July 3–6 Local Events Guide: What to Do This Weekend in Cavan and Monaghan

Family Events, Festivals, and Live Music Happening This Weekend

Looking for something fun to do this weekend with the kids, or just a bit of time to yourself? You’re in luck – there’s loads happening locally! From picnics to parties and 1950s street festivals, here’s a quick round-up of some great events happening in Cavan and Monaghan this weekend.

---

🎶 Hooley at the Bridge – Canningstown

Get ready for a cracking weekend at Hooley at the Bridge in Canningstown! Running from Thursday through Sunday, this adult-only music event features a strong lineup of live acts each night. Hosted in Canningstown, it’s a great excuse to get out with friends and enjoy some proper live entertainment. Find Hooley at the Bridge on Facebook for more details on the weekend’s lineup and times.

---

🚶‍♀️ Steps and Stories – Cootehill

As part of Cootehill 300, Steps and Stories invites you on a gentle walk through town, where local stories and history will be shared along the way. Starting at St. Michael’s Hall, it’s a lovely community event combining movement, memory, and connection.

---

🏃‍♂️ Breffni 3 Provinces Launch Night – Arva

Join the team behind the Breffni 3 Provinces Challenge this Saturday evening at the Breffni Arms Hotel in Arva for their official launch night. This relaxed community event is a chance to meet the organisers and sponsors, and to learn more about the charities that will benefit from this year’s challenge. The run itself takes place over the August Bank Holiday weekend, so this is all about connecting with the people behind the event and finding out how you can get involved. If you’re interested in taking part, volunteering, or just supporting a great cause, pop along and have a chat. Everyone is welcome.

---

🌺 Mad Hatter’s Tea Party – Castleblaney

It’s time to fall down the rabbit hole! The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party is returning to Castleblaney and it’s a must-do for families in Monaghan this Friday afternoon. This year’s party has a fun 1950s twist, adding some rock ‘n’ roll energy to the classic Wonderland theme. Kids can meet their favourite Disney characters, join in the games, and take part in the always-popular hat competition  -the wilder, the better! This event is completely free and perfect for younger children who love dressing up and getting involved. With picnic spots available in beautiful Mindzenty Park, it’s also a lovely chance for parents to relax while the kids have fun. It’s one of the top free family events in Monaghan this weekend, and a great start to the Muckno Mania weekend lineup. Tag @muckno_mania in your pictures so everyone can admire your hat designs!

---

🎶 Breffni Bash – Cavan

Get ready for a weekend of incredible Irish music at Breffni Bash, taking place at Kingspan Breffni in Cavan Town. This high-energy outdoor festival is a must for anyone looking for live music in Cavan this weekend. On Saturday night, catch headline performances from pop star Una Healy, country legend Declan Nerney, and folk-favourites The Tumbling Paddies. Then on Sunday, the buzz continues with The High Stool Prophets and the electrifying percussion group Rhythm and Sticks. Gates open at 6PM Saturday and 5PM Sunday, with music kicking off shortly after. If you’re looking for an Irish music festival near you, this one should be top of your list! Check out https://breffnibash.ie/ for more details.

---

🎉 Killian’s Lodge 50th Celebration – Mullagh

Killian’s Lodge Hotel in Mullagh is turning 50, and they’re inviting the whole community to celebrate! This beloved local business has been at the heart of the town for generations, and this Saturday, they’re throwing a party to remember. Expect a friendly atmosphere, cold drinks, and a healthy dose of craic. There’s nothing quite like a small-town celebration to bring people together  -whether you’re a regular or have never stepped inside before. Let’s support a local business milestone. It’s the perfect excuse to get out and about, catch up with neighbours, and toast to five decades of hospitality. Keep an eye on @kilianslodge for event updates. Don’t be surprised if it turns into a bit of a sing-song before the night is out!

---

🎸 Shake, Rattle ‘n’ Roll Street Party – Castleblaney

Dust off your dancing shoes  -or your leather jacket  -because Shake, Rattle ‘n’ Roll is taking over the streets of Castleblaney this Saturday night! This 1950s-themed street party is set to be a real highlight of the weekend, with live rock ‘n’ roll music, dancing, and plenty of retro style. It’s one of those magical nights where the whole town comes out to celebrate. Whether you’re dressed to match the decade or just there for the atmosphere, you’ll feel the energy from the first beat. Expect food vendors, music echoing down the streets, and the kind of community spirit that makes events like this so special. If you’re on the lookout for nightlife events in Monaghan or something a bit different for a night out, this is the one. Follow @muckno_mania for the full schedule and don’t be afraid to get your jive on!

---

🧸 Teddy Bears Picnic & Faughs Annual Sports Day – Castleblaney

Bring your favourite teddy and your picnic blanket  -the Teddy Bears Picnic is back at Faughs GAA Club, and it’s as magical as ever. Taking place in a friendly, green outdoor setting, this gentle afternoon event is perfect for families with young children. Kids can enjoy storytelling and games, all while their teddy bear friends soak up the sunshine. The atmosphere is always welcoming, and there’s plenty of space to relax, play, and meet other families. Best of all, the fun doesn’t stop there! Right after the picnic, stick around for the Faughs Annual Sports Day – a much-loved community tradition full of races, novelty games, and good old-fashioned fun. It’s the perfect way to let the kids burn off some energy while supporting local clubs and groups. If you’re searching for free family-friendly events in Castleblaney this weekend, you won’t want to miss this one. No need to book – just show up and get involved in a family day out!

---

📚 Story Time & Craft – Cootehill

Looking for something cosy and creative for the little ones? Pop down to Cootehill Library this Friday afternoon for a charming story time and craft session. It’s perfect for preschoolers and early primary school children who love listening to tales and getting stuck into glue and glitter. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and there’s no booking required – just come along and join the fun. If you’re searching for free family activities in Cootehill this weekend, this is a calm and creative way to spend an hour. Libraries are such a brilliant resource in our communities, and events like this are a great reminder of why we love them. Be sure to arrive on time, as places may be limited depending on numbers.

---

🧭 Family Treasure Hunt – Virginia

Solve riddles and follow clues in this fun family treasure hunt at Virginia Library. It’s a great way to get kids thinking and moving, with a sweet treat at the end for successful treasure seekers! No booking required, just come along. This is suitable for children of all ages but they  must be accompanied by an adult.  There’s lots happening over the summer in Virginia Library so make sure to check them out for all the information on upcoming events. We will, of course, keep you updated too!

---

📲 Want More Local Events?

Our events section on WhatsLocal.ie is launching very soon, and we’d love to help even more local groups and organisers share what’s happening. Whether it’s a festival, a family workshop, or a weekly class -if it’s local, we want to help people know about it!

📧 If you’re running an event, email us at whatslocal.ie@gmail.com and we’ll help get you listed.
📱 And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @whatslocal.ie for weekly updates, last-minute finds, community support!.
📤 DM us your events or tag us in your stories – we love seeing your photos and sharing the great things happening around Cavan and Monaghan!

Here’s to a brilliant weekend!