Nuacht

Celebrate creativity through drawing at the Museum for National Drawing Day 2025

Ink and colour drawing of a big spinning-wheel and reel-holder from Cillrailaig, Co. Kerry by Åke Campbell. No. 9. F:2006.17

Each year, the National Gallery of Ireland partners with museums, galleries, libraries, and cultural organisations across the island to inspire everyone to get drawing for National Drawing Day.

This National Drawing Day, unleash your creativity at the National Museum of Ireland! Whether you're sketching a favourite museum object, exploring the rich story of Irish art, or discovering a new exhibition, there's something to inspire everyone. Join us—online or in person—at any of our three museum sites in Dublin and Co Mayo for a day of art, imagination, and celebration through drawing.

National Drawing Day | Saturday 17 May

#NationalDrawingDay

Drawing Day Events:

Create your own artwork inspired by the National Folklife Collection

11am - 2pm | Saturday 17 May | Families
National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co Mayo
Celebrate National Drawing Day by creating your own artwork inspired by the National Folklife Collection. Whether you're a seasoned artist or simply enjoy sketching for fun, this is your chance to explore your creativity, make art, and be part of a vibrant day of artistic expression. FIND OUT MORE

Take the History of Art in Ireland Tour

2pm | Saturday 17 May | All Ages
National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street, Dublin 2
Celebrate Drawing Day at the Museum and explore the story of Irish art, from the Stone Age to Early Medieval times. Discover megalithic designs on a replica passage tomb, the brilliance of Bronze Age goldwork, and the flowing Iron Age La Tène style, echoed in treasures like the Ardagh Chalice and the 'Tara' Brooch. FIND OUT MORE

Sketch your favourite Museum object

During opening hours | Saturday 17 May | Families
National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street, Dublin 2
Collect the 'My Favourite Object' activity booklet in the Museum reception, explore the Museum, and use the activity booklet to help pick and draw your favourite object in the Museum's collection. FIND OUT MORE