Upcoming events.
Pick your Own Fruit Veg & Herbs Farm Tour
Pick your Own Fruit Veg & Herbs Farm Tour
What:
This hands on, activity filled tour is ideal for all ages, we guarantee it will engage young and old.
Where:
Kildare Farm Foods
Duneany, County KildareIreland (map)
When:
Thursday, Friday & Saturdays each week
July 2nd -August 8th 2026
Description:
This summer, we are throwing open our gates to offer you exclusive access to hidden corners of our working farm that are normally kept private. Come along, connect with the land, and discover the rich heritage of sustainable Irish farming.
Be Prepared
Remember to dress for the occasion! You’re visiting a working farm where you may get mucky so rubber boots, rain gear and a hat are essential. Due to ground conditions in our fields and on our foraging walk access for buggies, wheelchairs and those with limited mobility will not be possible.
More Information/Booking:
Cost €15
Larchill Arcadian Gardens Car Boot & Family Day Out (Copy)
🌿 Larchill Arcadian Gardens Car Boot & Family Day Out
What:
A relaxed and popular car boot sale set within the beautiful surroundings of Larchill Arcadian Gardens, offering a mix of bargain hunting, fresh air, and a unique heritage garden experience for all ages.
Where:
📍 Larchill Arcadian Gardens
When:
📅 Selected Sundays:
• 12 April 2026
• 3 May 2026
• 7 June 2026
• 5 July 2026
• 2 August 2026
• 6 September 2026
🕒 10:00am – 2:00pm
Description:
Set in the historic landscape of Larchill Arcadian Gardens, this much-loved car boot sale has become a firm favourite for families, bargain hunters, and anyone looking for a relaxed Sunday morning outing. Visitors can browse stalls filled with hidden gems and second-hand treasures, all while enjoying the peaceful setting of one of Kildare’s most distinctive heritage gardens.
Beyond the bargains, the gardens themselves are a real highlight — offering a glimpse into Ireland’s picturesque 18th-century Arcadian landscape design, with ornamental features, walking routes, and open green spaces that make it easy to turn a quick visit into a leisurely morning.
It’s simple, friendly, and full of character — the kind of event where you’re just as likely to leave with a great find as you are a good story.
More Information / Booking:
💶 Entry: €2 (includes garden access)
👧 Children go free
🚗 No booking required – just turn up on the day
📣 Organisers encourage sharing and early arrival for the best selection of stalls
Movie Monday for Heritage Week at Athy Library
🎬 Movie Monday for Heritage Week at Athy Library
What:
A special Heritage Week family film screening celebrating Irish storytelling, folklore and themes of friendship, nature and courage.
Where:
📍 Athy Library
Convent Lane, Athy, Co. Kildare
When:
📅 Monday 17th August 2026
🕑 2:00pm – 3:30pm
Description:
Join Athy Library for a special Movie Monday screening as part of Heritage Week.
Enjoy an Irish-themed family film filled with folklore, adventure and meaningful themes of friendship, nature and bravery. A relaxed and enjoyable event for families to come together and experience Irish stories on the big screen.
A perfect way to celebrate our shared cultural heritage through film.
More Information / Booking:
For further information, contact Athy Library:
📞 045 980 555
📧 athylib@kildarecoco.ie
Heritage Week - Beginners Irish Crochet Lace Workshop for Teens
🧶 Beginners Irish Crochet Lace Workshop for Teens
What:
A creative Heritage Week workshop introducing teenagers to Irish crochet lace, one of Ireland’s most distinctive traditional crafts.
Where:
📍 Celbridge Library, St Patrick’s Park, Celbridge, Co. Kildare, W23 VA47
When:
📅 Tuesday 18th August 2026
🕚 11:00am – 12:30pm
Description:
Join this hands-on workshop exploring the art of Irish crochet lace, a craft that became world-renowned in the 19th century.
Participants will learn about the history of Irish crochet and its cultural importance before creating the famous 3D Irish rose motif under the guidance of tutor Christina Kearney.
This session offers a fun and creative introduction to traditional craft skills and is designed especially for teenagers with an interest in making, design, and heritage arts.
More Information / Booking:
For further details contact Celbridge Library:
📞 045 980 994
📧 celbridgelib@kildarecoco.ie
or visit Kildare Library Service.
Heritage Week - Lá Teaghlaigh – Irish Language Family Fun Day
👨👩👧 Lá Teaghlaigh – Irish Language Family Fun Day
What:
A family-friendly Irish language event with entertainment, workshops and activities for all ages.
Where:
📍 Maynooth University North Campus, Co. Kildare
When:
📅 Saturday 23rd August 2026
🕛 12:00pm – 2:30pm
Description:
Join us for a joyful celebration of the Irish language at Lá Teaghlaigh, a family fun day designed for all levels of Irish speakers — from fluent speakers to those with just a cúpla focal.
The event will feature a range of activities including workshops, entertainment and interactive experiences that encourage families to engage with the Irish language in a relaxed and enjoyable way.
This inclusive event welcomes families of all backgrounds and offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with Irish culture and language in a fun and accessible setting.
More Information / Booking:
Gaeilge Nuada
📞 089 250 9439
📧 eolas@gaeilgenuada.ie
Larchill Arcadian Gardens Car Boot & Family Day Out
🌿 Larchill Arcadian Gardens Car Boot & Family Day Out
What:
A relaxed and popular car boot sale set within the beautiful surroundings of Larchill Arcadian Gardens, offering a mix of bargain hunting, fresh air, and a unique heritage garden experience for all ages.
Where:
📍 Larchill Arcadian Gardens
When:
📅 Selected Sundays:
• 12 April 2026
• 3 May 2026
• 7 June 2026
• 5 July 2026
• 2 August 2026
• 6 September 2026
🕒 10:00am – 2:00pm
Description:
Set in the historic landscape of Larchill Arcadian Gardens, this much-loved car boot sale has become a firm favourite for families, bargain hunters, and anyone looking for a relaxed Sunday morning outing. Visitors can browse stalls filled with hidden gems and second-hand treasures, all while enjoying the peaceful setting of one of Kildare’s most distinctive heritage gardens.
Beyond the bargains, the gardens themselves are a real highlight — offering a glimpse into Ireland’s picturesque 18th-century Arcadian landscape design, with ornamental features, walking routes, and open green spaces that make it easy to turn a quick visit into a leisurely morning.
It’s simple, friendly, and full of character — the kind of event where you’re just as likely to leave with a great find as you are a good story.
More Information / Booking:
💶 Entry: €2 (includes garden access)
👧 Children go free
🚗 No booking required – just turn up on the day
📣 Organisers encourage sharing and early arrival for the best selection of stalls
Larchill Arcadian Gardens Car Boot & Family Day Out
🌿 Larchill Arcadian Gardens Car Boot & Family Day Out
What:
A relaxed and popular car boot sale set within the beautiful surroundings of Larchill Arcadian Gardens, offering a mix of bargain hunting, fresh air, and a unique heritage garden experience for all ages.
Where:
📍 Larchill Arcadian Gardens
When:
📅 Selected Sundays:
• 12 April 2026
• 3 May 2026
• 7 June 2026
• 5 July 2026
• 2 August 2026
• 6 September 2026
🕒 10:00am – 2:00pm
Description:
Set in the historic landscape of Larchill Arcadian Gardens, this much-loved car boot sale has become a firm favourite for families, bargain hunters, and anyone looking for a relaxed Sunday morning outing. Visitors can browse stalls filled with hidden gems and second-hand treasures, all while enjoying the peaceful setting of one of Kildare’s most distinctive heritage gardens.
Beyond the bargains, the gardens themselves are a real highlight — offering a glimpse into Ireland’s picturesque 18th-century Arcadian landscape design, with ornamental features, walking routes, and open green spaces that make it easy to turn a quick visit into a leisurely morning.
It’s simple, friendly, and full of character — the kind of event where you’re just as likely to leave with a great find as you are a good story.
More Information / Booking:
💶 Entry: €2 (includes garden access)
👧 Children go free
🚗 No booking required – just turn up on the day
📣 Organisers encourage sharing and early arrival for the best selection of stalls
Derby Sunday with The Tumbling Paddies and Lead Style Judge Vogue Williams
The Tumbling Paddies and Lead Style Judge Vogue Williams
What:
Derby Sunday Features the absolute pinnacle of the Irish Flat Racing Calendar – the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby. Nothing matches the thrill, the history and the spectacle associated with this epic race! A must visit day for the racing purist!
Where:
📍The Curragh Racecourse
When:
June 28th 2026
Description:
Delighted to welcome the wonderful Vogue Williams to the Curragh on Sunday, 28th June, as she leads the judging panel for this year’s highly anticipated Best Dress Competition. The Dublin-born presenter, podcaster, and entrepreneur will be casting an expert eye over the crowd, keeping a special lookout for standout style, bright personality, and a genuine sense of fun. It promises to be a spectacular day of fashion, with racegoers competing for a truly luxurious Dubai holiday prize package on what is always one of the most glamorous dates in our sporting calendar.
To bring this magnificent weekend of world-class racing and culture to a fitting close, the incredible Tumbling Paddies will take to the stage on Sunday evening. Known far and wide for their energy-packed live shows, the band have captured the hearts of music lovers from Ireland to Dubai, Germany, and Spain. They will be performing their standout original tracks, including Pretty Girl, Night on the Town, and their massive chart-topping hit The Way I Am, which held the number one spot for an amazing ten weeks. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience their brilliant live performance right here in the heart of County Kildare, making memories that will last long after the final race is run.
More information/Booking
Cost €30.00
Kildare Derby Festival - Group 1 Racing & The Final Furlong Sessions
🏇🎶 Group 1 Racing & The Final Furlong Sessions
What:
A full day of racing excitement at The Curragh followed by an evening of live music across Kildare Town venues.
Where:
📍 The Curragh Racecourse & Kildare Town
When:
📅 Saturday 27th June 2026
🏇 Racing throughout the day
🎶 Live music from 7:30pm
Description:
Saturday of the Kildare Derby Festival brings together the very best of sport, music and community spirit.
Enjoy top-class racing at The Curragh, including the prestigious Group 1 Paddy Power Pretty Polly Stakes, before heading back to Kildare Town for The Final Furlong Sessions.
From 7:30pm, pubs and venues across the town come alive with live performances from talented Irish artists, creating a brilliant festival atmosphere for visitors and locals alike.
More Information / Booking:
Tickets and racing information:
https://tickets.curragh.ie/festival-tickets/307
Full Final Furlong Sessions line-up and updates:
Visit www.kildarederbyfestival.ie
Connolly’s RED MILLS Pooch Parade
👀 Connolly’s RED MILLS Pooch Parade
What:
A fun-filled dog-friendly event bringing families, dog lovers and the community together as part of the Kildare Derby Festival.
Where:
📍 The Square, Kildare Town
When:
📅 Tuesday 24th June 2025
🕖 7:00pm
Description:
Bring your four-legged friends along for one of the most popular events of the Kildare Derby Festival.
The Connolly’s RED MILLS Pooch Parade is a celebration of all things canine, with entertainment, special appearances, competitions and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the atmosphere with family, friends and furry companions.
Whether your dog is taking part or you are simply coming along to enjoy the fun, this free community event is a brilliant evening out for dog lovers of all ages.
More Information / Booking:
Dogs can be entered to take part. Registration is required.
For full event details and registration visit:
Visit the Eventbrite page for a full listing and details for registration, click here.
24 HOUR BUSKING EVENT
24 Hour Busking Event
👀🎶What:
Join us in the heart of Kildare Town for a magnificent 24 hours of non-stop live music, culture, and community spirit.
📍Where:
Market Square, Kildare Town
📅When:
Saturday 13th June 2026
Description:
The Brigid’s 24-Hour Busk is to raise vital funds for Heart Children Ireland, a wonderful charity dedicated to supporting families and children living with congenital heart defects.
From the moment the first chord strikes, our historic streets and local venues will come alive with melody. With the Kildare Town Heritage Centre serving as our lively central hub, this special event brings together dozens of incredibly talented local singers, full bands, traditional Irish musicians, and spoken-word artists. Because we have so many fantastic acts joining us, performances will be happening simultaneously all over town, offering something special for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you drop by for an hour of acoustic tunes or stay up to soak in the midnight atmosphere, your presence and generosity will make a real difference. Come along, share in the music, and help us support a truly worthy cause.
Moore Abbey Bluebell Family Funday – Bluebells & Buskers
🌿 Moore Abbey Bluebell Family Funday – Bluebells & Buskers
What:
The annual Moore Abbey Bluebell Family Funday, a much-loved springtime community event set in one of Kildare’s most beautiful woodland walks, where nature, music, and local spirit come together.
Where:
📍 Moore Abbey Woods
When:
📅 Sunday, 26 April 2026
Description:
Returning for another year, the Moore Abbey Bluebell Family Funday is a relaxed, feel-good community gathering that celebrates the arrival of spring at its very best. Visitors are invited to stroll through stunning carpets of bluebells and wild garlic while enjoying live performances from local musicians scattered throughout the woodland.
It’s a simple but special day out that has grown into a firm favourite with families and walkers alike. Expect a friendly, familiar atmosphere with plenty of familiar faces, gentle live music drifting through the trees, and a strong sense of community throughout the site.
Food trucks and ice cream vans often add to the experience, making it easy to linger a little longer and enjoy the surroundings at a slower pace. With strong local support each year, it’s become one of those quietly unmissable spring traditions.
More Information / Booking:
Free community event – all welcome.
Follow local community pages and social media ( Monasterevin Tidy Towns) for updates, timings, and any additional information.
Santa’s Christmas Adventure – Kildare Farm Foods
🎅 Santa’s Christmas Adventure – Kildare Farm Foods
📍 Kildare Farm Foods, Rathmuck, Co. Kildare
📅 Check website for dates and times
Make magical memories at Santa’s Christmas Adventure at Kildare Farm Foods! Explore the open farm, meet Rudolph and his friends, hop aboard the Farm Shop Express and enjoy a festive virtual rollercoaster trip all the way to the North Pole.
Every child receives a personalised gift from Santa, and the whole family can enjoy a cheerful, relaxed Christmas experience surrounded by friendly animals and seasonal displays.
🔗 More info & booking: kildarefarmfoods.com
Passport to Christmas at the Irish National Stud
🎄 Passport to Christmas at the Irish National Stud
📍 Brallistown Little, Tully, Co. Kildare, R51 AP20
📅 Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays | 29th November – 23rd December 2025
Step into the festive village at the Irish National Stud & Gardens for an enchanting family adventure! Children receive their very own Christmas Passport and collect stamps as they journey through themed festive zones filled with magic, lights, characters and treats.
Enjoy Christmas scenes, mini fairground rides, storytelling moments and wintry surprises before finishing your journey with a special visit to Santa in his beautifully decorated grotto. A perfect day out to spark wonder and festive excitement!
🔗 More info & booking: irishnationalstud.ie
Santa’s House Express
🚂 Santa’s House Express
📍 Palmerstown House Estate, Johnstown, Kill, Co. Kildare
📅 Select dates | 28th November – 23rd December 2025 (Check website)
All aboard the Santa’s House Express, one of Ireland’s best-loved Christmas attractions! Begin your journey in the magical Departure Lounge, meet cheerful elves, sing with dancing reindeer, and soak up the festive buzz before boarding the Santa Train.
Your train ride brings you through twinkling woodlands to Santa’s Manor, where families enjoy an immersive, interactive visit with Santa — complete with an eco-friendly cuddly toy for every child. A fully festive adventure from start to finish!
🔗 More info & booking: santashouseexpress.ie
🎨 Riverbank Arts Centre - Family Trees hang over Property Lines – An exhibition by Fiyin Oluokun
📍 What: A vibrant September lineup including exhibitions (Family Trees hang over Property Lines & TADA!)
📍 Where: Riverbank Arts Centre, Main Street, Newbridge
📍 When: Friday, 5 September – Friday, 25th October
📍 Cost: Free exhibitions
📍 More Info: Full listings available at Riverbank Arts Centre.
Legends of Kildare
Experience the Legends of Kildare – A Journey Beyond Time
📅 Available: Tuesday – Saturday
🕒 Duration: 30 minutes
👥 Max group size: 8 people
💶 Admission: €10 Adult | €6.50 Child
Step into the magic of ancient Ireland with the Legends of Kildare Virtual Reality Experience — an unmissable adventure that brings Kildare’s legendary past vividly to life.
Guided by a medieval storyteller, you’ll journey through time to meet warriors of the Fianna, soar beside a peregrine falcon, and connect with the spirits of Kildare’s ancient heroes in a breathtaking blend of history and technology.
Available in English, Irish, French, German, and Chinese, this award-winning VR experience is both emotional and immersive — a true highlight for visitors of all ages.
⚠️ Spaces are limited and fill fast during Halloween week — don’t miss out!
👉 Book Your VR Experience Now and step into the story of Kildare like never before.
Legends of Kildare
Experience the Legends of Kildare – A Journey Beyond Time
📅 Available: Tuesday – Saturday
🕒 Duration: 30 minutes
👥 Max group size: 8 people
💶 Admission: €10 Adult | €6.50 Child
Step into the magic of ancient Ireland with the Legends of Kildare Virtual Reality Experience — an unmissable adventure that brings Kildare’s legendary past vividly to life.
Guided by a medieval storyteller, you’ll journey through time to meet warriors of the Fianna, soar beside a peregrine falcon, and connect with the spirits of Kildare’s ancient heroes in a breathtaking blend of history and technology.
Available in English, Irish, French, German, and Chinese, this award-winning VR experience is both emotional and immersive — a true highlight for visitors of all ages.
⚠️ Spaces are limited and fill fast during Halloween week — don’t miss out!
👉 Book Your VR Experience Now and step into the story of Kildare like never before.
🌿 Great Journeys – Migratory Birds Talk
🌿 Great Journeys – Migratory Birds Talk
📅 Date: Saturday, 4th October 2025
⏰ Time: 14:00 – 15:30
📍 Venue: Kildare Wildlife Rescue, Grey Abbey Road, Kildare Town
🎟️ Cost: Child admission (parents free)
🎤 Description: Discover the fascinating journeys of Ireland’s migratory birds in this fun, family-friendly talk with interactive activities. Perfect for young bird enthusiasts.
🔗 More Info: Kildare Wildlife Rescue
National Play Day 2025
📍 What: A free, inclusive, family-friendly day with 30+ activities including live stage acts, sensory play, wheelchair-accessible fun and more.
📍 Where: Áras Chill Dara, Naas
📍 When: Saturday, 6 September 2025 — 12 PM to 5 PM
📍 Cost: Free
📍 More Info: Hosted by Kildare County Council with support from Creative Ireland. Click here to visit their website for more information.
TADA! An exhibition by Kids’ Own Publishing
🎨 TADA! – An Exhibition by Kids’ Own Publishing
📍 What: TADA! is a curated archival exhibition celebrating 28 years of creative book-making projects with children across Ireland. Visitors can explore original artworks, handmade books, framed and unframed portraits and landscapes, large sculptural cardboard cut-outs, and interactive spaces for printmaking, collage, portraiture, and reading. The exhibition is themed around play, people, place, and pondering, showcasing the creativity and voices of young communities nationwide.
📍 Where: Riverbank Arts Centre, Children’s Gallery, Newbridge
📍 When: Saturday, 6 September – Saturday, 1 November 2025
Monday–Friday: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
Saturday: 10 AM – 4 PM
📍 Cost: Free
📍 Special Event: Artist Brenda Kearny will host a workshop for children and accompanying adults on Saturday, 18 October 2025.
Echo Echo Dance Theatre Presents Winter's Dream
Echo Echo Dance Theatre Presents: Winter’s Dream
When: (Date TBC)
Where: Newbridge
Step into a world of wonder with Winter’s Dream, where a little snowman dares to hope and discover the beauty in every season! This gentle, interactive performance invites families to a cozy, magical setting filled with music, lights, and imaginative props that will captivate audiences young and old.
Perfect for children ages 4 and up, Winter’s Dream is a 30-minute journey that celebrates the quiet joy of winter and the promise of spring. Take a break from the festive hustle and join us for a unique, heartwarming theater experience—one that will leave you smiling long after the curtain closes. Tickets start at €10.
Christmas Winter Wonderland at Barretstown 2024
Christmas Winter Wonderland at Barretstown
When:
Saturday, November 30, 2024: 10:30 AM, 12:45 PM, 3:00 PM
Sunday, December 1, 2024: 10:30 AM, 12:45 PM
Where: Barretstown Castle, W91 RDX6, Ballymore Eustace
Step into a winter wonderland at Barretstown Castle! Bring the whole family for a magical Christmas experience featuring festive market stalls, holiday music, family games, and of course, a visit to Santa in his enchanting grotto! Watch your little ones’ eyes light up as Santa’s Elves guide them to meet the man himself. Don’t forget to bring letters for Santa or write them on the day—they’ll be sent directly to the North Pole!
With limited slots for Santa’s Grotto, booking is essential. Enjoy all the winter fun Barretstown has to offer—free to access except for food stalls and the grotto. Come make this Christmas truly unforgettable!
Santa's House Express
Santa's House Express 2024
When: Select dates from Friday, November 22, 2024 - Monday, December 23, 2024
Where: Palmerstown House Estate, Johnstown, Kill, Co Kildare
Get ready for Ireland's favorite Santa experience at Santa's House Express! This magical event returns to Palmerstown House Estate, bringing the joy of Christmas to life. Your adventure begins as you check in and are greeted by Santa’s Merry Elves in the departure lounge, setting the tone for a delightful journey.
Hop on board the magical train ride to Santa’s Manor, where you’ll sing along with the reindeer, meet a mischievous special guest in the Ice Cave, and enjoy stories and festive treats with Mrs. Claus. Each child will receive a cuddly, eco-friendly gift to cherish, along with lots of photo opportunities to capture these precious memories. With winter warmers for the adults and a family funfair with rides included, this experience promises festive fun for everyone! Don't miss out—tickets are on sale now, and prices have been frozen from 2023!