A Fresh Start, the Irish Way.
It’s a new year and a fresh start, and there’s no better place to ease into January than Ireland. Think cosy Irish pubs, scenic winter walks, and wholesome experiences that let you slow right down after the festive rush. If you’re looking to chase away the January blues, wrap up warm and let us show you how to make the most of the season, rain or shine.
TradFest 2026
One of the highlights of the Irish cultural calendar, TradFest returns to Dublin from 21–25 January, celebrating the very best of Irish tradition and heritage. Expect incredible traditional music performances in stunning venues across the city, from castles and cathedrals to historic halls. It’s all about Irish identity, storytelling, and creating a space where generations come together through music.
Image Credit: Failte Ireland
National Concert Hall
Warm up with a night of world-class music at the National Concert Hall. From performances by the RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra to jazz, classical, and traditional Irish music, there’s something for every taste, and it’s the perfect way to spend a chilly winter evening.
Image Credit: Failte Ireland
The Laughter Lounge
If laughter is your chosen cure for the winter blues, you’re in the right place. Ireland is famous for its sharp wit and unfiltered humour, and The Laughter Lounge showcases some of the best comedians in the country. Expect big laughs, great energy, and a proper feel-good night out.
Image Credit: Laughter Lounge Website
Explore Ireland’s Winter Walks
January is a beautiful time to explore Ireland’s landscapes at a slower pace. Grab a coffee, wrap up warm, and take in mountain trails, fairy forts, castles, forests, and coastal paths. The quieter season lets the scenery shine, and there’s nothing quite like crisp winter air and wide-open views.
Image Credit: Failte Ireland
The Hot Box Sauna, Inchicore
Kick-start the year with a wellness boost at The Hot Box Sauna in Inchicore, Dublin. With five Finnish saunas and three cold plunge pools, it’s an urban oasis perfect for relaxation, recovery, and recharging, ideal after a winter walk or a busy day exploring the city.
Image Credit: Hotbox Sauna Inchicore
Get Cosy in an Irish Pub
January is the perfect time to duck into a traditional Irish pub, settle in by the fire, and enjoy a creamy pint of Guinness with a hearty bowl of Irish stew. With pubs a little quieter this time of year, you can truly soak up the atmosphere, catch some traditional music, and enjoy the warm welcome Ireland is famous for.
Image Credit: Failte Ireland
Winter Beach Walks
Ireland’s beaches are beautifully peaceful in January. With fewer crowds and crisp sea air, a winter walk along the coast is the perfect way to clear your head and slow things down. Wrap up warm, take in the wild Atlantic views, and enjoy stretches of sand that feel refreshingly untouched.
Along Dublin’s coast, Howth, Killiney, Dollymount, Sandymount, Seapoint, Portmarnock, Skerries, and Donabate all offer scenic strolls, dramatic skies, and plenty of nearby spots to warm up with a coffee afterwards. For the brave, a quick sea dip followed by something hot is a favourite local ritual.
Image Credit: Failte Ireland
Pop into Carrolls & Treat Yourself
After a day of exploring, pop into Carrolls Irish Gifts and treat yourself to a little piece of Ireland, whether it’s cosy knitwear, thoughtful gifts, or something special to remember your trip by.
January in Ireland may be quieter, but it’s full of charm, comfort, and moments worth savouring.
