Entry tags:
Looking for something a little different?
It seems to me that we often have a problem simply finding out about the cool things happening in our own backyard. I would like to open up a call to all in Ireland, Dublin especially, to come and tell me about the great alternative (recurring) things that happen here. Not just for the people who live here, but also as a resource for people who might only be visiting for a short time and are looking for something a bit more adventurous than a good pint and decent meal. Let me know your ideas and suggestions in the comments below!
But please note; these are not endorsements, nor a guarantee of greatness.
Arts and Crafts:
Dr Sketchys. Life-drawing sessions, with alternative models, and a burlesque flair, set to a typically excellent custom soundtrack. Fun, games, and plenty of other entertainment thrown in for good measure too!
Irish Knitting and other crafts. There is a lot going on in this sphere that I can't keep track, but this website goes a really good job of it.
Craft in Ireland. 2011 is the Year of Craft. Check out this website for workshops and talks the country over.
Spaces:
Makerspaces, or hackerspaces. Community based and driven spaces where people deconstruct and improve anything that takes their fancy. Technology, computers, crafts, art, music, even meditation, are fair game. With many events, talks, workshops, or simply open evenings to drop by and check it out, I may be biased, but I think you'll enjoy it.
TOG, the Dublin space.
091 labs, the Galway space.
miLK labs, the Limerick space.
The Knitting Club, the Clare space (with surprisingly little knitting).
There are other spaces starting (or setting up websites) all the time, so check out hackerspaces.org for more details.
Exchange Dublin. I'm not sure how to describe the Exchange, it's like the above spaces, but more professionally organised and run. It's a venue provided for use of the local community. They host showcases, talks, a Stitch&Bitch group, and anything anyone wants to run. Bonus, you can always just drop in for a cup of tea.
The Science Gallery. They hold interactive exhibits based on different scientific topics, which are always fascinating, as well as really big talks, often with really big speakers. They also play host to great groups and events like the Irish Robotics Club, Ignite Dublin, and TEDxDublin!
Entertainment and Relaxation:
Tea Garden. Not your typical cuppa, and defintely no coffee. Try exotic types and blends of tea as you hang out and relax.
Fibbers. A kind of hard-rock/metal place with live bands and DJs. Actually two venues now, 'old' Fibbers with multiple floors and a dancefloor, and 'new' Fibbers on the quays that I affectionately refer to as an 'old metallers' pub. It would be fair to say that it doesn't have the best of reputations, but personally I usually have a good time, and they've fixed the plumbing!
Dominion. A kind of goth/industrial club night, usually every Saturday. It has been known to move venues, but is currently back in it's original home, just around the corner from Fibbers. Smoke-machines, light shows, regularly rotating DJs, it's a good night if it's your thing.
But please note; these are not endorsements, nor a guarantee of greatness.
Arts and Crafts:
Dr Sketchys. Life-drawing sessions, with alternative models, and a burlesque flair, set to a typically excellent custom soundtrack. Fun, games, and plenty of other entertainment thrown in for good measure too!
Irish Knitting and other crafts. There is a lot going on in this sphere that I can't keep track, but this website goes a really good job of it.
Craft in Ireland. 2011 is the Year of Craft. Check out this website for workshops and talks the country over.
Spaces:
Makerspaces, or hackerspaces. Community based and driven spaces where people deconstruct and improve anything that takes their fancy. Technology, computers, crafts, art, music, even meditation, are fair game. With many events, talks, workshops, or simply open evenings to drop by and check it out, I may be biased, but I think you'll enjoy it.
Exchange Dublin. I'm not sure how to describe the Exchange, it's like the above spaces, but more professionally organised and run. It's a venue provided for use of the local community. They host showcases, talks, a Stitch&Bitch group, and anything anyone wants to run. Bonus, you can always just drop in for a cup of tea.
The Science Gallery. They hold interactive exhibits based on different scientific topics, which are always fascinating, as well as really big talks, often with really big speakers. They also play host to great groups and events like the Irish Robotics Club, Ignite Dublin, and TEDxDublin!
Entertainment and Relaxation:
Tea Garden. Not your typical cuppa, and defintely no coffee. Try exotic types and blends of tea as you hang out and relax.
Fibbers. A kind of hard-rock/metal place with live bands and DJs. Actually two venues now, 'old' Fibbers with multiple floors and a dancefloor, and 'new' Fibbers on the quays that I affectionately refer to as an 'old metallers' pub. It would be fair to say that it doesn't have the best of reputations, but personally I usually have a good time, and they've fixed the plumbing!
Dominion. A kind of goth/industrial club night, usually every Saturday. It has been known to move venues, but is currently back in it's original home, just around the corner from Fibbers. Smoke-machines, light shows, regularly rotating DJs, it's a good night if it's your thing.