a “Know Before You Go” guide. Check that page for visitor information before travelling; the listing does not state an admission price.

Meet a game-maker for free

At Project Arts Centre, Milton Lim and Marc Villanueva Mir’s artist talk on Friday 13 November at 6pm explores games, technology and the future of theatre, including how artists develop participatory performances. Lim is a co-creator of asses.masses. The conversation lasts an hour in the Cube. Admission is free, but booking is required.

Set aside a day for asses.masses

The performance itself takes place on Saturday 14 November at noon. In asses.masses, spectators take turns controlling a game about unemployed donkeys. No previous gaming experience is required.

Tickets are listed at €28/€26. Allow approximately seven and a half hours, including four intervals; the finish depends on the audience’s progress. Food and snacks are included, with vegetarian food and vegan and gluten-free options; drinks cost extra. This is not a drop-in performance. The venue recommends it for mature audiences over 14 and lists flashing lights and other content advisories.

• Also read: Find your next film at Dublin’s French Film Festival.

Before you go

Project Arts Centre is at 39 East Essex Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 2. Consult its accessibility information and each event’s booking page for your requirements. Check the full festival programme for other options: free admission is event-specific, not a promise that every Beta event is free.