Fingal County Council Invites Families to Experience Gaeilge Through Bronntanas 2026

Fingal County Council is supporting Bronntanas 2026, a festival featuring more than 50 free events that invite children and families across Dublin to discover the "gift of Gaeilge" through creativity, culture and shared experiences.

The festival is delivered through Gaeilge365, a partnership between Fingal County Council, Dublin City Council, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council and South Dublin County Council, that promotes opportunities for people to experience and use the Irish language in everyday life.

Running from 14 September to 4 October, Bronntanas, meaning "gift", will bring a programme of family-friendly events to libraries and communities across Dublin. The festival showcases the Irish language as a welcoming and enjoyable part of family life for people of all ages and levels of fluency.

Designed for children aged 0-12 and their parents, guardians and grandparents, the programme includes storytelling, theatre, music workshops, arts activities, outdoor adventures and heritage experiences delivered through Irish or bilingually, ensuring everyone feels welcome.

Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tony Murphy said: ‘’Bronntanas offers a fantastic opportunity for families to spend time together and enjoy a wide range of activities. With events taking place across Dublin, the festival will create lasting memories for children and families while encouraging them to explore and enjoy the Irish language."

Highlights include rap-writing workshops with James Shannon of Imlé, contemporary music experiences with Lisa Murray, kayaking adventures in Dún Laoghaire, storytelling sessions, céilís and creative arts workshops. Bronntanas will also feature a daily family challenge, encouraging participants to explore the Irish language through fun and accessible activities at home.

Aoife Ní Dhonaile, Irish Innovation Officer at Fingal County Council, said: "Bronntanas offers families a fun and engaging way to experience Gaeilge through arts, culture and shared activities. Fingal County Council is delighted to support an initiative that helps people connect with the language in creative and meaningful ways."

Festival Director HK Ní Shioradáin added: "We're seeing more people attend Irish-language events because they're drawn to the story, the music or the experience itself. That's hugely encouraging and shows that interest in Gaeilge continues to grow."

The festival has also commissioned four artists to develop new work through Irish, broadening the cultural opportunities available through the language across Dublin.

All events are free, although advance booking is required for many activities. The full programme of events and booking information are available at bronntanas26 Official: Instagram | Linktree