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January can be notoriously gloomy, but as we settle into 2025, the First Fortnight Festival returns to Ireland, combining art, culture, and conversation to shine a light on mental health and to help you through what feels like the longest month of the year. Running from January 4th to 18th, this unique festival challenges mental health stigma by bringing people together through creativity and dialogue. It’s not just about watching and listening—it’s about connecting, learning, and laughing along the way. Here’s a closer look at what’s happening at this year’s festival! What’s Happening at the First Fortnight Festival 2025? The lineup this year is packed with events that explore mental health in thoughtful, creative, and sometimes surprising ways. Whether you’re into music, theatre, visual art, or just good conversations, you’ll find something worth checking out. Here are some highlights: 1. Nollaig na mBan (Women’s Christmas) Celebrated on January 6th, this event dives into women’s mental health. It’s a mix of workshops, talks, and performances honouring the tradition of Women’s Little Christmas while creating space for important conversations about self-care and support. This event will take place in Whelans, Dublin 2. 2. Musical Strings Explore Light Painting in Wexford Town for a fun and creative light art photo painting experience! Participants of all ages are invited to these drop in workshops in FDYS to create their own unique light art pieces with the guidance of local photographer Louise Scally. This event runs from January 9th to 12th across multiple venues in Wexford. Light painting involves using long exposure photography to capture movement from a light source, allowing participants to play with light and jump, write, or create symbols in the air. Each participant will receive digital photos of their creations via email. The photographs will then be projected onto a wall in the town of Enniscorthy on 11th and 12th January, showcasing these images to uplift the community during the darker winter months. This event celebrates young people as artists, offering a playful, creative outlet, introducing them to photography and performance art, all while brightening Wexford’s winter experience. 3. Laughter’s the Best Medicine Laughter is definitely the best medicine ….. and the cheapest! In a world that is getting far too serious for its own good, you’re invited to come along and have a fun evening to celebrate The First Fortnight Festival. There will be jokes; there will be sketches; there will be entertaining conversation, and there will even be a few prizes – on from January 9th at the An Grianán Theatre in Donegal. 4. Creative Arts Therapy Exhibition This exhibition is an evocative response to the homelessness crisis in Ireland – through art you will delve into the mental health of support workers as they hold space for the people they accompany through difficult and sometimes chaotic situations. This impactful exhibition takes place at the Smock Alley Theatre in Dublin, featuring cement and plaster houses representing all those homeless in Ireland. Alongside the housing installation are artworks produced by support workers expressing their experience of the homeless sector. 5. Where’s Your head At What do you do to mind your mental health? Where’s your head at? First Fortnight and Emily Quinn collaborate in this new Portrait Project. A collection of artists and individuals connected to First Fortnight and the wider arts community sat with Quinn for a portrait photoshoot and discussed what they do to support their mental health. The resulting exhibition of smiling faces and stories of how we mind our mental health is a reminder that joy can exist alongside the tough conversations, that we can share hope of better days ahead, and that community is one of our most powerful assets. This event takes place at The Hunt Museum in Limerick, from the 5th to 14th of January. More to Discover That’s not all—First Fortnight Festival has plenty more to offer, from mental health workshops and film screenings to community events and panel discussions. You can find the full schedule and venue details on the official First Fortnight website . When and Where? Dates : January 4th – 18th, 2025 Locations : Events are happening in venues across Ireland, with something for everyone no matter where you’re based. Ticket Prices Many events at the First Fortnight Festival are free, making it accessible to everyone. For ticketed events, prices vary depending on the activity. Check out the festival’s ticket page to see what’s available and snag your spot.

January in Dublin is getting a refreshing twist with the Dry January Festival , a city-wide celebration that proves you don’t need alcohol to enjoy life, discover new hobbies, and connect with others. Powered by Alternative Dublin , this month-long festival transforms Dublin into a hub of creativity, community, and cultural discovery with over 100 alcohol-free events! From pottery and painting to yoga and speed-friending, this innovative festival promises something for everyone, without the pressure of alcohol. A Packed Calendar of Events With activities running daily from January 1 to January 31 , you’ll never run out of things to do. Here’s a taste of the festival’s lineup: January 3: Vision Board Workshop Kick off 2025 by designing your own vision board to set inspiring goals for the year ahead. January 4: Art and Craft Galore Clay & Coffee: Make Your Own Pot Person Drop-In Tote Bag Painting Drop-In Paint Night (Dublin City Center Theme) Candle Painting: Design Your Own Masterpiece Beginners New Year Yoga Session January 5–6: Creative Crafts and Workshops Get hands-on with rug making , candle painting , and public speaking for beginners , or unleash your inner artist with themed pottery and painting sessions. January 7–9: Coffee Art, Board Games, and More Create a Painting Using Coffee Adult Board Games Social Night Paint Your Own Mandala Workshop Clay & Coffee: Mexican Skulls January 10–13: Jewelry, Pottery, and Unique Art From making DIY jewelry and painting Studio Ghibli pottery to participating in chess sessions , there’s plenty to keep your creativity flowing. January 14–18: Social and Sustainable Fun Speedfriending Festival Thrift & Threads Sustainable Charity Shop Crawl Yoga and Pottery Workshops January 20–31: Unique Themes and Lasting Memories The festival wraps up with quirky workshops like Paint with Coffee , Banksy-inspired Paint Nights , alongside inclusive social events such as clothes swaps and tarot pottery sessions . Additional Information The Dry January Festival 2025 isn’t just about staying off the booze; it’s about reconnecting with yourself, meeting new people, and rediscovering the joy of trying new things. Here’s everything you need to know to attend. Dates: January 1–31, 2025 Location: Various venues across Dublin Ticket Prices: Events range from free to low-cost —most drop-in activities are around €10-€20. Pre-booking is recommended for popular sessions. For the full schedule and to book tickets, visit the official Dry January Festival website .

Kick off the New Year with a cultural feast at Belfast’s Out to Lunch Festival, running from January 4th to 26th! Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this beloved winter festival fills the city’s Cathedral Quarter with music, theatre, comedy, literature, and delicious food. What’s On at the Out to Lunch Festival This year’s lineup is packed with talent and entertainment, offering something for everyone. Here’s a taste of what’s in store: – Music: Enjoy performances from blues sensation Muireann Bradley, the harmonious group Landless, and the legendary 808 State. Additionally, don’t miss the Ennio Morricone Experience, celebrating the iconic film composer’s work. – Comedy: Laugh out loud with comedians Lucy Porter in her show “No Regrets,” Andrew Maxwell, Shappi Khorsandi, and Josie Long’s work-in-progress about giant extinct animals. – Theatre and Literature: Experience James Joyce’s “Grace,” a tale of booze, bombast, and religious confusion, and join Belle and Sebastian frontman Stuart Murdoch as he discusses his debut novel, “Nobody’s Empire.” Also, don’t miss “Lies Where it Falls,” a compelling solo play by Downton Abbey’s Ruairi Conaghan. – Cultural Events: Participate in the festival’s first-ever Céilí for Lunch, an afternoon of traditional Irish dancing, and attend a Q&A with Linsey Young on the award-winning exhibition “Women In Revolt!” – For the Foodies: Join renowned chef Niall McKenna in conversation with Kathy Clugston as they discuss his first cookbook, “What’s It All About?” Additional Information The festival runs from January 4th to 26th, 2025, primarily in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter. Afternoon shows are priced at €14, which includes a delicious lunch, maintaining the festival’s reputation for affordable tickets and a friendly atmosphere. Evening show prices vary; please check the official website for specific event pricing. Tickets can be purchased through the festival’s official website. Given the popularity of the events, early booking is recommended. Visit cqaf.com for more information.

Grammy-nominated American singer-songwriter  Lana Del Rey  comes to Ireland this year as part of her Britain and Ireland tour, when she will play  Dublin’s  Aviva Stadium  on June 30th, with additional tickets available now! Fans can expect to enjoy some new music at the gig as Del Rey’s tour announcement was closely followed by news of her latest album, The Right Person Will Stay, set to release on May 21st, 2025. She is due to perform in Cardiff, Glasgow, Liverpool and Dublin, ending her run at London’s Wembley Stadium. The soulful star has had a busy 2024 – featuring headline performances at festivals such as Coachella, Reading and Leeds, and Rock en Seine, as well as her first stadium show at Boston’s Fenway Park. Best-known for her hit song Summertime Sadness, Del Rey promises to serve up a wide range spanning her nine (soon-to-be 10) studio albums. Tickets are currently upwards of €100, and are available on the Ticketmaster Resale platform. For more information, visit ticketmaster.ie.

Dublin is no stranger to quirky attractions, but the viral rise of the Cherry Tomato Bridge has left many scratching their heads—and maybe reaching for a snack. This unassuming bridge in Drumcondra has become an unlikely landmark thanks to TikTok. Intrigued? Let’s dive into the juicy details. How Did This Tomato Trend Begin? The Drumcondra Bridge recently found fame on TikTok, with visitors capturing videos of cherry tomatoes left scattered along its surface. It is unknown how the tomatoes got there in the first place, but the cold snap earlier in the week froze them to the surface of the bridge. Then, new tomatoes started to appear… Eventually, other tomato paraphernalia was placed on the bridge, like tomato paste, ketchup and framed, AI generated photos of a tomato-headed man. However, tomatoes of the non-cherry kind are prohibited on the bridge, and a brief incident of a large sliced tomato amongst the cherry tomatoes sparked outrage online, leading to it being thrown off the bridge. Now, netizens refer to visiting the cherry tomato bridge as a ‘pilgrimage’ due to its shrine status. Why? Why tomatoes? No one seems to know for sure. Some believe it started as a joke or art installation, while others see it as a playful way to leave a mark on the city. Whatever the reason, the bridge’s connection to cherry tomatoes has now become a viral sensation – so much so that the location is marked as a ‘Shrine’ on Google Maps, complete with reviews: “Questions the nature of self” , “ I thought the Split Rock of Dromore was great, and it is, but this is in another league. Unmissable” , “A must see. Will go again.” are just some of the reviews left by visitors. People are encouraged to bring their own cherry tomatoes, place them carefully on the bridge, snap a photo or grab and video, and post it online with the hashtag #CherryTomatoesBridge. The Bigger Picture The Cherry Tomatoes Bridge might sound like an odd addition to Dublin’s attractions, but it reflects the city’s unique ability to embrace fun, whimsy, and creativity! Why not grab a punnet and head over?

Looking for a way to brighten up the long, dark days of January? Look no further than Adventure Lights at Skypark Carlingford , where the magic of lights meets outdoor adventure! Located in the Cooley Peninsula, this experience combines excitement, family fun, and a touch of wonder, making it the perfect way to kickstart your year. Here’s why Adventure Lights at Skypark should be at the top of your January to-do list. What’s on at Adventure Lights? Skypark is Ireland’s largest adventure park, and during winter it’s transformed into a sparkling wonderland with Adventure Lights . Here’s what’s on: Illuminated Forest Walk Take a stroll through a stunningly lit woodland trail. As you walk beneath a glowing canopy, the lights and atmosphere make this the perfect setting for photos or a romantic evening. Skypark Activities Under the Lights Many of Skypark’s most popular activities, including high ropes courses, ziplining, and climbing walls, are open during Adventure Lights, making for a pretty special aerial experience. Fire Pits and Hot Drinks Cosy up around the fire pits with a steaming mug of hot chocolate, tea, or mulled wine. It’s the perfect way to warm up! Kids’ Adventure Zone Little adventurers will love exploring the kid-friendly activities tailored to their age group. Stargazing Opportunities Away from the bright city lights, Skypark offers a chance to spot constellations and admire the beauty of the night sky—a magical addition to your evening. Why Adventure Lights is Perfect for January Beat the Winter Blues January can feel long and dreary, but Adventure Lights injects some much-needed brightness into the season. The lights and outdoor activities will leave you feeling re-energized. Family-Friendly Fun It’s a fantastic outing for families, with something to entertain everyone, from toddlers to teens—and the grown-ups too! Fresh Air and Exercise After the indulgence of the holiday season, this is the ideal way to get moving while enjoying Ireland’s natural beauty. Romantic Evenings Couples will love the atmosphere of the illuminated trails and the cosy fire pits—the perfect way to spend quality time together. When and Where Adventure Lights runs at Skypark Carlingford , located in County Louth, on the Cooley Peninsula. Surrounded by stunning views of Carlingford Lough and the Mourne Mountains, it’s a destination worth visiting in its own right. Dates : Adventure Lights is open on select evenings in January. Check the official website for specific dates and times. Pricing Tickets for Adventure Lights start at just €15 per person, with family packages available for a great value. Be sure to book in advance, as this experience is hugely popular and spots fill up fast. Plan Your Visit What to Bring : Warm clothing, sturdy shoes, and gloves (especially for the high ropes courses). Food and Drink : On-site refreshments are available, so you can grab a snack or warm beverage during your visit. Booking : Advance booking is essential to secure your spot! Book through the official Skypark Adventure Lights page . For more information on opening hours, tickets and what’s on, visit Skypark Adventure Lights .

This Saturday, January 18th, the sky has a special treat in store for stargazers – a six-planet “parade”! That’s right, Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, Saturn, and Venus are set to align in a stunning arc across the cosmos, visible to the naked eye. Here’s everything you need to know about this spectacle! Mark your calendars—this is a starry event you don’t want to miss! What’s Happening in the Sky? Dr. Dan Brown, an astronomy expert from Nottingham Trent University, describes this planetary parade as a rare visual treat. These four visible planets will stretch across the evening sky, creating an arc so large it just fits into your eye’s field of view. Starting at 5pm and peaking at 6pm local time, here’s what to look forward to: Mars : The fiery red planet will anchor the left corner of your view. Venus : Brilliant and glowing, it’ll be right near Saturn, lighting up the right corner. Jupiter : One of the brightest objects in the sky, it’ll be impossible to miss. Saturn : A touch dimmer, but still easily spotted near Venus. For optimal viewing, Mars, Venus, and Saturn will appear roughly 20 degrees above the horizon—so find a good vantage point! Where and How to Watch To make the most of this event, follow these tips: Pick the Perfect Spot : Choose an open area with clear views from the north-east to south-west horizons. Avoid places obstructed by tall trees or buildings. Lucky for you, we’ve compiled a list of the best stargazing spots across Ireland, which you can find here. Timing is Everything : Arrive early, around 5 PM, so your eyes can adjust to the dim light of the early evening sky. The best viewing conditions will be at 6 PM. Look for Bright Objects : Mars, Venus, and Jupiter will be the brightest objects in the sky—your guiding beacons. No Equipment Needed : Leave the telescopes and cameras at home; these planets are bright enough to be seen with the naked eye. However, a camera with a wide lens could beautifully frame Venus and Saturn. Use a Sky Map App : If you’re struggling to locate the planets, apps like Night Sky can guide your gaze. Why Do Planets Align? This isn’t magic—just orbital mechanics! Planets align like this every so often due to their individual orbits around the Sun. What’s special about this alignment is how it stretches across the sky in a visually stunning arc. But wait—there’s more! February promises another planetary alignment, featuring Mars, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, and Mercury . This parade, on February 24th, will offer a slightly closer grouping, though still spanning a wide 117 degrees. A Night to Remember Don’t forget to wrap up warm, pick your perfect stargazing spot, and prepare for a night you’ll never forget. January 18th is a date with the stars—don’t miss it! For more information on stargazing tips, check out resources like Night Sky or our guide to the best stargazing spots in Ireland.

It’s time for our weekend roundup! Here’s what’s on this weekend, between Friday the 17th and Sunday the 19th of January across Ireland. We’ve got a great lineup of things to do, from the Dry January Festival with over 100 alcohol-free events on offer, to the First Fortnight Festival helping you through what feels like the longest month of the year! Dry January Festival – 01.01-31.01 January in Dublin is getting a refreshing twist with the Dry January Festival , a city-wide celebration that proves you don’t need alcohol to enjoy life, discover new hobbies, and connect with others. Powered by Alternative Dublin , this month-long festival transforms Dublin into a hub of creativity, community, and cultural discovery with over 100 alcohol-free events! Read more about the event here. Planet Parade – 18.01 This Saturday, January 18th, the sky has a special treat in store for stargazers – a six-planet “parade”! That’s right, Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, Saturn, and Venus are set to align in a stunning arc across the cosmos. While Uranus and Neptune will remain out of sight for the naked eye (they’re too far away, sadly), Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and Venus will light up the sky and be visible to the naked eye. Read more about the planet parade here. First Fortnight Festival – 04.01-18.01 January can be notoriously gloomy, but as we settle into 2025, the First Fortnight Festival returns to Ireland, combining art, culture, and conversation to shine a light on mental health and to help you through what feels like the longest month of the year. Read more about the event here. Belfast Out to Lunch Festival – 04.01-26.01 Kick off the New Year with a cultural feast at Belfast’s Out to Lunch Festival, running from January 4th to 26th! Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this beloved winter festival fills the city’s Cathedral Quarter with music, theatre, comedy, literature, and delicious food. Read more about the event here. Visit the Cherry Tomato Bridge – Anytime The Drumcondra Bridge recently found fame on TikTok, with visitors capturing videos of cherry tomatoes left scattered along its surface, leaving many scratching their heads – and maybe reaching for a snack. This weekend, why not grab a punnet and visit the attraction, now famously labelled as a shrine on Google Maps? Read more about the cherry tomato bridge here. Dundrum on Ice – 01.11-26.01 Missing Christmas? 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. Read more about the event here. Winterlee Cork – 01.12-19.01 Chasing that festive feeling in January? Until the 19th of 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. Read more about the event here. Treetop Night Lights – 1.11-3.02 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 offering now on – the Treetop Night Lights experience. Read more here.

Marking its 20th anniversary, the landmark festival of traditional and folk music, TradFest , returns to Dublin from January 22nd-26th. This year’s lineup promises to sweep you off your feet with unforgettable performances, unique experiences, and plenty of surprises.   Taking place across some of Dublin’s most iconic venues, TradFes t is no ordinary music festival. It’s a celebration of tradition, innovation, and the enduring power of music to bring people together. With over 100 artists performing in more than 20 historic venues, this year’s event is set to make history. What’s On at TradFest 2025?   This year’s lineup features an incredible variety of concerts, sessions, and events that promise to cater to every taste.  Main Concert Series   The beating heart of TradFest is its January Concert Series, featuring a lineup of worldclass artists performing in some of Dublin’s most popular venues.  Smithwick’s Sessions   Fancy a more laidback vibe? Pop into Temple Bar’s beloved pubs for the Smithwick’s Sessions. These free gigs showcase a mix of seasoned performers and upandcoming talent. Showcase Nights   Discover the stars of tomorrow at Showcase Nights, where emerging talent takes center stage. Perfect for music lovers who want to be ahead of the curve! TradFringe Events   TradFringe presents a series of unique events on the edges of the traditional music scene. From art installations to spoken word performances and unexpected collaborations, TradFringe is all about pushing boundaries while staying true to the spirit of the festival.   Family Fun   TradFest isn’t just for adults! Families can enjoy kidfriendly performances and workshops. Additional Details TradFest will be on from January 22nd to January 26th, 2025, with events taking place across various venues in Dublin, including Dublin Castle, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and The Button Factory.   Tickets Tickets for TradFest 2025 are now on sale, and demand is already high! Pricing varies depending on the event and venue, but the festival organizers have made a point of keeping tickets accessible to all. Some events, like the Smithwick’s Sessions, are entirely free, while others offer group discounts for advance bookings. For the latest ticket information and availability, visit the official TradFest website.

This weekend, get inked at the 10th Annual International Galway Tattoo Show! On from January 25th-26th at Galway’s Galmont Hotel & Spa, this event brings together over 100 of the world’s finest tattoo artists for a c elebration of tattoo art, and will feature live music, market stalls, and traders on show to keep you entertained ! What’s On at the Galway Tattoo Show? Live Tattooing – Witness master tattooists create stunning artworks in real-time. Entertainment – Enjoy a lineup of live music, stand-up comedy, and magic shows throughout the weekend.  Art Exhibitions – Explore galleries showcasing a variety of artistic styles and mediums. Market Stalls – Browse through vendors offering alternative clothing, unique jewelry, poster prints, vintage items, and handmade products.  Tattoo Competitions – Artists will compete in various categories, including Best Small Black & Grey and Best Small Colour, allowing attendees to see top-tier tattoo artistry! Additional Details The event will take place on Juanuary 25-26th at the Galmont Hotel & Spa in Galway. Tickets are available for purchase through the official Galway Tattoo Show website. Advance tickets are priced at €20 for a Day Pass and €36 for a Weekend Pass, plus a booking fee. Children aged 14 and under can attend for free. Tickets will also be available at the door at full price.

Calling all lovers of the Gothic and the macabre… Gauche Market returns on January 26th in Wigwam Dublin from 12-5pm for a special ‘Vampentine’s Edition’! The market will feature a quirky selection of small businesses selling beautiful handmade gothic and alternative inspired arts and crafts, homewares, jewellery, and more. Along with that, they will have the venue decorated, some themed drinks, tarot reading and a free book swap! What’s On Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and this year, Cupid is wearing black eyeliner and combat boots. Enter the Gauche Market – Gothic Valentine’s Edition, an event that’s perfect for those who like their love a little more dramatic, a lot more mysterious, and just the right amount of glamorous. Taking place on Sunday, January 26 at Wigwam on Middle Abbey Street in Dublin, this is the ultimate gathering for romantics with a gothic twist.   Here’s what’s in store:   Shop the Macabre and Magical   Handcrafted gothic jewelry, vintage clothing to die for, and all manner of oddities perfect for Valentines. Themed Treats Food and drinks get a gothic makeover, too. Expect blood-red cocktails and some sinfully sweet desserts. Free Book Swap Looking to read something new? a free book swap will take place during the event, so if you’ve got a book to share, make sure to bring it along. Tarot Readings Indulge your curiosity with a tarot reading! Have some questions about your love life, career, or just looking for a bit of cosmic guidance? This is your chance to explore what the cards have in store. Tickets The market is free to enter – an eventbrite ticket can be used to get a free sticker, but is not required for entry. Please note the market is located downstairs, and the venue is dog friendly. For more information, visit eventbrite.com.

Ah, January. The month of resolutions, post-holiday detoxes, and, let’s be honest, empty wallets. But just because the festive splurges have left your bank account feeling a little light doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some incredible experiences in Ireland. Here are the best low-cost things to do across Ireland this January! This island has plenty of budgetfriendly options to keep you entertained and connected to its natural beauty, history, and culture without breaking the bank.  Explore Ireland’s Free Museums and Galleries Many of Ireland’s top cultural spots offer free or low cost admission, perfect for soaking up some knowledge on a chilly January day. Here are some must visit venues:   National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin: Enjoy breathtaking collections, including works by Caravaggio and Irish legends like Jack B. Yeats. Free entry makes it a gem.   Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA), Dublin: Walk through contemporary masterpieces in the grand Royal Hospital Kilmainham.   Ulster Museum, Belfast: Full of natural history, art, and the famous Game of Thrones Tapestry, with no admission fee.   Winter Walks on Stunning Trails Ireland is just as beautiful in winter. Wrap up warmly and enjoy the beauty of these walks:   The Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk (Co. Wicklow): This 7 km coastal walk has dramatic cliff views and won’t cost you a cent.   Glendalough (Co. Wicklow): Explore lakes and ancient monastic sites with free trails suitable for all fitness levels.   Connemara National Park (Co. Galway): With several trails ranging from easy to challenging, this park has an absolutely gorgeous landscape.   Visit Iconic Heritage Sites History lovers can rejoice, as many of Ireland’s heritage sites are either free or very affordable to visit:   Rock of Cashel (Co. Tipperary): Entry costs just €8, and the ancient ruins are full of history and legends.   Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin: For just €8, take a guided tour through the fascinating history of Ireland’s fight for independence.   Dún Aonghasa, Aran Islands: Admission is only €5 to see one of Ireland’s most awe inspiring prehistoric forts.   Markets  January is a perfect time to enjoy cosy markets that won’t pressure your wallet. Wander, snack, and soak up the atmosphere at:   The English Market, Cork: A foodies paradise with a variety of low cost treats, from artisan cheeses to fresh bread.   Galway Market, Galway City: A weekend staple offering handmade crafts, delicious street food, and more.   St. George’s Market, Belfast: With a mix of food stalls, crafts, and live music, it’s one of the best markets on the island.   Music and Culture Ireland’s love for music and storytelling doesn’t take a break in January. Look out for free or low cost cultural experiences:   Pub Sessions: Traditional Irish music sessions are common in pubs across the country, often with no cover charge. Favorites include O’Donoghue’s in Dublin and Monroe’s Tavern in Galway.   Storytelling Nights: Some local pubs and community centers host storytelling events where you can hear old tales and modern anecdotes.   Coastal Escapes Nothing beats the sea air, and Ireland’s coastline has countless spots that are perfect for winter exploration:   Howth Cliff Walk (Co. Dublin): A refreshing and free loop walk offering views of Lambay Island and the Irish Sea.   Ballycotton Cliff Walk (Co. Cork): A peaceful trail with stunning views of the Atlantic.   Fanore Beach (Co. Clare): Perfect for a bracing stroll along the Wild Atlantic Way.   Practical Details and Tips   Cost: Many of the activities mentioned are free or under €10. For heritage sites, consider investing in a Heritage Card (€40 for adults), granting unlimited access to over 45 OPW sites for a year.   Getting Around: Public transport is affordable and efficient, especially with the Leap Card in Dublin or multijourney tickets across the country. For those that prefer an extra layer of comfort, we’ve got an  exclusive 15% off discount for you from CARHIRE.ie !  Book your car through this link by  the 31st of January  to enjoy 15% off for travel between  January and March in 2025 . Weather: January can be chilly and unpredictable, so dress warmly and prepare for rain with a good coat and waterproof footwear.   When money’s tight, Ireland has a wealth of low cost activities to keep your spirits high. You’ll find plenty to love without emptying your wallet. Where will your adventure take you this winter? Share your stories and ideas for frugal fun below!