Ireland is full of brilliant free events for families, from small-town carnivals to national arts festivals that take over entire town centres for a weekend. Whether you’re planning a day trip or just looking for something fun and free to do with the kids, there’s usually an amazing free family-friendly festival happening somewhere in Ireland throughout the year.
We’ve rounded up some of our favourite free family festivals in Ireland below. Dates can shift slightly from year to year, so we’d always recommend double-checking exact dates, opening times and any booking requirements on each festival’s own website or social media closer to the time.
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Free Family Friendly Festivals in Ireland
It’s great to see so many events made available at no ticket cost to families — it means people all over the country can get together and enjoy great days out without worrying about the price of admission.
National Drawing Day, Nationwide
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When: Usually held annually in spring, typically in May
National Drawing Day is an annual event initiated by the National Gallery of Ireland, involving venues across the country and encouraging people of all ages to get involved and draw. It’s a lovely, low-key way to spend a free afternoon with the kids.
Carrick Carnival, Leitrim
When: Usually held around the June Bank Holiday weekend
The Carrick Carnival is an action-packed festival held in Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim. Expect amazing street entertainers, live music, shows, amusements, and some brilliantly ridiculous races — including raft races on the River Shannon, pig racing with teddy bear jockeys, balls racing down the street, fireworks, street parades and plenty of water antics.
Almost all the events taking place are free of charge and suitable for all ages.
Cruinniú na nÓg Festival, Nationwide
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When: Usually held annually in June
Cruinniú na nÓg takes place nationwide each June. It’s a national day of creativity for children and young people, celebrating and encouraging participation in culture and creativity. Venues nationwide team up with their local authorities to host free events for children to take part in.
Galway International Arts Festival, Galway
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When: Usually held annually in July
See Galway City come alive for the Galway International Arts Festival each July. The festival showcases street performers, music and theatre, with events for all ages and surprises around every corner. It’s a great time to visit Galway, and many events and workshops are free to attend.
Bray Air Display, Wicklow
When: Usually held over a weekend in July
The Bray Air Display Festival has a full line-up of events, displays and attractions for families, including some spectacular displays in the skies over Bray seafront.
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Spraoi International Street Arts Festival, Waterford
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When: Usually held annually in August
Spraoi International Street Arts Festival has an exciting programme of street performances including theatre, parade and music. Specially for kids, Garter Lane Arts Centre presents the SprÓg Children’s Festival during Spraoi Weekend, with workshops running throughout the week and over the festival weekend itself. Many events are free, though pre-booking is often essential.
Enniscorthy Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival, Wexford
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When: Usually held over the August Bank Holiday weekend
The Enniscorthy Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival brings together the best in local food and fruit producers, family entertainment, and plenty of Rock ‘n’ Roll. The Artisan Food, Drink and Crafts Market typically sees dozens of vendors take over the market streets.
For families, there are usually a variety of free and low-cost events, a fun fair, kids’ dance classes in the Market Square, and opportunities to get involved in kids’ food demonstrations. Enniscorthy Castle regularly hosts a variety of kids’ activities with enjoyable, interactive sessions for the whole family.
Waterford Walls Street Art Festival, Waterford
When: Usually held annually in August
Waterford Walls, Ireland’s largest international street art festival, sees artists create large-scale mural artworks around Waterford City and the surrounding areas. The festival typically runs across several days and includes live art, music, workshops, guided tours and much more.
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National Heritage Week, Nationwide
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When: Usually held annually in August
For National Heritage Week, events take place across the country to celebrate Irish heritage and culture, including free guided tours of many heritage attractions. It’s a lovely way to finish off the school summer holidays.
Culture Night, Nationwide
When: Usually held annually in September
Culture Night sees venues and public spaces come alive with free entertainment. From music to arts to street performers, workshops and tours, there’s usually something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best free family festivals in Ireland?
Ireland hosts a huge range of free family events each year, from national initiatives like National Drawing Day, Cruinniú na nÓg and Culture Night, to local favourites like Carrick Carnival, Spraoi and Waterford Walls. Most offer free entry, with some workshops or extras that may need booking.
Do I need to book tickets for free festivals?
Entry to most of these festivals is free, but some workshops, kids’ activities or special events within the festival programme may require advance booking. It’s always worth checking the festival’s own website or social media pages ahead of your visit.
When do most family festivals take place in Ireland?
Most of the festivals on this list run between May and September, making the most of the warmer months and school holidays, though a few, like National Drawing Day and Culture Night, take place outside peak summer.
Are these festivals suitable for young children?
Most of the festivals featured here are designed to be enjoyed by the whole family, with activities suited to a range of ages. It’s a good idea to check each festival’s individual programme, as some events may be more suitable for older children.
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- The Best Smaller Family-Friendly Festivals in Ireland
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