Easter in Ireland: The Best Activities and Events for you and the Family!
With Easter weekend fast approaching, we’ve compiled some of the best events and activities taking place over the weekend. New to Ireland? Here’s what you need to know about Easter!
Holidays
At Easter time, both primary and secondary schools close for 2 weeks. Most colleges across the country will also have study weeks with no classes for students.
While Good Friday is not a bank holiday, many businesses will close for the day, or maybe have a half day.
Easter Monday however is a bank holiday, meaning that most people will have a well-earned day off to make sure their Easter eggs are fully digested.
Easter Eggs
Did someone say chocolate?
Easter Eggs are huge here in Ireland, and exchanging them as gifts is common practice, whether you’re a child or not!
The Easter Bunny delivers his eggs on Easter Sunday, and we really can’t wait… but we’ll try our best.
Dublin
Celebrate History
The Easter Rising is probably the most significant moment in Ireland’s history.
It occurred on Easter Monday 1916, when Irish republicans tried to end British rule in Ireland and establish an independent Irish Republic.
Irish rebels took over several key buildings in Dublin, the most notable being the GPO on O’Connell Street.
There is now an exhibition in the GPO called “Witness History” that allows you to experience the events of the Rising.
What better weekend than this to check it out?
Easter Extravaganza at Luggwoods
Nestled in the beautiful Dublin Mountains, Lugwoods Events is just outside Saggart in Co.Dublin and has a gorgeous natural forest setting. It’s been said that it’s one of the Easter bunny’s favourite places to visit, and children can take part in to ‘Magical Easter Spring Trail’, visit the petting farm and meet lots of Fairy tale characters along the way!
Find out more and book your tickets here.
Belfast
Hunt for Eggs with the Animals at Belfast Zoo
Hop on over to Belfast Zoo to visit your favourite animals as they get their Easter treats at feeding time.
Zookeepers will talk you through each animal to teach you more about the species that the zoo cares for.
As you walk around, don’t forget to search high and low for the Easter egg signs hidden around the zoo, you could also be in with the chance of winning a special prize…
You can book a place and find out more here.
Easter at the Ulster Folk Museum
Opt for some culture this Easter weekend with craft demonstrations, traditional games and creative Easter craft stations throughout Ulster Folk Museum. Visitors can learn about the traditions of an Easter celebration in the 1900’s and find out how they are keeping these traditions alive today.
Fun for all ages, over the weekend (and even into Tuesday) the Ulster Folk Museum will play host to traditional musicians, and the Fortwilliam Musical Society Choir, as well as egg rolling and of course the option to enjoy a treat (or two) at the Ballycultra tearooms.
Find out more and book tickets here.
Cork
Easter Fairy Adventure at Fota House & Gardens
Fota House & Gardens in Co Cork will have a special Easter Fairy adventure on April 15th & 16th with slots between 11am and 3pm. Presented by WonderWorld, this interactive camp with have dancing, games, theatre and treats for participants.
You can find more info and book your ticket here.
World Circus Day with Circus Factory
Circus Factory will be bringing some razzle dazzle the courtyard at Wandesford Quay in Cork City for World Circus Day on April 16th. The “Super Star Circus” followed by a “Circus Disco” is sure to wow children and adults alike.
And when the sun goes down, adults can enjoy ‘Under the Stars: An Evening Cabaret’. In this cabaret for adults, allow yourself to be lost and found again through aerial arts, object manipulation, comedy, exploration, and fire.
Find out more and book your tickets here.
What are your plans this Easter Weekend?