October Feast 2022 - Wicklow Naturally
2022-10-31
Treat your tastebuds and set your sights on Wicklow Naturally’s October Feast, which returns for 2022
Wicklow Naturally’s October Feast is a month-long celebration of Wicklow’s food and drinks story, including farming, foraging, brewing, distilling, and much more.
The popular festival celebrates Wicklow’s thriving food and drinks scene. Throughout the month, Wicklow Naturally members’ will showcase their range of products, diverse experiences and numerous interactive events.
Treat your tastebuds and set your sights on these amazing events… From hands-on masterclasses, learning about our farm-family sustainable stories, taking some of the country’s best distillery, beer, and wine tasting tours, to cooking demonstrations, meeting the maker and heading out on guided foraging and mushroom hunts.
You can also enjoy a taste of Wicklow Naturally as eatery members throughout the county showcase the finest Wicklow produce in their seasonal menus.
The network will also hold food waste, food poverty and environmental awareness initiatives.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO
October Feast Highlights :
Meet the Makers
You can ‘Meet the Makers’, taste their delicious range and get some great recipe ideas every Friday throughout October from 12 noon to 2 pm at Gallagher’s SuperValu Wicklow. The exciting schedule includes Sussed / Wicklow Rapeseed Oil on October 4th, Old MacDonnell’s Farm on October 14th, Mic’s Chilli on October 21st and Le Paysan on October 28th.
Enjoy a taste of Wicklow Naturally
Enjoy a taste of Wicklow as Wicklow Naturally eatery members throughout the county showcase the finest Wicklow produce in their seasonal menus. There are numerous dining experiences to tantalise your taste buds, including BrookLodge & Macreddin Village, Mickey Finn’s Pub and Restaurant, Sorrel & Eve and Goldmines Bistro at Woodenbridge Hotel & Lodge.
Have a culinary adventure
Have an unforgettable culinary adventure with our bespoke food and drink producers’ tours of County Wicklow, which include:

An Tairseach Farm to Fork Tour & Dinner on Friday, October 14th
Farm to Fork Tour on Wednesday, October 19th – SOLD OUT
International Culinary Professionals and Academics Farm to Fork Tour Wednesday, October 19th & Thursday, October 20th – SOLD OUT

Enjoy a drink and have a learning experience with one of the many Wicklow Naturally drink producers as they give behind-the-scenes access to their businesses. They include:

Móinéir Wine Tasting and Winery Tour on Saturday, October 15th
Wicklow Brewery Tour combined with Food & Beer Paring Deluxe Menu on Saturday, October 15th
Wicklow Wolf Brewery Tour & Tasting on Tuesday, October 20th

Forage for tasty ingredients
Wicklow Naturally forager members Hips and Haws Wildcrafts, Mushroomstuff and Wicklow Wild Foods will host several tours during October Feast to teach attendees how to forage for food in County Wicklow.
Library Talks
Why not join a member of the Wicklow Naturally network and the County Wicklow Library service as they host several of talks about stopping food waste?
The talks are aimed to give attendees all the info and tips they need to make the most of their food, cut down on waste, and break down those barriers that prevent them from being creative in the kitchen. This event is open to all ages and no registration is required.
The free series of library talks will take place every Tuesday throughout October at 7 pm.
Library Talks Schedule

Bray Library – Date TBC
Arklow Library – Tuesday, October 11th
Blessington Library – Tuesday, October 18th
Dunlavin Library – Tuesday, October 25th
Wicklow Town Library – Date TBC

Wicklow Naturally Indoor Market
Take home a taste of Wicklow from our exclusive Wicklow Naturally Market for October Feast. There will be a fabulous range of Wicklow Naturally produce to buy. The Market will be open from 10 am to 4 pm at Healthy Habits in Wicklow Town on Saturday, October 28th.
October Feast Student Challenge
This year Wicklow Naturally is once again running its October Feast Schools Challenge. There are two categories which consist of Transition Year students and the other is for fifth and sixth-class students from primary school.
Transition Year Students Challenge
Transition year students are invited to design a 3-course menu using only ingredients produced or made in Co. Wicklow.
Primary School Challenge (5th & 6th Class)
Fifth and sixth-class students are invited to create a school lunch item using only Wicklow products.
Two students from each of the category winners will represent their school at the Taste of Wicklow 2023 where they will recreate their 3-course menu/lunch item with assistance from a surprise celebrity chef.
Entries can be submitted via https://wicklownaturally.ie/octoberfeast2022/.
Places are limited on tours and selected events. Tickets can be booked by visiting our event page at https://wicklownaturally.ie/events/. To book a dining experience at any of our members’ eateries, please contact the hotel or restaurant directly. All events are subject to change without notice and may be dependant on weather.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

Wicklow Walking Festival with Footfalls
2022-11-01
The Wicklow Walking Festival organised by Footfalls Holidays is set annually over the October Bank Holiday weekend.
The event offers a series of walks around the Wicklow Mountains so suit all level of fitness and interest. As space is limited, booking is essential!
The Festival will be based in the Brockagh Resource Centre situated in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, on the road between the village of Laragh and Glendalough.
All walks are led by experienced walking leaders who will enhance your day with information on local history flora and fauna.
The National Park is an ideal location for a fun-filled festival weekend covering approximately 90,000 hectares! The park protects some of Europe’s oldest peat boglands, heather-covered mountains, and woodlands. Large herds of sika and red/sika hybrid deer, foxes, badgers, hares and birds of prey are frequently spotted on walks so don’t forget your camera!
MORE INFO AND BOOKINGS

YARN Story Telling Festival
2022-11-24
The Mermaid Arts Centre and cosy venues and libraries around County Wicklow will be hosting this year’s YARN Story Telling Festival. The festival is set from the 12th to 24th November with a range of storytelling events for adults and children.
Meet tellers from across the island and our international guest is Choctaw Native American Tim Tingle. For full information visit link below and let a story weave its magic on you!
https://www.mermaidartscentre.ie/whats-on/events/category/yarn-storytelling-festival-bray

Christmas Island - Hidden Valley Rathdrum
2022-12-18
Join us at Christmas Island for Festive Fun and an Unforgettable Unique Christmas Experience!
Your experience will include an exciting journey on The North Pole Express, a trip to Christmas Island where you’ll meet the Elves who will try to bring out your creative side before moving on to Santa’s head elves for some more festive elf entertainment. Families will depart Christmas Island on Santa’s House Boat to make their way to Santa’s Grotto where each family will have a private visit with Santa.
Christmas Island tickets are available for both day visits and overnight stays. Overnight stays are available on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings.
Each family will meet Santa individually. Please be sure to make two separate bookings if attending with friends so that each family has their own private Santa visit.
All children will receive a gift from Santa.
If you have booked your ticket at the end of the day, then you need to arrive earlier to allow time for the extra facilities. If you booked the first time slot of the day, then you can stay on after your visit to Christmas Island to avail of the extra activities.
Bring your camera for lots of magical photo opportunities.

Wicklow Christmas Market
2022-12-18
Get ready to hang up the stockings, drape the tinsel on the tree, and sip eggnog under the mistletoe, because Christmas is coming, and here in Wicklow, it wouldn’t be Christmas without the famous Wicklow Christmas Market. Delight in the magic that the Market has to offer for Christmas lovers of all ages, from a brand-new Santa experience for the kiddies, an expanded Eco-Ice Rink, a bigger and better market, and even more lights and trees than ever.
Wicklow Christmas Market is designed to be enjoyed by all- therefore, as always, entry to the Market is FREE. Once inside, you will be transported into an awe-inspiring Christmas wonderland, where you will have your choice of delicious, international culinary offerings from local food vendors, 50+ craft stalls to get your Christmas shopping list completed, and of course legendary foreshow and live entertainment. Come see for yourself what all the excitement is about!
Nov: 19th, 20th, 25th, 26th, 27th. Dec: 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 16th, 17th, 18th
Opening Times: 10am – 7.30pm
More info: https://www.wicklowchristmasmarket.com/

Imbolc: Spring 2023 celebrations at Wicklow Naturally
2023-02-06
Help celebrate the ancient Celtic feast day, Imbolc with Wicklow Naturally as members will mark the beginning of spring from Wednesday, February 1st to Monday, February 6th 2023 with various events and activities including a walking tour, producers market, Brigid’s Day Festival and sunrise yoga while our hospitality members menus will be Brigid-themed.
Imbolc is one of the four Gaelic seasonal festivals, along with Bealtaine, Lughnasadh and Samhain. The beginning of Imbolc is the first day of February, and for Christians, it is the feast day of Saint Brigid (Ireland’s patroness saint).
It is believed that the word Imbolc literally means ‘in belly’ – (in the ewe’s belly)– referring to lactating ewes and spring lambing. So, it certainly is an ideal time to celebrate the coming year and the renewal and regrowth that takes place in our farming and food business community.
St. Brigid’s Day was an important Irish festival that honoured fertility, blessings, and protection. Most people are likely aware of the widespread custom of creating crosses in honour of Saint Brigid. People believed St Brigid crossed on the eve of her feast day and gave blessings and protection to homes and farms where crosses were hung in her honour. Her new Bank Holiday on Monday, February 6th, 2023, is the perfect opportunity to celebrate Wicklow’s food, drink, and hospitality industries.
Events/activities highlights

Irish weaver Sarah Jenkinson will have a variety of Irish woven St Brigid’s Day crosses for sale from Wednesday, February 1st at Killruddery Farm Shop which is open seven days a week from 9 am to 5 pm.
Join Gilly and Brian for a very special walking tour of Wildacres Nature Reserve on Saturday, February 4th where you will feel energised, inspired, and ready to take action for biodiversity.
Take home a taste of Wicklow at the Wicklow Naturally Food and Drinks Producers Market on Sunday, February 5th at The Powerscourt Distillery from 12 noon to 5 pm. There will be a fabulous range of Wicklow Naturally produce to sample and buy including Olly’s Farm, Wildacres, Wicklow Brewery, Le Paysan, Coolattin Cheddar, Nibbed Cacao, Mic’s Chilli, Caffrey’s Sauces, Janet’s Country Fayre and more.
The Powerscourt Distillery Brigid’s Day Festival takes place on Sunday, February 5th from 12 noon to 5 pm with folklore talks, discussion panels, whiskey masterclasses, food and whiskey pairings, mini tours and tastings, and live music from the Victory Dolls.
Learn how to make your very own St Brigid’s Cross at Beyond the Trees at Avondale. The workshops take place on Sunday, February 5th and Monday, February 6th at 11 am and 12 noon.
Improve your mind, body and breathing with Sunrise yoga and hot cacao with Nibbed Cacao on Monday, February 6th.
Feed your appetite with Brigid-themed menus at many of our hospitality members including the Glenview Hotel and Leisure Club, Woodenbridge Hotel & Lodge, and the Wicklow Brewery.
Throughout the festivities, Brigid-themed food and cocktail recipe ideas will be shared by our members across Wicklow Naturally’s socials.

Places are limited on tours and selected events. For more information about individual events please visit our event page at https://wicklownaturally.ie/events/. To book a dining experience at any of our members’ eateries, please contact the hotel or restaurant directly. All events are subject to change without notice and may be dependant on weather.
Be sure to stay up to date with the latest event news by following Wicklow Naturally on social media: https://www.facebook.com/WicklowNaturally/, https://twitter.com/WicklowNatural1, or https://www.instagram.com/wicklownaturally/.

St. Patrick's Day Parades in Wicklow - 2023
2023-03-17
The Bray St. Patrick’s Day Parade will kick off at 2pm from the Town Hall finishing at the northern part of the Seafront
Wicklow Town‘s Parade gets under way from Station Road at 3.15pm
The Greystones St. Patrick’s Day Parade will commence at 11am
Arklow‘s Parade will start at 2pm
The Newtownmountkennedy St Patrick’s Parade kicks off at 11.30am from Gregory’s Garage
The Rathdrum parade starts at noon from Avon Motors

Bray St Patrick's Festival
2023-03-20
This year’s St. Patrick’s Festival and Parade in Bray is bigger than ever. The Festival will run for five days from Thursday, March 16th until Monday, March 20th, 2023.
The jam-packed programme includes Bird’s Euroshow Funfair, live music, an open-air céilí, talks, a walk, a treasure hunt, movies at the Bandstand, the St. Patrick’s Day Bray Parade and more.
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade will be a cultural celebration. There are excellent vantage points for all to get an opportunity to marvel at the strong 1,500 participants as they spectacularly make their way through the town.
Events/activities running throughout the festival from Thursday, March 16th until Monday, March 20th 2023:

Enjoy all the thrills and spills of the Bird’s Euroshow Funfair as it returns to Bray Seafront from Thursday, March 16th until Monday, March 20th. It opens on Thursday, March 16th at 3 pm then daily from 12 noon to 10 pm.
At your leisure grab the family or a bunch of friends for an adventuresome day out with Family Treasure HuntExperience. Go to bray.ie/stpatricksfestival to access the questionnaire.
Learn how to Irish dance with a virtual Céilí by Scoil Rince Fáinne. Go to bray.ie/stpatricksfestival to watch.
Throughout the festival watch as iconic Bray District landmarks including the Town Hall, Civic Offices & The Bandstand #GoGreen in celebration of our National Day.
There’s some cracking live music throughout the town’s many venues. Full music listings can be found at bray.ie/events/.

Thursday, March 16th 2023:

Making waves – An immersive multi-sensory dance theatre production designed specifically for children aged 8 to 13 years with mild to more complex needs takes place at the Mermaid at 10:15 am & 12:15 pm. See mermaidartscentre.ie to book.
At 4 pm join White Doodle Workshops and create a fun St. Patrick’s Day mixed-media Snake… Draw, paint, print and stamp to create a fun sake! Sign up for free at bray.ie/stpatricksfestival. Places are limited – booking is essential.
Learn about the International Hotel, from start to finish, a talk by James Scannell hosted by the Bray Cualann Historical Society at the Royal Hotel at 8 pm. Read more at braycualannhistoricalsociety.ie.

Friday, March 17th 2023:

The festival’s main event, the St. Patrick’s Day Bray Parade will kick off at 2 pm from the Town Hall to the viewing stand at the northern part of the Seafront.
At the Mermaid, Neil Delamere is back with a brand new show, Delamerium at 8 pm. Expect the usual hilarious stories, wry observations and quick-witted improvisation. See mermaidartscentre.ie to book.

Saturday, March 18th 2023

Celebrate St. Patrick’s weekend in Killruddery Yard with a special edition of their Farm Market. Listen to performances from musicians while enjoying a unique shopping experience in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere while supporting the local economy and farmers! There’s free parking + admission. Read more at killruddery.com.
Join the Boomerang Brass Band (UK) live at the clocktower in Enniskerry Village at 12:45 pm.
Enjoy a showcase of Irish Dancing which includes exhilarating performances from Lawless Academy of Irish Dancing, Dunphy School of Irish Dance, Scoil Rince Fáinne and Shauna McGauran School of Irish Dancing at the Seafront Bandstand from 2 pm.
Let the brilliant Suzie from White Doodle Face Art delight children with free face painting from 3:15 pm to 5:15 pm at the Seafront Bandstand.
Irish dance meets Brass – watch the very talented Shauna McGauran School of Irish Dance wow audiences as they showcase their dancing skills with music by The Boomerang Brass Band (UK) on the Seafront Bandstand at 4 pm.
Cheer on Ireland as they take on England in the final fixture of the 2023 Six Nations Championship on the open-air big screen opposite the bandstand at 5.15 pm.

Remembering Ronnie – Phelim Drew, celebrated actor and son of The Dubliners’ Ronnie Drew, brings his fabulous music show to Mermaid Arts Centre at 8 pm. See mermaidartscentre.ie to book

Sunday, March 19th 2023:

The Bray Head Walk is back again this year. Take in some of the most stunning views of Bray and surrounding areas with a guided walk with Bray Adventures up and around the amazing Bray Head. Sign up for free at bray.ie/stpatricksfestival. Places are limited – booking is essential.
The Bray Vintage Car Club will be showcasing some of their member’s beautiful classic and vintage cars from 2 pm to 4 pm opposite the Bandstand.
Enjoy a spectacular Hip Hop dance off with Studio X Dance Group at the Seafront Bandstand from 1 pm.
Free movies by the bandstand – Bring a deckchair, blanket or a bean bag to ensure maximum snugness, some popcorn and treats and enjoy some family favourites to celebrate Mother’s Day at 2 pm and 4 pm with thanks to Bird’s Euroshow Funfair. Movies will be revealed on bray.ie’s socials in due course.

Monday, March 20th 2023:

The Bray Cualann Historical Society will be reeling in the years with a historical talk at 8 pm. Learn about Bray through the Movies from 1929 to 1966 at the Bray and District Chamber of Commerce House. Admission is free with no registration required.

Quest Glendalough
2023-04-01
This epic adventure involves racers running and cycling through the Wicklow Mountains National Park and Glendalough Valley as well as kayaking across the spectacular Upper Lake and finishing the race in the shadows of the monastic round tower which epitomises the Glendalough area.
1st April 2023
Three challenging routes:
59k Expert – 43km Sport – 21k Challenge.
More info: https://www.questadventureseries.com/races/quest-glendalough/

Wicklow ScreenDance Laboratory Festival 2023
2023-04-07
WSL is a yearly event that celebrates training, performance, screendance, discussion and craft with particular emphasis on the Art of Dance in it’s many forms.
Wicklow ScreenDance Laboratory (WSL) is the only screendance festival in the East of the country, and one of just two film festivals in Ireland that focus exclusively on dance, choreography and film. Its programmes are experimental, ‘learning-by-doing’ arts-based, with added components – an in-depth established-artist conversation, a day-long symposium, and screenings showing Irish and International works and dance performance.
WSL creates opportunities for film/dance artists to make and show dance, and/or film work within Laboratory and stage settings. The organisation has a passionate commitment to bring international artists of calibre to Wicklow, and to encourage the development of local arts communities. While it is a local festival it is open country-wide and internationally to contributors; and, with parter Dance Ireland, will have a specific relationship with a national audience. It is a Social Enterprise Business that operates both with an aim to be profitable and to give back to the community, particularly Rural Youth, marginalised / disadvantaged people, and refugees.

Wicklow ScreenDance Laboratory Festival 2023 Dates and Venues:
Dance House, Dublin – April 3 – 5
Mermaid Arts Centre, Bray – April 6
Spotlight Studios, Wicklow Town – April 7

Fore more visit screendance.ie

Bray Jazz Festival 2023
2023-04-30
Bray Jazz Festival will return for its 22nd edition on the May Bank Holiday weekend.
Bray Jazz Festival is delighted to be back for its 22nd year on the upcoming May Bank Holiday weekend (April 28th – 30th).
Hosting another packed programme of great music, with a roster that includes a six times Grammy nominated artist, a saxophonist named France’s performer of the year, and a two times winner of the title of world’s greatest accordionist and a two-times UK jazz singer of the year.
This year they’ll have performers from the US, UK, France, Sweden, Italy, Germany, Denmark and Japan featuring, alongside some of the very best performers in contemporary jazz from at home here in Ireland.
Why not check out what’s on – www.brayjazz.com

1798 Festival of Remembrance - Newtownmountkennedy
2023-05-28
The Festival Rememberance will take place on the 26th, 27th and 28th of May 2023.
The main event will be on the 28th and will feature a thrilling re-enactment of the battle of Newtownmounkennedy, as well as talks by prominent scholars and historians, including Dr. Ruan O’Donnell from the University of Limerick.
This event is a unique opportunity to witness history come to life as we recreate one of the most significant battles of the Irish Rebellion of 1798. The re-enactment will be a thrilling spectacle, with authentic costumes, weapons, and battle tactics. You will witness firsthand the bravery and determination of the United Irishmen rebels as they fought to liberate their country from ‘Crown Forces’ rule.
More info at https://1798.ie/
Festival – Programme of Events

Friday – 26th May 2023
Local Schools Involvement
Saturday – 27th May 2023
Mainstreet at Market Square – Displays of art, period dress, weaponry at10am-12pm; local artefacts/memorabilia of the 1798 era are being sought. Tours of Altidore Castle (Booking essential, max 25 people per tour)
Lecture Series – afternoon 2-5pm Community Centre – Professor Ruan O’Donnell and other key historians Music and entertainment – Community Centre 7pm-9pm
Sunday – 28th May 2023
Newtownmountkennedy
2pm – Mass @the Mass Rock – followed by Pike March to:
3pm – Ecumenical Service at Kiladreenan Graveyard followed by Pike March to:
4pm – Re-enactment Main Street of Newtownmountkennedy

Welcome to Summer - The Whale Theatre
2023-06-03 - 2023-07-22
Welcome to the summer! The Whale Theatre proudly presents a spectacular line-up of acclaimed musical and comedy acts from June 3rd to July 22nd. Immerse yourself in sensational experiences and embrace the summer season at The Whale Theatre! Book your tickets to see your favourite artists now and make this an unforgettable summer!
Upcoming Events
Visit the links below for more information on events and bookings.
3 JUN 2023 – Hyde Park Brass
9 JUN 2023 – Niamh Dunne
17 JUN 2023 – Martin Angolo
1 JUL 2023 – John Spillane
15 JUL 2023 – Jack O’Rourke
21 & 22 JUL 2023 – Mary Coughlan

Paddy Casey live at The Arklow Bay Hotel
2023-06-16
Having been at the forefront of the Irish music scene since his multi-platinum selling debut album ‘Amen (So Be It)’, Paddy Casey’s career has taken him all over the globe touring with acts like The Pretenders, R.E.M, Ian Brown, Blondie and Tracy Chapman to name a few. Closer to home he has played all over Ireland, including a sold out Dublin Castle, RDS and a record-breaking week long run in The Olympia Theatre, alongside special guest spots with U2, Pearl Jam, Bob Dylan and more.

Paddy Casey’s hugely successful debut album ‘Amen (So Be It) achieved many international highlights including tracks being featured in hit television shows such as ‘Dawson’s Creek’ and ‘Roswell’ alongside extensive American and European tours. Further establishing himself as one of the country’s most successful artists, his second album ‘Living’ went on to become one of the biggest ever selling albums in Ireland (approximately 15 times platinum). This was followed by the release of ‘Addicted To Company, Part 1’, with this album seeing Paddy Casey continue to tour across America, performing on The Late Show with David Letterman, securing a week-long slot on MTV and even managing to have drinks with Beyonce and Jay Z along the way. After the release of this album Paddy Casey decided that it was time to part ways with his record label and go independent in order to let himself and his music veer off in any direction the wind carried them, resulting in his first release ‘The Secret Life Of’ – a resounding success with the album reaching platinum status.

Click here to book tickets

Taste of Wicklow
2023-06-25
Taste of Wicklow returns for its tenth anniversary on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th of June, having established itself as the leading food festival on the east coast. It is a fusion of local food, Celebrity Chefs Gary O’Hanlon, Chef Eunice Power, Pastry Chef Shane Smith and Pastry Chef Paul Kelly, as well as local chefs.
There will be dozens of stands including artisan food, crafts, tastings, workshops and MORE. Guaranteed fun for all the family with face painting, story telling, balloon modeller, games and magicians!
We hope you take the time to shop in beautiful Wicklow Town, to visit our shops, coffee shops, restaurants, our local pubs, historical places and enjoy everything that our lovely coastal town has to offer.
Enjoy the Festival and have a great weekend in Wicklow Town.
Click here for more information
*No pets allowed entrance except for service animals – thank you for your understanding.

KALEIDOSCOPE FESTIVAL 2023
2023-07-02
KALEIDOSCOPE RETURNS IN 2023

IRELAND’S NUMBER ONE MUSIC AND ARTS CAMPING FESTIVAL FOR FAMILIES AND FRIENDS
KALEIDOSCOPE’s Carnival of Colour is the perfect summer camping weekend for all ages, with an incredible programme of music and activities to keep the whole family entertained. It all takes place in the scenic Russborough House, Co. Wicklow, from June 30 – July 2nd 2023!
Click here for more information

Tinahely Agri Show
2023-08-07
Irelands Second Largest Agricultural Show!

The Tinahely Agricultural Show is a celebration of the richness of rural Irelands traditions, it’s people and their way of life. For it is at this remarkable event that the doors to these experiences are opened. It is a fantastic family day out with live entertainment for kids and adults and an endless list of competitions and displays.

There is a palpable festival atmosphere as you walk around the massive show grounds to the parade rings, the exhibit marquees and the entertainment sections.

Founded over seventy years ago the show is one of the longest running agricultural shows in Ireland and has developed as a must on everyone’s social calendar.

www.tinahelyshow.ie/

HER Outdoors Week Adventure Festival
2023-08-12
Exciting news for Wicklow! Sport Ireland have just announced that they are kicking off HER Outdoors Week this year with the first ever HER Outdoors Week Adventure Festival at CP Adventure in Russborough House, Wicklow on Saturday August 12th from 10am – 4pm!
Join them for an unforgettable day of outdoor adventure at the breathtaking Russborough House in Blessington, Wicklow!
Activities take place right throughout the day with scheduled sessions time slots available at 10am and at 1pm for you to enjoy three activities for just of €15 per person!
From Ziplining to Archery and Bush Craft to Kayaking they have a great line up of both land and water activities available to those taking part.
Click here for more information.

Hell & Back Junior
2023-08-27
HELL & BACK Junior Returns to Bray for Muddy Mayhem and Epic Outdoor Adventure this Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th of August!
Brace Yourself Bray! Thousands of mini thrill seekers are set to descend on Killruddery Estate this weekend as HELL & BACK Junior is back and it’s bigger, muddier, and crazier than ever! The 3KM obstacle challenge is tailor-made for fearless kids aged 8-12 who are on the hunt for the ultimate outdoor escapade. As well as presenting the utmost challenge to little daredevils, the event promises non-stop laughter, fun and excitement for all involved.
They will be tackling challenges that even Ireland’s Fittest Family wouldn’t shy away from, with obstacles straight out of the TV sensation itself, conquering the Splash Zone, taming Hell on Earth, and mastering the infamous Halfpipe Finish Ramp – all in one epic adventure. Wave goodbye to the screens and smartphones and say hello to mud, laughter, new friends and memories.
This weekend’s HELL & BACK Junior is officially sold out! But fear not, the action-packed frenzy returns on September 30th. There are only a few spots left, so don’t be stuck in the muck, book now to secure your spot for this unforgettable outdoor extravaganza!
For more information and to register: https://www.hellandback.ie/junior

International Sheepdog Trials 2023
2023-09-10
The International Sheepdog Trials promises to be an extraordinary and fun-filled day out for the whole family, offering a wide range of entertainment for all ages.
Event Highlights:

Spectacular Sheepdog Trials: Witness the remarkable bond between man and dog as skilled sheepdogs showcase their agility and intelligence in herding sheep with precision and finesse.
Live music: The event will be set to the rhythm of live music, adding to the vibrant and festive atmosphere throughout the day.
Fascinating Demonstrations: Prepare to be captivated by various demonstrations that showcase incredible skills and talents.
Thrilling Funfair: the funfair will be buzzing with excitement, featuring rides and games that will entertain both young and the young at heart.
Engaging Exhibitors and Traders: Attendees will have the opportunity to explore an array of unique product offered by our exhibitors and traders, creating an excellent shopping experience.
Delightful Dog agility show: our furry companions will take the centre stage in a dog show that celebrates canine agility, obedience and charm.
Adorable Alpacas and Pets corner: Guests will have the chance to get up close and personal with the lovable alpacas and a pet’s corner, making for unforgettable interactions.
Vintage Car and Tractor Display: Vintage car enthusiasts will be thrilled by the impressive collection of classic automobiles and tractors on display.
Steam Engine Display: Discover the nostalgia and power of steam engines in a captivating display that appeals to history fanatics and curious minds alike .

Click here for more
Tickets

EcoTrail Wicklow 2023 - 30th Sept
2023-09-30
The fourth edition of EcoTrail Wicklow will take place on Saturday the 30th of September 2023.
EcoTrail Wicklow is part of the eco-responsible international circuit of EcoTrail races in 13 destinations around the world (and more planned!). The core principles behind EcoTrail is to organise world-class trail running events while raising awareness of the importance of protecting natural environments.
EcoTrail Wicklow offers the option of four distances (19k, 30k, 46k or 80k) following trails that run through some of Wicklow’s most scenic locations including Bray Seafront, Bray Head, Killruddery, the Great Sugarloaf, Powerscourt Waterfall, Djouce and the Wickow Way, Lough Tay and Roundwood Reservoir.
For more info on EcoTrail Wicklow and registrations, go to https://wicklow.ecotrail.com

HELL & BACK
2023-09-30 00:00 - 23:59 (Europe/London)
HELL & BACK 8KM on Sat 30th Sept is a gruelling off-road course along man-made trail runs and mountain paths.
You’ll have to progress over, under, around and through all of Killruddery’s stunning natural obstacles, including bogs, hills, forests, swamps and rivers, as well as our infamous HELL & BACK obstacles, including Heartbreak Ridge, Water Jump, Splashdown Slide, Ice Baths, Hell on Earth and the Tyre Zone.​
Grab your friends, family, work colleagues or team mates for the ultimate Irish outdoor adventure!
Book Now

Way with Words Literature Festival
2023-10-13 16:00 - 2023-10-14 21:00
Wicklow County Arts Office and Wicklow County Library Services are delighted to announce the return of the ‘Way with Words’ Literature Festival on Friday 13th and Saturday 14th October in Blessington Library.
Now in its fifth year, the ‘Way with Words’ Festival is a highly anticipated event curated with writers and readers in mind. Funded by Creative Ireland, the programme features a range of events that include readings, workshops and in-conversations as well as activities for all ages with a variety of genres and approaches to writing represented.
Award-winning writer and poet Colm Keegan will provide a workshop for Transition Year students in Blessington Community College. Colm has developed numerous creative writing projects for schools and colleges across the country.
Fourth class students from Blessington No 1 School will have their pencils and paper ready as writer Helena Duggan takes them to the land of ‘Whizdom’. In this workshop, students will discover a mysterious land, encounter a peculiar guide and be given a magical key before being whisked off to the place of their dreams, and all without ever leaving their seats.
Wicklow writer and poet Jane Clarke will lead a workshop exploring how poetry helps us fine-tune our senses and pay attention to the wonders and realities of our threatened world. She will offer prompts to generate new writings that celebrate nature and address the environmental emergency.
Join us for an entertaining evening of poetry and short stories with three acclaimed Wicklow writers – Eithne Hand, David Butler and Jane Clarke. There will be time for questions and discussion about all aspects of writing, including inspiration, craft, support and publication.
‘My delicious Hat’ is an interactive performance with poems, stories and drama games. Created and performed by Paul Timoney, this special event is filled with fun and play and is ideal for children and families.
Award-winning illustrator, author, comedian, graphic designer and public speaker Aoife Dooley will give a fun talk about the inspiration behind ‘Frankie’s World’ and ‘Finding My Voice’ followed by top tips on how to create graphic novels.
Join William Ryan for an interactive workshop which starts with a blank piece of paper and ends, hopefully, with the outline of the perfect crime. Bring your ideas and enthusiastic participation for three hours of criminal creativity.
From Miss Havisham to Scarlet O’ Hara, from Sherlock Holmes to Tom Ripley, this interactive workshop will explore what it is that makes a fictional character memorable and how to set about creating intriguing characters. Writer Tanya Farrelly will demonstrate how, regardless of genre, character is the most important element of any piece of fiction and how it is our protagonists’ decisions and actions that generate plot.
Join journalist, broadcaster and award-winning writer, Edel Coffey for a reading from her debut novel ‘Breaking Point’ followed by conversation moderated by local writer Olivia Fitzsimons.
Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr Aoife Flynn Kennedy, said she was delighted to see Wicklow County Council continue to find ways to support the writers and readers of Wicklow through vibrant and dynamic programmes such as ‘Way with Words.’
Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, Emer O’Gorman, said she was pleased to see that ‘the Way with Words Literature Festival is continuing to support the Wicklow community of writers and readers with a programme that features an outstanding range of award-winning writers, illustrators and performers.’
Funded by Creative Ireland, all ‘Way with Words’ events are free, but booking is essential. To find out more and book today visit: www.waywithwords.ie.
For more information, visit the Wicklow Arts Office social media pages:
Facebook
Twitter/X
Instagram
Make sure to also use the Hashtag: #WayWithWordsWicklow

October Feast - The Wicklow Naturally Festival of Food @ Brooklodge
2023-10-15
The Wicklow Naturally Festival of Food will celebrate the food and drink of County Wicklow with a focus on sustainable eating and drinking and will showcase the food and drink producers and providers in Wicklow who offer a delicious bounty with sustainability at the heart of every table.
This event will include discussion panels on:

Sustainable Tourism in Wicklow
Biodiversity at the Wicklow Table
‘Place on a Plate’
Tradition to Innovation – Sustainable food and drink production in Wicklow

Featuring Chefs and Producers from around the Garden County and beyond, We are delighted to welcome Dr. JP McMahon from Food on the Edge, Darina Allen of Ballymaloe Cookery School, and Hermione Winters from SlowFood Ireland, to join some of our panels.
We will also have a producer’s market, foraging and beekeeping talks and demonstrations, live music, whiskey masterclasses, wine tastings and plenty of delicious food and drink.
More info at https://wicklownaturally.ie/events/the-wicklow-naturally-festival-of-food/

Wicklow Walking Festival 2023
2023-10-27 - 2023-10-29
The Wicklow Walking Festival with Footfalls Walking Holidays will take place between October 27th and 29th.
The Walking Festival offers a series of walks throughout the Wicklow Mountains and is suitable for participants of all fitness and interest levels.
The Festival will be based in the Brockagh Resource Centre. Many of the walks will take visitors through the Wicklow Mountains National Park. The Centre itself is situated in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, conveniently located between the villlage of Laragh and Glendalough. Eircode: A98 DEH1
All walks are led by experienced walking leader focused on enhancing your daily experience with information on local history, flora, and fauna.
The Wicklow Mountains National Park is an ideal location for a fun-filled festival weekend covering roughly 90,000 hectares! The park some of Europe’s oldest peat boglands, heather-covered mountains, and woodlands. Large herds of sika and red/sika hybrid deer, foxes, badgers, hares and birds are frequently spotted on the walks so don’t forget your camera!
Visit their Website for more information and bookings!

St Patrick's Festival, Bray
2024-03-14 - 2024-03-18
Get ready for a vibrant display of Irish heritage, community spirit, and cultural diversity as Bray’s St. Patrick’s Festival and Parade returns for another spectacular celebration.
The festivities kick off on Thursday, March 14th and continue until Bank Holiday Monday, March 18th, 2024, the festival promises an unforgettable experience for locals and visitors alike.
Come and join the celebrations in Bray and experience a diverse range of activities suitable for all ages and interests. You can witness the colourful and energetic Bray Parade, enjoy live music and dance performances, experience the exhilarating rides at Bird’s Euroshow Funfair, or immerse yourself in the whimsical world of puppet shows.
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, there are informative talks and even yoga available, and unique face painting designs to choose from. With so much to do, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
For more information on Bray’s St Patrick’s Festival, visit their website or follow on Facebook and Instagram.

St. Patrick's Day Parades in Wicklow - 2024
2024-03-17
Arklow’s Parade will begin at 2:00pm, follow along the town’s Main Street and complete its journey at the viewing stand available at Arklow’s Parade Ground.
Aughrim’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations start at 11:00am at Tinakilly Bridge and following a route toward the Pavillion & GAA Grounds.
Bray’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade will commence at 2pm. The Parade will start at the Town Hall and conclude at the reviewing stand on Bray Seafront.
Greystones’ St. Patricks Day Parade will get under way from the Mill Road Roundabout from 11:00am. The Parade will then travel to South Beach, Main Street, Church Road, the Old Cinema, and conclude at the Harbour Plaza.
Rathdrum’s Parade Route will start from Avon-Motors at 12:00pm and proceed through Rathdrum town. Their Parade will continue past the viewing stand in the Market Square, through the Main Street, before finishing at the Tech Car Park.
The Wicklow Town Parade kicks off from the Station Road at 3:15pm, following along Main Street before finishing at Wicklow Gaol.

Easter in Wicklow!
2024-03-23 - 2024-04-05
With Easter just around the corner, Wicklow is coming alive with family-friendly Easter events! From Easter Egg hunts to musical pantos, there is something for each member of the family to enjoy. Some exciting events taking place include:

Easter Egg Hunt @ Clissmann Horse Caravans: March 23rd – April 1st
Easter Weekend @ Glenroe Farm: March 30th – April 1st
Easter @ River Valley Holiday Park: March 29th – April 1st
Easter Break @ Hidden Valley Holiday Park: March 30th – April 1st
Easter Fun Day @ Parkview Hotel: March 30th
Easter Wreath Making Workshop @ Killruddery House & Gardens: March 24th
Easter Train @ Rathwood: March 23rd to April 1st
Easter Camps @ CP Adventure: March 25th – April 5th

More information on upcoming Easter events in Wicklow!

Quest Glendalough
2024-04-06
Quest Glendalough is a one-day multi-adventure sports race and is part of Quest Adventure Series Ireland.
The race involves running, cycling and kayaking across the spectacular mountains, valleys and lakes of Wicklow.
Choose from 3 challenging routes, in one of the most epic locations in Ireland – Challenge 21km, Sport 43km and the Expert 59km.
Be part of the best adventure race series in the world.
For more information, visit their website!

Rhododendron Week @ National Botanic Gardens, Kilmacurragh
2024-04-08 - 2024-04-14
Rhododendron Week is back at Kilmacurragh from the 8th to the 14th of April 2024.
Rhododendron week is an annual event in the calendar at the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, Kilmacurragh, Co Wicklow. Kilmacurragh will showcase the highlights of the collection and explore the stories behind them. This year there are a series of events happening throughout the week.
Programme of events:
A series of video stories on “Historic and Plant Highlights” will be uploaded to the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland social media accounts and YouTube channel during the week.
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Daily:
The gardens are open daily from 09:00 to 17:00. There will be ‘Rhododendron Week’ guided tours at 12noon and 3pm. As always, the gardens are free to enter as are the guided tours.
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Thursday 11th April 2024 at 7:30pm
Head Gardener Seamus O’Brien will give an online lecture on ‘The Moore’s of Glasnevin in collaboration with the RHS Rhododendron Camellia and Magnolia Group. This is a free event.
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Friday 12th April 2024 at 2:00pm
A walking tour will take place with Seamus O’Brien, Head Gardener at the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, Kilmacurragh. This walk is entitled, ‘The rejuvenation of the historic rhododendron collection at Kilmacurragh’. Bookings for this event will be on Eventbrite only and places will be limited. Link for bookings will be available shortly.
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For more information on Rhododendron Week in Kilmacurragh, visit their website or follow on Facebook and Instagram. Alternatively, all other enquiries can be supplied by email at kilmacurraghgardens@opw.ie or by phone on (0404) 48844.
