Things to do this weekend | Friday 3rd - Sunday 5th, October
Pumpkins After Dark
Dublin | 3rd-5th October, 2025
Pumpkins After Dark lights up Newbridge House and Farm this October with a spectacular outdoor Halloween trail featuring over 10,000 hand-carved pumpkins. Visitors can explore a one-kilometre illuminated pathway filled with magical displays, including classic Halloween characters, dragons, fairies and movie favourites.
The opening weekend runs from 3–5 October, with later dates continuing throughout the month. Expect live pumpkin carving, seasonal treats and plenty of photo opportunities. Located just a short walk from Donabate Station, with limited pre-book parking available, it’s an autumn highlight for all ages.
Laser Quest Party
Dublin | 3rd October, 2025
Step into the ultimate combat zone at Kidspace Rathcoole for a high-energy Laser Quest party using the latest digital laser gear, specialist lighting and music. This action-packed event is perfect for kids aged 6 and over, with each include a hot meal. Parents can either drop off or grab a €2 spectator ticket to watch the action from The Nest Café. Spaces are limited and expected to book out quickly.
Dingle Food Festival
Kerry | 3rd-5th October, 2025
A weekend of taste trails, street food, kids’ crafts and foodie fun in the heart of Dingle. Expect workshops, live music, cooking demos and Lá na Leanaí – a family zone with face painting, crafts, inflatables and more.
Cork Folk Festival
Cork | 2nd-5th October, 2025
Over 40 concerts, céilís and trad sessions across Cork as the 44th Folk Festival brings a packed weekend of Irish music and song. From Matt Molloy to Flook, plus walking tours, free events and the céilí mór – it’s one of the city’s musical highlights of the year.
Ballyhoura Walking & Joyce Brothers Music Festival
Cork | 2nd-5th October, 2025
A weekend of walking, music, song and dance celebrating the legacy of the Joyce Brothers, natives of Glenosheen. Expect guided hikes, traditional sessions in local pubs, music and dance workshops, storytelling and two big evening concerts. Highlights include a gala opening night, family events, intercultural food fair and sunrise-to-sunset walking challenges led by Ballyhoura Bears.
Halloween Family Rave
Dublin | 5th October, 2025
Bodytonic’s Halloween edition of Kidsyard Family Rave returns to The Bernard Shaw with monster music hits, glowstick crafts, spooky face painting and bubbles on the dancefloor. Aimed at kids and grown-ups alike, it’s a lively, family-friendly rave where everyone’s encouraged to dress up and let loose. Expect Halloween disco tunes, parachute games and plenty of flashing lights. A fun, inclusive way to spend time together, from tiny dancers to nostalgic parents...and no hangover in sight.
Rathgar Children's Book Festival
Dublin | 5th October, 2025
Enjoy a full day of stories, workshops and creative fun at this year’s Rathgar Children’s Book Festival. The much-loved event returns with a packed programme of readings, crafts and interactive sessions featuring some of Ireland’s best-known children’s authors and illustrators.
Set in the beautiful Zion Church and Parish Hall, the festival also includes face painting, balloon art, refreshments and a visit from the ice cream van. Books by featured authors will be available to buy on the day from Dubray Books, with signings throughout the event. A family pass costs €20 and covers up to four children.
