The arrival of September generally means fewer sunny days, increases in traffic and the dreaded return to school for many. Fear not, it is also a great time of year not only to getaway for a hotel break but also for events and things to do.
September is traditionally the start of the end of peak season for hotels meaning more availability and often even better deals to be had when you book. Bearing this in mind, one of the best things do in September, is the sometimes weird, often spectacular, but never boring, Culture Night that happens one Friday each September.
One of major selling points of Culture Night is that it is entirely free, some events may require pre-booking but all no cost. This takes place across the country in various ways and offers a vast selection of individual art, architectural, musical, historical and entertainment events to choose from. In this month’s blog we are giving you our pick of events as well as places to stay meaning you can turn Culture Night into a full weekend of adventure.
Wexford
Johnstown Castle After Hours Tour: Get an opportunity to take a free 1 hour guided of this 19th century castle including stories of war, rebellion and tragedy. Pre booking required.
Loch Garman Band: In Wexford town you can get the chance to enjoy the sounds of the longing running Loch Garman Band who will perform a selection of popular songs and cinematic tracks.
Hotels in Wexford
If you’re in search of a bargain hotel in Wexford, Maldron Hotel Wexford is currently offering B&B deals for September 22nd and 23rd at €150 per night. The hotel is located on the outskirts of Wexford town allowing for easy access. If you are considering a family trip Riverside Park Hotel in Enniscorthy are currently offering a family room deal for €217 for Friday Sept 22nd.
Dublin
A weekend in the capital to take in Culture Night may just reignite your love of Dublin City. Dublin has 211 individual events happening across the county, meaning you could make a full day of events.
With a selection of tours we’ve picked one that intrigues - Dublin Hidden Gems is ideal for both locals and visitors hoping to learn about the lesser known stories of the capital from train crashes to Nobel Prize winners. Booking is required
Durty Dublin – in association with The Icon Factory, Durty Dublin is an exhibition showcases a fantastic array of street art and paraphernalia taking place in Temple Bar.
The Foundry Sessions – Google isn’t exactly the first ting that comes to mind when you think Culture. However, the tech giant are hosting an incredible night of up and coming music, comedy, dance and theatre talent. Booking required.
Where to stay in Dublin:
White Sands Hotel in Portmarnock have one of the best deals on offer this September with a B&B stay right on the coast for €125 on Friday 22nd. If you’re looking for a 2 night deal closer to the city centre then Croke Park Hotel have bed and breakfast for either double of twin rooms for €195 per night. Clayton Hotel Leopardstown also offer a 2 night family deals for €193 per night. The hotel is close to the M50, Luas line and short drive to a number of activities and attractions.
Galway
An Taibhdhearc's 'Future Gaeltacht is being described as a “multicultural Gaeltopian metropolis of the future, bursting at the seams with culture and life” and we definitely like the sound of that. This outdoor music and art spectacle takes place on Middle Street, just off the Latin Quarter on Galway City.
Where to stay in Galway:
Ardilaun Hotel in Salthill is offering a bed & breakfast deal for €170 for Friday 22nd of September. The hotel offers swimming pool and gym facilities while also being pet friendly. Flannery’s Hotel in Galway City will provide the perfect resting place for couples (€230p/n) or families (€279p/n) who are looking for two night stays the weekend of Culture Night
Kilkenny
Medieval Mile Graveyard Tour – Even though Halloween is still a few months away there’s never a bad time for a graveyard tour. Explore Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile in a new way, with fascinating insights, stories and secrets of those who shaped this magnificent city. Pre booking required.
Where to stay in Kilkenny:
The boutique Avalon House Hotel in Castlecomer is a cosy modern setting ideal for relaxation, they’ve a 2 night B&B for €256 per night.
Kerry
Unusual Instrument Tryout Session – A great night for young curious music fans at the ANAM Killarneys Arts & Cultural Centre. Take the chance to try out a vast selection of instruments from Asia and South America.
Where to Stay in Kerry:
Gleneagle Hotel and Apartments is perhaps one of the best loved family hotels in the southwest. The hotel has a selection of onsite activities as well as restaurants and bars. The hotel is offering a family deal on September 22nd for €210 for 1 night stay.
There are over 650 events taking place across the country for Culture Night 2023 including 24 events taking place online. You can review all the events here and ensure you check whether or not pre-booking in required.
