Family
Things to Do with the Family This Summer
Now that the school summer holidays are here, it's the perfect time to plan a family day or evening out.
Spectacular stage shows, theatrical performances, thrilling days out, and outdoor adventures are just some of the best things to do for you and the family this summer. Beat the boredom and get the kids out of the house on these long summer days and make special memories in the meantime.
Riverdance 30 – The New Generation
Gaiety Theatre, Dublin | Until 6 September
Running at Dublin’s Gaiety Theatre until 6 September, Riverdance 30 – The New Generation is the perfect family day or evening out this summer. Celebrating over 30 years of the iconic production, there’s never been a better time to experience the award-winning music, mesmerising choreography, stunning costumes and spectacular stage production.
Suitable for children aged three and over, the show also offers Saturday matinees, making it ideal for younger audiences. VIP tickets are also available and include a pre-show Q&A with the cast, a post-show meet and greet, and more.
Riverdance 30 – The New Generation is also coming to Gleneagle Arena, Kerry, from 10 to 13 September.
Over The Top Wrestling
Donegal, Belfast, Dublin & Carlow | 11 July-12 Sept
If your family enjoys action, Over the Top Wrestling is a fun day out featuring live wrestling, lights, drama, and plenty of excitement. Ireland’s premier wrestling show hosts events throughout the year, with several family-friendly events taking place this summer.
Audiences of all ages can attend in Donegal on 11 July, Belfast on 16 August, Dublin on 6 September, and Carlow on 12 September. Family ticket bundles are available to purchase.
Oakfield Park and Train
Oakfield Demesne, Donegal | Until 27 September
Sitting in a beautiful landscape of parklands, lakes and woodlands, Oakfield Park in Raphoe, Co. Donegal is an award-winning private estate that is a perfect, low-key day out with the little ones. With grounds featuring a hedge maze, sculptures, miles of walking paths, and a train ride around the estate, there’s plenty of space for the kids to run about in a safe and tranquil environment.
Children under the age of three go free. There are also tickets for adults, children and students, as well as family ticket bundles.
Gallagher Dublin Horse Show
RDS, Dublin | 5–9 August
The Gallagher Dublin Horse Show returns to the RDS from 5 to 9 August for five days of equestrian sport and family entertainment. Alongside national and international equestrian competitions, visitors can enjoy shopping, a fantastic selection of food and drink, and a dedicated area for family activities. Further information on the family programme will be announced closer to the event, but last year’s show included face painting, balloon artists, circus acts and more.
Whether you’re there for sport, family activities or simply to soak up the atmosphere, the Gallagher Dublin Horse Show makes for a great summer day out.
Jurassic Wild
Gleneagle Arena, Kerry | 9 August
Jurassic Wild is an adventure like no other for little ones who love dinosaurs. This family-friendly show combines impressive animatronics with award-winning puppetry that is bound to wow the whole family. Follow Archie the cheeky Ankylosaurus, Vinny the Velociraptor, and a host of pre-historic creatures including a life-sized Triceratops and a towering T Rex.
Suitable for children aged three and over, Jurassic Wild includes a mild scare-factor that’s just enough to keep things exciting.
Annie
Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Dublin | 11–16 August
One of the world’s best-loved family musicals, Annie, is bringing its sing-along songs to Dublin this August. Set in 1930s New York, the musical follows our protagonist Annie as she leaves Miss Hannigan’s orphanage to spend Christmas with billionaire Oliver Warbucks while searching for the family she’s always hoped for.
Featuring classic songs such as ‘Tomorrow’, ‘It’s a Hard Knock Life’, and ‘Easy Street’, Annie is a great introduction to the theatre for younger audiences and a wholesome day out for the whole family.
The Princess Proms
TF Royal, Castlebar | 14 August
Step into an enchanting concert experience with The Princess Proms at TF Royal, Castlebar, on Friday 14 August. Enjoy a magical show with iconic songs from films including Frozen, Wicked, Moana, K-Pop Demon Hunters, The Lion King, Pocahontas and many more.
Featuring talented performers who have appeared on the West End and on TV, The Princess Proms promises a captivating experience for the little (and not-so-little) princesses of the family.
Bluey’s Big Play
3Olympia Theatre, Dublin | 20–30 August
Bluey’s Big Play is bringing the hit children’s TV series to the 3Olympia Theatre stage this August. Based on an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, the show follows Bluey and Bingo as they do everything they can to get Dad off the bean bag and join their games.
Featuring large-scale puppets, original voices from the TV series, and new music by composer Joff Bush, it’s a guaranteed fun family day out for younger ones and Bluey fans alike.
The Misadventures of the 3 Little Pigs
Galway & Kerry | 29 & 30 August
The Misadventures of the Three Little Pigs is a fun-filled show that’s perfect for the youngest members of the family. Follow the three little heroes as they bumble, boogie, and build their way through a fairytale adventure, meeting magical guests and mischievous characters along the way. With catchy songs and dancing, it’s bound to be a fun way to entertain the little ones for an afternoon.
Suitable for children aged two and over, the show visits Leisureland, Galway, on 29 August and Gleneagle Arena, Kerry, on 30 August.
Looking for more things to do with the family? Or perhaps something just for Mam and Dad? Check out our Summer Guide, which is packed with the best theatre, concerts, sports, comedy, and more, happening this summer.
