Arts and Creativity Editor Laura Molloy discusses how to bring some creative juices to your night out, or even better, how to spend a crafty night in.
Freshers season is upon us, and so is the eagerness to make new friends. In recent years, the number of clubs and pubs closing in Dublin has been on the rise, but students’ enthusiasm to socialise remains. Thankfully, Dublin is a city that is full of culture and creativity with plenty of options for students to enjoy themselves. Whether you’re on a budget or feeling bougie, this list will definitely have a creative evening suitable for you.
Paint and Prosecco/Drink and Draw
If you’re looking for organised creative events in Dublin (and elsewhere) these might just be for you! Paint and Prosecco run a variety of painting events in upmarket venues such as Cafe en Seine and The Exchequer. Tickets usually cost around 50 euro so are more pricey for students, but this does cover all required equipment, step by step instructions from an artist and two glasses of prosecco (or a non alcoholic drink if preferred).
A more budget friendly alternative is Drink and Draw. Events are held around Ireland but Dublin based events are usually held in The Grand Social. They are also led by the guidance of artists but tickets unfortunately do not cover the cost of drinks. Although unlike Paint and Prosecco, tickets are less likely to break your bank account as they are priced at around €25. Your event will likely be held at a bar, making drinking still an option (or you can have an excellent prinks in advance).
Craft Nights
If you’d rather take initiative and create your own event, then gather a few friends (and bottles of your drink of choice) and have a craft night in. It’s budget friendly and easy to organise. If you’re unsure on what crafts to do on the night, consider trying either of these.
Make your own bookmarks: Regardless of what course you’re studying, all of your friends are likely to own at least one book. As Freshers Week becomes a distant memory and the reality of studying sets in, bookmarks may come in handy. All you need is some pieces of card and coloured pens/markers. If you’re struggling to afford even a pack of card, cutting out rectangles from any cardboard box will do.
Friendship Bracelets: The Dublin shows of The Eras Tour may be over, but the power of bonding over jewellery making lives on. Gather some thread and beads and get talking! If the friendship doesn’t survive Freshers, your bracelet will still hold a core memory.
Museum Trips
If college already has you overwhelmed and you want an easy and inexpensive choice, museum trips could be perfect for you. The National Museum of Ireland is located on Merrion Street and offers free admission to all. The museum rotates exhibitions throughout the year, so is worth a visit during Freshers Week even if you have stopped by before.
The Museum of Literature Ireland is located on St Stephen’s Green and offers free admission on Friday evenings from six to nine o’clock. What better way to spend a Friday night than learning about Irish writers, many of whom are graduates of UCD?
As both of these museums are located in the heart of the city, getting to and from campus is simple. They are also located near Dublin’s vast selection of pubs and bars allowing students to enjoy some nightlife before or after their visit.
Whether you’re a student that is on a budget, hates clubbing or simply wants to try something new, consider trying a creative evening this Freshers Week. You may even discover a hidden talent or develop a hobby for life!