Easter weekend is one of the best times of year for families in Ireland to slow down, make memories and enjoy the spring weather. But with rising costs everywhere, many parents are asking: how can we celebrate Easter without blowing the budget?

Here are 10 brilliant, family-friendly Easter activities happening across Ireland this weekend, all affordable or completely free.

1. Join a Local Easter Egg Hunt

Hundreds of towns, shopping centres, and parks are hosting free or low-cost Easter egg hunts for kids of all ages.

• Keep an eye on local Facebook groups or county council websites
• Bring your own basket and turn it into a photo opportunity
• Many events include music, face painting or visits from the Easter Bunny

2. Visit a Petting Farm or Lambing Experience

Spring means baby animals — and many farms across Ireland offer affordable Easter weekend access.

• Entry fees usually range from €5–€10 per child
• Look for spots like Airfield Estate (Dublin), The Farm Grenagh (Cork), or Turoe Pet Farm (Galway)
• Bring snacks and make a day of it

3. Set Up an Easter Craft Station at Home

No tickets, no travel — just paint, glue, glitter and fun.

• Decorate boiled eggs
• Make bunny ears and DIY Easter cards
• Use what you already have at home — or visit a Euro shop for supplies

4. Plan a Picnic in the Park

The weather is (hopefully) mild, and a simple picnic can be a memorable Easter treat.

• Phoenix Park, St Anne’s Park, Fitzgerald Park, People’s Park and Eyre Square are great city options
• Pack sandwiches, fruit, and maybe a few chocolate eggs
• Bonus: it’s completely free

5. Host an Easter Movie Night

Create a cosy evening with films like Hop, Peter Rabbit, or Paddington.

• Build a pillow fort, serve popcorn, and wind down after a busy weekend
• Use free-to-air options or streaming subscriptions you already have

6. Attend a Family-Friendly Easter Sunday Mass

For those who celebrate, attending Mass is an important part of Easter.

• Many churches host child-friendly services or outdoor blessings
• It’s also a good chance to teach kids about Irish traditions and faith

7. Go on a Spring Nature Trail or Treasure Hunt

Use Easter as a chance to get outdoors and explore.

• Make your own scavenger list: spot daffodils, robins, lambs, or Easter decorations
• Try forest parks like Donadea (Kildare), Curraghchase (Limerick), or Glenveagh (Donegal)
• Most are free with low-cost parking

8. Drop Into a Local Library or Easter Storytime

Libraries across Ireland often host free Easter crafts and storytime events.

• Some have egg painting, colouring competitions, or puppet shows
• It’s an indoor option if the weather turns

9. Bake Easter Treats Together

Skip the overpriced Easter cakes and bake your own at home.

• Simnel cake, rice krispie nests, or bunny cupcakes are simple and fun
• Kids can decorate with Smarties, mini eggs, or jellybeans
• It doubles as a bonding and budget-friendly activity

10. Check Out Free Community Events Near You

From village parades to local markets, many towns host low-cost Easter events.

• Look for family-friendly concerts, art fairs or farmers’ markets
• Many stalls offer kids’ activities like face painting, balloon animals or music zones

Final Thought

Easter doesn’t have to mean spending big. Across Ireland, families are getting creative with fun, affordable ways to celebrate the long weekend together. Whether you’re heading to a farm, staying in for movie night, or hunting for eggs in the garden — it’s the memories that matter most.

Happy Easter from itson.ie.