Christmas carols and more festive fun at Mayo museum
JOIN two of the region's leading choirs for an atmospheric afternoon of Christmas carols and choral pieces in the exhibition galleries at the National Museum of Country Life, Turlough Park, from 2 p.m. this Sunday, December 21.
These performances with the Mayo Male Voice Choir and the Cill Aodain Choral Society have become a firm festive favourite with museum visitors over the last number of years.
The Mayo Male Voice Choir will perform at 2 p.m. under the direction of Deirdre Lee. The Cill Aodain Choral Society will perform at 3 p.m. under the direction of Finola Higgins-Cosgrove.
A VERY BEAR-Y CHRISTMAS
An impressive bear specimen has gone on display in Turlough Park as part of the ongoing exhibition, The Murmur of Bees, which explores bees and their important role in Ireland’s biodiversity. Bears have long been associated with bees and honey and one of the ancient Irish names for a bear is milchobur (honey-lover).
The female bear from Alaska has pale brown fur and is mounted standing on her hind legs, with long claws outstretched towards the visitor. Brown bears once roamed throughout Ireland but became extinct here thousands of years ago.
Find out more on Level A of the exhibition galleries.
CHRISTMAS TRAIL
Pick up a fun and festive activity sheet at museum reception, available until January 4. Use the clues to complete a festive themed treasure hunt style activity to find 12 decorations hanging in the gallery displays.
This is a self-guided indoor trail, suitable for children aged five years plus. Adult guidance is required.
When finished, go to reception to enter a free competition for a Christmas goodie hamper.
CHRISTMAS OPENING
The National Museum of Ireland is open throughout the Christmas and new year period with the exception of Christmas Eve (closing at 12 noon), Christmas Day (closed) and St. Stephen’s Day (closed). Normal opening hours resume on Saturday, December 27.
The exhibition galleries are open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday to Monday from 1 to 5 p.m. Admission is free. No booking is required.
EXHIBITION
Visit a new exhibition of art celebrating stories, symbols and Celtic myth in the Courtyard Gallery (next to the café).
The exhibition has been developed by the Luisne Art Project - a nationally recognised and highly successful arts initiative for people with disabilities, based in Ballinrobe. In 2025, the Luisne artists collaborated with art facilitator Noreen Lydon and guest mentors Michael Gannon and Ruby Staunton, exploring the rich tapestry of Celtic mythology. The result is Celtic Tales by Warrior’s Hand - a compelling collection that celebrates imagination and heritage.
QUIET HOUR
Take some time to explore the National Folklife Collection during a dedicated quiet hour from 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 27. During this quiet hour, background music is reduced or turned off, and lighting in the galleries are dimmed to create a more soothing atmosphere.