As May winds down and the days grow that bit longer, the forecast might be mixed but there’s still plenty to look forward to.
As May winds down and the days grow that bit longer, the forecast might be mixed but there’s still plenty to look forward to.
This weekend brings a great selection of events for all ages, from outdoor adventures and live music to creative workshops and neighbourhood get-togethers. Whatever the weather, there’s something happening near you to keep the whole family entertained.
You can find more events here: Events on in Ireland
Biodiversity Week
Ireland | May 16th-25th
National Biodiversity Week continues with fun, free ways for families to explore Ireland’s wildlife. From scavenger hunts to photography challenges, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Saturday includes orienteering and nature trails at the National Museum in Mayo, and the launch of the Clew Bay Garden Trail with Éanna Ní Lamhna. On Sunday, families can join wild bee walks and biodiversity tours at the Botanic Gardens in Dublin, plus a bug and spider encounter with Collie Ennis in South Dublin.
Leitrim Cycling Festival
Leitrim | May 23rd-25th
The Leitrim Cycling Festival returns to Tullaghan with a weekend packed with free family fun. Children can enjoy art workshops, woodland crafts, a Teddy Bear’s Picnic, pony rides, games and even a tug o’war by the sea.
Families can also join community cycle spins, explore the coast on guided walks or unwind with storytelling, music and film. With something on each day, it’s a brilliant way to enjoy the outdoors along Leitrim’s beautiful coastline.
Bleeding Pig Cultural Festival
Dublin | Until May 25th
The Bleeding Pig Cultural Festival continues this weekend with a packed line-up of creative fun for families across Donabate and Portrane. Children can get hands-on in workshops like self-portrait drawing, bag decorating and clay owl making, all designed for ages 5 to 12 with materials included.
There’s plenty for families to enjoy together too, from live music at Sounds from The Square to a lively outdoor céilí with pizza, art exhibitions and a Sunday evening singalong by the sea. It’s the perfect way to wrap up a week of community fun and creativity.
Féile Binn Éadair
Dublin | May 23rd - 25th
Féile Binn Éadair returns to Howth with a vibrant weekend of music, dance and community spirit. Spread across seven venues in the heart of the seaside village, the festival brings together pure trad, folk and modern Irish sounds in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
With nearly 30 free gigs and sessions throughout the village — plus headline shows from Altan, Sharon Shannon, Lemoncello and more — it’s the perfect combination of spontaneous fun and ticketed highlights. Families can enjoy daytime music, great food and harbour views, just a short hop from the city.
Luke Kelly Festival
Dublin | May 24th - 25th
The Luke Kelly Festival returns to Smithfield Square this May for a packed weekend celebrating the life and legacy of one of Dublin’s most beloved voices. Families can enjoy two full days of live music, arts and crafts, football fun and singalong sessions in the heart of the city.
With performances from some of Ireland’s top folk artists, a special kids’ ballad singalong, creative workshops and even crazy golf, there’s something for all ages to enjoy. This free event is a lively and heartfelt tribute to a true Dublin legend.
Street Feast
Nationwide | May 24th & 25th
Street Feast is back this weekend with its annual celebration of community, colour and conversation. While it may be too late to register your own event, there’s still time to join in — with thousands of local feasts taking place in communities across the country.
From cul-de-sacs to car parks, neighbours are coming together to share food and laughs in all sorts of creative spaces. Find one near you and get inspired — or start planning your own for next year. All it takes is a table, a few friendly faces and a bit of bunting.
Strandhill May Weekend Family Funfair
Sligo | May 23rd-25th
The Vintage Carousel Co. returns to Strandhill for a weekend of family fun at Sligo Airport. From flying with Dumbo and setting sail on the new Pirate Ship to spinning on the Chair-o-planes, it’s three days of classic thrills and sweet treats.
The Treat Tram will be fully stocked with candy floss and your favourite goodies. All rides cost just €3, with discounted tokens available online in advance — and top-ups available on-site during the event.
