Families across Dublin can discover the creativity and everyday value of the Irish language at Bronntanas 2026, a three-week arts festival featuring more than 70 free events. Running from 14 September to 4 October, the programme offers activities for children and parents, whether they speak Irish fluently or are simply curious to try a few words.
Organised through Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown’s Irish-language office and library network, the festival combines culture, sport, storytelling and practical family activities in venues throughout the county. It forms part of a growing Dublin news calendar that highlights accessible community events for all ages.
Bronntanas 2026: What families can expect
The festival is designed to show how Irish can create new opportunities for learning, play and connection. Its programme includes creative workshops, theatre, live music, storytelling and outdoor activities, with no requirement for participants to have perfect Irish.
Several events provide a snapshot of the range on offer:
- Tarraing do Chara: Artist Cara Dunne opens the festival with a portrait workshop at Ballyogan Library on 15 September.
- Eachtra na dTonnta: Families can try kayaking through Irish with Moontour at Dún Laoghaire Harbour on 27 September.
- Céilí Cáit: The festival closes on 4 October with an opportunity to learn Irish dancing at Kilcross Community Centre.
Some activities require advance booking, although every event listed as part of the festival is free. Families should check the official Bronntanas programme and reserve places where necessary.
A 21-day challenge for everyday Irish
A key feature of Bronntanas 2026 is the 21-Day Family Challenge. Each day, participating families receive a short, practical activity intended to bring Irish into ordinary routines.
Suggestions may include using new Irish words during dinner, playing a simple game through Irish or sharing an Irish-language story. The format is designed to make the language approachable and enjoyable rather than treating it as a formal classroom subject.
For families considering education options or looking to strengthen their connection with Irish culture, initiatives like this offer an informal way to build confidence. They also add to Dublin’s varied community and cultural offering beyond the city’s major attractions.
Read more
Discover more local stories and community updates from Dublin:
How to take part
Bronntanas 2026 runs from 14 September through 4 October across Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown and wider Dublin locations. The full programme is available through the event organisers, with details of venues, times and booking requirements.
Before attending, families should review the schedule and confirm whether their chosen workshop or activity requires registration. With more than 70 free events, the festival provides plenty of ways to experience Irish through art, movement, music and shared family time.
Explore more
Keep up with further Dublin stories and local developments:
Why Bronntanas matters
Bronntanas 2026 presents the Irish language as something active, creative and open to everyone. By combining free cultural events with small daily challenges, the festival gives families practical opportunities to use Irish together.
Takeaway: Bronntanas 2026 offers Dublin families a welcoming route into Irish-language culture, with free events, accessible activities and experiences designed to be enjoyed together.
