The dark evenings and sideways rain have made this a particularly trying January, which makes now the perfect time to plan some fun activities for the days ahead. Thankfully, Dublin has plenty on offer.
Overbooked is a monthly book club aimed at the gal who "does it all but also deserves a night off". This month's meet-up is taking place on Sunday, 25 January in The Sitting Room at Delahunt, and starting with a thoughtful and powerful non-fiction read. Notes to Self by Emilie Pine is a collection of personal essays that explore family, mental health, grief, addiction, and the things we often keep to ourselves.
On Saturday, 24 January, the Circular Bar in Rialto is hosting a mini film festival called Life is (Shorts), which will showcase up-and-coming filmmakers in the warm and cosy setting. The perfect way to beat those January blues. Starting at 5pm, there will be two programmes of short films - 'Light' and ‘Dark' - followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers. Everyone is then welcome to stay on and enjoy a DJ set from Discordia.
On Saturday, 24 January, from 10:15am – 2pm, the Central Library in Dublin 1 is hosting a free clothes swap. Bring three items of good quality adult clothing and swap them for three items new to you. No underwear, shoes, sleepwear, sportswear or swimwear accepted.
McGowans of Phibsboro is hosting a single night, with ice breaker games, great music, and drinks at the ready. A live MC will keep the night lively, guiding daters through a series of fun games designed to get everyone chatting and laughing. The event kicks of at 9pm and will end at around 11pm.
Alternative Dublin is hosting a series of sober events to celebrate Dry January, including a charity shop crawl around the city centre on Saturday, 24 January. Find new clothes, explore a variety of shops, and meet new people in the world of sustainable fashion.
If you are a bride or groom to be, you will want to get yourself to the RDS this 24-25 January 24. Running from 10am to 5pm, the wedding show will host over 190 suppliers, ranging from cakes, decor, dresses and to DJs, honeymoon escapes, and potential venues.
Pop-up Gaeltacht for TradFest 2026
TradFest - a joyful celebration of Irish music and culture - is taking place from 21-25 January. From the storied halls of Dublin Castle to the splendour of the soaring gothic nave of St Patrick's Cathedral, the TradFest live experience will take over the capital for five days. On Sunday, 25 January, a pop-up Gaeltacht will be available, welcoming learners and speakers of all levels and ages. Hosted by Adam from The Gladstone Band, this is a free event.
The Pendulum Business and Leadership Summit returns to the Dublin Convention Centre this Friday, 23 January. This year's event will welcome talks from New York Times bestselling author Brené Brown, co-founder and first CEO of Netflix Marc Randolph, Aeronautical engineer and STEM advocate Dr Norah Patten, and a surprise speaker!
