As the Easter bank holiday weekend kicks off, families across Ireland are in for a treat, with a wide range of events set to celebrate the season. From Easter egg hunts and parades to train rides, special appearances from beloved characters, and thrilling outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this long weekend.
Easter Egg Hunts Across Ireland
For families with young children, Easter egg hunts are at the top of the agenda. Athlone Castle in Westmeath is hosting a much-anticipated Easter trail on Saturday, while Castlecomer Discover Park in Kilkenny offers a woodland egg hunt. Other destinations such as the St Brigit’s Garden in Galway are offering a variety of hunts tailored to different age groups. At Carraig Gardens in Cavan, children can even exchange their egg shells for cookies in the tearooms, adding a sweet twist to the traditional hunt.
Meanwhile, Castleview Open Farm in Laois is running a special Easter Bunny trail, and Moher Hill Farm in Clare along with Corderry Fruit Farm in Louth are offering Easter-themed trails. Families can also experience the enchantment of the bunny trail at the Irish National Stud and Garden in Kildare or step inside Wally Wonka Valley at Secret Valley Wildlife Park in Wexford.
Tourist Attractions Celebrate Easter
Some of Ireland’s most iconic tourist destinations are celebrating Easter in grand style. Birr Castle Demesne in Offaly invites visitors to embark on an Easter Quest, while the historic grounds of Johnstown Castle in Wexford and Westport House in Mayo offer a mix of fun-filled adventures. Malahide Castle in Dublin will host a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, while Rathwood Express Train in Carlow provides a fun-filled panto experience.
For Beatrix Potter fans, Peter Rabbit will make a special appearance at the Railway Museum in Malahide, while Dublin Zoo offers an exciting Easter lineup, including the Zoorassic Trail, where visitors can learn about dinosaurs.
Creative and Fun Activities for Kids
For children who love hands-on activities, The Chocolate Garden of Ireland in Tullow offers Easter egg-making workshops. Meanwhile, the Painted Post Studio in Newcastle West, Limerick, will hold pottery painting workshops where young artists can create their own bunnies. Bunratty Castle in County Clare is hosting an Easter bonnet competition for children under 12, allowing them to showcase their creativity.
Easter Parades Across the Country
The Easter weekend wouldn’t be complete without a colorful parade. Parades will take place in Carrick-on-Shannon, Granard in Longford, Roscommon town, and Achill Sound in Mayo on Easter Sunday. These vibrant celebrations offer a chance for locals to dress up and join in the fun, further adding to the weekend’s festivities.
Outdoor Activities and Sports Events
For those looking to work off some of that Easter chocolate, a variety of outdoor events await. Families can stretch their legs at the 1km Ballybunion Fun Run in Kerry, or participate in a family-friendly color run at Crolly Bridge in Donegal. For those who prefer a more challenging run, the Kilmovee 10K in Mayo, the Sligo Half Marathon, and the Run Ballybunion 5k/10k/half-marathon are just a few of the running events scheduled.
Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a guided walk with the Lowland Wanderers in Carlow or explore the North Leitrim Glens at the Hill Walking Festival. Golfers may want to attend the West of Ireland Championship at County Sligo Golf Club, while sports fans can enjoy the three-day festival at Mallow Racecourse.
Music and Entertainment for All Ages
For music lovers, a variety of performances are on offer this weekend. Sharon Shannon will take the stage in Thurles, while Ronan Collins brings “The Showband Years” to Arklow. The Mayo Fleadh will kick off in Ballina with a special concert, and County Monaghan will see both the Whistlin’ Donkeys and Claudia Buckley perform.
Theatrical performances also take center stage, with the Corn Mill Theatre Group’s production of A Whistle in the Dark in Leitrim, and Wexford Drama Group’s Skylight at the National Opera House. Drama enthusiasts can also catch Macbeth performed by Droichead Youth Theatre in Louth.
A Weekend for All Interests
From comedy to culture, there’s something for everyone this Easter. Mario Rosenstock’s Gift Grub comes to Drogheda, while Dundalk hosts a Japanese Film Festival. Cork’s Marina Market will host the two-day “Brick Con,” Ireland’s largest Lego fan convention, and car enthusiasts can visit the Carlow Classic Motorcycle Show and Donegal Vintage Classic Car Show.
Whether you’re a petrolhead, a lover of music, or simply looking for family-friendly fun, this Easter bank holiday weekend offers a wide array of activities to suit every taste.
Conclusion
No matter your interests, Ireland’s Easter bank holiday weekend is packed with events to entertain all ages. From outdoor adventures and creative activities to thrilling performances and parades, there is no shortage of ways to make the most of this holiday weekend.
