This week marks Easter and Study breaks for many of our Ireland programmes. As we step into the days leading up to the Easter weekend, also known as "holy week" in the Catholic church, we want to help you create a memorable Easter experience!
Ireland offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, outdoor adventures, and celebratory events. This is the perfect time to connect with new and old friends within the Arcadia Community or your new friends in Ireland and create some new Easter traditions.
If you are travelling to Europe instead - make sure to plan your trip ahead of time! Many European countries and Cities (Spain comes to mind) will have a lot going on which I'm sure you will have problems finding! Check out Rick Steeve's Easter in Europe blog here - https://www.ricksteves.com/watch-read-listen/read/articles/easter-in-europe
Use the Ireland Whatsapp Community updates group to connect with others on the programme! Some of you may be travelling but others may be staying around! Don't be shy! We are not strangers at this stage!
Here are some ideas to get you started!
Buy an Easter Egg: First things first!!! Nurture your love of Irish dairy milk chocolate (there are non dairy options too) and buy a good quality Easter egg! On a recent trip to the US, I didn't notice many of these chocolate delights at all! We don't have peeps but we do have eggs!! Check out your local Aldi, Dunnes, Tesco, Supervalu, Lidl for more!
Attend a Traditional Easter Service: Start your Easter journey by attending a traditional church service. Many churches across Ireland hold special Easter Sunday masses, offering a glimpse into the spiritual significance of the holiday.
Hiking Expeditions: Embrace the spirit of renewal by embarking on a scenic hike through Ireland's breathtaking landscapes. Whether it's the rugged beauty of the Wicklow mountains or the enchanting trails of Killarney National Park, Easter provides the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature.
Picnic in the Park: Gather your fellow Arcadians or your new Irish BFFS and pack a picnic basket! Go find the beauty - you will find it and it will pull you in!
Explore Coastal Towns: Head to coastal towns like Galway or Dingle, Waterford or Wexford and spend the day wandering along sandy beaches, exploring quaint shops, and indulging in fresh seafood.
Visit Historical Sites: Delve into Ireland's rich history by visiting ancient castles, monastic ruins, and archaeological sites. Places like the Rock of Cashel, Newgrange, and Glendalough provide fascinating insights into Ireland's past. Many will offer discounted rates for students so carry your ID !
Attend Festivals and Events: Keep an eye out for Easter-themed festivals and events happening around the country. Horse Racing in particular is big in Ireland this weekend!
Check out - https://raceandstay.com/rs_cork.html
https://www.discoverboynevalley.ie/easter-activities-boyne-valley-2024
https://thisisgalway.ie/easter-in-galway-2024-your-guide-to-the-easter-bank-holiday-in-galway/
Cáisc shona daoibh go léir- Happy Easter to you all!