Weekend Guide: From children’s festivals to sleep outs for homelessness, here’s what’s happening this weekend

With so many incredible events taking place across Ireland, there’s always something new and exciting to head along to. Whether you’re looking for some family-friendly events or are trying to spice up date night, here are some of the top events taking place this weekend.

Shine A Light Night 2022

Friday 14 October

Shine A Light Night takes place on Friday 14 October in order to help Focus Ireland to change the lives of families, young people and children who are without a place to call home. The event sees business leaders, companies and individuals sleep out in their workplace, home, or gardens for one night to shine a light on homelessness in Ireland.

Boys! Boys! Boys! Photography exhibition at The Library, Dublin

Until Sunday 23 October

The Library Project presents the fourth issue of BOYS! BOYS! BOYS!, a project by The Little Black Gallery curated by co-founder Ghislain Pascal to promote queer and gay photography. It now represents more than 65 photographers from 30 countries, including some where gay rights are repressed and queer lives are under constant threat.

Ron’s World at Belfast International Arts Festival

Saturday 15 & Sunday 16 October

Taking place at The MAC gallery in Belfast, Ron’s World is a realm in which mini and the monumental sit side-by-side, a world that makes us ask about how others think and feel. Written and performed by Stephen Beggs, will take place alongside Ron Mueck’s amazingly detailed life-like sculptures as part of the 60th celebration of Belfast International Arts Festival, which continues until Sunday 6 November.

Baboró International Arts Festival for Children

14-23 October

With 50 live events taking place across Galway, Baboró spans ten days of creative connection for children through performance, play, visual arts, workshops and storytelling. Ireland’s flagship festival devoted exclusively to children and families, this year’s 26th festival will welcome thousands of children from 0 to 13 years, along with their families and teachers too.

Kinsale Gourmet Festival 2022

Saturday 15 October

The Kinsale Gourmet Festival has been attracting thousands of food lovers to Kinsale for the past 45 years, and has continued to evolve to the tastes of the times. The annual food festival is hosted throughout the Kinsale restaurants that are members of the town’s Good Food Circle so you can expect good foodie fun.

Pillow Queens at the Róisín Dubh

Sunday 16 October

Somehow, tickets are still available to see Irish indie rock heroes Pillow Queens at Galway’s Róisín Dubh on Sunday night. Saturday’s instalment sold out in a flash, so make sure to nab your space while you can. With best known songs including Be By Your Side, Rats, and Holy Show, it’s guaranteed to be an evening of quality listening.

Feature image via Pillow Queens on Facebook.