St Brigid’s bank holiday events from gigs to foraging walks in Dublin and beyond
There’s plenty to do during the upcoming bank holiday weekend, from fee and outdoor events to specialised workshops and ticketed gigsSaint Brigid's Day, or Imbolc, is just around the corner, signifying the first stirrings of spring and honoring the Celtic goddess Brigid, later St. Brigid.There are a number of events taking place across Dublin and beyond to honour the occasion, including the Brigit: Dublin City Celebrating Women festival. From club nights to nature-focused events and everything in between, there is something for everyone across the bank holiday weekend.Just walking around the city will evoke the spirit of the special date, as art projections are set to illuminate the GPO and the Palace Building by City Hall as part of Shine On: Brigit. For other events, check out our top picks.Brigid and beyond: The women of Irish folkloreAn event as part of the Brigit: Dublin City Celebrating Women festival, this talk at the National Library explores how the qualities we find in Brigid appear in the other women of Irish folklore. Join folklorist Glynnis Cowley for this free event to celebrate the diverse figures of women in Irish folklore and their stories.This free event kicks off on Friday 30 January at 1pm. Find out more here.Brigit x DistrictFor the music lovers, Gemma Dunleavy will headline in the intimate surroundings of the Presbyterian Church. This show takes place on Friday 30 January from 7pm. Tickets start from €20 and are available here."Since the release of UP DE FLATS in 2020, Dunleavy has largely stepped away from releasing music, choosing instead to refine her sound behind the scenes. Her return for Brigit feels timely. Rooted in stories of working-class Dublin and shaped by her upbringing in Sheriff Street, her club-pop songs balance emotional clarity with sharp, understated production."Brídeóg doll-making workshopBrídeóg making, a straw doll created to honour St Brigid, is part of the traditions. Traditionally dressed in fabric scraps and decorated with flowers or shells, the Brídeóg symbolised Brigid as a bride, wearing her veil and cloak.Guided by artist and maker Tamara Fiabane, this workshop is a creative outlet that pays homage to old lore. All materials used will be reused or repurposed. If you have any fabric scraps, trimmings, or other small bits you’d like to contribute, please bring them along. This workshop is not suitable for children. You can find tickets here.Rebel women guided tourOver at the GPO Museum from Friday 30 January to Saturday 31 January a tour honouring the Irish women who changed Irish history in 1916 and beyond will take place.This tour will shine a light on the women who have shaped Irish culture, society, and politics over the past 100 years. Attendees will learn about the Suffrage, Labour and Republican movements, the Cultural Revival and the women involved in them.Booking is essential, as availability is limited. Please note that this tour may not be suitable for children under the age of 12. Tickets are €17 for an adult and can be found here.Mother X IMBOLC: St. Brigid's Bank Holiday SundayMother is back with a St Brigid's installment of their classic club night. Taking place on Sunday, February 1, this LGBTQ+ inclusive party is located in LoSt LaNe on Grafton StreetDJs across three rooms all night are:Main Room: Rocky T. Delgado, Claire BeckLibrary: Ruth Kavanagh B2B Kelly-Anne ByrneRound Bar: Naomi DiamondTickets can be found via Eventbrite.Women walk the city: A foraging tourIn Herbert Park on Saturday 31 January, the thriving plant life will be explored and identified in a foraging expedition led by Feebee Foran, Ireland AM’s resident herbalist and “ditch witch,” and founder of Forager.ie..Feebee will guide you through Dublin’s diverse natural landscape, sharing how common plants can be made into nourishing teas, homemade skincare, and more. The walk lasts approximately 60 minutes and includes a goodie bag with two snacks and dandelion coffee. Tickets must be booked in advance and can be found here for €25.Outside of DublinSt Bridget's Night Comedy and Charity SpecialA charity comedy night will take place on February 1 at 8.pm in memory of a much-loved Dundalk comedian Brenda Woods Finegan rest in peace. It will be held on St Brigid’s Day in the Imperial Hotel, Dundalk, celebrating her life and her strong support of women in comedy. Performers are traveling from all over Ireland to support the evening.Father Ted star and Louth native Patrick McDonnell will headline the night, along with Show Me The Funny winner Ashlee Bentley. Patrick, best known for his role as Eoin McLove in Father Ted, is currently starring in RTE show The Unreal while Ashlee featured in Virgin Media’s The Craic Den Comedy Club TV show.Support acts include Dundalk residents Elizabeth Redmond and Shinanne Higgins, as well as Louise O’Toole, Diane O’Connor and Angela Mullin. MC Ciaran McMahon will host the night. Find tickets here.Brigid, Spirit of Kildare 2026 FestivalThis five-day county-wide cultural event promises music, art, storytelling, and workshops such as traditional cross making. The festival will run this year from Thursday 29 January to Monday 2 February.Some highlights include:Gurriers gig, January 30, at “Cruinniú Chill Dara”, Devoy Park, NaasThe Blindboy Podcast Live, January 31, at “Cruinniú Chill Dara”, Devoy Park, NaasThe Eyes of the Storm Photo Exhibition, January 31 - February 8, at Solas Bhríde Spirituality Centre Tully Rd, Tully East Kildare TownSt. Brigid Cross weaving class, January 31, at Solas Bhríde Spirituality Centre Tully Rd, Tully East Kildare TownBrigid’s Busking Festival, February 2, across Kildare TownTickets for all events can be found here.Join our Dublin Live breaking news service on WhatsApp. Click this link to receive your daily dose of Dublin Live content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. 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