Dates: February 2024

There are various family friendly events taking place at Johnstown Castle Estate this February 2024 including:

• February 1st – St Brigid’s Day 10.30am to 1.30pm enjoy a stroll and storytelling with Lorraine O’Dwyer of Gallivanting Tours
• February 17th – A Mooring with a Difference takes place from 11am to 12.30pm. Join Eddie Taylor as he reveals the hidden history behind Johnstown’s First World airship base.
• February 24th – From 9am to 4pm join Sheila Forsey on a nature inspired creative writing workshop.

Booking Details: For further information and booking details, click here.

Many of Ireland’s top attractions, and plenty of local ones, offer the option to buy an annual family pass or membership that would make the perfect gift. For most, as long you visit a handful of times in the year, it is better value than paying each time you visit.

So this year, rather than buying single gifts for family or friends, you could consider gifting an annual family pass to somewhere they love. They will get a full 12 months of enjoyment from your gift and get to visit some amazing places.

So whether they prefer action, adventure, nature or history, there are lots of options available. Take a look at some of our favourite annual family pass options below.

When you become a member of the Irish Heritage Trust you will enjoy:

• Unlimited entry to Irish Heritage Trust properties at Fota House Arboretum & Gardens (Cork), The National Famine Museum | Strokestown Park (Roscommon) and Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens (Wexford).
• Garden, museum, and tour access across the properties.
• Discounted and free events across Irish Heritage Trust houses, gardens, and museums.

Cost: €150 for 2 Adults plus dependent children living at the same address

Compared to a normal family ticket? A day visit to Johnstown Castle Gardens for 2 Adults & 4 children costs €38.

Where to buy: Buy online on www.irishheritagetrust.ie

Season Ticket holders enjoy access to the Irish National Stud and Gardens all year round.

They also hold exclusive member-only events where you can meet the first of the foals before anyone else, enjoy exclusive member-only children’s events throughout the year and get news and updates on your favourite foals.

Cost: €150 for two adults and up to four children

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family ticket for 2 adults + 2 children (aged 5-16) costs €42.00

Where to buy: You can buy the family season pass on their website.

Get our best content direct to your inbox! You’ll receive quick and easy recipes, fun ideas to entertain the kids, parenting tips, great competitions, as well as offers from brands we trust.

Annual passes for the Treetop Walk & Viewing Tower at Beyond the Trees Avondale include unlimited visits throughout the year. The famous Slide is subject to both weather and capacity, and doesn’t operate during wet weather. It costs €2 per go on the Viewing Tower slide, payable at the slide on the day. U6’s slide for free, however they must be accompanied on the slide by a paying adult.

Cost: €105 for 2 Adults + up to 3 kids (aged 4-17) of €75 for 1 adult + up to 3 kids

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family ticket for 2 adults & up to 3 kids (under 18) costs €40 or €25 for 1 adult + up to 3 kids.

Where to buy: On their website www.beyondthetreesavondale.com or at the ticket office.

An annual pass to Birr Castle Demesne gives you:

• Unlimited access to the Gardens, Science Galleries and Treehouse Playground Area, within the public opening hours.
• 10 kilometres of walking trails to enjoy.
• Free membership for children age 3 years and under with any family membership.
• Regular email newsletter keeping you up to-date with news and events.
• 10% discount in the Gift Shop.
• Dogs allowed. (Subject to T&C outlined under “For our dog owners”).
• 4 Complimentary guest passes with each individual 12-month membership taken out.

Cost: €82.00 for a 12-Month Adult Membership (18-64 years), €69.50 for a 12-Month Additional Adult Membership (18-64 years) and €22 for a 12-Month Child Membership (4-17 years)

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family ticket for 2 adults + 2 children costs €30.

Where to buy: On their website www.birrcastle.com or at the ticket office.

At the moment Lough Key doesn’t offer an annual membership or season ticket but we wanted to include their car parking pass which can be purchased from the Visitor Centre for only €35, and is valid for one year from day of purchase. There are no limitations on this pass, it can be used as often as you like, so works out at fantastic value if you plan to visit regularly for picnics and activities.

You also get free parking at Lough Key when you spend €20 or more on admissions to their attractions or in the restaurant, and they do also offer combination day passes for activities to save you money.

Brigit’s Garden have an annual family pass which gives:

• Unlimited entry to Brigit’s Garden for 12 months when normal charges apply (Special Events excluded)
• 5% discount in the Garden Café and Gift Shop
• 10% discount on tickets for special events
• 20% discount for guests you bring to the gardens
• 10% discount on Summer Camps for children covered by family membership
• Monthly newsletters and updates by email

Cost: A 12 month membership for 2 adults and 2 kids costs €110, while a membership for 1 adult and 2 kids costs €70.

Compared to a normal family ticket? A ticket for a family of 5 (2 Adults, 3 Children) costs €26 from October to March and €33 from April to September.

Where to buy: To get your annual membership go online to their website www.brigitsgarden.ie

Seasonal Membership at Clara Lara Funpark covers admission and activities (height restrictions apply). An adult must be the main holder of the ticket.

Cost: Membership costs €75 per person (adult or child), so for 2 adults and 2 children €300

Compared to a normal family ticket? A day pass for an adult costs €25 while for a child it costs €30, so 2 adults and 2 children would cost €110.

Where to buy: you can buy online on their website www.claralara.ie.

Seasonal Membership at Westport House gives you:

• Unlimited use of the amusements and rides in the Pirate Adventure Park during normal opening hours.
• 25% off additional tickets for friends and family to Westport House & Pirate Adventure Park
• 10% off birthday parties in the Pirates Den indoor soft play
• Discounts on Special Events like Halloween or Winter Wonderland

Additional charges apply for adventure activities, special events such as the Halloween Fest and Winter Wonderland, carnival games, some additional attractions and rides. Membership cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers or for special events in Westport House. e.g. Santa, Events, Halloween, School Tours etc.

Cost: They have various family memberships, for a family of 4 membership is currently €240

Compared to a normal family ticket? 1 Day Pirate Pass for 2 Adults & up to 2 Children costs €70.

Where to buy: you can buy online on their website www.westporthouse.ie or at Westport House itself.

The Heritage Card provides for free admission to 45 state-managed OPW Heritage Sites located throughout the country (with the exception of Muckross Traditional Farms, Killarney) for one year from the date of first use.

NB: at certain locations, parking facilities and ancillary services are provided by other bodies or agencies, in which case there may be a charge for the use of such services, those are not covered by the Heritage Card.

Cost: A family card is €90 (Max. 2 adults & 5 eligible children aged from 12 to 18 years). Kids under 12 go free.

Compared to a normal family ticket? Prices for family tickets vary depending on site but cost on average €20-25 euros for 2 adults and 2 children (12-17yrs).

Where to buy: You can purchase an OPW Heritage Card at one of their OPW sites, some have credit card facilities. Alternatively, buy online at www.heritageireland.ie

Wells House offers an annual pass that is valid for one year, 7 days a week, offers one car entry, entry to the grounds including the Lady Frances Fairy & Gruffalo Walk, gardens, adventure playground, onsite cafe, animal farm, and non-ticketed events for the year.

Cost: Annual Family Membership for 2 adults and up to 3 children costs €99.00 + €1.50 booking fee

Compared to a normal family ticket? Family ticket for 2 Adults, up to 3 Children costs €24.00

Where to buy: buy your annual pass on their website www.wellshouse.ie or at reception

Emerald Park (formally Tayto Park) annual membership offers:

• Unlimited access to all regular attractions
• Discounts on food and beverages
• Discounted rates on special events

Cost: Annual Membership is based on a per person rate so for 4 people eg. 2 adults and 2 children costs €420.00

Compared to a normal family ticket? Family ticket with all access for 4 people costs €140 online in advance or €188 at the gate

Where to buy: buy your annual pass on their website www.emeraldpark.ie

Turoe Pet Farm offers a variety of membership options available to suit all family sizes. Members will get access to:

• The Pet Farm
• Jungle Town
• Inflatable City
• Outdoor play area
• Astro turf pitch
• Fairy nature walk

Cost: Annual Family Membership for 2 adults and up to 2 children costs €200

Compared to a normal family ticket? Family ticket for 2 Adults, up to 2 Children costs €45.00

Where to buy: buy your annual pass on their website www.turoepetfarm.ie

Airfield Annual Pass Holders enjoy:

• Unlimited visits
• Free entry to Airfield’s seasonal trails
• Discounts on selected classes & workshops
• 10% off food in Overends Kitchen

Cost: e.g. 4 Person Pass is €170

Compared to a normal family ticket? Day ticket for 2 adults + 2 children costs €34.

Where to buy: An Annual Pass can be purchased over the phone or at the Airfield Estate ticket desk.

A 12 month family membership offers plenty, including:

• Day visit admission to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park
• 10% Discount on admission to other Shannon Heritage Attractions
• 10% Discount in the Bunratty Retail Store
• 10% Discount in all food outlets including Mr O’Regan’s Café
• Free Parking
• Priority booking options for all events – additional fees apply for Easter Halloween and Christmas.
• 10% discount on Shannon Heritage Evening Entertainment Shows

Cost: €150 for 1 adult and up to 4 children or 2 adults + 2 children (children u16)

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family pass for 2 adults and 2 children costs €36

Where to buy? Buy it online on the website www.bunrattycastle.ie

A 12 month Killruddery House Membership gives you:

• Unlimited admission to the Gardens (during open season) including picnic & play areas, designated farm roads, team room
• Discounted rate for house tours
• Free admission or subsidised tickets to many events.
• Special discounts to partner activities at Killruddery including workshops, outdoor sports events, tree adventure park and Squirrel’s Scramble.

Cost: There are three tiers of membership.

• Gold Finch Killruddery Membership €100 – Five guests allowed along with the member
• Silver Fir Killruddery Membership €80 – Three guests allowed along with the member
• Copper Beech Killruddery Membership €60 – One guest allowed along with the member
  This is the total number of either adults or children who can visit Killruddery without further entrance fee, the member must be one of the guests present.

Compared to a normal family ticket? A Garden + House Tour entry ticket for 2 Adults + 2 Children costs €43.

Where to buy: You can purchase a membership on their website www.killruddery.com or at the Garden Entrance.

A Dublin Zoo Annual Family Pass offers lots of value, including:

• Free admission to the Zoo for 12 months (plus at least one adult / two children)
• You will also get free admission to Fota Wildlife Park in Cork for 12 months
• Free admission to four UK zoos during the 12 months – Edinburgh Zoo, Colchester Zoo, Twycross Zoo and Paignton Zoo
• A free subscription to quarterly magazine Zoo Matters
• Discounts on selected events, summer camps and educational programmes

Cost: €210 for Pass holder + 2 Adults + 2 Children or Pass holder + 1 Adult + 4 Children or Pass holder + 6 Children

Compared to a normal family ticket? A day ticket for 2 Adults + 2 Children costs €54 to €61.

Where to buy: Buy online on www.dublinzoo.ie or at the ticket office at the Zoo.

Members of Fota Wildlife Park get unlimited visits to the Park, as well as:

• Fota Wildlife Park Newsletters
• 10% off all Children’s Activity Camps
• Free admission to Dublin Zoo
• One visit per year to Edinburgh Zoo, Highlands Wildlife Park & Belfast Zoo (card & receipt must be produced)
• Admission concession to Paignton Zoo, Newquay Zoo, and Living Coasts (card & receipt must be produced)

Cost: €210 per year for their Conservation Pass which allows entry for Member + 2 adults + 2 kids (3-16yrs, under 3s are free) OR Member + 1 adult + 4 kids OR Member + 6 kids. They also have a Park Pass valid for Member + 2 children for €150.

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family ticket for 2 adults + 2 children costs €54.60 online or €58.00 at the gate.

Where to buy: On their website www.fotawildlife.ie or at the ticket office.

Powerscourt Estate members enjoy unlimited entry to Powerscourt Gardens, Waterfall and River Walk with playground during normal opening hours, as well as 10% discount in Powerscourt Garden Pavilion when you present your annual membership card.

Cost: Family membership pass for the year at Powerscourt costs €175 for 2 adults and up to 4 children

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family ticket for 2 adults + 3 kids to visit both the Gardens and Waterfall would cost €38.

Where to buy: You can buy it online on their website at www.powerscourt.com.

You can buy a season family pass* for Nore Valley Pet Farm allowing unlimited entry to the farm all season long (March – October). This is excellent value for money as a season pass only costs the equivalent of three normal entries to the farm.

*Season passes are for farm entry only, extra activities on site like tractor and trailer rides, go-karts, 3D maze, and crazy golf are not included. For seasonal events, check with the Farm if any extra fees apply.

Sample cost: 2 adults + 2 kids costs €111.00

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family ticket for 2 adults + 2 kids to visit for the day will cost €37.00

Where to buy: on their website www.norevalleypark.com

Odeon, Omniplex and IMC cinemas all offer membership which is usually taken on a monthly basis. Other local cinemas have their own membership deals.

• Odeon offer myLimitless monthly memebership (minimum 3 months) for €14.99 per month and entitles the member to one ticket to every movie, discounts off food & drink, exclusive invites to screenings before films go on general release. 18+ only
• Omniplex offer a  myOmnipass monthly membership (minimum 3 months) for €14.99 per month and entitles the member to one ticket to every movie including MAXX, Recline & D’LUXX options, exclusive members only screenings and more.
• IMC offers IMC Infinity for €17.99 monthly and entitles the holder to one ticket to every movie, exclusive members only screenings and one ticket daily.

Compared to a normal ticket? An adult ticket for 1 movie costs a similar price to the monthly membership fee so if you see 2 movies or more a month, you are saving money.

Where to buy: online for each cinema

Dates: November 11th 2023 to January 21st 2024 from 4pm to 7pm daily

Experience the forest after dark in a completely novel way with the dazzling Treetop Night Lights spectacle. Travel the beautifully lit treetop walkway, tunnel and viewing tower and meet an array of lit up forest creatures that make Avondale Forest Park their home.

This is an experience that all ages and all abilities will enjoy together getting up close and personal with nature after dark. Less than one hour’s drive from Dublin city in the heart of the Wicklow countryside, Treetop Night Lights provides a family-friendly, age-friendly and truly accessible spectacle.

Running from Saturday 11th November 2023 to Sunday 21st January 2024 this is more than a Christmas experience, it’s a celebration of winter and an exploration of a night time forest fantasy. The perfect ‘together adventure’ for all ages and abilities this winter season.

How to Book: For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: November 16th to January 7th 2024

Wild Lights, the spectacular, night-time experience at Dublin Zoo, is back with an exciting brand new theme – The Enchanted Zoo!

Over a thousand breathtaking, dazzling lanterns will create an enchanting wonderland so you can discover the zoo at night.

On arrival you will be met by a wizard and you will have to choose which path to take, there are 3, each of which will lead you on a different journey.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: November 10th to January 2nd 2024

Wonderlights is an enchanting evening spectacle for all the family, taking you on an awe-inspiring walking trail through the illuminated gardens of Malahide Castle. Guests can expect a magical mix of lights, colour, nature and sounds with this year’s theme ‘The Magic of Winter’.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Get our best content direct to your inbox! You’ll receive quick and easy recipes, fun ideas to entertain the kids, parenting tips, great competitions, as well as offers from brands we trust.

Dates: November to December 23rd 2023

Land Of Light is an outdoor event that combines the use of nature and technology to provide a spectacle of lights, music and performance for attendees of all ages. Set in the beautiful grounds of Belvedere House, Gardens & Park in County Westmeath, the experience delivers thrills and excitement at every turn.

As you walk your way along the forest trail, the night sky, trees and buildings are lit up by a spectacular light show, with stunning atmospheric music to complete the scene. It’s like walking through another world!

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: November 25th to December 19th 2023

Watch Antrim Castle Gardens come to life as the sun sets over Lough Neagh. Enjoy twinkling lights, rides and attractions at this magical Christmas experience suitable for all the family. There will be inclusive evenings on December 6th and 13th.

How to Book: For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: December 1st to 23rd 2023

With a little sprinkling of magical fairy dust over this quaint little corner of County Clare Santa has created a magical illuminated festive trail for all to enjoy!

Spread across the park’s extensive 26 acres, take a wander along the park’s charming paths and enjoy an array of illuminated festive displays along the way. Meet a host of colourful festive characters, take a ride of the Bunratty Polar Express or a whirl on our magical carousels. And you never know you might even catch a glimpse of the big man in the red suit before he takes off to his workshop in the North Pole.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: November 27th November to January 7th 2024 from 4pm to 8pm daily except for Dec 25th, 26th and Jan 1st

The beautifully illuminated forest walk at Marlay Park is a one-kilometre trail amongst the trees. Fully accessible for wheelchairs and buggies, and an oasis of calm beneath the twinkling lights.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: October 21st to November 5th 2023

Take the forest trail where you will meet some spooky characters along the way who you can help to find ingredients for some friendly witches brew! Afterwards, head to the pumpkin patch where you can choose your very own pumpkin to take away and decorate.

For more information, check the website.

Dates: October 21st to 30th 2023 (select dates) – School trips: Monday 23rd – Friday 27th October.

K2Alpacas in Wicklow has teamed up with the Down Syndrome Centre to host a fundraising Halloween event. Make it a family day out and enjoy the fun activities including:

• Pick your own Pumpkin
• Meet the Alpacas
• Spooky game boards
• Enchanted Fairy forest walk
• Photo Booths
• Refreshments & goodies

The pumpkin Patch is open on October 21st, 22nd, 28th, 29th & 30th. School trips: Monday 23rd – Friday 27th October.

The Centre provides bespoke services for children and young adults with Down syndrome. By supporting the Pumpkin Patch event, you are helping to provide services to children with Down syndrome.

For more information and to make a booking, or a donation check out the website.

Dates: October 7th, 8th, 14th, 21st and 22nd 2023

Alright Pumpkin in Fordstown, Co. Meath, have Pick Your Own pumpkin and sweet corn, you can have fun trying out their pumpkin maze and watch pumpkin carving demonstrations.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: October 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd, 28th, 29th & 30th 2023

Michael, aged 17, started his own pumpkin patch in 2020. He will be back bigger than ever for 2023!

As well as Michael’s pumpkins, enjoy seeing baby animals, and take home a party bag for the kids. Parents can also enjoy a cuppa & biscuits!

5% of the proceeds from every ticket and pumpkin sold will be donated to Cancer Care West.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: October 21st, 22nd, 28th & 29th 2023 10am to 12pm & 1.30pm to 3pm

Based in Oldtown, North Co Dublin, enjoy a fun filled family day at Papa’s Pumpkin Patch. Pick your own pumpkin to take away and decorate, enjoy the straw maze and visit the farm animals. On the day there will be extras available to purchase including; face painting, plaster pumpkin painting, refreshments and additional pumpkins!

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Get our best content direct to your inbox! You’ll receive quick and easy recipes, fun ideas to entertain the kids, parenting tips, great competitions, as well as offers from brands we trust.

Dates: October 21st, 22nd, 28th, 28th, 30th & 31st 2023 from 10am to 6pm each day

There will be pumpkin picking and more fun at Navan Adventure Centre as your ticket includes a trip to the pumpkin patch to pick your own pumpkin, as well as the carving area, witch’s slimy snot-making, inflatables obstacles courses and slides, adventure obstacle course, inflatable maze, mini golf, and FootGolf.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: Weekends from September 30th up to October 31st 2023

Pick your own pumpkin from the pumpkin patch – or a ghoulish gourd from the wonky patch!

Other activities include a corn maze to get lost in, a chance to meet the alpacas, seasonal storytelling, a walk through the haunted ghost bus, a visit to the pumpkin pixie village, and meeting the witch at her haunted cottage!

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: October 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd, 28th, 29th, 30th & 31st 2023

Choose from either the Donkey Tour or the Wheelbarrow Tour! Collect your donkey or wheelbarrow and go to the pumpkin patch to choose your perfect pumpkin. Transport it back to the yard to take home.

Along the way enjoy the Spooky Farm Trail, Hocus Pocus Hay Bran and ghostly games!

For more information, check the website.

Dates: Weekends from October 7th up to October 31st 2023

Galway Pumpkin Patch takes place on the Whelan family farm in Ardrahan in South Galway throughout October, and is a hugely popular event.

Check out the mega selection of pumpkins in every shape and size, lots of cool Halloween decor and child-friendly games.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: From Mid October 2023

There is pumpkin picking at Hughes Farm, Kells, Kilkenny during October. Wellies advised!

For 2023, there will be a much larger site, including a dedicated food area with hot food options, carnival shop and coffee area all under cover. There will also be a kids’ entertainment zone, play area and digger zone, with more details still to be announced.

For more information & exact dates, check the Facebook page.

Dates: Weekends in October from October 7th to 29th & 30th

Joe’s Farm is famous for crisps! Every October they welcome visitors to their working farm to pick pumpkins. Tickets must be purchased in advance and picking will go ahead in all weathers!

For more information & exact dates, check the website.

Dates: Tickets go on sale on September 1st 2023

At The Farm Grenagh in Grenagh, Co. Cork you can visit the Pumpkin Patch in the Secret Garden and choose the pumpkin that’s just right for you, then the witches will carve it while you enjoy some face painting.

Help the Good Witch, Esmeralda, to practice her spells for Halloween and make some sweet treats to take home!

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: October 21st, 22nd, 28th & 29th October 2023 from 10am to 4pm daily

Come and pick your own pumpkin straight from the field, design and carve it to keep the ghosts away this Halloween.

Prices start from just €3.50 and tickets must be booked in advance.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: Weekends in October up to 31st 2023

Explore this American-themed pumpkin patch in Castlederg where you can pick your own pumpkin, grab a great photo op at the Witches’ Log Cabin or alongside Rusty McTruck, a stunning 1950s Ford Pick Up Truck.

Travel through the maize maze, and keep an eye out to meet the friendly monster!

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: October 21st up to 31st 2023 tickets go on sale on September 1st at 12pm!

Pick your own pumpkin from the pumpkin patch before carving it ready for the big night! You cna also enjoy a fun fair, haunted house and much more!

For more information, check the Facebook page.

NOTE: Awaiting confirmation for 2023

At Ladyrath Lane in Wilkinstown, Co. Meath, they have an annual Pumpkin event, but it sells out very quickly! Choose from thousands of pumpkins, buy and then carve your pumpkins in their Halloween barn.

Tickets include face painting, bouncy castles, halloween treats, halloween movies as well as indoor and outdoor games.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: Weekends from October 7th to 30th 2023

Note: There are 2 Sensory sessions on October 13th & 19th

Piltown Pumpkin Patch at Ballymad Farm in County Meath will have pumpkin themed fun on Saturdays and Sundays during October including Halloween themed photo opportunities, a not so spooky woodland walk, plenty of pumpkins to choose from and a great time with the family on the farm. A small selection of soft drinks and snacks will be available for purchase (cash only).

For more information, check the Instagram page.

Dates: Weekends from October 7th 2023

Ballycross Apple Farm in Bridgetown, Co. Wexford offer tractor rides to the pumpkin field to select your own pumpkin during their annual Halloween outdoor event. Kids can dress up in their Halloween outfits and they usually offer extra activities, check their website as some need to be booked in advance.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: Weekends from September 30th 2023

Enter Scarecrow Valley where you can enjoy a Scarecrow village, pumpkin patch, a corn maze, mystery adventure hunt, tractor rides and more.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

NOTE: 22nd, 27th, 28th & 31st October 2023

Come to Nore Valley Park for Halloween and enjoy a family day of fun! This Halloween season you can pick your own pumpkin from their pumpkin patch as part of normal farm entry; they are offering one free pumpkin per family. You can pick pumpkins daily from Monday to Saturday during daylights hours at Nore Valley Farm Park.

Get creative and carve your pumpkin on the farm, or you take it home with you! Just turn up to Reception during pumpkin picking season to enjoy all the fun of the farm, with the added bonus of picking lovely locally grown pumpkins!

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: 21st to 31st October 2023

Enjoy picking and carving your very own pumpkin from the pumpkin patch at Killruddery House and Gardens. And take part in the annual Scarecrow competition from October 6th to 30th 2023!

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: October 21st, 22nd, 28th, 29th, 30th & 31st 2023

Tinahely Farm in Tinahely, Wicklow offers kids the chance to pick their pumpkin in the run up to Halloween.

The children’s ticket includes Tractor Run to the pumpkin patch, pumpkin, hot chocolate, face painting as well as unlimited time in their activity barn.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: October 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd, 28th, 29th & 30th 2023 11.30am to 4.30pm daily

Hop aboard the Pumpkin Express to be transported to the pumpkin patch of your dreams! Handpick and decorate your very own pumpkin to take home. Enjoy spooky tales and arts and crafts, sweet treats and play games to win prizes!

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: Weekends in October 2023

Celebrate Halloween by picking your own pumpkin at the Kingstown Farm Pumpkin Patch. You can also enjoy exploring the maze.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: October 21st, 22nd, 28th, 29th, 30th & 31st 2023

Take a spooktacular train ride through the enchanted forest before arriving at the Rathwood Big Top for a Halloween Panto. Afterwards search for your perfect pumpkin in the spooky pumpkin maze and visit the funfair! Each child will receive a hot chocolate.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Some tops tips that will make your visit to the sunflower fields a success include:

• Bring scissors or secateurs to cut your sunflowers with
• Wear appropriate footwear in the fields (no sandals or flip flops)
• Some fields are cash only
• Keep an eye on the sunflower fields’ social channels before visiting. Days and times can change at short notice.

Meath Sunflower Field is next to Causey Farm in Fordstown, Co Meath. Priced €5 per person or €15 for a family (2022 pricing) and everyone gets 5 stems each to take home. The sign says open Saturday and Sunday from 11-6pm, but extra days during the week are often announced on social channels.

For more information, check their Facebook page.

Raising much needed funds for St Francis Hospice, this sunflower field can be found in Ballyboughal, off the Swords Road.

It is open 24/7 with an honestly box or you can donate online.

In memory of her husband, son and daughter who died in a car crash in August 2020, Geraldine Mullen planted the Field of Hope sunflower field on the Inishowen peninsula. With sunflowers planted in a maze in the shape of the word ‘hope’, this beautiful memorial is designed to bring some hope and joy to allt hose who visit.

The Field of Hope opens to the public around August 19th from 12-5pm for 3 to 4 days.

Get our best content direct to your inbox! You’ll receive quick and easy recipes, fun ideas to entertain the kids, parenting tips, great competitions, as well as offers from brands we trust.

Please Note: Not Opening for 2023

Kilkenny Sunflower Field is located in Kilbride Callan. Run in aid of Taxi Watch Suicide Prevention, it opens every Saturday and Sunday from 11am-7pm.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Galway Sunflower Picking is Galway’s only Pick Your Own Sunflower Event. The field, which is located in Ardrahan, is at the same site as the well known Galway Pumpkin Patch, which takes place in October. Entry is €12 per adult, that gets you 5 large stems /1 bunch , or €24 for a family of any size, and you can pick 10 stems.

Check out www.galwaypumpkinpatch.ie or find them on Instagram or on Facebook

The Sunflower Field is open daily from 10am-8pm, unless otherwise stated on their socials. Sunflowers cost £1.50 a stem or 4 for £5 (2022 pricing).

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Kingston Farm is located 2.5km from Cashel town centre. Open from early August from 12-7pm, with changes posted on social channels.

Proceeds raised will be donated to charity.

For more information, check their Facebook page.

Funds raised in aid of Our Lady’s Hospice & Care Services in Harold’s Cross, Blackrock and Wicklow. The field is manned by volunteers from early August and will be open 7 days a week, weather permitting, from 10am-4.45pm while sunflowers last.

Check for updates on Our Lady’s Hospice & Card Services, Wicklow Facebook Page

The sunflower field will be open weekends from early August. Times and prices for 2023 will be posted on the Facebook page.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

The Sunflower is the national flower of Ukraine, and a symbol of peace, solidarity and hope. The sunflower field was open in 2022 but no information is available for 2023.

Check the Love Schull Facebook page for updates

The sunflowers have not been treated with any chemicals as they have been grown to help improve the soil and boost the insect population.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Carlow is home to the beautiful river Barrow, one of Ireland’s longest rivers. All the family can enjoy getting active on the water by canoeing, paddle boarding, rowing or kayaking. Some of the providers include:

• Go with the Flow River Adventures
• Paddle Your Own Canoe
• Pure Adventure

For those looking for a more leisurely pace you could take a boat trip or cruise with:

• An Bád Keppel – Boat Trips
• Boatrips.ie

Many of the hotels in Carlow offer a swimming pool but for those that don’t have one on-site there are these swimming pool options which are open to the public:

• Graiguecullen Swimming Pool – perfect for indoor swimming
• Bagenalstown Outdoor Heated Pool which is open during the summer months.

Carlow is just over an hour from Dublin but it’s a world away when it comes to getting out into nature!

There are an abundance of lovely trails and hikes to choose from and explore. Looped walks are located throughout the county, all of which are perfectly suited to families with distances varying from 2km to 6km. Some great options to explore on foot include:

• Oak Park Forest Park and Clogrennane Wood, both close to Carlow Town
• Kilbrannish North and South Forests on the Blackstairs Mountains
• Clashganny Forest, south of Borris,
• Bahana and Gowlin Forests near the village of St Mullins

Flat walking is available along the beautiful Barrow Way and for those with older children or teens, more strenuous hiking can be undertaken along the scenic South Leinster and Wicklow Ways.

You can download itineraries in advance of your visit to ensure you find the most suitable walks and hikes for your family.

Whether you want to pack your own bikes or hire a bike for a day, there are plenty of options to explore on two wheels.

2 companies who offer bike hire include:

• Graiguenamanagh Bike Hire
• Barrow Blueway Bike Hire

Carlow has a wealth of gardens and you can enjoy up to 19 different gardens when you take the Carlow Garden Trail. 

Some that are particularly family friendly include:

Delta Sensory Gardens in Carlow Town are just brilliant for the whole family. They are located on the grounds of Delta Centre, a facility which currently supports 117 individuals with disabilities across its services. Originally built for users of the centre, their reputation has grown in the intervening years to be a sought out attraction for all.

Fabulous for kids who love making their way through the sixteen small(ish) gardens, hiding on parents, playing with the giant chess pieces, finding the fish in the pond, discovering water features and much more.

There is plenty for the adults too, with a Sculpture Garden, a Peace Garden, Five Senses Garden and a 1916/2016 Memorial Garden to discover and enjoy. In total there are 2.5 acres of interconnecting gardens alongside a garden centre and Café Thyme.

Duckett’s Grove Walled Garden and Pleasure Grounds near Carlow Town are another great attraction for the family. Here you can:

• Take guided tours
• Visit the kitchen gardens,
• Play in the woodland playground around the ruined gothic mansion
• Enjoy the tea rooms located in the original courtyard building.  They offer a lovely food experience serving breakfasts, lunches, delicious cake and speciality teas and coffees.

The lawns of the kitchen gardens and large meadows at the entrance also make for a great picnic location. Kids are very safe once on-site and can roam freely.

Arboretum Inspirational Gardens in Leighlinbridge are very special. Here families can enjoy exploring the African mud hut, spotting the friendly koi who reside in the Arboretum pond and just generally following the path to discover what’s next around the corner.

For adults there’s a beautiful garden centre with a kitchen store, health and wellness section, fashion shop etc. which is equally attractive for children, as there’s a beautiful playground situated beside the outdoor terrace of Rachel’s Garden Café, which is a godsend as you can enjoy your tea and cake while keeping a watchful eye. And a fun maze for the kids to explore too.

Huntington Castle and Gardens in Clonegal features a woodland playground and plenty of animals that children enjoy looking at – peacocks, pot bellied pigs, sheep and lambs. For slightly older children the tour of the house, delivered in the main by a family member is fascinating.

Rathwood Home and Garden World near Tullow is a firm family favourite attraction for visitors to the county and for those who live in Carlow. Features include:

• Family friendly train rides aboard the Rathwood Express
• A children’s playground
• The Maze of Ireland, a real delight with each county of the country represented for children to travel around the country in one go!.
• A fabulous indoor play centre

Rath Wood Forest is immediately adjacent providing great walks for all ages and is also the location of the “Big Top” where there are seasonal events including a Teddy Bear’s picnic during the summer, Easter Train rides and Santa visits.

The Chocolate Garden of Ireland is home to an artisan chocolate and ice-cream making factory! You can visit throughout the year and enjoy some of the tasty treats on offer!

They also run seasonal chocolate making workshops for children and adults at different times throughout the year including summer, Halloween, Christmas and Easter. There is a lovely playground on-site too which has recently been refurbished, that children of all ages will enjoy.

The Carlow County Museum is perfect for children aged from 5+. Children love completing the “Museum Detective” where the clues lead them and their parents on a journey around the museum.

The exhibits are very visual and a number can be touched! These include:

• The old style children’s desk that your grandparents sat at
• A culm crusher, unique to Carlow, Kilkenny and Laois
• The 16th century effigy of Robert Hartpole,  Constable of Carlow Castle
• And beware of the gallows trapdoor from Carlow jail!

The Borris Railway Viaduct is another fascinating place to visit. It’s one of Ireland’s best examples of pioneering 19th-century railway engineering and one of the most admired and celebrated railway structures in the country.

This historic landmark rises to 60ft high and spans the Borris and Mountain River Valley. Families can enjoy the looped walk and stunning scenery of the Blackstairs Mountains and the town of Borris. Great interpretation signage is in place showing the history of the railway project.

Another heritage site that children love is the Brownshill Dolmen. They are fascinated by how it got there and how much it weighs.

The giant capstone alone weighs in excess of 100 tonnes, making it the largest of its kind in Europe. The Dolmen is thought to have been there since 2,500 BC making it almost 5 thousand years old!

The stunning VISUAL Arts Centre building in the centre of Carlow Town is the largest space in Ireland for the display of visual art.

There are many activities for all ages to enjoy including:

• Family art workshops
• Youth theatre, talks and workshops
• A stunning range of exhibitions on show
• The 320-seat theatre George Bernard Shaw theatre which offers a packed programme of drama, film, dance and comedy.

The Dome Family Entertainment Centre offers bowling, state of the art laser tag and a giant 8,000 square foot play area, Congo Quest, suitable for children up to the age of 12 including:

• soft play
• ball pools
• play frames
• crawl tubes
• slides
• soccer court

The facility is open 7 days a week and caters for all ages from toddlers to grandparents and everyone in between!

For those looking to be challenged, the Mount Brandon Pottery School in Graiguenamanagh offers pottery classes and workshops for kids and adults of all levels and abilities.

Create your very own masterpiece to take home and enjoy for years to come!

Explore the grounds of the stunning Rathwood House and Forest by taking a unique train ride. Open year round the train is themed for certain times of the year including Christmas!

We hope you have enjoyed finding out about all that Carlow has to offer. To plan your trip you can stop by the Carlow Tourism website and find more family friendly:

• Places to stay
• Places to eat
• Visitor attractions
• Tours, Tracks and Trails to download
• Seasonal events 

Each GAA Museum Teidí Tour starts with a workshop in Cú Chulainn’s Den where each child will get to;

• Select their bear fur
• Stuff their bear
• Find a bear heart
• Give their new furry friend a name
• Dress them in their very own GAA Museum bear training kit
• Get a ‘bear-th’ cert!

After that, it’s time to get exploring as families and teddies will head off on a family friendly tour of Croke Park stadium, including a visit to the dressing rooms and the chance to walk pitch-side. Don’t forget to snap photos of your new teddy exploring the stadium!

For those looking for even more adventure, access to the GAA Museum is also included with the tour. Here, young and old can learn fun facts about the GAA and Croke Park and test their own hurling and football skills in the interactive games zone. Children and teddies can follow the Junior Explorer trail through the exhibitions and find clues along the way!

GAA Museum Teidí Tours are specially designed for children aged 3 years and over. Each child ticket (€30) includes a 16-inch bear to make and take home, plus a bear training kit. Adult tickets are €9, and senior tickets are €6.

Tours begin on the June bank holiday weekend and will run on select weekends throughout the summer.

Tickets are limited so book online in advance to avoid disappointment.

Please note that this experience is not suitable for children under 3 years of age, and all children must be accompanied by an adult.

Get our best content direct to your inbox! You’ll receive quick and easy recipes, fun ideas to entertain the kids, parenting tips, great competitions, as well as offers from brands we trust.

Both the GAA Museum and Croke Park Stadium Tour are fully accessible for people with disabilities, and there are toilet and baby changing facilities on site.

There is free on-site parking adjacent to the GAA Museum for cars/buses in the Cusack Stand Car Park. Access to the Museum is via St. Joseph’s Avenue (off Clonliffe Road).

Visit crokepark.ie/teidi-tours for more information or to book tickets.

If your little ones and their new teddies are feeling peckish, you can head for the Blackthorn Café which is open daily serving hot lunches, sandwiches, pastries, snacks and more.

Or you could welcome your new furry friend to the family with your very own Teddy Bear’s picnic! Outdoor picnic table seating is available.

Visitors who book the Teidí Tours will also get to visit the GAA Museum along with the stadium tour. Here you will learn the unique story of Gaelic games from ancient times to the present day which include featured exhibitions including the original Sam Maguire and Liam MacCarthy cups and you’ll get to visit the GAA Hall of Fame!

Afterwards you can test out your hurling and Gaelic football skills in the Interactive Games Zone. Do you have what it takes?

For those with older kids and teens, why not book a Kelloggs Croke Park Skyline Tour along with your visit to the GAA Museum?

Climbing 17 storeys to high above the Croke Park stadium, you’ll get a birds eye view, not only the pitch and stands below, but of the capital as your tour guide gives you an insight into the history of some of Dublin’s best loved landmarks.

These tours are suitable for ages 12+ and take approx 90 minutes

Book your next family adventure now!

Bloom 2023 takes place from June 1st to 5th 2023 and features 21 stunning show gardens, from the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Musical Garden to the Loom and Blooms Garden, designed to celebrate 300 years of Avoca.

The Easy steps to dream gardens is an initiative designed to help people plant their own garden at home. There are 7 designs in total, all from Bloom award winning designers, with easy-to-follow planting plans and planting lists that can be implemented at home, according to the time, space and budget available.

To make the most of Bloom this year, follow our top tips for visiting Bloom with kids:

Before your visit, stop by the Bloom website for detailed information. Check travel tips, whether planning to arrive by car or public transport, and download a site map to plot your route around the extensive Bloom site.

Decide which show gardens are top of your list, which events/demos you’d like to see and check out the kids’ event programme.

Top tip: The event schedule for each day differs, so do make sure to check in advance so you can plan your day out and make the most of all that’s on offer.

Of course you’ll want some browsing time for yourself, but it’s a good idea to plan in your kids’ activities to keep them happy throughout the day.

This year there are lots of things happening at the Budding Bloomers Stage. The Kids Zone hosts an exciting mix of fun and games for all the family to enjoy, with programmed events every day including:

• First 5 Play
• RTÉjr Let’s Find Out with Mark Langtry
• Weaving with Natural Irish Wool
• RTÉjr Storybud on the big screen
• Face painting and much more

Your child might also enjoy some of the demos at the Quality Kitchen stage featuring some of  Ireland’s leading chefs including Rory O’Connor, Catherine Fulvio, Brian McDermot, Mark Moriatry, Shane Smith and JP McMahon. There will also be cook-alongs for kids with Neven Maguire.

Get our best content direct to your inbox! You’ll receive quick and easy recipes, fun ideas to entertain the kids, parenting tips, great competitions, as well as offers from brands we trust.

There are plenty of food options at Bloom, for example, the Food Village will feature more than 90 food producers showcasing the best of Irish food; from chocolate to smoked salmon, cheese to beetroot juice, artisan sausages, fresh vegetables and meats, coffee and jams.

There are also on-site restaurants, Country Crest Food Fayre and Farm Shop, The Garden View Restaurant and Bistro Bloom offering indoor and outdoor dining options with a wide range of tasty food options from artisan food trucks located around the site.

Bring snacks and back up food just in case your kids aren’t keen on the options on offer. There are plenty of spots to set up a mini picnic for them, while the dedicated Picnic Area is also a good spot to take some time out, relax and enjoy the live entertainment.

Top tip: When you first arrive, scope out what’s on offer as you go around to see what you think your kids might like and plan to come back at feeding times. It’s also a good idea to try and time your meals outside of the peak times, e.g. try an early lunch at noon with a snack later after the lunch rush has died down.

Top essentials for the day:

• Sunscreen and hats
• Wet wipes (so handy for those messy spills)
• Refillable water bottles, you can refill at the water stations
• Books or toys for kids to play with when you have rest stops
• Label coats, jumpers and backpacks with your mobile number in case any smallies get lost.

Bord Bia is also running a number of sustainable initiatives at the festival, from providing a free shuttle bus service and an increased number of bicycle parking spaces, to ensuring that all food and drink packaging sold on-site is fully compostable or recyclable.

Many of the show gardens will highlight environmentally-friendly practices and systems, such as rainwater collection, pollinator-friendly planting, habitats for wildlife, and greener building materials in order to inspire visitors to make changes at home.

Whether you are planning a low cost day out as a family or a meet up with friends at a venue, set a budget so you know in advance what the costs are going to be.

Think about travel costs, ticket prices, refreshments, spending money and extras you or the kids may want to spend on the day.

This is the fun part, choosing where to go and who to go with! From free days out with a picnic at the beach, playground or park to theme parks, museums, a boat trip or other fun activity, get the whole family involved in planning so everyone has a great time.

Do your research online in advance to get the best deals and to find out if there are any dates that won’t be possible. When it comes to buying tickets, it is good to nominate one person to take charge of booking them so you can be sure you will all be together.

Once you have decided who is going, what the budget is and where you want to go, it’s time to set the date. While it is nice to do some ad hoc days out, if you have to purchase tickets or want to meet friends, it is best to set a date and plan ahead to make sure plans are set in stone. Once you have it in the diary, it can be something to look forward to!

If your chosen date is coming up soon, you can also check the weather forecast to make sure your plans won’t be affected by the weather – an essential aspect in particular for outdoor activities.

Have a checklist of what you need for the day. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Fully charged mobile/devices + charger
• Entertainment for the journey
• Picnic/Refreshments
• Tickets, either printed or proof of purchase on mobile (you may also need photo id and the card used for booking)
• For good weather, sunscreen, bug spray, sun hats, swimwear; or raincoats, wellies, layers and a change of clothes in the event of bad weather
• Picnic rug or deck chairs
• Entertainment for destination (Usborne things to spot books, outdoor games, frisbee, etc.)
• Get children to pack a small backpack each (their schoolbag is the perfect size!) with what they need e.g. water, spending money, book for the journey, pen and paper, etc.

Decide in advance how you are going to get to your destination. Leave plenty of time to get there, particularly if you have to arrive at a certain time for your booking.

If you are travelling by car, have it fully fuelled the day before. Plan the route and check before you go for any roadworks, accidents, etc. Depending on how long the journey is, when travelling with children it is good to know where you can stop along the way for toilet breaks! Don’t forget to plan for parking at your destination too – is there some on-site, or will you need to find street parking nearby? Is it possible to book in advance?

If you are travelling by public transport, know the train/bus/tram times and check for any planned works in advance. If there are several people travelling together, do book tickets in advance as it can often save money and ensure you are seated together.

Keep the kids amused on the journey with these free activity printables and colouring pages!

With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can be guaranteed a fantastic family day out, making memories and having fun!