Hell & Back Winter Warrior
2026-02-28
Get ready for HELL & BACK Winter Warrior 2026 – a Winter Trail Run unlike any other!
​Participants can tackle a half marathon distance (21KM) consisting of a 7KM loop packed with insane obstacles like Heartbreak Ridge, Valley of Pain, and Satan’s Pit.
The first wave starts at 09:45 so you can take on 14KM (two laps) or the full 21KM (three laps) – or opt for the 7KM Social Lap later in the day.
​Our Start & Finish in Giltspur promises even more adrenaline – and the wet and windy Wicklow weather will make this Extreme Obstacle Course one for the books!
Finishers will also receive an exclusive HELL & BACK medal as they cross the line.
Plus, you can warm up afterwards in Hell’s Kitchen Food Village, where you’ll find comforting food and drink to recharge.
​Don’t miss out on this ultimate Winter Trail Run experience – grab your tickets now and prove you have what it takes to be a true Winter Warrior!
This event is Sold Out
​For more information, visit their website, Facebook, & Instagram

National Tree Week 2026 Co. Wicklow "Growing a Greener Future Together"
2026-03-08 - 2026-03-15
Wicklow will play host to a series of events as part of this year’s National Tree Week, which kicks off on Sunday, March 8th and is adopting the theme: ‘Growing a Greener Future Together’.
Led by the National Tree Council of Ireland and proudly supported by Coillte, the annual celebration highlights the vital role of Ireland’s trees, forests, and woodlands in creating a greener, more sustainable future.
Running until Sunday, March 15, the week offers an opportunity for communities to connect with nature and learn more about the importance of trees.
Event listings are available here:
Events 2026 | National Tree Week

Get Ready to Sham-Rock! St. Patrick’s Festival Bray 2026
2026-03-13 - 2026-03-18
Bray is ready for the 2026 St. Patrick’s Festival, returning with an extensive programme of events!
This year, we are proud to honour our heritage and community spirit with a high-energy celebration of cultural
diversity. From Friday, March 13th to Wednesday, March 18th, Bray will be buzzing with excitement. This
guide is your ultimate companion to six days of non-stop family fun, from the legendary parade to high energy gigs and seafront thrills. Dive into the festive atmosphere and join our unique wellness activities and insightful historical walk.
The 2026 St. Patrick’s Day Parade is the festival’s crown jewel and a definitive highlight for the community.
Kicking off at 2 pm from Town Hall, this vibrant procession is a masterclass in community spirit and cultural diversity. Don’t miss the spectacle as over 2,000 participants showcase their talents while winding their way down to the Seafront in a brilliant display of colour and creativity. To ensure everyone can enjoy the festivities comfortably, a Quiet Zone will be located along Seymour Road for those who prefer a lower sensory experience, and a dedicated wheelchair-accessible viewing area is located adjacent to the main viewing stand. Space in these areas is limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
We are incredibly proud to announce Dylan Kavanagh as our 2026 Grand Marshal. As the reigning Bray Person of the Year, Dylan is being honoured for his selfless dedication to families navigating health crises through The Shauna Kavanagh Foundation.
This year’s St. Patrick’s Festival has something for the whole family. Take a look at the line-up:
Friday, March 13th
• Bird’s Euroshow Funfair: Making its welcome return to Bray Seafront, opening on Friday, March 13th, at 2 pm, then daily from 11 am to 10 pm until Tuesday, March 17th. Top-class family entertainment is assured, featuring numerous children’s rides and family attractions.
• Mixed-Media Magic Workshops: Head to Bray Chamber House at 3:30 pm and 4:30 pm for a colourful blast with White Doodle Art for ages 5+. Sign up for free at bray.ie/stpatricksfestival.
• Funny Focail Comedy Gig: Get into the festive spirit with a laugh! A free show featuring talented bilingual comedians at Frank Duffs at 8:30 pm.
• Live Music Sessions: Nightlife kicks off with Music Bingo at The Palm and Goldsmiths (9 pm), Robin McGuinness and Scott Maher at The Martello (9 pm), and Mute the TV at The Harbour Bar (9:30 pm).
Saturday, March 14th
• The seafront stays buzzing as Bird’s Euroshow Funfair opens at 11 am until 10 pm, offering a full day of high-flying thrills, classic carnival games, and family-friendly attractions.
• Vintage Car Display: The Bray Vintage Car Club showcases a stunning collection of classic vehicles opposite the Bandstand from 2 pm to 4 pm.
• Rugby on the Big Screen: Cheer on the boys in Green as the Six Nations clash between Ireland and Scotland is shown live on a large outdoor screen at the Bandstand at 2 pm!
• Live Music Sessions: Evening highlights include Mac Fhearraigh (6 pm) and Body & Soul (9:30 pm) at the Boomerang Bar, Derek Quigley in the Beer Garden and the Juke Brothers in the Piano Lounge at the Martello (9 pm), Take Two at the Promenade Bar and Grill (9 pm), Seb & Sam at The Palm (9 pm), Simon Gin at Butler & Barry (9 pm), The Led Bellies at The Harbour Bar (9:30 pm), and VOCI at The Wild Goose (10 pm).
Sunday, March 15th
• Seafront Rise and Reset: Begin your Sunday with tranquillity on the Promenade from 9 am to 11 am. Features Macha Yoga, heat therapy in the Helios Rooftop Sauna, and a sea dip. Sign up for free at bray.ie/stpatricksfestival.
• Head to the promenade from 11 am to experience the electric atmosphere of Bird’s EuroShow Funfair, where world-class rides provide the ultimate Sunday afternoon of entertainment.
• Free Family Entertainment at the Bandstand: Enjoy a Puppet Show by Julie-Rose McCormick (12 pm), free face painting (12 pm – 2 pm), a Hip Hop Dance Off with Studio X (1 pm), and an Open-Air Céilí (2 pm).
• A Celebration of Traditional Music: A free, informal session showcasing Wicklow’s finest talent at the Mermaid Arts Centre from 2 pm to 4 pm.
• Guided Historical Walk & Talk: Explore the rich history of Bray with the Bray Cualann Society. Meeting at Bray Chamber House at 3 pm.
• Live Music Sessions: As evening approaches, the music continues with house favourites at The Harbour Bar (from 4:30 pm), LR Project (6:30 pm) and The Ceolin’ Stones (8 pm) at Frank Duffs, Scott Maher at the Martello Beer Garden (6:30 pm), Gypsy Lacy at The Promenade Bar and Grill (9 pm), and Ed Keating Jnr at the Boomerang Bar (9 pm).
Monday, March 16th
• The Bank Holiday buzz reaches the shore at 11 am as the Bird’s Euroshow Funfair serves as the heart of the St. Patrick’s Eve celebrations, offering a spectacular array of world-class rides and festive energy late into the evening.
• Live Music Sessions: The music continues with Niall and Tom at The Palm (8 pm), the Trad Session at The Promenade Bar and Grill (9 pm), live sessions at The Harbour Bar (9:30 pm), and Stereo Jacks at The Wild Goose (10 pm).
Tuesday, March 17th – St. Patrick’s Day
• Catch the final day of Bird’s Euroshow Funfair from 11 am to 10 pm, as the promenade reaches peak excitement for one last blast of world-class rides and festive seafront thrills.
• The St. Patrick’s Day Parade: The definitive festival highlight kicks off at 2 pm from Town Hall.
• Post-Parade Music: The town erupts into celebration with Derek Quigley (4 pm), Leah & Will (6:15 pm), and the Juke Brothers (8:30 pm) at the Martello Beer Garden, Paul & Friends at The Palm (4 pm), live music at The Harbour Bar (from 4:30 pm), and Paddy O’Byrne at The Promenade Bar and Grill (6 pm).
Wednesday, March 18th
• A Musical Farewell: The Boomerang Brass Band provides a grand finale with performances at The Martello Hotel (2:30 pm) and The Boomerang Bar (5:30 pm).
Multi-Day Activities
• Don’t forget the festival staples: the Family Treasure Hunt, offering an adventurous day for all ages
(visit Bray.ie/stpatricksfestival for the questionnaire)
• Bray Goes Green, where local landmarks are lit spectacularly in green nightly.
You can read more about the festival, download a guide and map, register for free workshops, sign up for
competitions, and access the treasure hunt questionnaire by visiting bray.ie/stpatricksfestival/.
The event hashtags are #StPatricksFestivalBray #PaddysBray #PaddysBré #Bray #LoveBray

St. Patrick's Day Parades in Wicklow - 2026
2026-03-17
Arklow’s Parade will begin at 2pm from Mr Price, follow along the town’s Main Street, finishing up at the Courthouse.
Aughrim’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations start at 11:15am at Tinakilly Bridge.
Blessington St. Patrick’s Day Parade will start at 12:00pm with Noel Nolan and Dave Harrington from East Coast FM bringing the Big Red Bus and lots of buzz on the day. Blessington St. Patricks Day Parade committee | Facebook
Bray’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade will commence at 2pm, winding its way through the heart of Bray, offering a feast for the senses with music, dance, and colourful displays that celebrate both tradition and innovation. Events – bray.ie
The Wicklow Town Parade kicks off from Station Road at 3:15pm, following along Main Street making its way to Market Square. What’s on In Wicklow Town | Wicklow Town
Greystones’ St. Patricks Day Parade will get under way at 11am from the park & ride carpark and will go up the Main Street and end at the Marina Plaza.
Rathdrum’s Parade Route will start from Avon-Motors at 12:00pm and proceed through Rathdrum Main Street and will continue past the viewing stand in the Market Square.
Carnew St. Patrick’s Day parade will start at 12:30pm, making its way along the Main Street.

Wicklow Half Marathon and 10km
2026-03-22
The Volkswagen Financial Services Wicklow Half Marathon & 10km will take place on March 22nd 2026 starting along the beautiful Wicklow coastline. We look forward to welcoming over 3,500 participants to Wicklow Town. Only 40 mins drive from Dublin.
The unique finish area in the Courtyard of Wicklow’s Historic Gaol and the scenic Coastal course has been a big hit with runners and walkers from all over the country. Ideal start of season race to blow out the cobwebs.
Register Here

Quest Glendalough
2026-04-18
This epic adventure involves racers running and cycling through the Wicklow Mountains National Park and Glendalough Valley and finishing the race in the shadows of the monastic round tower which epitomises the Glendalough area.
Route distances are as follows:
62.5KM Expert, 42.9KM Sport, 22KM Challenge
Registration for 2026 is now OPEN!
*All routes are subject to change and approvals*
For more information, visit their website!

Hell & Back Trail Running @ Dawn
2026-04-25
A PURE TRAIL RUN AT SUNRISE

No obstacles. No noise. Just the trail, the dawn and you!

The world is still asleep when you begin. Cool air fills your lungs. The trail stretches ahead, quiet and waiting. Scarr Mountain at sunrise. Mist rising from the valleys. Ancient trees lining your path. Through forest paths and mountain trails, you’ll run as the sky shifts from darkness to gold. This is running as it should be – stripped back, immersive, unforgettable.

A 10KM trail run in a brand new location, created for runners who want honest distance, varied terrain and a clean, uninterrupted run. Ideal for club runners, regular trail runners and anyone looking for a quality weekend session.
​The route is 100% trail and tracks, taking in natural ground, forest paths and open sections. There are no obstacles or artificial challenges, though you can expect the occasional natural feature such as uneven terrain or fallen trees – exactly what trail running is about.
​No cargo nets, no swamp pits, no water obstacles, no timing chips. Just continuous running, changing terrain and a course that rewards rhythm and focus. ​A finisher’s medal marks the first edition of this new event, with light refreshments at the finish so you can refuel, recover and head into the rest of your day.

IMPORTANT: While created by the team behind HELL & BACK, this is not a typical HELL & BACK event!

Wicklow MTB Festival
2026-05-08 - 2026-05-10
The Wicklow MTB Festival is a high-energy weekend in the Wicklow Mountains where mountain biking takes centre stage—fast racing, big jumps, and thrilling downhill sections on forest trails.
As a spectator, you can pick a great viewing spot to cheer riders on, then head back to the festival hub for food, music, and plenty of chat and atmosphere. Even if you’ve never been on a mountain bike, it’s an exciting outdoor day out with loads to watch!
Book your ticket here.

Lap Of The Gap Mountain Marathon
2026-05-23
The Glendalough Lap of the Gap Marathon is the only road marathon event held in the Wicklow Mountains National Park. The event – and it’s little brother the ‘Glen to Glen Half-marathon’ – have been held since 2016 by local club Glendalough AC on the penultimate Saturday of May before the peak tourist season in the area.
The races offer a unique challenge: hilly and tough but also beautiful and scenic. You are unlikely to find personal bests on our courses but guaranteed an experience to savour and a challenge to be proud of. During the race you can savour some of Wicklow’s main natural sights including the Glendalough Lakes, the Glenmacnass Waterfall, and Lough Tay (the ‘Guinness Lake’).
We pride ourselves on offering a race that is both an experience for the casual runner but also a true sporting competition for the competitive or elite entrant.
Book here!

Hell & Back Family 8km
2026-06-06
Ready for the ultimate family day out?On Saturday 6th June 2026 join forces with your kids for a thrilling HELL & BACK adventure that will have everyone working together, laughing and creating unforgettable memories!Our 8KM course is packed with over 80 epic obstacles, both natural and man-made, designed to test your family’s teamwork, courage and determination.Channel your favourite moments from TV’s Ireland’s Fittest Family as you and your crew tackle iconic challenges, including Splash Zone, Hell on Earth, Satan’s Pit and the infamous Swamp.Perfect for children aged 10+ accompanied by a parent or guardian, this is a day of mud, laughter and boundless adventure – all set in the stunning location of the Alive Outside Adventure Centre in Killruddery!Don’t wait – spaces fill fast for this incredible family experience! Book your spot today and prepare to discover the heroes within you!Hell Yeah, We’re Ready!
Book Here

Hell & Back Teen 8km
2026-06-06
Unplug your teen from their screens and throw them into an unforgettable adventure! Send them on a thrilling, action-packed journey through the wilds of Killruddery Estate – it’s Hell & Back like they’ve never experienced before!H&B Teen is the ultimate 8KM challenge, packed with over 80 exciting natural and man-made obstacles that will test your teenager’s strength, courage and teamwork skills!
This is a rare chance to experience, in real life, some of the awesome challenges from TV’s Ireland’s Fittest Family, including Splash Zone, Hell on Earth, Satan’s Pit and the infamous Swamp. Together with friends from school or sports clubs, they’ll have to climb, crawl and navigate their way through an epic course designed to inspire resilience and grit.And the biggest test? The notorious Ramp at the Finish Line! Do they have the energy, guts and determination to conquer it?H&B Teen is a day of unforgettable thrills, mud and adventure – a true bonding experience they’ll talk about for weeks. Book their place now and let them discover what they’re really made of!!
Book Here

Hell and Back Adult 13KM and 8KM
2026-06-06
Ireland’s toughest Physical & Mental challenge
Are you ready to conquer Ireland’s most epic one-day endurance challenge?

​HELL & BACK returns on Sat 6th June 2026 for our biggest ever event!

Get ready for an action-packed day of fun, grit and unforgettable adventure. With two course options – 13KM and 8KM – there’s a challenge suitable for everyone, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned HELL & BACK enthusiast!
​Located on the stunning Killruddery Estate, you’ll experience jaw-dropping views of Dublin Bay from the Little Sugar Loaf as you tackle thrilling obstacles across rugged rivers, forests, mountains and bogs.
Each obstacle and every step is designed by our award-winning team to push you to your limit and reveal what you’re truly capable of.
​No need to be a super-athlete – anyone aged 16+ can take part…all you need is a bit of basic training and a positive mental attitude!
So, if you’re ready to unleash your inner warrior, rally your friends and make memories that last a lifetime, sign up today and be part of our biggest HELL & BACK yet!
Book here

Hell & Back Junior Splash Attack
2026-06-07
HELL & BACK Junior: Splash Attack isn’t just an obstacle course – it’s Ireland’s ultimate outdoor adventure festival for kids!
Created especially for national school children aged 8 to 12, this 4KM experience is packed with excitement, laughter and unforgettable moments. Kids will splash through water zones and tackle fun challenges with friends, where every step brings something new to discover.
This one-day-only, kids-only event takes place on Sunday 7th June 2026 and is the perfect day out for sports clubs, scout groups and school friends – or for adventurous kids who want to come along solo, make new friends and soak up the electric festival atmosphere at HELL & BACK Junior.
Book Here

Wicklow 200 Cycling Challenge
2026-06-07
The Wicklow 200 – and its partner event the Wicklow 100 Challenge – take in many of the most iconic climbs in Ireland’s ‘Garden County’ in an event that is among the most arduous and most revered annual cycling events on the world calendar.
The ride takes place every June and attracts cyclists from many different countries. As the name suggests, the event covers over 200 kilometres around Co. Wicklow, a major international cycling destination.
The shorter Wicklow 100km takes place on the same day, and shares most of the route with the Wicklow 200.
More info and registrations at http://www.wicklow200.ie/

Beyond The Pale - 2026
2026-06-12 - 2026-06-14
“Beyond the Pale” 2026 Event Details:
– Dates: June 12-14, 2026
– Location: Glendalough Estate, Co. Wicklow
– Description: Music, Arts, and Food Festival
– Website: https://www.itsbeyondthepale.ie
Step into the woods, lakes, and open skies of Wicklow’s Glendalough Estate for the return of Beyond The Pale. Three days of music, art, food, and wellness, where boutique luxury meets festival adventure.
Lose yourself in outstanding music for music lovers, from international talent, homegrown favourites and breakthrough artists. Add late‑night beats, chef pop‑ups, craft cocktails, hot saunas, cold dips, morning yoga, and forest foraging for the ultimate weekend with friends.
2026 lineup so far (More to be announced):
Caribou, Soulwax, Father John Misty, Honey Dijon, Of Monsters & Men, BIIRD, Groove Armada (DJ set), Sister Sledge, Princess Nokia, Moodymann, Claptone, 2ManyDJs, Kojaque, Sama’ Abdulhadi, NewDad, Christian Löffler, Σtella, Sabres of Paradise, Kittin, Jan Blomqvist Band, Nabihah Iqbal (live), TSHA, Ela Minus, Cliffords, Mr Scruff, Nouvelle Vague, Kormac, Róis, Fejká, CC:Disco!, Madra Salach, AliA, SexyTadhg, Stomptown Brass Band performs Jamie xx

Kaleidoscope presented by Glenveagh 2026
2026-07-03 - 2026-07-05
Kaleidoscope presented by Glenveagh 2026
Event Details:
– Dates: July 3-5, 2026

– Location: Russborough House, Co. Wicklow
– Description: Family Music Festival
– Website: https://www.kaleidoscopefestival.ie/

Kaleidoscope presented by Glenveagh – Ireland’s favourite family music camping festival is back!
Global music stars, homegrown Irish talent and 100s of family activities, shows and surprises to enjoy all together at Russborough House, Blessington.
Gather your festival crew, give the kids the best music memories and join us for Kaleidoscope presented by Glenveagh 2026!

2026 first headliners released: Natasha Bedingfield & the Saw Doctors.

EcoTrail Wicklow Trail Running Festival 2026 - 26th September
2026-09-26 - 2026-09-28
Saturday, 26th September 2026Bray, County Wicklow, IrelandDistances: 10KM | 19KM | 30KM | 46KM | 80KM
Welcome to Ireland’s Premier Trail Running Event
After a record-breaking 2025 edition – when EcoTrail Wicklow became the biggest trail running event ever held in Ireland – we’re back for 2026 with an even more unforgettable experience.
EcoTrail Wicklow isn’t just a race. It’s an adventure. From the vibrant seafront of Bray to the wild beauty of the Wicklow Mountains, every kilometre immerses you in some of Ireland’s most spectacular landscapes. Whether you’re tackling your first 10K trail or the epic 80K ultra, you’ll be part of a truly international event that celebrates running, nature, and community.
Why Run EcoTrail Wicklow?
Breathtaking SceneryTake in the sweeping views of the Irish Sea, lush forests, mountain trails, and historic landmarks along the way.
Eco-Conscious EventProudly part of the international EcoTrail series, we’re committed to reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainability at every step.
A Distance for EveryoneChoose your challenge: 10KM, 19KM, 30KM, 46KM, or 80KM. From beginners to seasoned trail veterans, there’s a race to suit every ability.
Unmatched Community SpiritJoin thousands of runners from Ireland and around the world. Feel the buzz of Bray Seafront start line, the energy on the trails, and the celebration at the finish.
International PrestigeAs part of the global EcoTrail series, EcoTrail Wicklow connects you to a worldwide trail running movement.
Race Day Schedule

80KM – 07:30hrs

46KM – 09:00hrs

30KM – 10:00hrs

19KM – 11:00hrs

10KM – 12:00hrs

All races start and finish on Bray Seafront, with its lively atmosphere, cheering crowds, and post-race celebrations.
Be Part of History
In 2025, EcoTrail Wicklow achieved a milestone as Ireland’s largest trail running event ever – with thousands of runners and supporters creating an incredible festival of sport and nature.
For 2026, we’re ready to go even bigger. Don’t miss your chance to be part of it.
Event sponsored by Failte Ireland

For more info on EcoTrail Wicklow and registrations, go to https://wicklow.ecotrail.com
