Funderland (RDS, Dublin)
There are still 6 (and a little bit) fun-filled days to pretend it’s Christmas at the RDS, with Funderland – celebrating its 50th year, believe it or not! – running until January 12. It’s open daily between now and then from 12pm to 10pm.
Blanchardstown on Ice (Millennium Park, Blanchardstown Centre, Dublin)
The easiest and cheapest way to ice skate, this week, is via putting one foot outside your front door and then, involuntarily, scoot across the road. But, if you want to do it the fun way there are still numerous family ice skating events in full swing. One, is at the Blanchardstown Centre. It started way back on November 15; but the good news is it doesn’t end until January 26.
Aladdin The Panto (Draíocht, Coolmine, Blanchardstown, Dublin)
Forget Sammy Sausages and other double entendres, the Coolmine Panto Group brings the panto fun into the new year with a run of Disney’s Aladdin at Draíocht in Blanchardstown – running from January 2 to January 19. Aladdin, Princess Jasmine, the Genie and evil Nafar – all the gang is here. The story is endless, but so is the fun. One thing of note: Draiocht will hold a sensory-friendly version of the show on January 9 (this coming Thursday), where the volume and lights will be toned down a bit.
Dundrum on Ice (Dundrum Town Centre, Dublin)
One of the longest running and most popular festive ice rink events in Ireland, Dundrum on Ice is now in its 13th year. Open for all the family, the fun may have started way back before Halloween, but it doesn’t finally wrap up until Sunday, January 26.
Nollaig na mBan (North Strand, Ballybough, Dublin)
Today, January 6, the communities of Ballybough, Clonliffe and North Strand in Dublin 3 will celebrate Nollaig na mBan (Little Women’s Christmas) with a day-long festival honouring local women and showcasing incredible talent. This unique festival, now in its third year, is Ireland’s only all-female cultural event.
The day begins at 2:00 PM in Charleville Mall Library, where an Awards Ceremony will recognize 10 exceptional women for their invaluable contributions to the community. The ceremony will be hosted by Catriona Crowe, a former award recipient and respected local historian and archivist.
At 4:00 PM, attendees will enjoy a special conversation between Councillor Nial Ring and local Olympic gold medalist Kellie Harrington, reflecting on her remarkable achievements and her roots in the community.
Following the awards, a live music trail will take place across Ballybough and North Strand, featuring performances by celebrated artists:
- St. Columba’s Church: Muireann Bradley and Mary Stokes Trio
- Annesley House: Leslie Dowdall and Aoife Bridget
- Cusack’s Bar: Local favourite Sharon
- Clonliffe House: Mamma Mia ABBA Tribute Band
The festival celebrates the spirit of community, culture, and the achievements of women in Dublin’s North Inner City.
