Ireland's No. 1 FREE magazines for parents & teachers of primary school children
Ireland's No. 1 FREE magazines for parents & teachers of primary school children
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Saturdays Ongoing
CODERDOJO FOR KIDS
Workshops for young people to learn how to code, develop websites, apps, programmes, games and more.
Science Gallery
The Naughton Institute
1-4pme Naughtonstitut1pm-m
DCU
12-1.45pm and 2pm-4pm
Bray
2:30pm-4:30pm
ITB
(Institute of Technology, Blanchardstown)
10am-12pm
Malahide
Alternate Saturdays 1pm-4pm
Donabate
(Portrane Community Centre)
Alternate Saturdays 2pm-4pm
Coderdojo Weekdays
Mondays @
SWICN D8
3:45-5pm
Tuesdays @
Croke Park
6pm-8pm
Booking Essential see
http://www.eventbrite.ie/org/2187748787
http://coderdojomalahide.eventbrite.com
http://www.coderdojodunlaoghaire.com
http://www.donabatedojo.com
http://theclubhouse.ie
Saturdays Ongoing
FAMILY ARTS PROGRAMME
The Family Programme at the National Gallery Merrion Square provides a fun opportunity for families to enjoy creating together and learning about art through free activities exploring storytelling, music, art, poetry and drama. 3pm. Suitable for children aged between 4 and 10. Numbers limited to 40 on a first come first served basis.
Sundays Ongoing
ALL THE FAMILY SUNDAY SKETCHING
Sunday sketching takes place every Sunday from 2pm – 3pm at The Hugh Lane. The materials are provided. No booking is required for Sunday sketching, although numbers may be limited. FREE
www.hughlane.ie/childrensworkshops/forthcoming
Sundays Ongoing
CHILDREN’S ART KART
Children’s art kart workshops are on every Sunday 11.00am -12.00pm at the Phoenix Park. Between now and Christmas, christmas cards, felt snowmen and christmas decorations will be on the menu. No booking required. Children need to be accompanied by an adult and must be 6 years plus.
Check out www.phoenixpark.ie for further details.
Thursdays Ongoing
STORYTIME FOR YOUNGER CHILDREN
Younger children ages 3-7 can listen to stories at Cabinteely Library. 3:30pm to 4pm. Contact Cabinteely Library on (01)2855363
Daily Ongoing
IMMA TROVE
Through January and February 2015 primary school classes can experience the exhibition Trove featuring work from the collections of Imma and other galleries. Each guided tour and workshop is led by IMMA staff. Each visit lasts two hours, Fee of Ä26(Deis exempt). Notes for visiting teachers will be available on line. 10am-12 noon. Duration 2 hours. Book on www.imma.ie
From Nov 21- 4th January
Christmas Kingdom
Christmas Kingdom in St. Anne’s Park, Raheny -
Every weekend Fri 2pm to 8pm & Sat/Sun from 10am to 8pm
Open for 5 days from the weekend of the 19th Dec to the 23rd of Dec from 10am to 8pm
A fantastic new magical experience which includes: Santa’s Grotto, Festive Train Rides, Massive Indoor Play Area, Vintage Carousels, Gigantic Slide, Live Crib, Snow Globe and A Christmas Festive Market. See www.christmaskingdom.ie for further information and school packages Tel Cecily on 085-1447503
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Sat. 22 Nov.- Sun. 21 Dec.
A MOST PECULIAR WINTRY THING
The Ark and Music Network, Temple Bar present a brand new festive music show exploring the magic and mystery of winter for children aged four plus. With a dynamic blend of original music, improvisation and audience interaction, this brand new festive music show by composer, Brian Irvine has been commissioned and specially created for children, their schools and families. Tickets Ä9 plus available from www.ark.ie
Sat. 29 Nov.
CHRISTMAS TOY SHOW
This nine day magical event draws to a close on Sunday 30th November. Experience that RDS Christmas Magic with fun, games and activities for all ages as well as tons of entertainment and music on the main stage, not to mention Ireland’s best Santa experience. Enjoy hassle-free shopping with a huge selection of toys on display at great value prices.
Sat. 29 Nov. & Sat. 6 Dec.
ECO CHRISTMAS CRAFTS
Kids! Get crafty and join in making Christmas decorations from recycled bits and pieces Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin. It’s fun to make your own decorations and good to know that you’re helping the environment by recycling old card, paper, string, and plant material from the Gardens. Education and Visitor Centre, 2pm-4pm. Booking essential: Call: 01 8570909/ 8040319 Email: botanicgardens@opw.ie
Sat. 29 Nov.
CHRISTMAS BAZAAR
St Killian’s German School, Clonskeagh presents its annual bazaar.
This highly popular and traditional event welcomes everybody of all age groups. There will be many stalls featuring bric-a-brac, toys, books, crafts, tombola. Fun for the children will include Santa’s Grotto, face-painting, story-telling, Wheel of Fortune and much more! 12pm-4pm.
Sun. 30 Nov. & Sun.14 Dec.
TAKE A TRAIL: VIKING CHALLENGE
At the National Museum of Ireland, Archaeology, Kildare Street, discover Viking Age Dublin, what a warrior brought to his grave, where people lived and how to spot a real Viking sword, on this guided activity sheet trail of the Viking Ireland exhibition. Ages 7+. Time 2.30pm -3.30pm/3pm-4pm No booking required, places limited to 20, allocated on a first come basis.
Mon. 1 Dec. – Wedn. 31 Dec.
TAKE A CHRISTMAS TRAIL
Get along to the National Museum of Ireland, Decorative Arts and History, Collins Barracks, Benburb St to see the Christmassy side of the Museum by taking the Angel Trail or the 12 Days of Christmas Trail. Pick up your free Trail at the Museum’s Main Reception. Pencils provided but please return for others to use. No booking required.
Nov.-11 Jan.
DUNDRUM ON ICE
Now in its fifth year, the Dundrum Shopping Centre ice rink has become a permanent fixture every Christmas consisting of 450 sq metres of real ice. Tickets start at Ä11. Book on line at www.dundrumonice.ie or call 01 5242101.
Nov. - 4 Jan.
SWORDS ON ICE
Swords On Ice in the Swords Pavillion Shopping Centre. There is live music and ice skating lessons for children of all ages. Tickets start at Ä8. www.swordsonice.ie or call 01 5242322
Nov -Jan 2015
THE MOVING CRIB
The Moving Crib at Saint Martin’s Apostolate Church, Parnell Square
has been one of the most memorable assets of Christmas in Dublin City for over 50 years.Admission free.
Mon. 1 Dec.- Wed. 31 Dec.
MY FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS DECORATION
Do you have a favourite Christmas decoration? Is it a sparkly bauble, a smiling Santa or a twinkly star. Drop into the Family Activity Area at the National Museum of Ireland, Decorative Arts and History, Collins Barracks, Benburb St. to tell us about your special decoration and why you love it and while you’re there try drawing it for our Christmas display. 10am. No booking required, art materials provided. For families with young children.
Friday December 05, 2014 - Sunday January 11, 2015
Winter Christmas Wonderland
A new tradition begins with Winter Christmas Wonderland, at the RDS, Ballsbridge-an unforgettable and magical Christmas experience all in one location. Among the attractions are iSkate, Ireland’s largest ice rink, a Continental food market, Funderland, Santa’s Christmas Circus, an adventure journey Jingle Town, the famous Custard Pie puppet company and award-winning illusionist Guy Barrett. Open 12 -10pm Monday to Friday, 10am-10pm Saturday, Sunday & school holidays.
Sat. 6 Dec. –Sun, 21 Dec. (Sat. & Sun. only)
CHRISTMAS AT FARMLEIGH
Christmas at Farmleigh House, Castleknock means magic shows and puppet shows, story telling, carol singing, seasonal treats, horse & carriage rides, a live crib and a children’s Christmas room, all there to enjoy. Adults can enjoy some seasonal shopping at Christmas Food and Craft Markets, and barbershop and carol singing. 10am -5pm. Admission free but some events will be ticketed. Apply for free tickets at www.farmleigh.ie
Sat. 6 Dec.
CHRISTMAS STORY TELLING
Popular Irish story teller and actor, Jack Lynch is back at the Garden Pavillion, Powerscourt Estate, Wicklow sharing Christmas tales from all over the world. Check out www.powerscourt.com for more details.
Sat. 6 Dec.-Sat. 9 Jan. (Saturdays)
THE WINTER ART STUDIO
The Winter Art Studio at The Ark, Temple Bar is a fun and creative experience that enables the whole family to engage with and create visual art together. To start the creative adventure, a professional studio artist introduces the family members to winter themed contemporary Irish artworks and they can then set out to create their own with materials provided. Sessions at 10.30am, 1pm and 3pm. Tickets €8 from www.ark.ie
Sat. 6 Dec.
VIKING TOUR: GRAVE GOODS
The National Museum of Ireland, Archaeology, Kildare Street. Ireland is home to the largest Viking grave sites outside Scandanavia. Join historian Evan McGuigan for an introduction to the objects from specialised weaponry to every day goods that have been found within the burials of Viking Age Ireland. Suitable ages 12+. 12-12.40pm. Places limited.
Sun. 7 Dec.
A MEDIEVAL CHRISTMAS
Experience the magical smells, tastes and sights of Medieval times at the National Museum of Ireland, Archaeology, Kildare Street. There will be candle-making with the chandler, seasonal music played on the hurdy-gurdy, harp, lute and recorder, a scriptor cleric to help the young with their letters, food and spices to taste and try and Medieval games for children, perhaps even some magic to amaze one and all. 2.30pm-4pm. No booking
Sun. 7 Dec.
WINTER TRAIL
At the National Museum of Ireland, Archaeology, Kildare Street, discover with the Winter Trail activity sheet how Medieval lords, Viking children and Stone Age farmers passed the time and celebrated feasts in winters past. Join us for a tour through the exhibitions and find the answers. 2.40pm-3.30pm. Suitable for children aged 7 plus. No booking required. Places limited.
Sun. 7 Dec.
FREE GALLERY WORKSHOP
Free workshop at the Irish Museum of Modern Art, Royal Hospital Kilmainham, where families are introduced to current exhibitions to experience art works and make their own art. Drop-in 2pm-4pm.
Thurs.11 Dec.-Wedn. 24 Dec.
LIVE ANIMAL CRIB
The traditional Live Animal Crib is once again taking place at the Mansion House, Dawson St. outside the home of the Lord Mayor. On launch day, there will be performances from local choir groups, street entertainment and face painting for children. Admission is free.
Sat. 13 Dec.
YULETIDE GREETING
Many popular Christmas traditions have their roots in the Viking Festival of Yule. Drop-in to the National Museum of Ireland, Archaeology, Kildare Street to learn about Yule and create your own runic yule tree decorations to take home. No booking required. Located in the Learning Resource Centre. Drop-in Activity 11am-12 pm and 2pm -3 pm. Ages 6 plus.
Sat. 13 Dec. Sat. 17 Jan. & Sat. 21 Feb.
BUDDING ARTISTS
Join ‘budding’ artists at the National Botanic Gardens for a creative workshop especially for younger children taking place only once a month, under the watchful eye of artist Niamh Synnott. Children are encouraged to take a closer look at the natural world all around them to inspire fun art-making activities. Suitable for 4 to 7 year olds.
Time: 11.00am - 12.30pm, meet at the Education and Visitor Centre
Cost: €10, Booking Essential: Call: 01 8570909/ 8040319 Email: botanicgardens@opw.ie
Sun. 14 Dec.
BIRD WATCHING
Trying to look out for and identify a bird can be quite a challenge. Birds are active and energetic and you need a quick eye to spot as many details as possible in a short space of time. So why not join their guide at Dublin Zoo who will share some expert tips on how to learn and develop your bird-watching skills and knowledge.
The event runs from 11am-12.30 pm . Advance booking essential at 01 4748932 or education@dublinzoo.ie
Sun. 14. Dec.
CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS AT GLASNEVIN
Savour the festive atmosphere and experience the true spirit of Christmas with a free visit to Santa and his helpers in his secret hideaway in the Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin. Stock up with seasonal goodies, treats, presents, and supplies for Christmas at their special Christmas Market.
Admission by ticket only, collect at the Education and Visitor Centre only available on Sunday 14 December
Time: Market open all day. Santa from 1.30pm: Call: 01 8570909/ 8040319
Email: botanicgardens@opw.ie
Sun. 14 Dec.
HANDS ON HISTORY
At the National Museum of Ireland, Decorative Arts and History, Collins Barracks, Benburb St. you will have a chance to explore some of the artifacts from the Museum’s collection of objects for handling with Museum Educators -a fascinating drop-in handling session for all ages. 3pm-4pm. No booking required.
Sun. 14 Dec.
CHRISTMAS ART AND CRAFT DAY
Come along to Pine Forest Art Centre, Glencullen for a Christmas Art and Craft Day. 10am-3pm . Cost Ä35, including a lunchtime mountain walk, weather permitting. www.pineforestartcentre.com
Sun. 14 Dec.
CHRISTMAS STORY TELLING
Get along to the Education Area of the National Print Museum on Haddington Road for a fun and festive story telling session featuring a new addition to the Junior Library, Christmas at the Toy Museum by David Lucas. Children are welcome to bring along one of their own toys which they think would like to live in a Toy Museum.
2pm Suitable for 3-7 year olds. Free admission on a first come, first served basis.
Sun. 14 Dec.
SANTA HAT RECORD
A fundraising drive for Barnardos will take place in Dun Laoghaire Shopping Centre between 10.30am and 12 noon when an attempt to break the world record for the most Santa Hats in the one place will be made. Face painting , raffles and prizes will add to the festive fun.
Sat. 20 Dec.
FESTIVE DECORATION WORKSHOP
Go along for a festive workshop at Dublin City Gallery, The Hugh Lane. Create your very own festive decoration. Come and join them for a festive workshop at The Hugh Lane. Create your very own festive decoration. 2pm-3pm. Ä5 entry fee. To book contact Lorna Kavanagh, Education assistant on 01 222 5553 or email lkavanagh.hughlane@dublincity.ie
Sat. 20 Dec.
LANTERN PROCESSION
The enchanting lantern procession from People’s Park, Dun Laoghaire, will see participants from schools and community groups parade through the town at 4pm with handmade lanterns. Led by a team of drummers, the procession will walk to the East Pier where there will be a spectacular firework display.
Sun. 21 Dec.
BEYOND PEBBLEDASH: CHRISTMAS & HANUKKAH
Take a break from Christmas shopping and drop into Clarke Square at the National Museum of Ireland, Decorative Arts and History, Collins Barracks, on the shortest day of the year to experience the Pebbledash House lit up as the Christmas and Hanukkah ‘Living Room’ Light installation with a contemporary dance performance with Keren Rosenberg. No booking required, 3pm-4pm. Free admission.
Sun. 21 Dec.
SOLSTICE SPECIAL TOUR
Explore how ancient people marked the mid winter solstice, the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere with a tour of the Prehistoric Ireland exhibition at the National Museum of Ireland, Archaeology, Kildare Street. View grave goods from the Neolithic passage tombs at Newgrange and Knowth, Co Meath and discover the skills used to create some of our most famous monuments and artifacts. Limited to 20 places. 2.30pm-3.30pm Suitable for children aged 12 plus.
Sat. 27th Dec.
FURR, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE! CHRISTMAS INSPECTORIUM
This Christmas Season come along to the Discovery Zone of the Natural History Museum, Merrion St. and get close to some of our old furry favourites- Bear, Lynx and Wolf. Aged 6 plus. No booking required, drop-in. Wheelchair accessible.
Sat. 27 Dec.
CANNY VIKING TRADERS
While some Vikings were fearsome raiders, many were more peaceful but canny traders. At the National Museum of Ireland, Archaeology, Kildare Street, discover our handling collection of replica artifacts, the long journeys the Vikings took and what materials they imported and exported to Ireland and make your own Viking coins and merchants pouch to take home. Learning Resource room. 11am-12pm. Suitable for ages 6 plus.
Sat. 27 Dec. – Wedn. 31 Dec.
FAMILY ART
This National Gallery event includes family art workshops in the atrium, family tours and music. All events are free. Children must be accompanied by adults at all times. Booking essential at education@ngi.ie
Sun. 28 Dec.
WINTER WIPEOUT!
Where have all the creatures gone? Join zoologist Geraldine Breen at the Natural History Museum, Merrion St. to discover the magic tricks that nature can do to survive winter. 2.15 pm and 3.30pm. Ages 7 plus. No booking required, places limited.
Tues. 30 Dec.-Thurs. 1 Jan.
LUMINOSITY
Prepare to be wowed as 3D light projections will bring to life the facades of some of Dublin’s most iconic buildings and statues, Dublin Castle, Wolfe Tone Square and Trinity College. Watch in wonder as Luminosity brings these buildings to life, telling their unique story with cutting edge 3D digital displays. The family friendly spectacle takes place daily from 5pm to midnight over 3 Days.
Tues. 30 Dec.-Thurs. 1 Jan.
NYF FOOD VILLAGE DUBLIN CASTLE
The exquisite grounds of the iconic Dublin Castle will be transformed into the NYF Food Village over 3 days from 12 noon until 7.30pm. Treat yourself to delicious artisan food and enjoy the stunning setting in Dublin Castle as it becomes a hive of activity filled with free family-friendly entertainment plus performances in contemporary music and spoken word.
Wedn. 31 Dec.
NEW YEAR’S EVE PEOPLE’S PROCESSION OF LIGHT
From Stephen’s Green to Dublin Castle, this free, fun-filled, family-friendly event will once again illuminate the streets of Dublin where we invite you to join us on our journey, bringing families, visitors and locals together to experience the magical spirit of Ireland! Kids, grown-ups, families and friends are all welcome to participate in this very special New Year’s Eve celebration. It gets underway 6.30pm-7pm and will work its way through the winding city centre streets before reaching St Stephen’s Green in plenty of time for the midnight countdown and firework display.
Wedn. 31 Dec.
New Year’s Eve Party at the National Wax Museum Plus
They love a good party here in the museum, and New Year’s is no different! Come party with the stars as they ring in 2015.
The ending of an old year and beginning of a new one is as good an excuse as any to party, and the museum is fully embracing that attitude!
On the 31st of December and the 1st of January, the party will be in full swing in the Grand Hall of the museum where you can party with the stars. It’s a perfect opportunity for the young ones who find it hard to stay up until midnight, to get to be involved in the party atmosphere. There will be a kid’s disco and party games, along with all of the usual fun to be had in the museum, so it will be a great event for all of the family. 11am – 5pm
Thurs. 1 Jan.
RESOLUTION DAY
Get up! Get out! Get active! Kick off the New Year as you mean to go on with a host of free activities for all ages. Join the New Year’s Day Fun Run at 12 noon at Dublin Castle. Join the fitness fun as green spaces, parks and fitness clubs around the city are set to become a hub of activity with free exercise classes for everyone.
Thurs. I Jan.
THE BIG BRUNCH
At Meeting House Square, Temple Bar enjoy New Year’s Day with a big brunch between 11am and 5.30 pm including delightful food and fun entertainment for all the family. There will be a children’s creative area, balloon modelling, face painting, magic and puppet shows.
Thurs. 8 Jan. – Sat. 10 Jan.
PRIMARY SCIENCE FAIR
Open to 4th -6th class age groups across the island of Ireland, the RDS Primary Science Fair, Ballsbridge takes place annually alongside the BT Young Scientist and Technology exhibition. It is not a competition, with emphasis instead on the development of children’s core scientific skills as set out in the primary science curriculum. www.rds.ie/primarysciencefair
Saturdays from Sat.10 Jan.
MINI MUSIC
Mini Music is an action-packed music workshop experience for babies and young children aged 3 months to 8 years old at the National Concert Hall. Each workshop is carefully designed to suit each of the age groups – they are fun and accessible with foot-tapping, memorable tunes!
The sessions are held over three terms, each term lasting 10 weeks – so there is a real sense of development for all participants.
For full information see www.nch.ie
Sat. 17 Jan.
CHILDREN’S WORKSHOP
Enjoy a guided discovery of the natural world in the Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin where you can observe, engage and be inspired by your surroundings. Participants in this art programme will be encouraged to use materials in fun and interesting ways while taking inspiration from the world of plants on show at Glasnevin. Suitable for 8 to 12 year olds.
Time: 2.00pm- 4.00pm, meet at the Visitor Centre
Cost: €10 Booking Essential. Call: 01 8570909/ 8040319 Email: botanicgardens@opw.ie
Sun. 18 Jan.
WEIRD AND WONDERFUL
How were coconuts used in brain surgery? Which plant is known as the zombie cucumber and what was it used for? Which plant did Henry Ford use in his first motorcar trials and what did Irish women collect in the Wicklow hills to send our soldiers? Come along to this free guided tour in Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin and find out the answers.
Time: 2.30pm, meet at the Visitor Centre.
Call: 01 8570909/ 8040319 Email: botanicgardens@opw.ie
Sat. 24 Jan.
ALL THE LEAVES ARE BARE
Come along to Dublin City Gallery, The Hugh Lane for a creative art workshop for children. 2pm – 3pm, €5 entry fee.
To book a place please contact Lorna Kavanagh, Education assistant on 222 5553 or email lkavanagh.hughlane@dublincity.ie
27th January
Holocaust Memorial Day
This is an international day of remembrance, which is about commemorating the persecution and the murder of approximately 6 million Jews during the second world war. It is an opportunity to learn from the events of the Holocaust, and about relating those lessons to the ever-changing world around us.
Holocaust Education Trust Ireland advises and assists Government with organising the annual Holocaust Memorial Day commemoration.
Wedn. 28 Jan. - Sun. 1 Feb.
TEMPLE BAR TRAD FEST
Celebrating ten years, the Temple Bar Trad Fest is now
Ireland’s largest traditional music festival and today features artists from the world of folk, nu-folk and even rock and roll. Concert goers have the opportunity to experience live music in some of Dublin’s most historic places from St Patrick’s Cathedral to City Hall. For information check out www.templebartrad.com and for bookings contact 01 7030709 .
Sun. 2 Feb.
CHINESE NEW YEAR CARNIVAL
Get along to Meeting House Square, Temple Bar to help celebrate the Chinese New Year of the Sheep, according to the Chinese Zodiac. Enjoy art workshops, Chinese food and craft stalls, dragon and lion dances, tai chi and martial arts displays.
7-8th Feb
Story Lane Exhibition at the RDS
82 STORY LANE a two-day Festival of Childhood for families with primary-school aged children. Focusing on providing both parents and children with everything they need to create a memorable Irish childhood, and a strong emphasis on stories (event zones include Treasure Island, 100 Acre Wood, etc), healthy lifestyle (The Giant Peach), education and childcare (Great Expectations).
Kids of all ages will get to join in drum sessions; it’ll be loud, it’ll be interactive, it’ll be a barrel of laughs.www.82storylane.ie
ENGINEER’S WEEK
Aimed at Junior Infants to Second Class age group, Imagination Playground at Imaginosity, Sandyford is a giant oversized building block system that encourages open ended building and discovery. Join them to create and build. Children Ä6. For further details contact 01 2176130.
Tues. 10 Feb.
SAFER INTERNET DAY 2015
Safer Internet Day is an EU wide initiative to promote a safer Internet for all users, especially young people. It is promoted in Ireland by the PDST Technology in Education and Webwise, and will be celebrated in Ireland on Tues.10 Feb. 2015.
This years call to action is, “Let’s Create a Better internet Together” and the hashtags are #SID2015 and #Up2Us.
Watch Your Space, their site specifically aimed at teens, supports post-primary students as they do something to address cyber bullying in their local communities for Safer Internet Day.
Sat. 14 Feb.
LOVE IS IN THE AIR
Come along to Dublin City Gallery, The Hugh Lane for creative art workshop for children with a Valentines theme. 2pm – 3pm Ä5 entry fee.
To book a place please contact Lorna Kavanagh, Education assistant on 222 5553 or email lkavanagh.hughlane@dublincity.ie
Sat. 21 Feb. 2pm – 3pm
BAA BAA ANY COLOUR SHEEP
A free creative art workshop to celebrate Chinese New Year 2015 the Year of the Sheep is taking place at Dublin City Gallery, The Hugh Lane. To book a place please contact Lorna Kavanagh, Education assistant on Tel. 222 5553 or email lkavanagh.hughlane@dublincity.ie
Parents!
Event information is correct at time of going to press but before making a long journey (or a promise!) we’d advise you phone the organiser to check all details.