Barretstown marks 30th anniversary with return of The Big Picnic and everyone's invited

If you go down to Kildare in July, you're sure of a big surprise.... as Barretstown marks 30 years with the return of its much-loved Big Picnic.

Over the past three decades, the charity has helped to improve the quality of life of over 120,000 seriously ill children in Ireland and that's worth raising a toast to - and breaking out the sandwiches!

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The Big Picnic will see the charity open up the gates of its sprawling 500-acre estate and invite one and all to come and celebrate a wholesome day out.

Pic: Courtesy of Barretstown

There's plenty on offer to tempt picnicgoers of all ages including sandwich-making workshops with Brady's ham.

Other highlights include Fossett's Circus which has promised to serve up a spectacular show of high-wire climbing trapeze artists and mind-bending magicians.

Pic: Courtesy of Barretstown

There will also be face painting, live music, and lots of treats on offer throughout the day. The fun kicks off on 7 July, but if you can't make it along in person, then you can still show your support by hosting your own event.

CEO Dee Ahearn said: 'The Big Picnic is a major event for Barretstown and plays an important role in supporting the delivery of our life-changing therapeutic programmes for children who are affected by cancer and other serious illnesses.

Sarah McGovern, Glenda Gilson and Sarah Morrissey at the Barretstown Big Picnic in 2023. Pic: Brian McEvoy Photography

'We are looking forward to throwing open the gates to the estate and welcoming as many people on site for an amazing family day out, packed with lots of fun and excitement.'

Dee contained: 'This year marks our 30 anniversary celebrations and it means the Big Picnic is now even extra special doubling up as a major birthday celebration of three decades of having a significant impact on the lives of so many children and families.

Pic: Courtesy of Barretstown

'This year we expect to serve over 22,000 children through our residential camps and programmes and through our outreach programmes in hospitals and schools throughout Ireland. We are appealing to as many as possible to come along on 7 July to join us and help us celebrate our 30th anniversary.'

Find out more about The Big Picnic here. Tickets are priced from €20 and available from Eventbrite.

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