Movies, panel talks, hikes and more: 6 International Women’s Day events to check out this year

International Women’s Day dinner at Mae Restaurant

One of the country’s newest Michelin Guide establishments, Mae Restaurant only opened to the public six months ago but it’s already making waves as the place to be. Headed up by local chef Gráinne O’Keefe – formerly of Clanbrassil House and the culinary director of the award-winning BuJo burger joint in Sandymount – the popular neighbourhood spot has plenty of upcoming plans to tempt diners in, including a delicious International Women’s Day dinner this Tuesday. 

There will be a set menu – at a fixed price of €150 per person – on the night which will be made using produce from some of the restaurant’s incredible female producers and paired with exclusively female-made wines. Proceeds from the night will go to building an online directory of all Irish female producers. Email Mae Restaurant directly to book as bookings are not available online. 

National Symphony Orchestra at the National Concert Hall 

A celebration of “the unique creativity of the female voice in words and music”, this is the second of two concerts organised by the National Concert Hall in honour of International Women’s Day. 

Welcoming an exciting line-up of some of the country’s top musicians, poets and spoken word artists to the impressive venue, the programme features appearances from the likes of Sharon Shannon, Irish-Ghanaian singer-songwriter AIS and poet Rachael Hegarty amongst others. Tickets start at €15 and can be purchased here. 

Women Rising at Workman’s 

The Useless Project has organised another of their famous events, this one centred on “the good, the bad and the humorous realities of being a ‘modern woman’ in ‘modern Ireland’”. Panellists include Senita Appiakakorang, Tara Flynn, Lilith Ferreyra-Carroll and Fionnuala Jones, with live performances on the night from Ailbe Reddy, Shive, Roxanna Nic Liam and comedian Emma Doran. 

Tickets cost €25 and are on sale now. There will also be a raffle on the night to raise funds for Women’s Aid and the Transgender Equality Network of Ireland. 

Frida Kahlo Exhibition at Pálás Cinema 

Taking viewers on a journey through the history of one of the world’s greatest feminist icons, this Frida Kahlo exhibition explores how she used her artistic vision as a mirror through all stages of her turbulent and, at times, tragic life. Using cinema to take an up-close and personal look at her works, the film is a feast of colour and vibrancy and the perfect way to spend an evening. 

We might think we already know Frida Kahlo – the image of floral crowns, big brows and folk style clothing have made her a muse to generations – but what lies beneath the surface of this intensely passionate woman?

Galz Gone Wild International Women’s Week Adventure Festival 

Running from March 7-13, the International Women’s Week Adventure Festival comprises 22 different events all across Ireland. Spearheaded by Galz Gone Wild, it’s the first celebration of its kind and has been made possible with thanks to partnerships with various outdoor communities and individuals from multiple counties all around the country. 

To join, simply look at the calendar, pick a date, county and activity you want to sign up to and then just follow the instructions on how you sign up to that particular event to get involved. You do not purchase your ticket on the Eventbrite page, but directly with the activity providers (links can be found here). 

Ceol na mBan trad session 

Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich in Belfast will have a fantastic all-female music session in recognition of the importance, talent and immeasurable role women have on the traditional music scene.

Known to produce a vibrant arts programme that promotes Irish language and culture, Cultúrlann provides a meeting place for both visitors and locals alike. Based in a former Presbyterian church on the Falls Road, it also houses a café and restaurant, book and gift shop and a tourist information point. No booking is required, just show up and enjoy.