Things to do this weekend in Ireland | May 9th - 11th, 2025

Young explorers take to the water at the Baldoyle Biosphere Festival.
Young explorers take to the water at the Baldoyle Biosphere Festival.

With the Easter break behind us and the May bank holiday already a memory, this weekend might feel a little quieter.

But there’s still plenty happening to keep families entertained, from community festivals to creative days out. As always, you’ll find even more inspiration on YourDaysOut.com.

Dublin Pedal Power
Dublin | May 11th

PedalPower Dublin rolls into Eamonn Ceannt Park this Sunday with a fun-filled day of cycling and activities for all ages. It all begins with the PedalPower Parade at 11am, a colourful 7km community cycle themed around bees and flowers. The route passes through Crumlin, Harold’s Cross and Drimnagh with four pick-up points along the way, ending back at the park just in time for the main event.

From 12 noon to 4pm, the Sundrive Velodrome will host a free cycling festival with BMX displays, pedal-powered games, workshops and children’s activities. Families can relax in the park, enjoy tasty food and take part in outdoor entertainment designed to get everyone moving. Need a bike? Rental offers are available on the day, but please remember: helmets are recommended, participants must cycle independently (no balance bikes or scooters) and under-18s must be accompanied by an adult.

Brunch with Bluey
Dublin | May 11th

Back by popular demand, Bluey is heading to Kidspace Rathfarnham this Sunday for a morning of fun, music and pancakes. Little fans can sing and dance along to their favourite tunes before meeting Bluey for a special photo opportunity. Fancy dress is always encouraged, so don’t be surprised to see little ones arriving in costume.

Running from 10am to 12 noon, the session includes a sweet pancake breakfast, time in the playframe and lots of chances to meet Bluey. Designed for children up to age 8, it’s a lovely family outing. Kidspace also features a sensory zone for babies and toddlers, a large playframe for older children and a café serving fresh food.

Baldoyle Bay Bisophere Festival
Dublin | May 10th

Baldoyle Bay, a protected site of international importance, takes centre stage this Saturday for the annual Baldoyle Biosphere Festival – a free family event celebrating the unique biodiversity of this coastal gem. With EU protections and UNESCO biosphere status, the festival highlights why the bay matters and how we can protect it for future generations.

Families can enjoy a packed day of hands-on activities including a petting farm, paddle boarding with the Pure Magic team, craft tents and food vans. Talks and walks with environmental experts will explore the area’s rich ecology and sustainability. A highlight is the coastal foraging walk with Howth guide Nicole Dunne, who’ll introduce visitors to edible and medicinal plants found along the shore. Whether you’re learning about wildflowers or wading into the water, it’s a brilliant celebration of Baldoyle’s natural beauty.

Family Fun Day
Dublin | May 11th

The Cashel Palace Derby Trial Stakes returns this weekend to Leopardstown Racecourse, offering a thrilling mix of top-class racing and family fun. A key fixture in the flat racing calendar, this prestigious race has produced champions who’ve gone on to shine on the world stage.

But it’s not just about the racing – the Derby Family Fun Day promises an action-packed afternoon for all ages. Expect bouncy castles, face painting, circus workshops, science shows, games and a chance to meet real jockeys. With free entry for under-14s, it’s the perfect introduction to the excitement of horseracing in a vibrant, welcoming setting.

Midleton Arts Festival
Cork | Until May 11th

Midleton bursts with colour and creativity this weekend as the Midleton Arts Festival returns. On Sunday, the lively Art Market takes over Market Green with artists and crafters showcasing handmade jewellery, pottery, paintings and more. Enjoy acoustic music from young performers, grab a coffee or bite to eat from local food vans and soak up the friendly, laid-back atmosphere.

The market is part of a weekend packed with events for all ages. Highlights include a free screening of The Lorax on Saturday morning, tree-themed storytelling on the green on Sunday, shopfront galleries, exhibitions and the ever-popular Children’s Poetry Competition at 4pm Sunday n Midleton Books.

Burren Slow Food Festival
Clare | May 11th

Ireland’s longest-running slow food festival returns to the Burren this weekend, marking its 20th year with a vibrant celebration of food, community and wellness. Taking place on Sunday at the Pavilion in Lisdoonvarna, the Burren Slow Food Festival is packed with family-friendly experiences — from live cookery demos and food markets to yoga sessions and craft stalls and the Burren Slow Food Banquet on Saturday night, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Burren.

Younger visitors can enjoy Yoga Adventures for Kids with Lynda from 10:30 to 11:00, part of the festival’s growing wellness programme that features lots of different kinds of yoga and treatments. This year’s theme, ‘Taste the Atlantic’, invites families to meet local producers, sample Clare’s culinary delights and enjoy a relaxed day out celebrating sustainability, local flavours and the warm community spirit of the region.

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