Brush off the storm Barra cobwebs with fun events happening all weekend
This weekend, take a break from present wrapping and get out and about. Around the country, there are events, openings, and installations to keep everyone busy. Whether you’re looking for a new print, heading for a jog, or just wandering the festive streets, you’ll not be bored.
Aware 5k
Aware’s annual Christmas 5k is happening this weekend, from 10 – 12 December. Walk, run, jog or hike your favourite 5km route in your own time. The event will support Aware’s services for people impacted by depression and bipolar disorder. And everyone is invited to dress up in their favourite Santa hat or Christmas jumper. Take part on social media with the #WeAreAware hashtag.
To Be Irish
Launched on 8 December nationwide, To Be Irish is now live. The event involves over 170 in-person, hybrid, and online events, nostalgic Irish recipes and extraordinary stories from Irish people living across the world. Its ultimate aim is to celebrate the Irish diaspora at home and abroad. See tobeirish.ie for a full rundown of all the festivities, from storytelling to dance.
Lazy Days at Hen’s Teeth
Hen’s Teeth has done it again, with a funky exhibition by Lazy Days (Hattie Stewart) open until 24 December. It features an entire bedroom created in Hattie’s bold illustrative style. It includes a series of screen prints and art objects, including bedsheets, a figurine, mirror, rug and t-shirts – all with the tongue in cheek and playful style of this self-proclaimed “professional doodler”. Prints and products made by the artist are available online and in-store.
Castle dwellings
For a dose of Christmas cheer and a trip back in time, check out the Dublin markets taking place in castles. Christmas at the Castle is at the city centre’s magnificent Dublin Castle, and features food and craft stalls as well as small fair rides. It’s totally free, but tickets must be booked in advance, available on dublincastle.ie. Over in Swords, Fingal County Council’s Christmas markets are in the courtyard of Swords Castle, featuring mulled wine, craft stalls, a children’s book market and more.
Stained glass win
If you’ve frequented Bewley’s Café in Dublin, or been to the Hugh Lane, you’ll be familiar with some of the gorgeous stained glass work by Harry Clarke. Now, Cork’s Crawford Art Gallery is in on the fun with the return of their annual display. Check out the exhibition at the gallery, showcasing the breathtaking watercolour and ink drawings by the Irish artist. Phantoms & Phantasies runs from 11 December to 13 February. And if you don’t want to venture out, take a look at some glass pieces online.
Elf of the West
Head to Elf Town in Galway for a dose of family-friendly fun. This winter wonderland is open at Ballybrit Racecourse until 21 December. Visit Santa and meet Elfin McGrinchy to help him find his Christmas spirit and enjoy storytelling in the den. Afterwards, let the kids have a hot chocolate while you sip mulled wine. There’s an elves’ disco with an illuminated dancefloor for a festive boogie, and a Christmas carousel. Elf Town is wheelchair accessible. See elftowngalway.com to book, tickets from €19.95.
