We know, we know. 2020 just keeps on hitting us with new restrictions, further lockdowns, and general debauchery that we should probably just be used to by now. Whether you’re located in Dublin amidst the new Level 3 measures just put into place or elsewhere, odds are that you’re at your wits end with Zoom happy hours and at-home workouts, so the question remains, what actually is there left to do keep yourself entertained during another lockdown?
We’ve gone ahead and compiled a non-exhaustive list of how you can stay entertained during another lockdown in Ireland if you’re bored in the house, tired of Netflix, or need a break already from your studies (or your housemates).
And if none of this strikes your fancy, rest assured that Paddy Power himself says that odds are good that Dublin will come out of Level 3 restrictions in three weeks time!
Here goes…
1. Take a bike ride
Dublin’s official Bike Week, which was postponed in June, is happening now through September 27th. It’s a Government of Ireland initiative to get more people to cycle, as it’s great for long-term health as well as the environment. Sure, the cycling selfie photo competitions they’re running may seem silly at first glance, but some of the prizes include €100 vouchers, so bust out your selfie stick and have at it (safely)!
Other Bike Week happenings include small group-guided cycles and other virtual cycling events where you can post your photos and win vouchers, and every county has different events for you to participate in. Check it out at http://www.bikeweek.ie/ireland/bike-week-2020 and be a part of the solution, not pollution!
2. Learn your history
Whether you’re a hobby history buff or a bonafide history major, Irish history leaves nothing to be desired. On from now until October 4th is the Dublin Festival of History, with most events taking place digitally, so you don’t even have to get dressed to learn something cool.
Details can be found at www.dublinfestivalofhistory.ie with online talks and podcasts from some of Ireland’s most celebrated history scholars. What’s even better is that all events are free, with only a few requiring pre-registration.
3. Watch a doco
The Irish Film Institute Documentary Festival has moved online and runs through September 27th, and there are some amazing films to be seen. The folks at IFI bring the best of new documentary filmmaking from Ireland and abroad to the screen in your home for a few euro, with a number of the films having filmmaker Q&As included as bonus material.
Of particular interest is Rebuilding Paradise, which follows the firestorm that hit Paradise, California in 2018. It’s directed by Oscar-winner Ron Howard, and includes an exclusive interview with him conducted by IFI’s own David O’Mahony. Check it out at https://www.ifihome.ie/
4. Watch a gig
We missed out on 2020’s lineup of festivals and gigs, which remains heartbreaking, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the music. We’re a huge fan of classic gigs that you can find in great quality on YouTube, like Nirvana Unplugged, Oasis Earls Court, and Fleetwood Mac Mirage Tour. Best enjoyed with surround sound, a couple of cans, and if you want to really experience that live gig experience, wait in line for twenty minutes to use your bathroom!
5. Go for a swim
Did you know that the average monthly sea temperatures are at their second highest in September? If you missed out during their warmest month (August), you still have some sunny days remaining to head to Killiney Beach or the Forty Foot for a dip that’s sure to take your breath away. Just be sure to stay within your region and with small groups from your own household!
6. Rest and relax
Since the beginning of lockdowns in March, we’ve laughed, cried, got in shape, got out of shape, got made redundant, started podcasts, been motivated, been unmotivated, and everything in between. Now classes are back, but the pubs and other normal social outlets aren’t. Take this time to do what feels right for you, whether it’s focusing on your studies, starting a new project, or simply taking some time to take care of yourself. 2020 hasn’t been easy for anyone, and all we can do is keep on keepin’ on.
Leave a comment below if you have any ideas that might help others stay motivated or find things to do during Ireland’s second lockdown, or just to tell us that you’re tired of lockdown lists! Because, fair enough. 🙂