Family & Children's Area
Bligh Barney Reserve

Kids and Cultúr 

Come to Bligh Barney Reserve & Cadmans Cottage along the Circular Quay foreshore to be welcomed to the Children’s Area! This vibrant space is designed to spark joy and creativity in young minds. With a variety of engaging activities and exciting performances, children of all ages can explore and learn in a fun, safe environment. Our festival offers arts and crafts, Irish language sessions, Irish dance performances and live entertainment, ensuring an unforgettable experience for the entire family. 

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We are delighted and honoured to have all our regional Irish dance schools perform from 12pm onwards (see festival line-up). 

 

Then for “blas Éireann” or a taste of Ireland, visit the Dance Stage at 2.30pm for some children’s Irish language classes. Cluichí, ealaíon, scéalta agus amhráin - join us for some fun language games, art, stories and songs for children. Whether you have "cúpla focal" (a few words) or no Irish at all, it makes no difference - we'll have lots of fun on St Patrick's Day at the children's tent! Beidh spraoi againn - bígí linn! (We'll have fun - come and join us).

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Throughout the day (11am - 4 pm), we have face painting available at 2 locations (behind the main stage in First Fleet Park and in Bligh Barney Reserve). Why not join our new, exciting and free "Hop & Bop Kids Workshop" from 12 - 1pm in the kids tent to thrill and delight your little ones! This is followed by a free arts and crafts from 1 - 4pm. And if the older generation would like a refreshment during this fun time, there’s a licensed bar offering a wide range of beverages. Toilets and food trucks are available only a short walk away, down on the foreshore.

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Join us for a day filled with laughter, imagination and discovery!

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