International Museum Day is celebrated worldwide each May to highlight the role of museums in society. On Monday 18 May, the National Museum of Ireland is open, welcoming visitors to explore, discover and enjoy the national collections across its Dublin and Mayo sites.
At Kildare Street, step into Ireland’s ancient past and come face to face with some of the country’s most iconic treasures. Explore remarkable artefacts such as the Ardagh Chalice, the 'Tara' Brooch and Viking‑Age objects that reveal thousands of years of craftsmanship, belief and everyday life, offering a powerful connection to Ireland’s earliest history.
Discover how people lived, worked and expressed their creativity in Ireland over the centuries at Collins Barracks. Explore engaging exhibitions on military history, design and social change, and drop into the Dead Zoo Lab, where hands‑on activities and specimens from the Natural History collections invite curious minds to explore the natural world in a fun and interactive way. Highlight exhibitions include the Changing Ireland Galleries, Harry Clarke's Stained-Glass and Weight of Words.
While at Turlough Park, immerse yourself in the traditions of rural Ireland amid the beautiful Mayo landscape. From farming and folklore to music, dress and domestic life, the galleries at Turlough Park celebrate the many different aspects of country living and the resourcefulness of communities across generations. Highlight exhibitions include The Murmur of Bees, Antique Veterinary Objects and Róidín in the Courtyard Gallery.
Here are some highlight tours specially designed to celebrate International Museum Day at Collins Barracks and Kildare Street.
13:30 | Monday 18 May | All Ages
National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks, Benburb Street, Dublin 7
Join us for a Guides' Guide to Collins Barracks, where our expert guide Clare Doyle will provide a history of the Barracks, and let you in on her own Museum highlights.
13:30 & 15:00 | Monday 18 May | All Ages
National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street, Dublin 2
Join one of our free guided tours and discover extraordinary stories from the national collection, brought to life by our expert guides. Visitors can explore The Vikings in Ireland at 13.30, uncovering how Viking life and legacy shaped Ireland’s history, followed by Highlights of the National Museum at 15.00, a fascinating introduction to some of the Museum’s most significant and celebrated treasures. All tours are free and no booking is required.
FAQs
What is International Museum Day?
International Museum Day (IMD) was first observed in 1977, organized by the International Council of Museums (ICOM) to raise awareness about the importance of museums as spaces for cultural exchange, education, and the promotion of peace and mutual understanding among communities. The day encourages people to visit museums across various fields, including art, archaeology, natural history, fashion, and science, and to engage with the stories and heritage they preserve
When is International Museum Day?
International Museum Day takes place on Monday 18 May 2026.
Is the National Museum of Ireland free on International Museum Day?
Yes, admission to all National Museum of Ireland sites is free every day, including International Museum Day.
What are the opening hours for the National Museum of Ireland on International Museum Day?
Opening hours for all National Museum of Ireland sites on International Museum Day (Monday 18 May) are 13:00 - 17:00
Is International Museum Day suitable for families and children?
Yes. International Museum Day includes tours, trails, and activity areas suitable for children of different age groups.
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