Whether you’re in search of music, mischief or just a bit of ​s​pring-time fun, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained.

And with May the Fourth falling on Saturday this year, you don’t even need to be a Jedi to find the fun – just grab the gang, pack a few snacks and see where the weekend takes you..

Mayo Day
Wicklow | May 4th

Castlebar, the Big Day on The Mall will host a lively outdoor music festival with over 150 young performers, including the Mayo Youth Orchestra and Mayo Children’s Chorus. Families can enjoy traditional music, open mic sessions, food stalls and hands-on fun like instrument-making workshops and a giant ukulele jam.

The celebrations continue throughout the day with a welcoming atmosphere for all ages, bringing communities together through creativity and culture. While the Grand Finale Concert at the TF Royal Theatre is already fully booked, there’s plenty more happening across the county and beyond, as Mayo Day unites people at home and abroad.

Bray Jazz Festival
Wicklow | May 2nd & 5th

Bray Jazz Festival returns for its 24th year with a packed programme of international and Irish talent. Running across various venues, the festival continues to build its reputation as one of Ireland’s leading jazz events, featuring an eclectic mix of contemporary, experimental and world-influenced jazz styles. This year’s line-up includes acclaimed performers from the US, Belgium, South Africa and beyond, as well as a strong selection of homegrown acts.

Mermaid Arts Centre will host several standout performances over the weekend, including a headline set by Billboard Magazine’s musician of the year Vijay Iyer, supported by Ronan Guilfoyle’s Bemusement Arcade. Also taking to the Mermaid stage are Belgian artists Nabou Claerhout and Lynn Cassiers, offering an exciting mix of trombone and vocal-led experimental jazz. 

Inishbofin Arts Festival
Galway | May 4th & 5th

Families heading to Inishbofin this May Bank Holiday can look forward to a weekend packed with creativity and culture at the Inishbofin Arts Festival. Set against the island’s breathtaking landscape, the festival offers a welcoming mix of music, theatre, crafts and workshops for all ages. It’s an ideal setting for a family getaway with a difference, combining arts experiences with the island’s natural charm.

Younger visitors can enjoy hands-on fun with circus skills and balloon modelling, while creative workshops like wool craft and drumming provide engaging activities for all the family. With storytelling sessions, traditional music and the warmth of the local community, the festival makes for a vibrant weekend where families can explore, learn and celebrate together.

Drogheda Arts Festival
Louth | May 4th & 5th

The Drogheda Arts Festival returns this weekend, offering a captivating mix of local and international talent. The festival will showcase a diverse range of performances and exhibitions, spanning music, theatre and visual arts.

With events across venues like Highlanes Gallery and Droichead Arts Centre, the festival promises something for everyone, designed to engage and inspire people of all ages. Highlights include AI:OK, Walk, Talk and Chalk and a performance by Tom Dunne & Fiachna O’Braonáin.

Newgrange Farm
Meath | Open Daily

Families heading to County Meath this weekend can enjoy a fun and relaxed day at Newgrange Farm, one of Ireland’s original open farms. Set in the Boyne Valley, the farm invites children to help bottle-feed lambs, pet rabbits, milk a cow and explore the straw maze. There are toy tractors, pedal go-karts and a tractor-trailer ride around the fields, with plenty of space to run around.

It’s an ideal spot for younger children, with indoor play areas, picnic benches and a café on site. There are often a few surprises too, like the popular sheep races, making it a great option for a family outing whatever the weather. Booking in advance.

Swamped! An Ogre’s Tale
Cork | May 4th

Swamped! An Ogre’s Tale takes over The Everyman Theatre in Cork on Sunday, promising a lively, laugh-filled musical adventure for all ages. Performed by students of Spotlight Performing Arts, the show brings the world of Shrek to life with favourite moments from the first two films and a soundtrack of iconic songs from screen and stage.

Bursting with energy, humour and heart, this fun-filled production showcases young talent in a colourful celebration of friendship and fairy tale mischief. With a running time of around two hours including an interval, it’s an ideal evening out for the whole family.

Afternoon Baby Goat Yoga with Jade Kinsella
Secret Valley, Wexford  | May 2nd

Secret Valley in Wexford offers a relaxing and light-hearted twist on traditional yoga with this outdoor baby goat session. Led by experienced instructor Jade Kinsella, the event blends gentle movement with fresh air, nature, and the playful company of friendly goats.

After 40 minutes of yoga in the open air, guests can bottle-feed newborn goats – a calming and joy-filled experience that’s as memorable as it is adorable. Suitable for all levels, this laid-back afternoon promises laughter, relaxation, and a healthy dose of cuteness. Just don’t forget your yoga mat!

May Sunday Festival
Killeagh, Co. Cork  | May 2nd-5th

The May Sunday Festival returns to Killeagh this May, celebrating creativity, community and Celtic heritage with a weekend of music, art and nature-based events in Glenbower Woods.

This year’s festival features a striking display of handmade Bealtaine banners, crafted during April workshops at Greywood Arts using natural dyes and fibres. The vibrant installation will set the scene for a joyful gathering in the heart of East Cork.

Riverfest
Limerick  | May 2nd-5th

Riverfest Limerick returns this May Bank Holiday weekend, celebrating its 21st year with four days of family fun, fabulous food and festival spirit.

From Friday 2nd to Monday 5th May, the city bursts into life with fireworks, fashion shows, food stalls, fun runs, live music and thrilling water activities. It’s a vibrant celebration that transforms Limerick into the ultimate playground for foodies, families and adventure seekers alike.

Tearaway's Pet Farm & Activity Centre
Tipperary | Open Daily

Tearaways Pet Farm and Activity Centre in Rathcabbin is a brilliant weekend spot for families, offering both indoor and outdoor fun whatever the weather. Younger children can burn off energy in the large indoor play area with slides, ball pools and a toddler zone, while the outdoor farm lets little ones meet friendly animals including goats, pigs, ponies and alpacas.

There’s plenty more to keep everyone entertained, from a go-kart track and barrel train to outdoor playgrounds and a picnic area. With a café on site for snacks and hot drinks, it’s an easy and enjoyable day out for families looking to unwind and explore.

Connect | Multicultural Festival
Dublin  | May 3rd & 4th

Millennium Park in Blanchardstown will come alive with colour, music and flavour during CONNECT 2025 Multicultural Festival this May Bank Holiday weekend.

Taking place on Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 6pm, the festival will feature live performances celebrating cultures from Poland, Slovakia, Nigeria, Ukraine Sudan, Brazil, Ireland and beyond. A tempting selection of food stalls, including Crepe Wagon, Paddy’s Pizza Pie and Smiths Ice Cream, will ensure no one goes hungry.

With free entry and support from Fingal County Council, it’s the perfect way to spend the weekend with family and friends.

Weaving Workshop
Dublin  | May 3rd & 4th

Step back in time at Dublinia this weekend with a special Weaving Workshop led by Fergal Ryan of Willow and Sword. Taking place from 11am to 4pm on Friday 3rd and Saturday 4th May, visitors can learn traditional basket weaving techniques while crafting their own unique creations – from swords and crosses to coasters and trees.

Included in the admission price, this hands-on experience is suitable for all ages and offers a fun and creative way to explore Irish heritage.

Festival of Fools
Belfast  | May 3rd-9th

Festival of Fools marks 20 years of circus, comedy and street theatre as it returns to the streets of Belfast. The city centre and Cathedral Quarter will be bursting with energy as performers from across the world bring laughter and spectacle to one of Northern Ireland’s biggest outdoor arts festivals. With over 50 free performances throughout the weekend, visitors can expect acrobatics, physical comedy, juggling, clowning and more, all popping up in unexpected places.

Organised by Circusful, the festival continues the legacy of its founder Will Chamberlain, who believed in the power of street performance to unite people from all backgrounds. Today, Festival of Fools is a much-loved fixture on the cultural calendar, drawing thousands to Belfast every year. All daytime shows are free to attend, and apart from select performances in Circusful’s purpose-built venue, no booking is required.

Slieve Bloom Walking Festival
Offaly  | May 3rd-5th

The Slieve Bloom Walking Festival returns for the 28th year with a weekend of guided hikes through some of Ireland’s most scenic trails. Walkers can explore bluebell-filled woodlands, riversides and mountain routes, with expert leaders sharing local stories and nature insights along the way.

Walks range from gentle 6k strolls to more challenging 13k hikes, graded from C to A, and take place in locations like Clonaslee, Kinnitty and Ballyfin. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply after a peaceful ramble, there’s something to suit every pace.

Bealtaine Festival
Various  | May 2025

Bealtaine is Ireland’s national arts festival celebrating creativity as we age, with over 120,000 participants taking part in a wide range of events across the country. From music and theatre to dance, cinema and more, the festival embraces art in all its forms, encouraging creativity and connection at every stage of life.

The 2025 Bealtaine Festival marks its 30th anniversary with a month-long programme. The celebrations will begin with an action-packed opening weekend at Project Arts Centre in Dublin, offering a variety of performances, workshops and interactive events. Highlights include Songs & Stories from Silver Stars, The Big Bealtaine Tea Party and an evening with Mary Coughlan. Following the weekend, events will continue nationwide in libraries, arts centres, care homes and outdoor community spaces, with both in-person and online activities allowing everyone to join in. This year’s theme, Lust for Life, celebrates the energy and passion of creativity, inspired by Iggy Pop’s iconic anthem.

Airfield Estate
Dublin  | Open Daily

Families visiting Airfield Estate this May Bank Holiday weekend can enjoy a full schedule of interactive farm and garden experiences. From egg talks and milk tastings in the morning to seed sowing, butter making and storytime sessions throughout the day, there’s something to keep children engaged and entertained.

Visitors can also join guided house tours, meet the resident donkeys, or try their hand at mud painting and other nature-based crafts. With events running from 10am to 4pm each day, it’s an ideal way to spend time outdoors, explore the estate, and enjoy a relaxed day out together.