Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained this midterm? The National Museum of Ireland is delighted to present a full-filled family-friendly programme of events designed to entertain and inspire.
From relaxing yoga sessions with Claire Anne Tobin to uncovering the secrets of Medieval love tokens, there’s something for everyone to enjoy across our three museum sites in Dublin and Mayo. And the best part? It’s all free!
The National Museum of Ireland located at Merrion Street, also known as the 'Dead Zoo', closed on 2 September 2024, so a visit this Spring Midterm is not possible. However, you can still dive into the wonders of the Natural History Collections online.
See the Animal, Be the Animal in our Family Yoga sessions
11:00 - 12:00 & 11:45 - 12:45, Thursday, 20 February.
National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks, Benburb Street, Dublin 7
After discovering all the hidden animals in our Irish Silver Gallery you will be encouraged to embody the animals with yoga teacher, Claire Anne Tobin. This free family event is all about mindfulness and connecting with the rich artistic and animalistic inspired creations in our Museum's collections. FIND OUT MORE
Join us for free public tours at Collins Barracks every Saturday and Sunday in February!
1pm & 2pm Saturday & 2pm & 3pm Saturday, throughout Februarry
National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks, Benburb Street, Dublin 7
Join one of our experienced guides for a free guided tour every Saturday and Sunday throughout February. These tours are designed to spark interest and inspire imagination for the whole family. FIND OUT MORE
Museum, House and Gardens tour
2pm and 3pm, Saturdays throughout February
National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co Mayo
Every Saturday at 2pm and 3pm throughout February journey back in time and marvel at the innovation and endurance of our rural ancestors through the Irish Folklife Collection. Then discover more about the life of the Fitzgerald family and the history and architectural style of Turlough Park House and Gardens. FIND OUT MORE
Drop-In Workshop: Medieval Knights and Ladies
11am - 1pm, Friday, 21 February
National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street, Dublin 2
In Medieval times a lady would give a knight a ring brooch as a love token to carry into ‘battle’ for good luck. Join us to find out more about love and courting in Medieval times and to make your own love token to bring home. FIND OUT MORE
'Viking Ireland' Family Tours
11am Saturday, 15 Februray & 1:30pm Thursday, 20 February
National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street, Dublin 2
See a replica fishing boat, examine the beautiful oval brooches worn by Scandinavian women, and discover ice skates made of bone! Discover what life was like in Viking Dublin, and see the wider impact that the Vikings had on Ireland. FIND OUT MORE
February Tours at Kildare Street
Throughout February
National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street, Dublin 2
Discover iconic treasures at this fascinating museum, from Stone Age tools to Viking relics. Marvel at ancient fish traps, explore life in medieval Ireland, and uncover how Christianity shaped the nation. History comes to life with stunning artifacts—even some you might recognize from school! FIND OUT MORE
Online Activity: February Feathered Friends
Natural History online throughout February
Birds are one of the most musical creatures on our island - but do you know which bird sings what song? Join our Museum Educator as she introduces you to our feathered friends and their unique songs. FIND OUT MORE
EXHIBITION: The Murmur of Bees
During opening hours
National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo
Did you know there are more than 100 different bee species in Ireland, but only one that makes honey? Or that bees were so important throughout Irish history, they even have their own patron saint? Join us in celebrating the magic of Ireland’s bees, their vital role in nature, and the special bond they share with us. FIND OUT MORE
EXHIBITION: 'Bee Dress’
During opening hours
National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo
There is still time to see the beautiful ‘Bee Dress’ artwork by Alice Maher on special display at the National Museum in Turlough Park. This artwork is part of the 'Murmur of Bees' exhibition. 'Bee Dress' is a small child or doll’s garment constructed from honeybees, wax, cotton and wire. It reflects on themes associated with feminism, mythology and childhood. FIND OUT MORE
EXHIBITION: Harry Clarke Stained Glass
During opening hours
National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks, Benburb Street, Dublin 7
Visit our new temporary exhibition at the National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks, showcasing six stunning stained-glass panels by Harry Clarke, including some of his earliest works. FIND OUT MORE
EXHIBITION: GAA: People, Objects & Stories
During opening hours
National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks, Benburb Street, Dublin 7
Wear your county colours and see objects dating from the 15th century to the present day, illustrating the influence of the GAA through the lens of social history, design and popular culture. FIND OUT MORE
EXHIBITION: Glendalough: Power, Prayer and Pilgrimage
During opening hours
National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street, Dublin 2
Discover Glendalough's hidden history through 26 never-before-seen objects at the National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street. These finds, including a 10th-century woman's leather shoe and an 11th-century bishop's pin, reveal a unique story of faith, travel, and daily life. FIND OUT MORE
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Top things to do for families at the National Museum of Ireland - Archaeology
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Top things to do for families at the National Museum of Ireland - Decorative Arts & History
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Top things to do for families at the National Museum of Ireland - Country Life
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Museum at Home with the National Musuem of Ireland - Natural History