The National Museum of Ireland is opening its Dead Zoo Lab for a series of free, drop‑in sessions aimed at families with children aged seven and up. Over three mornings in October, visitors can explore the museum’s natural‑history collections through short, hands‑on activities that introduce the basics of predators, prey and food chains. A museum educator will guide a brief 5‑10 minute activity where participants can handle real and replica specimens such as feathers, bones and fossils, then continue the learning at their own pace with a self‑guided activity sheet and pencil.
Each session runs for two hours, giving families plenty of time to wander the Discovery Zone in the open gallery, ask questions and choose a favourite animal on display to sketch. No advance booking is required, and children must be supervised by a parent or responsible adult.
Good to know
- Dates: Friday 23 Oct, Saturday 24 Oct and Wednesday 28 Oct 2026
- Time: 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
- Venue: The Dead Zoo Lab, Benburb Street, Dublin 7 (D07 XKV4)
- Cost: Free
- Suitable for families with children aged 7+
- Accessible location in Dublin city centre
