Baboró 2025: Extraordinary art experiences for children, families and schools

Ireland’s flagship international arts festival for children returns to Galway from October 10th-19th, inviting schools, families and young audiences to dive into a world of imagination, creativity and wonder. The 2025 festival will feature stunning new work in theatre, circus, puppetry, dance and visual art by leading Irish and international artists. Here is a look at three of this year’s festival highlights to get excited about.

Advertisement

First Impressions by Cork-based artist Jane Hayes is a landmark exhibition made especially for early years audiences. Sculpture, textiles, photography and animation come together to reflect how young children truly experience art: playfully, curiously, and with all their senses.

Matière(s) première(s) by Compagnie par Terre / Anne Nguyen Dance Company, France is a powerful and thrilling dance show blending street and African dance, exploring heritage, resilience and connection. A breathtaking celebration of movement for young and old.

FEN by Orla Clogher is a visually rich and poetic story told through puppetry, shadow play and music. As machines threaten a precious wilderness, one gentle soul rises to protect the last curlew egg with the help of a playful fox. A moving and magical non-verbal experience for schools and families.

With a vibrant mix of world-class Irish and international performances, the festival promises ten days of in-person experiences that spark joy, provoke thought and encourage young minds to express themselves freely.

At the heart of Baboró is a deep commitment to accessibility and inclusion, ensuring that children from all backgrounds across Galway can experience the transformative power of the arts. The programme includes shows made especially for children with additional needs and provides access support for young audiences.

"Baboró is about creating space for children to engage with big ideas, experience joy and explore their own creativity through the arts," says Aislinn Ó hEocha, Artistic Director of Baboró. "We believe every child deserves the opportunity to experience joyful, powerful, thought-provoking performances that nurture empathy, imagination and confidence. Alongside moments of pure joy and belly laughs! Bringing international and Irish artists to venues throughout Galway city and county makes that possible, for ten extraordinary days, when children are the most important audience."

Baboró’s full programme launches on Tuesday 2nd of September, so put the date in your diary now! The Box Office opens Wednesday 3rd of September so make sure you browse the programme and be ready to book tickets. School bookings and group rates will be available.

Follow Baboró on Facebook and Instagram or sign up to their newsletter on www.baboro.ie for the latest programme and box office announcements.

Feature Image by Davi Matheson