It’s great to see so many events being made available for no ticket cost to families, it lets people get together and enjoy events together across the country.

When: May 2023

National Drawing Day is an annual event initiated by the National Gallery of Ireland involving venues across Ireland and encouraging people to get involved and draw!

When: June 5-9th 2023

The Carrick Carnival is an action-packed festival held in Carrick on Shannon, Co Leitrim from June Bank Holiday Monday. You will be entertained by amazing street entertainers, live music, shows, amusements, ridiculous races including raft races on the river Shannon, pig racing with teddy bear jockeys, balls racing down the street, fireworks, street parades water antics and much more.

Almost all the events taking place are free of charge and suitable for all ages.

When: June 2023

The Cruinniu na nÓg Festival takes place nationwide in June. It is a national day of creativity for children and young people to celebrate and encourage them to participate in culture and creativity. Venues nationwide will team up with their local authorities to host free events for children to participate in.

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When: July 17-30th 2023

See Galway City come alive for the annual Galway International Arts Festival this July. Showcasing street performers music and theatre, there are events for all ages, and surprises around every corner. This is a great time to visit Galway. Many events and workshops are free.

When: July 29-30th 2023

The Bray Air Display Festival will have a full line up of events, displays and attractions for families including some amazing displays in the skies over Bray.

When: August 4-6th 2023

The 2023 Spraoi International Street Arts Festival has an exciting programme of street performances including theatre, parade and music planned for this year. And specially for kids, Garter Lane Arts Centre presents SprÓg Childrens Festival, during Spraoi Weekend, with workshops all week and over the Spraoi festival weekend. Many events are free, so pre-booking is essential.

When: August 4-7th 2023

The Enniscorthy Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival takes place over the August Bank Holiday Weekend bringing the very best in local food and fruit producers, family entertainment and as always, the best of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

The 2023 festival will have lots of new events running throughout the weekend as well as welcoming back some festival favourites. The Artisan Food, Drink and Crafts Market brings over 50 vendors taking over the market streets.

For families, there are a variety of free and low cost events, fun fair with Big Wheel, kids dance classes in the Market Square and some opportunities to get involved in Kids Food Demonstrations. Enniscorthy Castle plays host to a variety of kids activities with a host of enjoyable and interactive sessions for the whole family.

When: August 11-20th 2023

Waterford Walls, Ireland’s largest International Street Art Festival will take place in August. Artists have created large scale mural artworks around Waterford City and the surrounding areas. The Festival will see 10 days of live art, music, workshops, guided tours and much more.

When: August 12-20th 2023

For National Heritage Week, events take place across the country to celebrate Irish heritage and culture. Events include opportunities for free guided tours of many of our heritage attractions. It’s the perfect way to finish off the school holidays!

When: September 22nd 2023

Culture Night sees venues and public spaces come alive with free entertainment. From music to arts to entertainers, workshops and tours there will be something for everyone in the family to enjoy.