6 family-friendly Easter events around the country this weekend

Chocolate for breakfast is an Easter rite of passage, but what happens when that rush hits and it’s time to get some energy out? You’ll be most happy to hear that there is lots happening around the country this weekend so fear not, the kids will be tired out and ready for bed in time. 

Here’s a small sample of what’s on this Easter weekend. 

Kildare Village, Kildare

Suited to families, fashionistas and foodies alike, Kildare Village is killing not one, not two but three birds with the one stone… metaphorically speaking of course. 

Organising a host of different events and activities over the weekend right up until Sunday, April 24th, highlights include a special arts and crafts workshop (this Saturday and Sunday from 12-4pm), a hands-on fashion experience hosted by designer Paul Alexander (April 18 and 19 from 12-4pm) and a family yoga and kids mindfulness workshop in collaboration with Adidas (April 23 and 24)

All workshops are complimentary and take place in the Minaw Collective located in the new phase at Kildare Village.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, Dublin 

Geared towards children aged 6-12, EPIC’s Easter camp runs from April 19 to 21 and takes place daily from 9.30am-1pm. 

Led by an experienced facilitator, children will explore a different theme related to explorers each day, discovering the history of the Irish diaspora through intriguing stories and fun facts, while also using their creativity to complete a series of fun and creative activities. 

Limited places remain and you can find out more info on the EPIC website.

Brigit’s Garden, Galway

Though their main Easter egg hunt is sold out, Brigit’s Garden will still have an Easter treasure hunt that will be available for visiting families throughout the weekend at no extra cost. There’s also a mini hunt for younger kids and a mighty hunt for older kids too. A great excuse to rally the troops for a walk… even if you have to use the promise of more chocolate to do it. 

Leahy’s Open Farm, Cork

Open all throughout the Easter holidays, Leahy’s Open Farm in Midleton, Co Cork has lots planned to keep you entertained with activities ranging from mammy and daddy egg and spoon races to egg throwing competitions and a very festive Easter egg hunt and trailer ride through the forest too. A weekend of fun for both young and old alike, there is a small charge of €5 per person to partake in any of the Easter-themed activities. 

Rathwood Express Easter train, Carlow

Fancy a visit to see the Easter Bunny? Better hop aboard the Rathwood Express where guests will be treated to a musical show full of song, dance and plenty of colour. Each child will receive a set of bunny ears, a handmade chocolate egg from the Easter Bunny and a yummy hot chocolate with marshmallows. Sounds like a great day out to us!

Gruffalo walk and Easter egg hunt, Belfast

Ireland’s only official Gruffalo Trail, you can bring little ones along and go right inside the glorious Gruffalo and Stickman stories. Search for the famous characters, find some tasty chocolate treats and listen wide-eyed and wondered to the classic tales as you move through the woods. Kids will even get to take home their very own Julia Donaldson and friends book, Easter Egg, sticker and certificate, to keep forever.