Looking for a way to unwind, get your creative juices flowing, and make something special with your own two hands? From painting tote bags to knitting scarves, these activities are all about tapping into your inner artist while having a bit of craic this Bank Holiday weekend!
1. Drop-In Tote Bag Painting (With Tea & Coffee) – Dry January Festival
Date: Multiple dates available
Location: Dublin
Price: €20
Ever fancied walking around with your own wearable art? At this Drop-In Tote Bag Painting Workshop, you’ll get to create a one-of-a-kind design on your tote bag while sipping on tea or coffee. It’s all part of Dublin’s Dry January Festival, so expect a relaxed, alcohol-free vibe. All the materials are provided, and you don’t need any painting experience—just bring your enthusiasm and an idea (or two) for your design. Whether it’s something abstract or a quirky pattern, your tote will be totally unique.
2. Build Your Own Box of Cookies
Date: Ongoing availability
Location: Dublin
Price: €40
Calling all sweet tooths! This Build Your Own Box of Cookies workshop is a dream come true for dessert lovers. You’ll learn how to bake the perfect cookies from scratch, selecting your favourite flavours and toppings to customise your batch. Think gooey chocolate chips, caramel drizzle, and even sprinkles—because why not? This hands-on experience ends with you taking home a box of freshly baked cookies that you’ve created.
3. Neon Painting: Space Painting Workshop
Date: Multiple dates
Location: Dublin
Price: €30
Take your art skills to a whole new level—literally—by painting galaxies, planets, and the vast universe in Neon Space Painting. This workshop is designed to be fun, accessible, and packed with creative energy. Using glow-in-the-dark neon paints, you’ll create a cosmic masterpiece that looks amazing both in the light and under UV. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned painters, this workshop promises a unique twist on traditional painting.
4. Drink & Draw: Starry Night Over Dublin
Date: Multiple dates available
Location: Dublin
Price: €27
Here’s your chance to channel your inner Van Gogh, but with an Irish twist! The Drink & Draw: Starry Night Over Dublin workshop combines painting with a cheeky drink or two for the ultimate creative session. Guided by experienced artists, you’ll recreate the iconic “Starry Night” but with a Dublin-inspired skyline. No experience? No worries—this one’s all about having fun and letting your creativity shine. Plus, the relaxed atmosphere makes it a great night out with friends or a fun date idea.
5. Aran Knitting Workshop: Knit an Irish Aran Scarf with Irish Wool
Date: February 2
Location: Zanzibar Locke, Dublin
Price: €77
If you’ve ever admired the intricate patterns of an Aran knit, now’s your chance to learn the craft yourself. This Aran Knitting Workshop teaches you how to knit a classic Irish scarf using authentic Irish wool. With expert guidance, you’ll master cable stitching and other traditional techniques, creating a timeless piece that’s both stylish and practical. Whether you’re new to knitting or looking to brush up on your skills, this workshop is as satisfying as it is creative.
These hands-on workshops are perfect for breaking out of your usual routine, picking up a new skill, or just having a bit of fun. Many of them are beginner-friendly, and you’ll walk away with something tangible (or edible!) that you’ve made yourself. Plus, they’re great for meeting new people or enjoying some quality time with friends.
