Things to do this week | January in Ireland

January is often seen as a quieter month, but across Ireland there are plenty of reasons to get out and explore, especially in Dublin where museums, attractions and venues are using the slower pace to offer something a little different. From cultural highlights and guided tours to food-led experiences and seasonal discounts, it is a good time to rediscover familiar places without the crowds.

In Dublin, a coordinated January campaign brings together visitor attractions and experiences, encouraging locals to spend time in the city through museum visits, live performances and limited-time offers. Many of these are designed to be relaxed, budget-friendly and easy to fit around everyday routines.

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January in Dublin
Dublin |  Throughout January, 2026

January in Dublin brings a calmer pace, with museums, historic houses and visitor attractions using the quieter month to offer seasonal experiences and special offers. The city-wide programme encourages locals and visitors alike to rediscover familiar places, enjoy culture without the crowds and take part in relaxed, good-value activities across the capital.

Cultural highlights include discounted entry at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, where visitors can explore the global story of Irish emigration and its lasting influence on culture, society and creativity around the world. At Trinity College Dublin, a seasonal bundle pairs the Book of Kells Experience with guided walking tours, offering a deeper look at the city’s academic and architectural heritage.

Historic houses and outdoor attractions are also part of the programme, with winter visits encouraged at Malahide Castle and Newbridge House. Both offering a quieter way to explore estate grounds and interiors.

Along the coast, Howth Cliff Cruises adds a storytelling twist with special winter sailings, while Vintage Tea Trips combines sightseeing and afternoon tea aboard a classic double-decker bus, offering a sociable way to see the city from a new angle.

At the GPO Museum, scheduled live traditional music performances take place alongside the Rebel Rising tour, offering a deeper look at the events that shaped modern Ireland. The GAA Museum adds a food-focused option with its Skyline & Dine winter experience, combining rooftop views of Dublin with a relaxed dining option nearby.

Together, these experiences form part of a broader January push to make Dublin feel accessible, welcoming and full of small discoveries during the winter months.

Out To Lunch
Belfast |  Until January 31st

Out to Lunch continues this weekend in Belfast with a mix of live culture across the Cathedral Quarter. Family-friendly options include the Arts Across Belfast Bus Tour and the Homeward Bound VHS screening, alongside a wider programme of daytime events, live music and late-night performances after dark.

Tradfest
Dublin |  January 21st-25th

TradFest continues into the weekend with live traditional and folk music across Dublin and the wider county, including concerts, sessions and daytime events. Family friendly programming forms part of the weekend schedule, alongside AbleFest and community based performances. Events linked to Féile Barney also take place in the Abbey Tavern in Howth, celebrating the legacy of Barney McKenna through music and local sessions.

Circular Swap & Play
Tipperary |  January 24th

A fun, family-friendly event where children can swap and donate pre-loved toys, enjoy hands-on play and learn about more sustainable ways to consume. Taking place at Bunscoil na Cathrach, the Circular New Year Swap & Play encourages sharing, creativity and community. The event is free to attend and open to members of The Toy Library, a growing community of families choosing to recirculate toys rather than buy new.

South Dublin On Ice
Dublin |  Until January 25th

South Dublin On Ice is in its final weekend at The Square Tallaght, offering one last chance to enjoy the real ice rink in a festive family setting. With timed sessions, skating aids for younger visitors and wheelchair access on the ice, it is a popular winter activity before the rink closes for the season.

Holiday World
Dublin |  January 24th-26th

Holiday World Show Dublin returns to the RDS Simmonscourt, bringing together travel professionals from Ireland and around the world under one roof. It offers families and holidaymakers a chance to brighten the January mood by planning holidays for the year ahead, with expert advice, destination ideas and travel inspiration.

Treetop Fitness Challenge
Wicklow |  Every Saturday and Sunday until February 22nd

Beyond the Trees Avondale is running a family friendly fitness challenge. The experience adds a series of simple physical challenges to the treetop walk, encouraging movement and fresh air in a natural setting.

The challenge is designed to suit a wide range of fitness levels, making it suitable for families, groups and individual visitors. Participants can take part as they explore the walk, with no advance booking required during normal opening hours.