Upcoming events
Festivals, fairs, and happenings in Newbridge and nearby towns.
2 Jul – 8 Aug 2026
Pick your Own Fruit Veg & Herbs Farm Tour
Category: Outdoor Activities / Farm ExperiencesVenue: Kildare Farm FoodsEvent location: Duneany, County KildarePostal address: Rathmuck, Kildare, County Kildare, R51 KX37Dates: Thursday, 2 July to Saturday, 8 August 2026Days: Thursdays, Fridays and SaturdaysPrice: €15 per person or €50 for a family of fourBest for: Farm experiences, nature, food growing and hands-on outdoor activitiesOverviewBecome a farmer for the day during this hands-on tour of Kildare Farm Foods’ organic working farm.Visitors travel around the farm by train and on foot, gaining access to areas that are normally closed to the public. Along the way, the tour explores the orchard, market garden, crop fields, bee hives, pumpkin patch and natural foraging areas.Each visitor is also provided with a bag and guided in gathering some of the seasonal fruit, vegetables and herbs available during the tour.Working-farm train tourThe experience includes a train journey through the organic working farm, offering a behind-the-scenes look at parts of the property that are not usually accessible to visitors.The tour introduces the work involved in managing the farm and shows how its crops, orchards, wildlife areas and visitor attractions fit together.Organic orchardVisit the farm’s extensive orchard, which contains approximately 3,000 trees.The orchard produces several varieties of apples, pears and plumcots. Guides explain how the different fruits grow, how the trees are cared for and how the harvest changes throughout the season.Foraging walkThe guided foraging walk passes through an area containing native trees, fruit and berry plants, herbs, grasses and wildlife.Visitors can learn about some of the plants growing naturally on the farm and how they contribute to the wider ecosystem.Seasonal cropsThe train tour travels through fields growing a changing selection of seasonal crops.Depending on the stage of the growing season, these may include:OatsMustardMaizePotatoesSunflowersThe crops and harvesting activities available will vary according to weather and seasonal conditions.Bee hivesSee some of the farm’s working bee hives and learn about the important role bees play in pollinating fruit trees, vegetables and wild plants.The guide explains how the colonies function and why healthy bee populations are essential to both the farm and the wider environment.Pumpkin patchThe route passes through the pumpkin patch, where the year’s pumpkin plants are grown in preparation for the farm’s autumn and Halloween celebrations.Summer visitors can see the plants developing well before the pumpkins are ready to harvest.Organic market gardenExplore the market garden and polytunnels where seasonal fruit, vegetables and herbs are grown for sale in the farm shop.This part of the tour provides a closer look at planting, crop care and food production on a working organic farm.Potato pickingVisitors can take part in potato picking in the farm’s organic potato patch.The activity explains how potatoes grow beneath the soil before giving participants the chance to dig and search for part of the year’s harvest.Bring home your harvestEvery visitor receives a bag and guidance on collecting some of the herbs, fruit and vegetables encountered along the route.The farm’s booking page states that each participant can bring home a harvest bag of up to approximately 5 kg. The exact produce available will depend on what is ready to pick on the day.Other attractions includedA tour booking also provides access to the other attractions open during the visit, including:The open farmTractor CaféFarm shopAnimal feeding areasAdventure Railroad trainOther seasonal farm activitiesIndividual attractions may operate at particular times or only during school holidays, so visitors should check availability before travelling.What to wearThis is an active visit to a working farm. The fields and paths can be muddy, wet or uneven, particularly after rain.Visitors should bring:Rubber boots or sturdy waterproof footwearRain gearA suitable hatClothing that can get dirtyThe activity will continue in typical Irish summer weather, so dressing for changing conditions is important.AccessibilityThe fields and foraging walk include rough and uneven ground.Because of these conditions, the full tour is not suitable for:WheelchairsBuggiesVisitors with limited mobilityAnyone with specific access requirements should contact the farm directly before booking.Visiting informationKildare Farm Foods is located around five minutes by car from Junction 13 of the M7 and Kildare Village.The farm’s usual opening hours are:Monday to Friday: 9:00 am–5:00 pmSaturday: 9:00 am–3:00 pmSunday and bank holidays: ClosedSeasonal-event opening arrangements may differ from the normal schedule.Booking informationTours operate on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 2 July to 8 August 2026.Individual ticket: €15Family ticket: €50 for a family of fourAdvance booking is recommended because places are limited and activities depend on seasonal growing conditions.Contact:Telephone: +353 45 526774Email: familyfun@kildarefarmfoods.com
Kildare Town
Wed 15 Jul 2026, 12:00am – 4:00pm
Little Red Riding Hood’s Woodland Adventure at the Irish National Stud & Gardens
Category: Family / Outdoor Activities / Events & FestivalsLocation: Irish National Stud & Gardens, Tully, County KildareDate: Wednesday, 15 July 2026Time: 12:00 pm–4:00 pmPrice: Event activities are listed as free; standard venue admission may still applyBest for: Storytelling, woodland trails, crafts, character encounters and outdoor activitiesOverviewStep into a classic fairy tale during Little Red Riding Hood’s Woodland Adventure at the Irish National Stud & Gardens.The event brings the story of Little Red Riding Hood to life through an interactive woodland trail, hidden clues, creative activities and encounters with familiar characters. Visitors can explore St Fiachra’s Garden and Thatch Cottage Green while helping Little Red gather everything she needs for her basket.Follow the woodland trailSet off along the winding paths of St Fiachra’s Garden and search for objects hidden among the trees.The trail includes flowers, berries, pictures and other woodland treasures, with challenges to complete along the way.Young adventurers can:Search for hidden pictures among the treesLook out for wanted posters featuring Walter the WolfFind the special red pineconeComplete a woodland trail cardExchange the red pinecone for a prizeClaim a treat after finishing the trailMeet Little Red Riding Hood and Walter the WolfVisit Granny’s thatched cottage and meet Little Red Riding Hood and Walter the Wolf.The character encounters add a theatrical element to the trail and give visitors the opportunity to step directly into the well-known story.Games and creative activitiesAdditional activities are planned throughout the event, including:Traditional woodland gamesArts and craftsWoodland-inspired mask makingDesigning a wanted poster for Walter the WolfFace paintingActivities may operate at set times or be subject to availability during busy periods.Picnic in the gardensVisitors are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket, a favourite teddy bear or another woodland friend.The event takes place in the natural surroundings of St Fiachra’s Garden and Thatch Cottage Green, offering plenty of space to relax between activities.Other attractionsA visit can also include the wider attractions at the Irish National Stud & Gardens, such as:The Japanese GardensSt Fiachra’s GardenThe Fairy TrailThe playgroundThe Irish Racehorse ExperienceThe working stud and thoroughbred horsesGuided and self-guided visitor experiencesAccess to some attractions is included with standard admission.VenueThe event takes place at:Irish National Stud & GardensTullyCounty KildareR51 KX25Booking informationThe event runs from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm on Wednesday, 15 July 2026.The activities are advertised as free, but visitors should check whether standard admission to the Irish National Stud & Gardens is required. Advance booking is recommended during the summer season.What to bringVisitors may wish to bring:A picnic blanketA favourite teddy bear or woodland toyComfortable outdoor footwearWeather-appropriate clothingA small backpack for trail activitiesAs much of the event takes place outdoors, prepare for changing weather.
Kildare Town
16–19 Jul 2026
Swift & Vanessa Festival 2026
Category: Arts & Culture / Heritage / FestivalsLocation: Celbridge, County KildareDates: Thursday, 9 July to Sunday, 19 July 2026Price: A mixture of free and ticketed eventsBest for: Literature, history, music, theatre, talks and cultural eventsOverviewThe Swift & Vanessa Festival returns to Celbridge from 9 to 19 July 2026, celebrating the extraordinary relationship between writer Jonathan Swift and Esther Vanhomrigh, whom Swift called “Vanessa”.The festival brings their story to life through literature, music, theatre, talks, exhibitions and community events held across Celbridge. The 2026 programme also marks 300 years since the publication of Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels in 1726.The story of Swift and VanessaEsther Vanhomrigh lived at Celbridge Abbey, where Swift visited her from Dublin. Their surviving letters and Swift’s poem Cadenus and Vanessa record one of the most famous, intense and complicated literary relationships in Irish history.The festival explores that relationship and its connection with Celbridge, particularly the Abbey grounds, Vanessa’s Bower and the River Liffey.Gulliver’s Travels anniversaryThe 2026 festival places special emphasis on the 300th anniversary of Gulliver’s Travels.Swift was visiting Vanessa in Celbridge during the period in which he wrote the book, and the programme includes events exploring its humour, satire, politics and continuing relevance. A dedicated anniversary celebration is planned for Sunday, 19 July.What to expectThe festival programme includes a mixture of literary, historical and artistic events.Highlights announced for 2026 include:A Gulliver’s Travels 300th anniversary celebrationA concert featuring Deirdre Masterson and Ronan TynanA conversation with Katriona O’SullivanA conversation with Dearbhla MescalA performance by the SUSO ChoirSwift’s Salon, celebrating new writing and musicTalks, exhibitions and community activitiesIndividual events may require separate tickets, while others are expected to be free.Festival settingCelbridge has strong associations with both Jonathan Swift and Esther Vanhomrigh.Celbridge Abbey was Vanessa’s home, and tradition holds that she and Swift walked together in its gardens and spent time at Vanessa’s Bower, a stone structure overlooking the River Liffey. The wider town also features prominently in Celbridge’s literary and historic identity.Visiting informationEvents take place at different venues around Celbridge, so visitors should check the official programme for exact locations, times and booking arrangements.Some festival activities may be outdoors, while others take place in churches, libraries, community spaces and cultural venues. Allow time to walk between locations and check access details for each event before travelling.Tickets and bookingThe festival offers individual event tickets as well as a festival-pass option.Prices vary depending on the event, and advance booking is recommended for concerts, talks and limited-capacity performances.Official website: swiftandvanessa.com
Celbridge
Sat 18 Jul, 2:00pm
Allenwood vs Leixlip — 2026 Hanlon Concrete LTD Senior Football League Division 2 Final - Final
Allenwood vs LeixlipCompetition: 2026 Hanlon Concrete LTD Senior Football League Division 2 Final - FinalSport: FootballVenue: Cedral St Conleth's Newbridge
Newbridge
Sat 18 Jul, 3:45pm
Winner SF1 vs Winner SF2 — 2026 Hanlon Concrete LTD Senior Football League Division 1 - Cup Division 2 - Final
Winner SF1 vs Winner SF2Competition: 2026 Hanlon Concrete LTD Senior Football League Division 1 - Cup Division 2 - FinalSport: FootballVenue: Cedral St Conleth's Newbridge
Newbridge
Sat 18 Jul, 3:45pm
Moorefield vs Naas — 2026 Hanlon Concrete LTD Senior Football League Division 1 - Cup Division 2 - Final
Moorefield vs NaasCompetition: 2026 Hanlon Concrete LTD Senior Football League Division 1 - Cup Division 2 - FinalSport: FootballVenue: Cedral St Conleth's Newbridge
Newbridge
15–16 Aug 2026
Taste of Kildare
Category: Events & FestivalsLocation: Naas Racecourse, Naas, County KildareType: Food and drink festival2026 dates: Saturday 15 August – Sunday 16 August 2026Best for: Local food, chef demonstrations, craft drinks, producer stalls, live music, festival atmosphereOverviewTaste of Kildare is one of County Kildare’s leading food and drink festivals, bringing together local restaurants, chefs, producers, drinks brands and hospitality businesses for a weekend celebration of flavour and creativity.The 2026 festival takes place at Naas Racecourse on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 August 2026. The event is promoted as a two-day food and drink festival with chef demonstrations, live music, craft drinks, food vendors, family activities and local producer showcases.Why it mattersTaste of Kildare is a showcase for the county’s food culture. It gives visitors a chance to sample food from local restaurants, discover artisan producers, enjoy craft drinks, and see chefs and food personalities in action.Into Kildare describes the festival as a celebration of the county’s vibrant food and drink scene, bringing together leading chefs, artisan producers and hospitality talent.What to expectThe programme typically includes food trucks, restaurant stands, chef demos, producer stalls, craft drinks, music and entertainment. The official Taste of Kildare site lists experiences such as the Calor Gas Chefs’ Theatre, Craft Brewery Village, Gather Craft Market and family fun activities.For 2026, published opening hours are:Saturday 15 August: 12:00–20:00Sunday 16 August: 12:00–18:00Visiting Taste of KildareTaste of Kildare is a ticketed event, so visitors should book in advance and check the official website for the latest programme, vendor list, travel information and access details. Early bird adult tickets are listed at €10, with general admission at €15 in advance or €20 on the day. Children under 10 are listed as free when accompanied by an adult.Naas Racecourse provides a spacious event setting, but larger festival days can be busy. Allow time for arrival, parking, entry queues and moving between food areas, stages and demonstrations.
Naas
Sat 22 Aug 2026, 10:30am – 12:00pm
Castledermot – exploring the medieval heart of a modern town
Category: Heritage / Walking Tours / HistoryLocation: St James’s Church and Graveyard, Church Lane, Castledermot, County KildareDate: Saturday, 22 August 2026Time: 10:30 am–12:00 pmPrice: FreeBest for: Medieval history, archaeology, architecture and guided town walksOverviewDiscover the visible and hidden traces of medieval Castledermot during a guided walking tour led by local archaeologist Dr Sharon Greene.The walk explores how Castledermot developed from the early monastic settlement of Díseart Diarmada into an important Anglo-Norman borough and walled town. It also considers how modern development can threaten historic places, while sometimes revealing new evidence about the town’s past.Castledermot’s medieval storyFollowing the Anglo-Norman invasion, the lands around the old monastery were granted to Walter de Riddlesford.He established a borough that expanded in size and importance, and by the end of the thirteenth century Castledermot had become a walled town. Despite the Black Death, attacks associated with Edward Bruce and other periods of upheaval, it remained a significant centre where royal councils and parliaments were held.What the tour exploresThe tour looks beyond Castledermot’s modern roads and buildings to uncover the shape of the medieval settlement beneath and around the present town.Topics are expected to include:The early monastery of Díseart DiarmadaThe development of the Anglo-Norman boroughCastledermot’s medieval walls and street patternSurviving archaeological and architectural featuresThe town’s role in medieval government and commerceHow construction and redevelopment can uncover buried archaeologyThe challenge of protecting heritage within a growing modern townStarting pointThe walk begins at:St James’s Church and GraveyardChurch LaneCastledermotCounty KildareThe church and graveyard stand within one of the town’s most important historic areas and provide an appropriate starting point for exploring Castledermot’s early religious and medieval heritage.About the guideThe tour is led by Dr Sharon Greene, a local archaeologist with extensive knowledge of Castledermot’s historic landscape.Her commentary will connect surviving buildings and monuments with archaeology, documentary evidence and the changing shape of the town.Parking and practical informationParking is available at:Teach Diarmada Community CentreR14 YF61The community centre is across the road from St James’s Church. Additional on-street parking is available within a short walk.The event takes place outdoors, so visitors should wear comfortable footwear and dress appropriately for the weather.Booking informationThe walking tour is free and forms part of National Heritage Week 2026. The official listing does not state that advance booking is required, but contacting the organiser beforehand may be advisable if numbers are limited.Organiser: Castledermot Local History GroupTelephone: 087 799 0867Email: castledermothist@gmail.com
Castledermot
Sat 22 Aug 2026, 11:00am – 12:15pm
How Dublin Zoo Protects Animals at Risk, Ages 8+
Category: Heritage Week / Wildlife / WorkshopsLocation: Leixlip Library, Captains Hill, Leixlip, County Kildare, W23 WR96Date: Saturday, 22 August 2026Time: 11:15 am–12:15 pmPrice: FreeSuitable for: Ages 8+Best for: Wildlife, conservation, animal adaptations and hands-on learningOverviewDiscover how animals survive in the wild during this interactive conservation workshop led by a Dublin Zoo educator.Participants will explore the remarkable physical features and behaviours that help animals thrive in habitats ranging from the savanna to the forest floor. The session combines real examples, practical activities and simple experiments designed to make wildlife conservation engaging and memorable.What to expectThe workshop takes a close look at animal adaptations, including powerful skulls, sharp teeth, protective fur and other features that help wildlife find food, avoid danger and survive in changing environments.Participants can expect hands-on activities and experiments that explore:How different animals are adapted to their habitatsWhy skulls and teeth vary between speciesHow fur, camouflage and body shape support survivalThe threats facing wildlife around the worldHow conservation projects help protect animals at riskAbout the workshopThe session is delivered by a conservation educator from Dublin Zoo and is designed for children aged eight and over.Dublin Zoo is one of Ireland’s leading centres for wildlife education and conservation. Its work includes supporting threatened species, participating in international breeding programmes and helping visitors understand the importance of protecting animals and their habitats.Heritage WeekThis event forms part of National Heritage Week 2026, which celebrates Ireland’s natural, cultural and built heritage through events, talks, workshops and community activities across the country.The workshop offers a natural-heritage perspective by examining wildlife, habitats and the role conservation plays in protecting biodiversity.VenueThe event takes place at:Leixlip LibraryCaptains HillLeixlipCounty KildareW23 WR96The venue is fully wheelchair accessible, accessible by public transport and has car parking available.Booking informationThe workshop is free, but advance booking is required because places may be limited.Booking is available online or directly through Leixlip Library.Telephone: 045 980 844Email: leixliplib@kildarecoco.ie
Leixlip
27–30 Aug 2026
Women’s Irish Open – The K Club
Category: Sport / Golf / Events & FestivalsLocation: Palmer South Course, The K Club, Straffan, County Kildare, W23 YX53Dates: Thursday, 27 August to Sunday, 30 August 2026Type: Ladies European Tour golf championshipBest for: Professional golf, major sporting events and days out at The K ClubOverviewThe KPMG Women’s Irish Open returns from 27 to 30 August 2026, bringing leading female golfers from Ireland and around the world to The K Club in County Kildare.The four-day Ladies European Tour championship will be played on the resort’s renowned Palmer South Course, marking the first time The K Club has hosted the event.The tournament combines elite international competition with the atmosphere of a major summer sporting occasion, attracting golf followers, local visitors and spectators from overseas.The Palmer South CourseThe Palmer South Course is designed as an inland links-style course, with dune-like mounding, dramatic rock features, water hazards and varied landscapes throughout.Previously used for three editions of the European Open, the course offers a demanding test for the tournament field and excellent viewing opportunities for spectators.Its mix of wide fairways, shaped terrain and strategic hazards should provide an exciting setting as the players compete over four championship rounds.The championshipThe KPMG Women’s Irish Open is one of the most prestigious events on the Ladies European Tour.Each summer, the championship brings together established international stars, leading Irish professionals and emerging players for four days of competitive golf. The 2026 tournament has a listed prize fund of €450,000.Defending champion Lottie Woad is expected to return, while leading players already associated with the 2026 field include Irish favourite Leona Maguire and England’s Charley Hull.What to expectVisitors can expect four days of championship golf, with opportunities to follow players around the course or watch from designated spectator areas.The event is also expected to include food and refreshment outlets, exhibitor areas, sponsor activities and additional visitor experiences around the tournament village.Final schedules, tee times, player lists and entertainment details will be announced closer to the event.VenueThe tournament takes place at:The K ClubStraffanCounty KildareW23 YX53The luxury resort is known for its championship golf courses and history of hosting major international tournaments.TicketsGeneral-admission, multi-day and premium-experience tickets are available through the official tournament website.Ticket types and prices may vary by day, so visitors should consult the official booking page for current options.Official website: kpmgwomensirishopen.ieAdvance booking is recommended, particularly for the weekend rounds.Visiting informationVisitors should check official travel, parking and access information before attending. Large sporting events may operate dedicated parking areas, shuttle services or temporary traffic arrangements.Comfortable waterproof footwear is recommended, as spectators may walk considerable distances over grass and uneven ground. Suitable clothing should also be brought for changing weather conditions.
Straffan
1–3 Sep 2026
NomadÉire Conference — Digital Nomad & Remote Work Annual Gathering
Category: Business / Conferences / NetworkingLocation: MERITS Innovation Thinkspace, Naas, County KildareDates: Tuesday, 1 September to Thursday, 3 September 2026Time: From 5:00 pm on Tuesday to 10:00 pm on ThursdayPrice: €299Best for: Remote workers, digital nomads, founders, entrepreneurs and location-independent professionalsOverviewNomadÉire Conference is an international gathering for digital nomads, remote workers, entrepreneurs, founders and location-independent professionals.Hosted at MERITS Innovation Thinkspace in Naas, the event combines talks, workshops, panel discussions and structured networking focused on the future of remote work, business growth, artificial intelligence and globally mobile careers.What to expectThe programme is designed around practical learning, professional development and meaningful connection.Attendees can expect:Talks and panel discussions on remote work, AI and entrepreneurshipPractical workshops and collaborative sessionsNetworking with professionals from Ireland and overseasOpportunities for founders and entrepreneurs to explore partnershipsDiscussions about building sustainable, location-independent businessesThe event is aimed at both experienced remote professionals and people exploring a more flexible way of working.Who should attendNomadÉire is suited to:Digital nomadsRemote employeesFreelancers and consultantsStart-up foundersEntrepreneursContent creatorsTechnology professionalsCoworking and tourism operatorsBusinesses interested in attracting remote talentLocal professionals and businesses can also use the conference to connect with an international audience and learn more about the growing remote-work economy.VenueThe conference takes place at:MERITS Innovation ThinkspaceNaasCounty KildareIrelandMERITS is a coworking and innovation hub supporting technology businesses, entrepreneurs and start-ups in County Kildare.About NomadÉireNomadÉire is an Irish community and events platform for digital nomads, remote professionals, founders and globally mobile people.Its events combine business learning and networking with Irish culture, travel and community experiences. The organisation’s wider 2026 programme includes a multi-day conference and festival experience in Counties Kildare and Laois.Supported byThe conference is supported by:Kildare County CouncilLocal Enterprise Office KildareMERITS Innovation ThinkspaceBooking informationTickets are listed at €299.Advance booking is recommended, particularly for attendees travelling from outside Ireland.Official website: nomadeire.comVisitors should check the official website before booking travel, as the broader NomadÉire festival programme may include additional dates, locations and ticket packages beyond the three-day Naas conference.
Naas
Wed 21 Oct 2026, 8:00pm – 10:00pm
Movicals – The Best of Movie Musicals
Category: Music / TheatreLocation: Moat Theatre, Abbey Road, Naas, County KildareDate: Wednesday, 21 October 2026Time: 8:00 pm–10:00 pmPrice: €30 plus booking feeBest for: Movie musicals, live vocals, theatre songs and feel-good entertainmentOverviewMovicals – The Best of Movie Musicals brings the spectacle of the stage and the glamour of the big screen together for a lively night of musical entertainment at the Moat Theatre in Naas.The show takes audiences on a journey through some of the most memorable movie musicals of the past 50 years, combining well-known songs, theatrical performances and a fast-moving celebration of musical cinema.About the showExpect music inspired by major stage and screen favourites, from the drama of Les Misérables and the energetic rhythms of Fame to the feel-good appeal of Mamma Mia.The production is presented as a movie-musical extravaganza, moving through different eras and styles in a colourful “lights, camera, action” experience.What to expectThe show is designed for audiences who enjoy musical theatre, film soundtracks and recognisable songs performed live.With a two-hour running time, the evening promises a broad selection of musical highlights rather than focusing on a single production or composer.VenueThe performance takes place at:Moat TheatreAbbey RoadNaasCounty KildareIrelandThe theatre is located close to the centre of Naas and hosts a regular programme of music, drama, comedy and community performances.Booking informationTickets cost €30 plus booking fee.Buy tickets from the Moat TheatreThe performance begins at 8:00 pm on Wednesday, 21 October 2026 and is scheduled to finish at approximately 10:00 pm.
Naas