The men’s rugby team take on France in the Six Nations on Saturday, coinciding with National Women’s Day, while Seachtain na Gaeilge celebrations continue with a host of cultural events celebrating the Irish language.

Families can choose from a variety of activities, from outdoor adventures and seasonal festivals to creative workshops and interactive experiences. Whether it’s meeting favourite characters, exploring history or taking part in music and storytelling, there’s something to suit all ages and interests.

With so much happening, it’s the perfect opportunity to plan a fun-filled weekend. Here are some of the best events taking place around Ireland, with even more to be found on yourdaysout.com.

Seachtain na Gaeilge
Various | Until March 17th

Seachtain na Gaeilge, the largest Irish language festival in Ireland and around the world, celebrates the language and culture through a wide range of community-led events. Featuring traditional music sessions, classes, workshops, historical tours and events conducted in Irish, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The festival takes place over two weeks each March, bringing together hundreds of thousands of participants for céilithe, concerts, table quizzes and more. Events this weekend include versions of Cupan & Comhrá meetups across the country, children’s arts classes on Cape Clear, a storytelling morning at CLG Naomh Columba in Donegal and a variety of tours and trails at the National Museums of Ireland.

A full list of events is available at peig.ie.

Brunch with Bluey
Kidspace Rathcoole | March 9th

Kidspace will host another popular brunch event featuring Bluey, a favourite among toddlers. Taking place from 10am to 12 noon, the session includes music, dancing and plenty of opportunities for individual photos with Bluey. Families are encouraged to bring a camera to capture the memories, with many children opting to dress up for the occasion.

A sweet pancake breakfast will be served for children, with dietary requirements accommodated upon request at booking. The event also includes time in the playframe, making it a fun-filled morning for children up to eight years old.

The Music of U2 by Candlelight
St. Patrick's Cathedral | Thursday 6th, Friday 7th &  Saturday 8th

The Music of U2 by Candlelight comes to St Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin, for three nights this weekend. This special concert will see U2’s biggest hits performed live by a world-class cast of vocalists and musicians, all in the atmospheric glow of candlelight.

Audiences can expect to hear classics such as One, Beautiful Day, Pride and With or Without You, reimagined in a unique setting. The combination of live music and stunning surroundings promises an unforgettable experience for fans of the legendary Dublin band.

With limited dates, this candlelit tribute to U2 is set to be a standout event.

Pucked
The Lark, Balbriggan | Sunday, 9th March

Following its sell-out run in 2024, PUCKED returns to Irish stages with its high-energy, one-man performance blending comedy, heart and sharp storytelling. Written and performed by Cathal Ryan, the play brings to life nearly 30 characters in a fast-paced journey through ambition, masculinity and the world of GAA.

At the centre of the story is Matty Daly, a young hurler whose lifelong dream is to play senior for club and county. When the call-up finally comes, he soon realises that senior-level hurling is not what he expected. The play follows his struggles with self-confidence, individualism and the pressures of the game, all while celebrating the passion and humour of GAA life.

With its mix of laugh-out-loud moments and emotional depth, PUCKED captures the familiar world of Ireland, from the dressing room to the classroom and the local nightclub. Fast, loud and packed with energy, the play puts the audience on the sidelines of a game and a life, told by a writer who knows the sport inside out.

Imagination Playground | Bricí Spraoi
Galway | Sunday, 9th March

The Imagination playground offers the perfect space for your child’s creativity to flourish! This innovative play area is designed to encourage child-directed, free play. Premium quality big blue foam blocks in various shapes—squares, channels, chutes, balls, connectors and more—provide hours of fun. The playground is suitable for children aged 0 to 12 years and for any teenagers who enjoy building and being creative. Families play in their own pods and a dedicated area will be available for toddlers and their grown-ups.

Three time slots are available this Sunday: 10:00 to 11:00, 11:15 to 12:15 or 12:30 to 13:30. 

Children under 12 months can join for free. The St Joseph Community Center' on Ashe Road offers tea, coffee and snacks (on a donation basis) from 9:45am to 1:45pm and there is also free parking available. Booking strongly advised as very limited space at the door.