A heartening movement has emerged in Ireland: a renewed emphasis on community and connection. Irish women, in particular, are at the forefront of this movement. From women’s circles to hiking groups and yoga getaways, these spaces offer more than just an escape from daily life but they’re a chance to reconnect, recharge, and build lasting relationships.
Gone are the days of FaceTime and messages as the primary means of interaction. In 2025, women across Ireland are embracing activities that foster meaningful connections, whether through creative outlets, wellness retreats, or social clubs designed to bring like-minded individuals together. Here’s to redefining the social scene and reclaiming the art of togetherness.
The Rise of Intentional Gatherings
With so much time spent behind screens and plans put on hold, in-person interactions have regained their rightful place at the heart of our lives. But this new wave of socialisation isn’t about returning to the usual meetups, it’s about reimagining them.
Rather than superficial get-togethers, Irish women are seeking intentional gatherings that nourish their well-being and celebrate shared interests.
Book Clubs with a Twist
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Forget the traditional old-school setup of awkward book discussions. Modern book clubs in Ireland are giving the experience a serious glow-up, making it as much about socialising as it is about storytelling.
Take the Bookish Babe Book Club in Dublin, a wine-fueled haven where book lovers gather to chat about their latest read, sip on a perfectly poured cocktail or glass of wine, and bond over their shared love of page-turners.
Wellness Retreats
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The wellness movement is thriving, and Ireland’s breathtaking landscapes provide the perfect backdrop. Women are heading to retreats that combine personal growth with group bonding like yoga weekends in Wicklow or mindfulness escapes along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Programs such as those offered by The Burren Yoga Retreat provide a balance of solitude and community, blending meditation, yoga, and shared meals that create lasting friendships.
Creative Collectives
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Creativity has become a surprising catalyst for connection. Across Ireland, pottery workshops, painting classes, and floral arrangement meet-ups are bringing people together in unexpected ways.
At places like Throwing Shapes in Dublin, attendees bond over clay, and conversation, proving that there’s something special about creating art in a communal setting.
Fitness Goals Meet Community Vibes
Fitness doesn’t have to mean monotonous solo workouts or stuffy gym routines. Today’s modern social clubs are transforming how we approach health and well-being by making it inclusive and social.
Across Ireland, these clubs are turning fitness goals into shared experiences, creating spaces where people come for workouts but stay for the connections. Whether you’re aiming to smash your personal best or simply looking for a reason to move, these clubs are proving that fitness is about more than just miles or reps but about building community, finding joy in movement, and celebrating every little win along the way.
Parkrun Ireland
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Forget the boring solo runs, Parkrun is where fitness meets community spirit. These free, weekly 5K runs take over parks across the country, attracting everyone from seasoned runners to total beginners. The best part? It’s not competitive unless you want it to be.
Whether you’re sprinting toward a new personal best or enjoying a leisurely jog, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a supportive group of like-minded people. Parkrun isn’t just about running, it’s about feeling good, staying connected, and building a community that cheers you on every step of the way.
Breezi Run Club
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Breezi Run Club is also here to make fitness social, fun, and oh-so-inspiring. This Dublin-based running crew welcomes everyone, whether you’re smashing personal bests or just happy to finish a jog.
The vibe? Inclusive, motivating, and refreshingly chill. After the run, you’ll catch up with your new running buddies over coffee or an açai bowl because it’s not just about the miles; it’s about the moments that come after. Breezi isn’t just a run club; it’s a community that celebrates every little win.
The Beauty of Small-Scale Gatherings
While large events and retreats are glorified, it’s often the smaller, more intimate gatherings that create the deepest connections. Across Ireland, women are returning to simple yet meaningful social rituals.
These small-scale gatherings are proving that the best moments aren’t always the grandest but the ones that feel the most personal.
Potluck Dinners
Hosting doesn’t have to be all about stress and perfectionism. Potluck dinners are a low-pressure way to gather friends and create memories. Add a twist by asking everyone to bring a dish tied to a favourite memory or story, whether it’s your bestie’s go-to spaghetti recipe from college or your granny’s famous apple pie.
Make it extra cosy with soft lighting, a shared playlist, and a table adorned with mismatched plates that make the whole vibe effortlessly charming. It’s less about impressing your guests and more about savouring good food and great conversations.
Craft Nights
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Knitting circles are getting a modern makeover with craft nights that invite creativity and bonding. Think DIY jewellery-making, macrame wall hangings, or even candle-making kits paired with glasses of bubbly or herbal teas. The magic happens when hands are busy, and the conversation flows naturally.
Crafting together isn’t just about making something pretty; it’s about creating a space where laughter, ideas, and encouragement are shared. Spaces like Saor Space in Dublin offer creative workshops that mix mindfulness and art, or you can host your own night with a few materials, snacks, and good company.
Hiking Groups
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For those who find their best moments outdoors, starting or joining a hiking group is a perfect way to combine fitness with connection. Ireland’s landscapes are practically begging to be explored, from the serene beauty of Glendalough to the coastal paths of Howth.
Turn a hike into more than just a fitness challenge by adding a social element: pack a picnic to share at the summit, bring along a disposable camera to capture candid moments, or finish the day with a stop at a cosy café for well-earned coffee and cake. Hiking is about more than the views, it’s about the shared experience and the camaraderie of tackling the trail together.
2025 Must-Experience Events and Activities
Looking for ways to immerse yourself in Ireland’s thriving social scene? From creative workshops to transformative retreats, there’s no shortage of opportunities to connect, unwind and grow.
1. Wellfest (Dublin)
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Ireland’s largest wellness festival continues to dominate the scene, offering a weekend packed with fitness classes, mindfulness sessions, and expert talks. From high-energy HIIT workouts to serene meditations, there’s something for every wellness enthusiast. Expect a festival atmosphere complete with live music, wellness vendors, and plenty of opportunities to mingle with fellow attendees.
2. Stellar/VIP the Self-Care Sessions
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Keep your eyes peeled this year for our very own Self-Care Sessions spread all across Ireland. Whether we’re landing in a city near you or giving you the excuse to explore a new destination, these sessions give you the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals looking to prioritise their well-being. Each session features expert advice from special guests and tips and tricks designed to make your life a little easier, and a lot more balanced. Stay tuned for announcements on where we’ll be heading next, we can’t wait to see you there.
3. Sea Swimming Clubs
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If you are looking for a thrill (and a serious endorphin boost), sea-swimming clubs are where it’s at. Groups like the Vico Baths Swimmers are redefining camaraderie with invigorating dips in Ireland’s chilly waters. Post-swim, gather with your fellow swimmers over tea or coffee to chat, laugh, and warm up. It’s a unique blend of a physical challenge and social connections that leave you refreshed and energised.
4. Creative Ireland Workshops
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Unleash your creativity while celebrating Irish culture with workshops supported by Creative Ireland. From music and dance to art and craft, these events are designed to bring people together through shared passions. If you are painting your first canvas or learning traditional Irish weaving, these workshops are a great way to connect with others while embracing the richness of Irish heritage.
Redefining Connection in 2025
This cultural shift isn’t just about personal relationships, it’s about reimagining what it means to be part of a community. Ireland is fostering inclusivity, crafting spaces where people feel seen and valued, and prioritising experiences that uplift, empower and inspire.
The social scene in Ireland today is a celebration of togetherness and the beauty of being present in a very loud world. Don’t prioritise having the busiest calendar or attending every single event but find joy in what would serve you.
So, whether it’s a yoga retreat in the hills, a casual coffee catch-up, or a lively book club soirée, 2025 is your year to reconnect and rediscover the magic of human connection.
Words by Hannah Wujiw