Are you looking for family things to do in Ireland this Summer? We’ve got it covered, with the MyKidsTime guide to Things to Do with Kids Around Ireland Summer 2019. Check out our 21 Free Things to Do with Kids around Ireland this Summer too.
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Summer Family Getaway to Galway
This Summer The Connacht Hotel in Galway is offering a Young Explorers Family Package with breakfast each morning and dinner on one evening for the whole family! While you relax, the kids can enjoy their fantastic fun-filled kids club at no extra cost & for an action packed day out, avail of discounts for local attractions arranged by the hotel.
Summer Breaks at The Connacht from 28th June to 31st August from €440 per room. Choose from two and three nights packages to include:
- Bed & Breakfast each day.
- Family Dinner on One Evening.
- Full use of Leisure Centre and 20m Swimming Pool.
- Access to the ‘Friendly Fellows’ Kids Club and schedule of activities.
- Free parking.
- Discounts to local attractions.
Book Your Summer Family Break to Galway
Things to do in Dublin and Wicklow with Kids this Summer
dlr Mill Theatre, Dundrum, Summer Season
Mill Productions bring another Roald Dhal classic, The Twits to the stage this June 2019 at the dlr Mill Theatre.
Catch the show on dates from June 13th to 23rd at 2pm and 4pm. Suitable for ages 4+.
- And book your place on their Performing Arts Summer Camps which run weekly from July 1st to July 26th 2019.
- The Three Little Pigs presented by renowned puppeteer, Miriam Lamber is on Saturday June 29th at 12pm & 2pm.
When: Throughout the Summer
National Museum of Ireland Free Summer Events
From Vikings to Animals to Mummies to Artefacts, there are heaps of free events on at National Museums of Ireland this July & August, more details here.
When: Throughout the Summer
Laya Healthcare’s City Spectacular, Dublin & Cork
Laya Healthcare’s City Spectacular is going to be even bigger, better and more spectacular than ever as it takes to Dublin’s Merrion Square & Cork’s Fitzgerald Park, Cork city this July.
Featuring some of the best street theatre performers around, and with a host of exciting events, fantastic exhibitions and absorbing interactive workshops, there will be plenty to entertain the whole family.
When: Dublin: July 12th – 14th; Cork: July 20th – 21st 2019
Summer Fun at Powerscourt Estate & Gardens
Powerscourt Estate & Gardens are perfect for a fun family day out during the summer months. Pack a picnic and enjoy exploring. They also run events throughout the year and this summer you can enjoy:
May 25th from 11am to 12pm – Enjoy a kids gardening class where you can learn to sow and grow some beautiful flowers to enjoy during the summer months. Classes are suitable for ages 5 to 12 years and children must be accompanied by an adult. Book a place.
July 28th – Join Chapterhouse Theatre Company for an outdoor performance of the much loved classic Treasure Island. Pack a rug and a picnic and prepare to be wowed!
When: May, June July & August
Cool Planet Experience, Wicklow
Embark on an interactive journey of discovery at Cool Planet Experience this summer, an amazing place for a family day out over the summer months. Look out for seasonal events by checking the website regularly.
When: All Summer Long
The Festival of Curiosity
The Festival of Curiosity is back in Dublin this summer for a four-day cultural feast of science, arts, design, and technology for all the family from July 18th – 21st.
Take your friends and your family on a play date with Dublin City this July during the Playful Days and Curious Nights festival programme. See the full programme of events at www.festivalofcuriosity.ie
When: 18th – 21st July 2019
The Dublin Horse Show
There’s something for everyone at the Dublin Horse Show from the 7th – 11th August 2019, with live music and entertainment, art, fashion, shopping, food and the best in national and international equestrian competitions. The popular Kids’ Zone, will keep kids busy with pony rides, fun inflatables, face painting, and magic shows!
When: 7th – 11th August 2019
Playstival Fest, Dublin
Now in its second year, our favourite children’s festival Playstival celebrates play, fun and imagination. It takes place at Airfield Estate, Ireland’s largest urban farm. Families can enjoy a two day 100% interactive and ‘screen free’ summer festival with themed ‘play universes’ and activities for children to immerse themselves in.
Playstival offers an unforgettable day of pure fun, with wooden play universes designed to foster the imagination such as; The Market for kids and an array of recreational activities such as sports and STEM workshops, real life arcade games, drama and dance, creative writing and storytelling, a live music stage and food village.
This hands-on festival is not to be missed and will fuel the imagination as the smallies prepare to head back to school.
When: 10th – 11th August 2019
Things to do in Westmeath, Laois, Offaly, Kildare, Longford with Kids
Summer Fun at the Irish National Stud & Gardens, Kildare
There are plenty of fun activities taking place at the Irish National Stud & Gardens, Co Kildare, during the Summer months. Every Tuesday and Sunday in July and August enjoy free pony rides from 11:00am until 12:30pm and 2:00pm until 3:30pm along with face-painting and a fun and interactive Mobile Farm.
It is also the perfect time to see all of the foals frolicking in their paddocks. You can enjoy the very beautiful Japanese Gardens, St. Fiachra’s Garden. The ‘Living Legends’, Beef Or Salmon, Hardy Eustace, Kicking King, Hurricane Fly and Rite Of Passage, can be seen in their paddocks every day enjoying their retirement from racing.
The on-site restaurant offers delicious homemade baked goods and wholesome lunches. And end the day in the playground and finding the 20 resident fairies hidden along The Fairy Trail!
Tickets can be purchased on the day but to avail of discounted rates, book online
When: July & August 2019
Summer at Birr Castle & Gardens, Offaly
Enjoy Castle tours in May, June, July and August at Birr Castle, Co Offaly. Monday to Saturday at 10.00, 11.30, and 13.00 each day, pre-booking is essential to avoid disappointment. You can also enjoy a visit to the Science Centre and the gardens with an amazing treehouse.
Summer at Belvedere House & Gardens, Westmeath
Belvedere House and Gardens in Westmeath offers an amazing family day out with walks in the woodlands and along the lake, visit Ireland’s largest folly and enjoy amazing events including outdoor theatre shows.
Wednesday June 26th – A Midsummer Nights Dream presented by Chapterhouse Theatre Company takes place at Belevedere House & Gardens.
And on July 26th you can enjoy The Secret Garden with Chapterhouse Theatre Company.
These outdoor theatre events held in the gardens of the stunning Belevedere House are sure to delight audiences of all ages.
When: June, July & August
Durrow Scarecrow Festival, Laois
The Durrow Scarecrow Festival is a fun family event for young and old, with over 300 scarecrows to see around the village, in many different designs and themes. There’s plenty more on offer too including live music, craft workshops, country market, adult, teen and children’s entertainment, and scarecrow treasure hunt.
When: July 28th – August 5th 2019
Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival, Offaly
Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival runs from Friday 2nd to Saturday 10th August 2019 with free entertainment for children including music, markets and fairs, arts and craft activities and more.
When: Friday 2nd to Saturday 10th August 2019
Things to do in Meath, Louth, Cavan and Monaghan with Kids
The Irish Harp Festival, Louth
An Chúirt Chruitireachta, the annual Irish harp festival, takes place from June 30th to July 5th 2019 in Termonfechin, Louth. Harpers of all standards from absolute beginners to advanced players are welcome.
When: June 30th to July 5th 2019
Muckno Mania Festival, Castleblaney, Monaghan
The annual Muckno Mania Festival takes place July 4th – 7th 2019. We are just waiting on the full program of events but fun will be guaranteed for all the family as they celebrate 21 years of this local festival.
When: July 4th – 7th 2019
National Sandcastle and Sand Sculpting Festival, Meath
It’s the National Sandcastle and Sand Sculpting Festival takes place in Bettystown, Co Meath on July 6th & 7th 2019. There will be a beach sports day on the 6th and a sandcastle competition on the 7th.
When: July 6th & 7th 2019
Taste of Cavan 2019, Cavan
Taste of Cavan 2019 takes place August 9th & 10th in the Cavan Equestrian Centre with over 100 stalls of artisan food and craft producers from Cavan and the surrounding areas and lots of fun family entertainment.
When: August 9th & 10th
Things to do in Sligo, Leitrim, Donegal, Roscommon and Mayo with Kids
Free Summer Fun at National Museum of Ireland, Country Life, Mayo
The Museum of Country Life has FREE events for families during July and August. Get more details here.
When: All Summer long!
Summer at Strokestown Park,House & Gardens and The National Famine Museum, Roscommon
Strokestown Park, House & Gardens and the National Famine Museum are open to the public throughout the summer months. Enjoy a fun family day out and learn more about the history of Ireland. Look out for events taking place during June, July and August.
When: Open throughout the summer
Summer Adventures at Lough Key Forest Park, Roscommon
Take the family to Lough Key Forest Park, Roscommon for a host of unusual activities and experiences and have a fun family day out.
When: Open throughout the summer
Boyle Arts Festival, Roscommon
The Boyle Arts Festival is a celebration of music, arts and culture and takes place in the beautiful town of Boyle, Co. Roscommon from July 19th to 28th. Children can avail of workshops and families can enjoy music, theatre and visual arts.
When: July 18th – 27th 2019
The Enniscrone Black Pig Festival, Sligo
The Enniscrone Black Pig Festival is on from July 25th to 29th 2019. Enjoy treasure hunts, fireworks, music, street performers, great food and a Market Day at this family friendly festival.
When: July 25th to 29th 2019
Cairde Sligo Arts Festival, Sligo
In Sligo, Cairde is a week of music, dance, theatre, children events, visual art, spoken word, street art and spectacle, Park Fest and more… taking place July 6th to 13th.
When: July 6th to 13th 2019
Earagail Festival, Donegal
The Earagail Arts Festival which runs in July in Donegal is a unique bilingual cultural festival with events from music to outdoor events to theatre and visual arts, taking place in a mix of venues. Every year the festival includes family friendly events.
When: July 10th – 28th 2019
Off The Street Food Fest, Letterkenny
The Off The Street Food Fest takes place in Letterkenny on 27th & 28th July, showcasing the best of Donegal Food, street-food style. There are cookery demos from some of Ireland’s best chefs, along with music, food quiz, bake off and more.
When: July 27th & 28th 2019
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Things to do in Galway with Kids
Bia Lover Festival of Food
The annual Bia Lover Festival of Food & Drink takes place June 22nd and 23rd 2019 in the centre of Athenry, beside the Clarin River and with the beautifully restored Athenry Castle as a backdrop.
Cookery demonstrations featuring local produce and cook-off competitions will add to the experience. With live music, arts trails, face-painting, balloon artists, stilt-walkers and more, there will be something to entertain young and old.
When: June 22nd & 23rd 2019
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Traidphicnic, Spiddeal
Traidphicnic takes place in An Spidéal 5th-7th July 2019 with community arts, crafts, sessions, walks and talks, offering something for everyone. It is a family friendly event, bring your own picnic, sun and midge cream, thermals and raincoat!
When: July 5th to 7th 2019
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Galway International Food & Craft Festival, Salthill
Salthill is set to come alive this Summer with 200+ food and craft vendors setting up shop in Salthill park for a 3 day food & craft festival. There will be free music, a dedicated kids zone, cooking demonstrations, tastings with well known international and Irish chefs and much more on offer for all ages to enjoy.
When: July 5th to 7th 2019
Galway Garden Festival, Claregalway
Claregalway Castle plays host to this year’s Galway Garden Festival on July 6th & 7th 2019. Children get in free!
When: July 6th & 7th 2019
Galway Film Fleadh
The annual Galway Film Fleadh is on from July 9th to 14th 2019.
When: July 9th – 14th 2019.
Galway International Arts Festival, Galway
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.
When: July 15th – 28th 2019.
Galway Races Summer Festival
The annual Galway Races Summer Festival is on from July 29th to August 2nd 2019. Why not get the girls together and head off to Ladies Day on August 1st?
When: July 29th to August 2nd 2019.
Crinniú na mBád 2019, Kinvara
Crinniú na mBád 2019, the annual Galway Hooker Gathering and race, takes place in Kinvara on August 9th to 11th 2019.
When: August 9th ot 11th 2019.
Things to do in Clare, Tipperary, Kerry with Kids
Riverfest, Limerick
The award winning Riverfest Limerick is set to return for the May Bank Holiday, Friday 3rd to Monday 6th May 2019, offering a dazzling array of free activities to amuse families of all ages. Highlights of the festival will include:
- Riverfest Fireworks
- Fashion Friday
- Riverfestival village in Arthur’s Quay Park
- Ireland’s largest BBQ cook-off
- Free tours of one of Ireland’s Navy Vessels
- Regeneron Great Limerick Run
Best of all most of the activities are completely free to keep you and your family entertained. There’s just so much activity for all ages it promises to be one excellent weekend to soak up Limerick City.
Events take place from May 3rd to 6th 2019.
Free Tours of Ardnacrusha Power Station, Clare
The ESB welcomes visitors to the Ardnacrusha Experience & Visitor Centre for tours of the Ardnacrusha Power Station. This unique visitor experience is free but must be booked in advance.
When: May 23 to June 28th for School Tours and July 1st to September 13th 2019 general public admissions
Féile Brian Ború, Clare/Tipperary
Féile Brian Ború celebrates the life and legacy of Brian Ború (founder of the O’Briens) – the most famous son of the historic twin towns of Killaloe and Ballina. Fun activities include historical guided tours on lake and land, fireworks display over the River Shannon, traditional street games, garden party, children’s art competition, street theatre and much more! There really is something for everyone in the family at this fun event.
When: July 17th – 21st 2019
Ennis Street Arts Festival
Enjoy the Ennis Street Arts Festival from the 1st to 7th of July 2019. Ennis will become a hub for children and adults to explore their artistic side and experience many different events: children’s workshops, poetry, theatre, visual arts, comedy, arts exhibitions, street entertainment, music and dance, Art & Craft Market and the duck race; there is something for everyone to enjoy!
Lughnasa at Craggaunowen, Limerick
Celebrate Lughnasa at Craggaunowen August 5th, with an array of costumed re-enactors from the Bronze Age to Medieval times. Activities include combat demonstrations, Brehon law trials and much more!
When: August 5th 2019
Puck Fair, Kerry
The famous annual Puck Fair in Killorglin, Co. Kerry takes place this year August 9th to 11th 2019 and is one of Ireland’s most unusual street festivals! See the crowning of a wild mountain goat and take to the streets for lots of fun.
When: August 9th to 11th 2019
Cappamore Agricultural Show, Limerick
The Cappamore Agricultural Show takes place in Cappamore, Limerick on August 17th 2019. It showcases the best of the region with cookery, crafts, competitions, displays and more. And offers a fun day out for all ages.
When: August 17th 2019
Limerick Show Family Festival
Celebrating 90 years, the Limerick Show Family Festival takes place at Limerick Racecourse on Sunday August 25th. You can enjoy competitions, food, stalls selling all sorts of goodies, family fun with a kids zone and the Limerick dog show.
When: Sunday August 25th 2019
Things to do in Cork with Kids
Seafest, Cork
A weekend of fun and free events is just on the horizon as SeaFest 2019 takes place in Cork from 7 – 9 June.
Cork Harbour will be transformed into an ‘open air sea world’ and will be ‘awash with free family-friendly activities, entertainment and attractions both on and off the water’ for the three-day festival.
The three-day festival will cover all things marine – from seafood cookery to science, exploring the ships that transport us to discovering the creatures of the deep.
The free festival also hosts exhibits and talks on marine life and fun educational activities that bring children on a journey of discovery when it comes to the mysteries of the ocean. Foodies can get tips from seafood cookery experts and sample some tasty bites.
When: 7th – 9th June 2019
Cork Midsummer Festival
Cork Midsummer Festival is Cork’s largest annual multi-disciplinary arts festival for all ages along the banks of the river Lee, with many national and international theatre and music events, and the return of family favourite, Picnic in the Park. Takes place June 13th – 23rd 2019.
When: 13th – 23rd June 2019
Family Fun and Outdoor Theatre at Fota House & Gardens Cork
Enjoy all that Fota House and Gardens has to offer this Summer including outdoor theatre shows on:
July 12th – Cranford is presented by Chapterhouse Theatre Company at Fota House & Gardens.
August 1st – Enjoy The Secret Garden presented by Chapterhouse Theatre Company at Fota House & Gardens.
Be sure to pack a folding chair or bring a blanket and a picnic to enjoy on the evening.
When: June, July & August
Laya Healthcare’s City Spectacular, Dublin & Cork
Laya Healthcare’s City Spectacular is going to be even bigger, better and more spectacular than ever as it takes to Dublin’s Merrion Square & Cork’s Fitzgerald Park, Cork city this July.
Featuring some of the best street theatre performers around, and with a host of exciting events, fantastic exhibitions and absorbing interactive workshops, there will be plenty to entertain the whole family.
When: Dublin: July 12th – 14th; Cork: July 20th – 21st 2019
Cape Clear Island International Storytelling Festival
Cape Clear Island International Storytelling Festival is on from 30th August to September 1st 2019 and offers a unique environment to listen to tales by world renowned storytellers.
When: 30th August to September 1st 2019
Things to do in Wexford, Carlow, Kilkenny, Waterford with Kids
Summer at Castlecomer Discovery Park, Kilkenny
The award winning Castlecomer Discovery Park is a stunning 70 acre woodland recreational & educational activity park with a range of adventure activities including tree top walks, Ireland’s longest zip wire and high ropes challenge, climbing walls, boating, archery, adventure playgrounds, woodland café and orienteering.
At the hub of the site there is the Irish Mining Museum, a purpose-built cafe, craft village and spaces for educational activities. Perfect for a family day out this summer.
When: All Summer long
Kaleidoscope Festival, Wicklow
Billed as a family camping festival, Kaleidoscope will take place at Russborough House in Blessington, Co. Wicklow with three days of high energy, full colour, multi–stage entertainment over 15 stages, designed to entice and enthrall all, from babes in arms to those eligible for a bus pass!
When: June 28th – 30th 2019
Wexford Maritime Festival, Wexford
At the Wexford Maritime Festival in June, you’ll find a celebration of Wexford’s rich maritime heritage, and can enjoy maritime activities, family fun, artisan food and music. Children can enjoy dance and musical activities, arts and crafts, science workshops, circus workshops and shows at the Children’s Village. Discover Wexford’s Viking past in the Viking tent where children can try their hand at brass rubbing and sword making.
When: June 29th – 30th 2019
Spraoi International Street Arts Festival, Waterford
The 2019 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 2nd – 4th 2019
Nore Valley Park Superhero & Princess Day
Nore Valley Farm Park Superhero & Princess Day takes place on August 10th 2019. Are you strong like Superman or agile like Wonder Woman? Can you swing like Spider Man or run like The Flash? Test your skills at our Superhero Training Centre, where you will prove your superhero abilities and gain an Official Superhero ID card.
Nore Valley Farm Park is open to visitors all summer long with a pet farm, playground, maze, crazy golf, climbing frames, go-karts and more to enjoy. And for those not living in Kilkenny, check out the family friendly accommodation & campsite.
When: Open all Summer with Superhero & Princess Training Day on August 10th
Kilkenny Arts Festival
In August the city of Kilkenny will come to life with visual art, classical music, theatre and dance, jazz, world & traditional Irish music, literature, film, indie music, craft, children’s and street events for the Kilkenny Arts Festival taking place from 8th – 18th August 2019.
When: 8th to 18th August 2019
Waterford Walls International Street Art Festival
Waterford Walls is an international street art festival running 22 – 25 August 2019 that transforms Waterford City into an open-air gallery. It’s a free family day out with kids’ workshops, live music, art trails, panel discussions, art jams & more!
When: August 22nd to 25th 2019
And finally,
National Heritage Week 2019
National Heritage Week 2019 has fun events for families and children nationwide from August 17th to 27th 2019.
When: August 17th to 27th 2019
Over to you now. Are we missing any great events that you plan to take your kids to? Share them with us in the comments below.
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