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Are you looking for a fun way to introduce more Irish into your family's lives? If so, then Bronntanas 2026 is here for you!
Bronntanas is a family festival that celebrates the possibilities, opportunities and benefits that the Irish language creates for children and families. The festival runs from 14th September to 4th October, and you don't need to be fluent to take part. The festival is open to everyone, from families who use Irish every day to those who are just starting out with their first few words.
Through a vibrant mix of cultural, artistic, sporting and community events, Bronntanas gives families the opportunity to enjoy the Irish language in natural, friendly and welcoming settings. From art and drama workshops to live music, games, nature walks and water sports, there is something for every age group and every interest.
The main aim of Bronntanas is to encourage families to use Irish as part of their everyday lives at home and in the community. The festival shows that the language does not have to be left in the classroom, but can be used during games, at bedtime, on a family walk, or while preparing a meal in the kitchen.
Bronntanas will run from 14 September to 4 October 2026, with over 70 free events taking place across Dublin. Over the three weeks, families will be invited to come together, make new friends, enjoy great events and, above all, use Irish in a natural and informal way.
As a central part of the festival, a 21 Day Family Challenge will take place. Each day, families will find a small, practical activity that will encourage them to integrate Irish into their daily routines. It could be as simple as using a few new words at the dinner table, playing a little game in Irish, or reading a story together.
Week One Highlights - 14-20 September
The festival begins with a week full of creativity and fun.
In Ballyogan Library on 15th September at 14:45pm, families will have the opportunity to take part in "Tarraing do Chara" with Cara Dunne, where they will learn how to create portraits of each other under the guidance of a professional artist. This is a great way to encourage imagination and communication through the medium of Irish. You can book your place by emailing ballyoganlib@dlrcoco.ie
If your family is interested in music, don't miss a song translation workshop with Lisa Murray in Áras Chrónáin on 19th September at 12:30pm. Participants will learn how to sing and understand pop songs they recognise through Irish. There will be an opportunity to sing, compose and enjoy the magic of music together. You can book your place here (opens in a new tab).
On the same day, the interactive play “An Bhumbóg Bheag” will visit Rua Red on 19th September at 16:00pm. Through a mix of music, storytelling and audience participation, children will have the opportunity to learn about nature and the Irish language in a fun and imaginative way. You can book your place for this play via this link (opens in a new tab).
Week Two Highlights - 21-27 September
In the second week, the festival will focus on movement, nature and wellbeing.
Special sessions with Óga Yoga will be available for families on the 24th September at 15:30 in Rus Eo library. If you are looking to take a break from everyday life and enjoy exercise and mindfulness through the medium of Irish, you can book your place by emailing rushlibrary@fingal.ie
For those who love nature, Spraoi sna Gairdíní will be taking place in the Irish Botanical Gardens. As they explore the plants, animals and colours of the gardens, children and parents alike will have the opportunity to learn and use new vocabulary. There is no need to book a place for this event.
On the 26th September, Cluiche Corr leis na Gaeil Nua will be taking place in Phoenix Park from 12:30-14:00. Through running, cooperation and friendly competition, participants will learn active Irish while enjoying this traditional game. There is no need to book a place for this event.
If you are looking for a more adventurous experience, there will be a kayaking trip with Moontour in Dún Laoghaire Harbour on the 27th September at 10:00am & 2:00pm. This is a unique opportunity to learn new skills. You can book your place for this event via this link.
On the same day, there are plenty of other options available. You can take part in the Aqua Céilí, an energetic and fun event in Seán Mac Diarmada swimming pool at 12:30pm - book here (opens in a new tab), or attend a rap writing workshop with James Shannon from IMLÉ in Áras Chrónáin at 2pm, where families will learn how to create innovative lyrics through Irish.
A Family Treasure Hunt will also take place in Phoenix Park on the 27th, giving participants the opportunity to explore Dublin’s history through interactive clues and challenges. There is no need to book a place for this event.
Week Three Highlights - 28 September - 4 October
The final week of the festival will focus on creativity, culture and community celebration.
A hands-on pottery workshop with Cormac O' Breartúin will be available for families who want to use their imagination and create something special with their own hands. There is no need to book a place for this event.
For those who like to move and dance, there will be an opportunity to learn the basic steps and traditions of Irish dance with Cáit, in a fun community day at Kilcross Community Centre and Patrician Community Centre. There is no need to book a place for this event.
Bronntanas 2026 will conclude with a celebration event at Mud Island. There will be family activities, workshops and entertainment throughout the day before the festival concludes with a Céilí Mór led by Tolka Trad and host Jerry O'Reilly. There is no need to book a place for this event.
Join Us!
Bronntanas 2026 is a great opportunity to have fun, create new memories as a family and introduce the Irish language into your life in a simple, natural and enjoyable way.
Ready to get involved? All events are free, but some require booking. View the full digital programme below to select your events and reserve your place.
You will find detailed information about each event, registration links and everything you need to make the most of 21 days of fun, learning and Irish with the whole family.