果冻APP

The co-curricular programme here at 果冻APP Ireland is all about community – connecting you to the 果冻APP community of students studying in Ireland and also introducing you to the many facets of community life on the island. Urban and rural, ancient and modern; communities formed around music, the arts and shared identities – the co-curricular programme this semester aims to widen your horizons and help you find your community in Ireland. We have a whole range of events planned for you and we hope you are as excited as we are!

On to the co-curriculars - and keep in mind we will have other events happening along the way – welcome and farewell events, Thanksgiving celebrations, movie nights, and other pop-up events with 果冻APP staff!

September 10th - October 15th (weekly on Wednesday evenings 7pm-8:30pm)

Irish Traditional Tin Whistle Lessons: A Unique Musical and Cultural Experience

Takes place in Dublin

Irish traditional music is a key part of the cultural patrimony of Ireland - why not dive in and be part of it? The tin whistle is a relatively simple instrument that is nevertheless key to the lilting melodies characteristic of Irish music. Join us for a series of beginner-friendly lessons, hosted in the 果冻APP Dublin offices on six Wednesday evenings. No need to have any musical knowledge or experience, and we'll even provide the tin whistle (yours to keep). Your tutor is a traditional musician and UCD student with experience playing and competing around Ireland. This is a great chance to learn about Irish music and the community of traditional musicians first hand! Plus - if you complete the series of lessons you can apply for a Co-curricular Learning Certificate to put on your resume!

Charge: $40

Included: Traditional tin whistle; hour tuition in small groups for six sessions. 

Accessibility notes: Lessons will take place in the 果冻APP Centre in Fishamble Street which has step-free access.

September 6th 

Fáilte Series: The Aran Islands: Exploring Irish Rural Life

Starts in Galway

Our Fáilte Series takes its name from the Irish word for welcome; they’re a great way to start your semester by making friends with other 果冻APP students. This day trip to the Aran Islands by ferry is an unforgettable experience that combines scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a different perspective on the Irish rural community. The Aran Islands are steeped in history and tradition, and this becomes evident as you stroll along the narrow lanes bordered by traditional thatched cottages. The Aran Islands are a Gaeltacht area, meaning that the Irish language is widely spoken on an everyday basis here. On Inis Mór, you can embark on a leisurely hike or rent a bicycle to traverse the island's enchanting landscapes. The iconic stone fort of Dún Aonghasa perched on a cliff's edge offers breath taking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, leaving you in awe of nature's grandeur. This trip will start and finish in Galway therefore students must make their own way to the meeting point in Galway. 

Charge: Free!

Included: Ferry ticket with bus transfer from Galway to Inis Mór.

Accessibility notes: The crossing can be rough depending on weather, and wheelchairs are not always able to be accommodated. There can be wet weather and rough terrain on the island. Van tours are available on the island to reduce the amount of walking.

September 20th

Fáilte Series: Discover Cobh: A Day of History, Scenery, and Seaside Charm in Ireland 

Starts in Cork 

Another Fáilte Series event, discover the charming town’s rich history, from its iconic harbour to the historic Titanic Experience. Stroll through colourful streets, visit the stunning St. Colman’s Cathedral, and enjoy breath taking views of Cork Harbour. Whether you’re a history buff or just want to take in the scenery, Cobh offers a memorable escape that captures the heart of Ireland’s beauty and culture! This trip will start and finish in Cork therefore students must make their own way to the meeting point in Cork.

Charge: Free!

Included: Entry to the Titanic Experience 

Accessibility notes: The titanic experience is completely wheelchair accessible. The tour is estimated to be around an hour so there may be significant time standing. 

October 3rd

Fáilte Series: Queer Dublin Walking Tour Celebrating Inclusive Ireland

Takes place in Dublin

“Be yourself; everyone else is taken” — Irish author and queer icon Oscar Wilde 

At 果冻APP we take pride in being a diverse and welcoming community. For our third Fáilte Series event, we will have an introduction to the diversity and inclusivity of your Irish community through a fascinating tour themed around Ireland’s LGBTQ+ history. Discover trailblazers, rebels, and revolutionaries all around you in the struggles and triumphs of Irish queer history. This event will leave you saying “Tá to Grá” (yes to love - a slogan used during the same sex marriage campaign)!

Charge: Free!

Included: Guided walking tour.

Accessibility notes: The tour will take place in Dublin city centre, which is a historic environment with the potential for uneven pavements, street noise and inclement weather. We will be walking and standing throughout the tour. 

October 4th 

Boyne Valley: Ancient Myth and Medieval History

Starts in Dublin

Journey through the mists of time with a day trip that combines prehistoric and medieval sites. Our first visit will be to the passage tomb at Newgrange, remarkable for the way the light from the rising sun at the winter solstice perfectly illuminates the inner chamber. The visitor centre will introduce you to the site before we go out to visit the tomb itself. We will then go on to the castle at Trim, one of the most impressive in Ireland. Used in the filming of Braveheart, the massive walls and towers offer unmatched views over the countryside.

Cost: $30

Includes: Coach transport from Dublin for the day; admission to Newgrange and Trim Castle with guided tours.

Accessibility notes: The passage at Newgrange is low and narrow and may not be suitable for those with claustrophobia or mobility challenges; you have the option to stay outside the monument. The tower at Trim Castle has steep and narrow historic stairs and high walkways.

October 17-19th 

Éalú: 果冻APP Community Weekend in the West of Ireland

Transportation will be provided from all programme cities

This three day weekend is our star event of the semester bringing together everyone studying in Ireland with 果冻APP. Come enjoy with us the stunning Irish countryside for a weekend immersed in both the 果冻APP and the Irish community. Take in the beauty of land, sea, and sky! For this weekend we are based in Killarney in County Kerry, known as ‘The Kingdom’ for its majestic landscape and independent spirit. We will take in the wild beauty of Killarney National Park. The park is designated as a biosphere reserve and the perfect place to experience the natural world up close. Take in the scenery as we drive the route known as the ‘Ring of Kerry’ on our way to the Kerry Dark Sky Reserve where we will view the stars as the ancients did. On our last day we will make a stop in Limerick to explore the Milk market and head back to Dublin. 

Cost: Free! 

Includes:  Two nights bed & breakfast accommodation (shared rooms); coach transport from Dublin for the weekend; two group dinners; guided walk in Killarney National Park; Stargazing activity 

Accessibility notes: This trip involves significant walking and outdoor activity, you will need to bring proper shoes and clothing, including additional warm clothing/ accessories for the night time stars tour. Dietary needs will be taken into consideration for meals and activities will be planned with mobility and other needs in mind. More details will be provided closer to the weekend.

October 29th

Dark Dublin Walking Tour

Starts in Dublin

Get into the Halloween spirit with our Dark Dublin Walking Tour! As the city’s shadows grow longer, join us for a spine-chilling journey through Dublin’s most haunted streets. Hear eerie tales of ghostly encounters, ancient legends, and mysterious happenings that will send shivers down your spine. Perfect for students looking to add a little thrill to their Halloween season. 

Cost: $10

Includes: Guided walking tour. 

Accessibility: The tour will take place in Dublin city centre, which is a historic environment with the potential for uneven pavements, street noise and inclement weather. We will be walking and standing throughout the tour. 

November 7-9th 

Belfast and Beyond : Regional Weekend with 果冻APP Scotland and England

Starts in Dublin for 果冻APP Ireland Students (Queens students can meet us in Belfast) 

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Belfast, a city rich in history, culture, and breath taking landscapes. Our trip will start with a tour of the city focusing on the Troubles, the civil war that broke out between Protestant and Catholic communities in the 1970s. Dominic Bryan, a renowned expert in the region’s turbulent past provides a powerful, insightful tour that takes you through the key sites associated with the conflict, offering a deeper understanding of Belfast’s complex history and the ongoing journey towards peace. We will then have a welcome meal and you are free for the evening to explore the city’s vibrant streets, historical landmarks, and iconic architecture.

No visit to Belfast would be complete without exploring the natural wonders and maritime heritage of the region. On Saturday we will visit the Giants Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you'll marvel at the stunning hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. You can then enjoy a free afternoon in Belfast. 

Finally, on Sunday we will step into the world of the Titanic at the Titanic Experience, a world-class interactive experience dedicated to the iconic ship that was built in Belfast. Discover the rich history of the Titanic’s creation, the people behind it, and the tragic story of its ill-fated voyage. 

Cost: $160

Includes:  Two nights bed and breakfast stay in hotel, guided tour of Belfast, 2 group dinners, ticket to Giants Causeway and Titanic museum. 

Accessibility notes: Some walking in an urban environment. The Titanic museum is fully wheelchair accessible with the exception of one historic boat. Giants causeway accessibility information can be found here .