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From now until the 19th January, Cork’s iconic SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh stadium has transformed into a magical winter wonderland as part of the exciting new event, Winterlee! Here’s everything you need to know. The event, organised by Cork-based companies Cool Running Events, SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh, and Brook Foods, will feature the beloved Alpine Skate Trail, marking its return to Cork City since the last Cork On Ice in 2019. The Alpine Skate Trail will offer a unique ice skating experience within the stadium’s North Stand, designed by creators behind the famous illuminated Christmas trails like London’s Kew Gardens. Winterlee will not only offer Cork’s favourite ice skating experience but will also host a Christmas market with festive food, drinks, local craft stalls, and a funfair. This promises to be a festive destination for families, friends, and corporate groups alike! Funfair Enjoy festive rides, twinkling lights, and holiday treats for the whole family. From traditional carousel rides to candy cane toasters, there’s something for everyone: Bumper Cars Buckle up and dive into festive fun at the bumper car arena, part of the Christmas village magic! Whether you’re cruising solo or challenging friends and family to a merry bump-off, these bumper cars will bring in the holiday cheer, laughter and excitement for all ages. Glide through the twinkling lights and feel the festive spirit with every spin and bump! Enchanted Rollercoaster Hop on the magical Christmas coaster for a festive adventure full of joyful dips! Perfect for kids and the ones young at heart, it’s a ride the whole family will love. Carousels Whirl around on the Christmas carousel, with stunning lights and nostalgic music. Fire Dept. Funhouse Step into a winter wonderland of festive fun! The Christmas Fun House is filled with interactive surprises, magical tricks and enchanting illusions at every turn. Perfect for kids, adults and families, it’s a holiday adventure designed to delight everyone. Food There will be plenty of choice, with these hits returning: O’Flynn’s Gourmet Sausage Company For four generations, O’Flynn’s has been feeding the people of Cork and beyond using old family recipes that have been passed down through generations. In their spice room just 10 minutes from Cork City centre, they mix a blend of the old and new, drawing on international food cultures and using the finest of meats, fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices to bring their valued customers, as we like to say, “Proper Sausages”. Pitt Bros BBQ Since opening in 2013, Pitt Bros have firmly put their stamp on the Irish BBQ scene. They pride themselves in using local ingredients. Their meat is premium, Irish farmed and locally butchered! They smoke over wood for up to 12hours in their custom built smokers, and have developed a unique blend of dry rubs, mops and marinades. All of their sauces and pickling is done in-house, daily – no compromises. They are passionate about authentic American BBQ! Best Spuddies The ultimate comfort food is here!  WinterLee is thrilled to announce  that  Best Spuddies  will be serving their famous loaded spuds at this year’s Christmas Festival! Warm, creamy, and packed with flavour, these spuds are the perfect way to fuel your holiday fun. And much, much more! Shopping There will be plenty to see and buy at Winterlee, from beautiful holiday decor, handcrafted ornaments, and unique homeware pieces to add warmth and elegance to your space. Additional Information Winterlee is closed on Mondays, with the village and funfair open from 16:30 – 21:00 Tuesday-Friday. On Saturday and Sunday, Coffee and Crepe Man & Churros open at 10:30, and the remainder of the market opens from 12:00 to 21:00. The funfair opens at 11:00 a.m. on both days. Tickets are not needed to visit Winterlee, although pre-booking tickets to Alpine Skate Trail at iceskating.ie is  essential  to ensure you get your desired skate time. You can book your slot through here.

Skip the generic gifts and surprise your loved ones with an experience they’ll never forget! From sailing along Dublin Bay, indulging in a cookery class or a zipline adventure, these experiences are guaranteed to bring joy and lasting memories. 1. Surf Lessons in Lahinch For the adventurous water lover, a surf lesson at Lahinch Surf School is a fantastic gift. Located on one of Ireland’s most popular beaches for surfers, the school caters to beginners and advanced surfers alike, offering an exciting day on the waves. Website : Lahinch Surf School Location : Lahinch, Co. Clare. Pricing : Lessons start at €40 per person for a group session. 2. A Sailing Experience on Dublin Bay Give the gift of sea air and stunning coastal views with a private sailing experience on Dublin Bay. Dublin Bay Cruises offers unforgettable boat trips, including a guided tour of Dalkey Island, Howth Harbour, and more. A perfect choice for maritime enthusiasts! Website : Dublin Bay Cruises Location : Departs from Dublin’s city docks or Howth. Pricing : Private charters start at €200, with shared cruises from €25 per person. 3. Cookery Class at Ballymaloe Cookery School For the foodie in your life, a day at the Ballymaloe Cookery School in County Cork is an unforgettable gift. Participants can choose from classes in bread baking, seasonal cooking, or even an intensive knife skills workshop. The classes are fun, informative, and delicious. Website : Ballymaloe Cookery School Location : Shanagarry, Co. Cork. Pricing : Classes start at €200 per person. 4. A Zipline Adventure at Castlecomer Discovery Park Give the gift of adrenaline with an outdoor adventure at Castlecomer Discovery Park . This family-friendly destination offers Ireland’s longest zipline, along with treetop walks, archery, and kayaking. Website : Castlecomer Discovery Park Location : Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny. Pricing : Zipline tickets start at €20 per person. 5. A Night Under the Stars with Bubble Domes at Finn Lough For those who crave a romantic getaway, a stay at the Bubble Domes in Finn Lough in County Fermanagh is a perfect choice. These luxurious, transparent domes provide a cozy spot to sleep under a blanket of stars, surrounded by nature. Website : Finn Lough Location : Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh. Pricing : Prices start at €295 per night for two people.

Ring in 2025 with New Year’s Festival Dublin, Ireland’s biggest New Year Celebration! Gather together in the heart of Dublin with your family and friends as the city comes alive with music. Developed by Fáilte Ireland in association with the Office of Public Works, the festival hosts 3 days of celebrations across the city as an exciting line up of musical acts is set to perform from 30th December 2024 through to 1st January 2025.​​​ New Year’s Festival Dublin is set to turn the city into a bustling hive of activity with something for all ages and tastes. Bringing together some of the country’s best talents, New Year’s Festival Dublin offers you a host of music and entertainment guaranteed to entertain with a range of events taking place in Dublin Castle, Meeting House square and other live venues across the city. Celebrate the New Year at the, Echoes of Ireland Concerts, Countdown Concert, family friendly Countdown Concert Matinee, the New Year’s Day Concerts. The programme will also feature the NYF Dublin Fireworks Spectacular, with firework displays taking place in two locations across Dublin, in partnership with Fingal County Council and Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. What’s On On 30th December, kick start your New Year celebrations at Echoes of Ireland in Dublin Castle with 5 concerts showcasing the best of Ireland including Cormac Begley, The West Kerry Dancers & Stephanie Keane, Róisín O, Ispiní na hÉireann, Niamh Regan and STOMPTOWN BRASS.  (3.30pm – 9pm, Free, Family-Friendly Events) Share a magical moment on New Year’s Eve together with family and friends at the very special earlier Countdown Concert Matinee – a midnight moment event for all ages. It will feature live performances from  Dubliner Aby Coulibaly, who supported Coldplay at their recent sold out Croke Park shows, international viral sensations Kabin Crew & Lisdoonvarna Crew and singer songwriter Saibh Skelly. Tickets priced €7.90 –  €12.90 (including booking fees) from ticketmaster.ie . Get ready for a New Year’s Eve night to remember! Ring in 2025 in style at the Countdown Concert with Cork singer-songwriter Cian Ducrot in the intimate surrounds of Dublin Castle with special guests Aby Coulibaly, Kabin Crew & Lisdoonvarna Crew and Saibh Skelly. (Ticketed Event). Be dazzled by the NYF Dublin Fireworks Spectacular on New Year’s Eve taking place in two locations across Dublin. Howth Harbour (in partnership with Fingal County Council) and Dun Laoghaire Harbour (in partnership with Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council)will light up the sky in celebration with two spectacular fireworks displays set to music. (Subject to licence. Viewing from Howth Pier Park and along Harbour Road. Viewing from Sandycove to Dún Laoghaire Town  – 8pm, Free, Family-Friendly Events). After welcoming in the New Year, make it a full day of celebrations with family and friends at the New Year’s Day Concerts taking place in Dublin Castle and Meeting House Square. On 1st January 2025, Join the festivities in Dublin Castle with live performances from Hothouse Flowers, Emma Langford, The Bonny Men and Attention Bébé. (1pm – 5pm, Free family friendly event, non-ticketed event). Enjoy some of Ireland’s best traditional and folk musicians in Meeting House Square with performances from John Francis Flynn, Saileog Ní Cheannabháin, Kevin Fowley and Paahto and The Bull. and more. (2pm – 6pm – Free, family friendly event). Full Calendar Of Events 30th December 2024 Echoes of Ireland Concerts in Dublin Castle 31st December 2024 Countdown Concert Matinee in Dublin Castle Countdown Concert in Dublin Castle NYF Dublin Fireworks Spectacular in Howth Harbour and Dun Laoghaire Harbour 1st January 2025 New Year’s Day Concerts in both Dublin Castle and Meeting House Square

Looking for an unforgettable way to spend a day in Dublin? Why not try your hand at a Silver Ring Making Workshop by Silverworks, an experience which lets you design, craft, and take home a one-of-a-kind silver ring—made by none other than you! If you’re after a unique keepsake, a romantic date idea, or simply want to try your hand at jewellry-making, this workshop is an absolute gem of an activity. What’s On The workshop takes place in a studio on Georges Street. Here’s what to expect: Meet Your Expert Jeweller : Start with a warm introduction from your instructor, who’ll guide you through every step of the process. Design Your Masterpiece : Dream up your ideal ring shape, style, and size. Sleek and modern or textured and rustic, the choice is yours. Learn the Tools of the Trade : From soldering to filing, you’ll get hands-on with the professional tools used in silversmithing. Craft Your Ring : Heat, shape, and refine your piece under expert supervision. This is where the real fun begins—nothing beats the satisfaction of seeing your creation come to life! Polish and Finish : Add those final touches to make your ring shine. Additional Details This workshop is hosted in Georges Street Studio, located above JT Pimms in the centre of Dublin. It’s completely suitable for beginners, so don’t worry if you’ve never touched a jeweler’s hammer in your life. The workshop takes around 2 hours—plenty of time to unleash your inner artist. Multiple sessions are offered, but spots fill up fast, so book ahead! Pricing The workshop is priced at approximately €89 per person—a fantastic deal for a bespoke piece of silver jewelry and a memorable experience. All materials and tools are included, so all you need to bring is your creativity. For more details and to reserve your spot, check out the official listing on GetYourGuide .

Located on the iconic Salthill Promenade, with panoramic views of Galway Bay, the Salthill Hotel is a luxurious retreat tailored for travellers looking for a blend of relaxation, activity, and convenience. With its enviable seaside location, modern amenities and warm hospitality, Salthill Hotel caters perfectly to those who crave a midweek escape, offering an experience that is nothing short of exceptional. The Perfect Location for Rest and Exploration Salthill Hotel is perfectly positioned to capture the essence of Galway. Situated directly on Salthill Promenade, guests can enjoy unparalleled access to one of Ireland’s most picturesque coastal walks. With Galway City Centre just a 10-minute drive away, you have the perfect balance at your fingertips – stepping out of the hotel, enjoying the stunning Atlantic ahead, and strolling the promenade. All with the city within reach. Elegance Meets Comfort: Salthill Hotel’s Accommodation Every detail at Salthill Hotel is designed to enhance your comfort and relaxation. The styled guest rooms range from classic to deluxe, with many offering sweeping views of the ocean. Plush bedding, modern amenities, and thoughtful touches create a restful environment where you can unwind after a day of exploring. For those looking for a little extra indulgence, upgrade to one of the premium sea-view rooms or suites and watch the sun dip below the horizon from the comfort of what feels like your own, private sanctuary. Ocean Fitness Leisure Centre A standout feature of the hotel is the Ocean Fitness Leisure Centre , offering a state-of-the-art wellness experience that is complimentary for all guests. Swim & Relax: Take a leisurely swim in the 25-metre swimming pool, or enjoy yourself in the warm waters of the 18-metre hydrotherapy pool to soothe tired muscles. Unwind: Melt away your stress in the whirlpool, sauna, or steam rooms, each designed to elevate your relaxation. Stay Active: The fitness centre is equipped with modern gym facilities for those who want to maintain their fitness routine during their stay. If you’re recharging after a busy day or indulging in some much-needed “me time,” the Ocean Fitness Leisure Centre has it all! Galway Christmas Markets Visiting during the festive season? Galway transforms into a winter wonderland in the weeks leading up to Christmas, with its renowned Christmas Markets lighting up Eyre Square. Wander through the twinkling stalls, sample artisan treats, and enjoy live entertainment that captures the magic of the season. After a day of meandering about the market, retreat to Salthill Hotel and get cosy. Warm yourself with a drink at the hotel’s bar or unwind in the lounge with views of the bay, knowing you’re just moments away from ultimate comfort. Additional Highlights of Your Stay 1. Dining at Salthill Hotel Salthill Hotel has two exquisite dining options, both of which emphasize locally sourced ingredients and showcase the flavors of the region. The Blackrock Bar and the Prom Restaurant offer menus ranging from casual bites to elegant dinners, perfect for any palate. 2. The Ideal Base for Exploring Galway If you’re planning to dive into Galway’s arts and culture, visit historical landmarks like the Spanish Arch, or simply enjoy the city and do some shopping, the hotel’s convenient location makes it an excellent starting point for your adventures. Practical Details Location: The hotel is located on Salthill Promenade, just 2.5 km from Galway City Centre, offering easy access to both coastal beauty and urban excitement. Christmas Market Dates: Galway’s Christmas Markets typically run from mid-November to late December. Salthill Hotel is the perfect place to return to after enjoying the festive atmosphere. Hotel Facilities: On-site parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, and friendly concierge services ensure a seamless stay for every guest. Pricing and Special Offers Room rates at Salthill Hotel are competitive, with midweek stays often providing excellent value for leisure travellers. Be sure to check the hotel’s official website for exclusive midweek deals. Access to the Ocean Fitness Leisure Centre is included in your stay, offering outstanding value for those who want to prioritize wellness and relaxation. So why wait? Treat yourself to the midweek break you deserve, where every detail is designed to help you relax, recharge, and make memories. Visit the Salthill Hotel website to book your stay and start planning your perfect Galway escape today.

It’s time for our weekend roundup! Here’s what’s on this weekend, between Friday the 20th and Sunday the 22nd of December across Ireland. We’ve got a great lineup of things to do, from Winterlee Cork to a silver ring-making workshop in Dublin and much, much more. Winterlee Cork – 01.12-19.01 If you’re looking for a festive outing to celebrate the holiday season with your furry best friend, The Daily Cavalier has just the event for you – the return of their Third Annual Doggy Christmas Market , this Sunday December 15th! Read more about the event here. Make your own Silver Ring at Silverworks! – Select Dates Available Looking for an unforgettable way to spend a day in Dublin? Why not try your hand at a Silver Ring Making Workshop by Silverworks, an experience which lets you design, craft, and take home a one-of-a-kind silver ring—made by none other than you! Read more here. Christmas at Mount Congreve – 1.12-31.12 This Christmas, enjoy time at Mount Congreve where there is a festive event for everybody, with a magic elf garden trail, candle making workshops, calligraphy lessons and more! Read more here. Guinness Winterfest – 25.11-5.01 Join the Guinness Storehouse from 25 November 2024 to 5 January 2025 for some delicious Christmas festivities! Their Christmas spectacle will feature eye-catching installations, festive treats, drinks, and more. Read more about the event here. Christmas at Smithfield Square – 22.11-01.01 Dublin’s newest and most exciting festive experience, Christmas Spectacular at Smithfield, is the perfect spot to make lasting memories and create new Christmas traditions with family, friends and loved ones, starting November 22nd. Read more about the event here. Treetop Night Lights Christmas Experience with Ice Skating! – 1.11-2.01 The first of its kind in Ireland, the fully accessible  Treetop  Walk and Viewing Tower takes everyone to the very heart of the forest at  Avondale , and beyond, with a special Christmas offering now on – the Treetop Night Lights experience. Read more here. Embrace Christmas in Northern Ireland with a GIANT Offering of Events! – 16.11-01.01 It’s the most wonderful time of the year to embrace a short break with extra sparkle. So, if you’re craving adventure or a relaxing retreat, Discover Northern Ireland has a stocking full of ideas for all your festive fun, running from November 16th to January! Read more here. Alpine Skate Trail – 1.11-02.01 The holiday season just got a major upgrade in Dublin! For the first time ever, an Alpine Skate Trail has opened in Dún Laoghaire. This 400m skating winter wonderland is your chance to experience a little alpine magic right here in Ireland! Read more about the event here. Wonderlights – 07.11-02.01 Wonderlights is back and it’s bigger and brighter than ever! This year, Wonderlights will transform Marlay Park and Malahide Castle in Dublin as well as Fota House in Cork into a winter wonderland during select dates starting from November 7th. Read more about the event here.

Dublin knows how to throw a party, and New Year’s Eve is no exception! From glamorous masquerade balls to rooftop celebrations and iconic live music venues, here’s your ultimate guide to the top five NYE events for 2025! 1. New Year’s Eve Party 2025 at The Grand Social What’s On: Live Music & DJs: Enjoy a lineup of live bands and DJs playing your favorite tunes to keep you moving all night long. Iconic Setting: The Grand Social is the perfect place to ring in the New Year. Additional Info: Date: December 31, 2024 Time: 10pm until late Location: The Grand Social, 35 Liffey Street Lower, Dublin 1 Tickets: Starting at €25. To book, visit eventbrite.ie. 2. Ring in 2025 at Fitzsimons Temple Bar – Dublin’s Ultimate NYE Party! What’s On: 5 Floors of Fun: Dance the night away in the electric rooftop garden, enjoy live bands, or hit the dancefloors across four lively bars. Live Music & DJs: Rock, pop, dance, and chart hits will keep the energy alive all night. Midnight Balloon Drop: Celebrate the countdown to 2025 with a spectacular balloon drop. Highlights: Prosecco on Arrival: Early bird ticket holders receive a complimentary glass of Prosecco. Additional Info: Date: December 31, 2024 Time: Doors open at 7pm (Prosecco must be redeemed before 9pm). Location: Fitzsimons, Temple Bar, Dublin 2 Tickets: Early Bird from €35 (+booking fee). To book, visit fitzsimonsbar.ie. 3. New Year’s Eve: Masquerade Ball at 37 Dawson Street What’s On: Cocktail on Arrival: Start your night with a complimentary welcome drink. Gourmet Canapés: Enjoy some delicious snacks while mingling. Champagne Toast at Midnight: Celebrate the arrival of 2025 with a glass of bubbly. Live DJ & Entertainment: Dance the night away in this stunning venue. Additional Info: Date: December 31, 2024 Time: 8pm until late Location: 37 Dawson Street, Dublin 2 Tickets: €44. To book, visit eventbrite.ie. 4. An Elegant Affair – New Year’s Eve Rooftop Party at Hyde Dublin What’s On: Rooftop Venue: Take in the gorgeous views of Dublin’s skyline. Live DJ: Enjoy a curated playlist of party favorites. Stylish Setting: Dress to impress for this elegant event. Additional Info: Date: December 31, 2024 Time: 8pm to 3am Location: Hyde Dublin, 9 Lemon Street, Dublin 2 Tickets: Starting at €38.52. To book, visit eventbrite.ie. 5. New Year’s Festival Dublin What’s On: Countdown Concert at Dublin Castle: Enjoy performances by top artists, including Cian Ducrot. Family-Friendly Matinee: A special early concert for families. Fireworks Spectacular: Witness stunning firework displays at Dún Laoghaire and Howth Harbours. Additional Info: Date: December 31, 2024 Locations: Dublin Castle, Dún Laoghaire, and Howth Tickets: Free for fireworks; concert tickets available on NYF Dublin’s official website . Ready to Dance into 2025? Don’t wait too long—grab your tickets now!

Looking for a cosy corner after a stroll or a spot to catch up with friends over a pint this Christmas season? Here are Dublin’s best dog-friendly pubs! 1. The Bernard Shaw A Dublin institution, The Bernard Shaw is a hub that’s as welcoming to dogs as it is to people. The large outdoor space is perfect for letting your pooch stretch out while you enjoy a craft beer or something tasty from one of the resident food trucks. It’s a lively spot with plenty of character, making it a great choice for a laid-back afternoon or evening with your furry friend. Location: Cross Guns Bridge, Drumcondra, Dublin 9 Why Your Dog Will Love It: The spacious outdoor area offers plenty of room to explore and relax. 2. The Dog House Blues Tearooms True to its name, The Dog House Blues Tearooms in Howth is a dog lover’s dream. With quirky décor, fires, and a menu full of delicious options, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a walk. Dogs are more than welcome here, often receiving their own water bowl and a prime spot by the fire. Location: 3 Harbour Road, Howth, Dublin Why Your Dog Will Love It: The cozy atmosphere and warm fires are ideal for a post-walk rest, especially in the colder months. 3. The Bath Pub For those who enjoy something both trendy yet comfortable, The Bath Pub in Sandymount is a top pick. With a stylish interior and a dog-friendly outdoor seating area, it’s a favourite among locals, especially after a walk along Sandymount Strand. The pub provides doggy treats and water bowls, ensuring your pup is well cared for while you enjoy your drink. Location: 26 Bath Avenue, Sandymount, Dublin 4 Why Your Dog Will Love It: The outdoor area is perfect for soaking up the sun and people-watching. 4. MVP Located in Dublin 8, MVP is a cosy pub that’s as dog-friendly as they come. Known for its warm, welcoming vibe, this pub offers water bowls, doggy treats, and plenty of love from the staff. MVP is perfect for those looking for a relaxed atmosphere where both you and your dog can feel at home. Location: 29 Upper Clanbrassil Street, Dublin 8 Why Your Dog Will Love It: The laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot for a quiet drink. 5. The Fumbally Though more café than pub, The Fumbally is too good not to mention for dog owners. Located in The Liberties, this spot is perfect for a daytime visit. With a menu focused on wholesome, locally sourced food, and a fantastic atmosphere, it’s a great place to grab a bite with your dog by your side. Location: Fumbally Lane, The Liberties, Dublin 8 Why Your Dog Will Love It: The relaxed, community vibe and friendly staff make it feel like a second home.

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 50 th 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 13 th 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.

Rumours persist that the self-styled greatest rock and roll band in the world, the Rolling Stones will be playing Ireland this summer, with one of the vacant/still-to-be-booked nights at Dublin’s Croke Park seemingly the front-runner in terms of venue. Never a band to need an excuse to tour, nonetheless the Stones embarked on a US tour last Spring in support of 2023 album Hackney Diamonds (their first album of original songs in 18 years); before wrapping it up in mid-Summer. Then, in November, talk – seemingly fuelled by none other than Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood – began of a possible European tour in 2025. Although frequent visitors to these shores, the Stones haven’t played Ireland since opening their #NoFilter European tour at Dublin’s Croke Park , in May 2018. While nothing has been confirmed – and a hotly anticipated December announcement never came to fruition – it is understood that a tour of Europe is likely this year and that it could feature an Irish date. As one industry source told Travel2Ireland : “Regarding an Irish date, it’s far from a done deal, but I would watch this space, as it were. They know Ireland really well and love playing here. And, while they don’t play here every tour, they’re certainly not getting any younger and who knows when – or even if – there will be another World Tour after this one. So, there’s every chance.”

Rumours of RnB-turned country royalty Beyoncé hitting the road on a mega world tour – in support of her recent Cowboy Carter album – this year have not dimmed, despite her publicist saying in November that she would not be playing any shows…and hot on the heels of that rumour is word that Queen Bey is eyeing a return to Dublin, where the last time she performed was at Croke Park in 2016. She is believed to have booked a number of UK dates, with Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, in London, apparently having already been boxed off. Beyoncé is set to make a big announcement on her 2025 plans next week. Maybe a new album, or maybe a new tour. Which one?…Well, her recent appearance – as the halftime showstopper – at the NFL Christmas Day game between the Houston Texans and the Baltimore Ravens, in Houston (an event which is being referred to as the Beyoncé Bowl) has only fuelled rumours as to the latter.

Dublin is gearing up for Chinese/Lunar New Year 2025 – which will formally usher in the Year of the Snake. The festival runs from January 25 to February 2 , with January 29 the actual new year date. This year’s festivities, in Dublin, will cover food and culture with various events happening around the capital from galleries (National Gallery, Chester Beatty Library) to cinemas (IFI) to restaurants, workshops and street events – aimed at all ages. While the full programme of events is still being finalised, check out Dublin Lunar New Year 2025 | Events Archives – Dublin Lunar New Year 2025 for early details.