Dublin’s reputation is growing as a family-friendly destination, with plenty to see and do, great places to eat, and it is renowned as one of Europe’s friendliest cities. A classic example of a great family day out in Dublin is during Bloomsday, an event that takes place every June 16th, celebrating and bringing to life all that’s exciting about James Joyce’s epic tale, Ulysses.
Billed as “Today, we are all Dubliners,” Bloomsday brings tourists and locals together in a great sense of exploration. With writing adventures, tours of landmarks, boat cruises and plenty of music and creative events, there’s something for all ages, helping firmly put Dublin in visitors’ hearts.
Retrace the Epic Ulysses Journey With Your Family
While the event now stretches across the whole week, the key highlight on the big day is a retreading of the characters’ route, taking in the events of Leopold Bloom’s journey across the city. Family-friendly activities are now a major part of the day, beyond the usual pub crawl, with families dressing up as Edwardians, going on scavenger hunts, enjoying Joyce readings, and eating themed meals from the story, including Gorgonzola sandwiches (other cheeses are available).
Families can visit the James Joyce Centre, which has plenty of children’s events as well as providing a background on the author and his epic tales. Specific events this year include a Silk Worm Families Drop-in: Bloomsday Adventure with decorating and art themed around the tale. There are also retellings of his famous The Cat and the Devil, and much more to entertain younger family members.
At home, buying or using your own craft materials, you can get your children excited for the events, creating craft works inspired by Joyce quotes like “The heaventree of stars hung with humid nightblue fruit” and so many more.
Families Can Eat Out in Fine Style in Dublin
Naturally, when out and about in Dublin your family will be interested in some of the great food the city has to offer. Among the best restaurants in Dublin and keeping with the Joyce theme, Davy Byrnes is rated as an exceptional pub and is suitable for older children. Joyce used to eat there as a regular, and the menu is full of Irish and modern classics.
For younger diners, Captain Americas in Blanchardstown is as bright and cheery as you’d expect, with plenty of space, well-priced menus and all the kids can eat in the way of burgers, pasta and pizza. All served in that 50’s American diner style. Blanchardstown is also great for shopping once the kids’ creative and cultural buzz has started to wane.
Mad Egg, down in the Liffey Valley, is another great casual dining destination in Dublin, with plenty of innovation around the humble chicken burger, using only free-range birds. From chicken and waffles to mighty burgers, there is something for every size of appetite.
Whatever the time of day, Cinnamon on Ranelagh is open early for brunch, invigorating coffee and fruit juice to get your family’s day started. The kids’ menu features pasta, pancakes, French toast, all the staples plus chips, and ice cream for pudding.
If the weather is fair, then you might want to head up to Dion Rooftop Restaurant and Bar with spectacular views around the city and the countryside beyond. Or, for young and old bookworms, take a trip to The Winding Stair with commanding views overlooking the River Liffey and the Ha’penny Bridge (which is a bit more interesting than the actual James Joyce Bridge), offering Irish comfort food in a comfortable and traditional setting.
Dublin has plenty of cultural events in and around Bloomsday, like the massive St. Patrick’s cultural festival and city parade, making it a great year-round destination with plenty of foodie innovation if you want to explore new tastes, or welcoming family-friendly places to eat traditional meals.
Whatever your schedule, do take time to encourage your little ones to learn about the history and take part in the creative events. We think that would make James Joyce a little happier. As he said, “We can’t change the world, but we can change the subject!” And getting your children involved is a great way to start.