Hobbies

TOG will be open on Tuesday evenings from 19:00 to 21:30 for a general Open House event. Expect to find members and visitors in the space up to all sorts of activities. It's a great time to drop in and see what the space is about. If you're an artist, tinkerer, maker or just plain curious, come in and see what the space is about. Maybe you already have something to work on (or want to), have something to fix, create, design, bodge or tinker... drop in. We're also open for just for plain old social chat and hang out, with plenty of tea, coffee and biscuits. We have lots of free parking right outside our door.

Join us for some casual games @ Corrigans. All levels welcome!

Absolutely no experience is necessary \| Keep your candles \| Free tea\,coffee & biscuits **WHAT TO EXPECT:** \- Instructor \(to help with your masterpiece\) \- All the painting materials necessary 🎨 \- Two\(ish\) hours event \- Win Prizes \- Music & Craic from energetic host **WHAT DO WE DO DURING THE WORKSHOP? DO WE HAVE TO FOLLOW ALONG?** Our workshops are super informal, this is not a strict class, we have an instructor to guide you along but this is a very basic beginner event for you to experiment and have fun. We reward creativity and encourage everyone to create something different. **I'M GOING TO BE LATE, CAN I STILL COME?** Yes we don't usually start exactly on time. Due to a large volume of people arriving at once it usually starts at least 10 minutes after the time of the event. If you're really late just come in and don't worry! **CAN WE LEAVE OUR PIECES THERE?** We don't have capacity to keep the pieces as our studio is open 7 days a week so everybody has to take their works of art home and proudly display them! **THE EVENT SAYS SOLDOUT, CAN I BRING SOMEBODY ELSE?** Unfortunately not, if an event is sold out it means there are no seats left. **LOCATION:** This Must Be The Place 42 Arran Quay, Smithfield, Dublin 7 **IS IT WHEELCHAIR FRIENDLY?** The venue is not wheelchair friendly unfortunately but do get in touch as we host events in various locations that are accessible for wheelchair users. **DO YOU DO PRIVATE EVENTS?** Yes, we host private events, brand events, hen parties, and work parties. Contact us on bookings@alternativeexperiences.ie **DO YOU DO KIDS EVENTS?** Nope, all events are 18+. We are very strict on ID. **HOW DO I FIND OUT ABOUT EVENTS?** Signup to our weekly newsletter[ here](https://www.alternativedublincity.com/newsletter-signup/ "https://www.alternativedublincity.com/newsletter-signup/") **ARE YOU ON INSTAGRAM?** Yes find our page [here](https://www.instagram.com/thismustbetheplacedublin/ "https://www.instagram.com/thismustbetheplacedublin/")

**Tuesday Evening Taught Life Classes** Book a place here **[http://dublinlifedrawing.com/taughtclass](http://dublinlifedrawing.com/taughtclass)** Drawing from the figure has been part of an artist's basic training since ancient times, and for good reason. Drawing from observation teaches you how co-ordinate the eye and hand, and working from the nude model is the most rewarding kind of drawing. A set of taught classes will explain fundamental aspects of drawing the figure, and give tips and show tricks of exploring the materials, methods and approaches to rendering the figure on paper. This class is suitable for everyone- from beginners just starting off on their drawing journey, to more experienced people who want to build up their skills set. Basic techniques are outlined in every class, and then more complex exercises are explored. Drawing exercises take place in an easy, informal setting. Measuring, sighting, and understanding negative space and shading are explored as well as basic anatomy and proportion. Some easels and drawing boards are provided. Basic drawing materials and paper are included in the price (but feel free to bring your own). [-Book Here](http://dublinlifedrawing.com/short-course) Small class sizes with tuition and instruction will help with developing your own drawing methods and style. The teaching exercises are based on fine art practice but will be of great interest to illustrators, designers, and animators. [for more details click here.](http://dublinlifedrawing.com/taughtclass) *Long Story Short:* Life Drawing from the Nude Figure, **Tuesday evenings** 6.30-9PM(ish) 27 Pearse Street Dublin 2 Single Class Price is 40€ **including paper and materials;** Set of Three Classes 99€ Set of Six Classes 190€ Note:You don't have to use Paypal to book - there are cheaper alternatives here: **[http://dublinlifedrawing.com/taughtclass](http://dublinlifedrawing.com/taughtclass)** If you need more information email dublindrawing@gmail.com

Unwind after work, meet new friends and let a creative twist reveal what you’ll paint. Two margaritas, one surprise theme, endless fun. Here’s the twist: your painting theme isn’t given, it’s discovered through a fun game on the night. Every session brings new inspiration, new stories, and your own unique creation. You don’t need experience, just curiosity (and maybe a love for margaritas). It’s the perfect mid-week escape — a mix of art, play, and pure good vibes. 🎟️ Limited seats · 2 margaritas and your canvas included · 2 hours of fun 📍 Dublin’s coziest bar in dublin 04 ✨ Let’s make after-work more than just a drink.

The Dublin Go club has been meeting at Toners pub for more than a decade and we aim to continue that tradition as long as they’ll have us! All are welcome, whether you’re learning the rules for the first time, or have been playing all your life, we aim to have someone that can teach or give you a challenge whatever your level! Consider buying a drink or two, to help us keep a good relationship with the pub! All equipment is provided for the game, so just bring yourself and anyone interested.

Details: SPACE: Four participant sewing class, plus the host, held in a comfortable, spacious living room , with double doors beside us, as we work. CLASS CONTENT: Learn to use a sewing machine (maybe bring your own along if you wish to gain confidence in using it) Make a cute cotton tote bag (or your own project) / have some fun / meet like minded new friends and learn a new skill / craft. Progress to make a simple piece of clothing! What’s available: * Complimentary glass of juice if you wish. * Bring your own machine or if you wish you’re welcome to use mine. * Hand sanitiser/wipes available. * Plenty of space. * Warm room. * Professional teacher. MATERIALS: I supply large selection of threads / pins / needles and rippers! You may wish to bring your own fabric and extras eg. ribbon, lace etc for your individual item (happy to help you choose/source fabrics) Also up-cycling of an old crisp cotton dress or shirt is encouraged.

📚Reading books and discussing them are two distinct experiences! Conversations about books and sharing insights help us better appreciate literature and enrich our lives. Let's grab a drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) and discuss books we're currently reading or have recently enjoyed—whether poetry, fiction, or non-fiction. Bring your physical book or e-reader. There's no formal structure or agenda—just books and good conversation.💬 It's a perfect place to get book recommendations and rediscover your reading momentum if you've hit a slump. We welcome readers of all backgrounds and interests! ⚠️**Something Happened?** If something unpleasant happened to you, it may happen to others. Even if it seems minor, don't hesitate to reach out to me. 🔍 **How to find us?** * When I reach the venue, I'll leave a comment in the meetup where the group is seated. Normally, the booking is in my name, so you can ask the staff for the group. * If you're unable to find us, leave a comment in the meetup page. I'll be able to guide you. We highly encourage you to move between tables and strike up conversations with fellow book lovers. These discussions about literature and reading recommendations are often the highlight of the event! As an organizer, I'm always looking for feedback about the event and suggestions for new events, so feel free to suggest ideas to me. 💡 I look forward to seeing you all! 😊

Hello Everyone! Let's read something before coming to the event. It can be a few pages from a book, an article, a poem, an advertisement, a joke, a recipe, a quote, social media content - anything you find interesting. We meet and chat about it, as a starting point of conversation. Please feel free to bring books :)

Join us for a relaxing stroll as we explore one of my favourite parks and enhance our photography skills. We'll meet at the front of **Malahide DART station**, setting of at **11:30 AM**. We'll enter the gardens by the Bridgefield Car Park and navigate around the boundary wall Following this path should offer plenty of opportunities to photograph the scenery, plant life, and perhaps even the occasional squirrel. I've spotted a few recently, although our bushy-tailed friends might not be particularly active this early in the year. Near the end of our walk, we'll head to the castle at the heart of the park, giving us the opportunity to capture some striking shots of its architecture. We'll finish at the Avoca food market, where those of us who would like can grab refreshments or a snack, and rest up from our walk in the cafe while having a friendly chat.

Join the group for coffee, a chat and bring your project upstairs in Starbucks on Westmoreland Street from 12-2.30pm (or sometimes longer!). There is a lift for those with mobility issues but please check with staff if it's working. There's no charge for the meetup but we ask please that you join our Whatsapp group if you plan on staying with the group. Cost is only €5 a year to pay for Meetup subs etc.

We are organizing this event for people that want to explore their creativity and practice expressing themselves through drawing. The event contains a variety of small games and exercises to connect with others in a fun and original way. A lot of times we find ourselves stuck with a problem or thought, either consciously or unconsciously. Being able to draw or doodle about it can often help. When I felt stuck in life, it gave me a lot of inspiration to draw how I felt. It was always a creative and refreshing way of structuring my problem and looking at it from a different perspective. I’m now looking forward to practicing more of this. I will bring paper and pens, that we need for the exercises. Feel free to bring your own drawing tools (colors, sketchbooks, pencils, etc.). No drawing experience is required Details: **Time:** Thursday 04-12-2025, 7:25pm to 9pm **Location:** abbey presbyterian church (Parnell Square N, Rotunda, Dublin 1, Ireland) top floor **Cost:** We ask a €5 fee to pay for the venue and help support the group **Punctuality:** Please do your best to arrive on time, so we have less interruptions during the event. *More info about the possible benefits of drawing:* [http://www.thedrawingwebsite.com/2013/07/31/the-benefits-of-drawing-2/](http://www.thedrawingwebsite.com/2013/07/31/the-benefits-of-drawing-2/) **Keep in touch with us:** [https://activesocialconnections.com](https://activesocialconnections.com)

While Organizer does this for free, entry to the gym is needed. Day pass and shoe rental. Get ready to reach new heights and forge lasting connections doing Indoor Bouldering Adventure this Sunday at 12:00! Whether you're a seasoned climber or brand new to the sport, this event is the perfect opportunity to challenge yourself, have fun, and meet fellow enthusiasts in a supportive and social setting. Located at the Bloc Climbing Gym in Ballymount, indoor bouldering social event is suitable for climbers of all levels. No climbing experience? No problem! Our friendly group will provide guidance, tips, and encouragement every step of the way. Whether you're learning or honing your skills, you'll find plenty of support and encouragement from your fellow climbers. After our exhilarating climb, we'll gather for some well-deserved refreshments and socializing, where you can swap climbing stories, share tips, and make new friends with fellow adventure-seekers. So lace up your climbing shoes, chalk up your hands, and get ready for an afternoon of adrenaline-pumping fun and friendship at our Indoor Bouldering Adventure this Sunday! Let's climb, connect, and conquer together. See you there! 🧗‍♀️🤝🧗‍♂️ If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the event organizer.

Join us for an afternoon of rhythm and culture! 🎻🌟 You are officially invited to a **Galician Dance Workshop** on **Sunday, 15th February** at **The Cobblestone**. From **4 PM to 6 PM**, we are thrilled to host instructor **Samuel Blanco**, who will lead us through a celebration of traditional music and dance from **Galicia (Spain)**. 🇪🇸💃 Bring a **snack to share** during the break 😋 and get ready to learn some new steps! **Entry is free**, but **donations [suggested €5]** are welcome to support the group and help us continue bringing international instructors to Dublin. ✨

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation as we discuss ***Enshittification: Why Everything Suddenly Got Worse and What to Do About It* by Cory Doctorow** Here's the summary: **Explaining the process of the “enshittification” of digital platforms over time and what to do about it.** Cory Doctorow's *Enshittification* takes a witty yet incisive look at the tech landscape, where platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and Google start off great—before they inevitably turn terrible. In this contemporary moment of digital decline, Doctorow explores how tech giants lure users in with convenience and then degrade their services over time, squeezing profit at the cost of user experience. With a mix of sharp humor and deep insight, he unveils the slow creep of "enshittification," turning the online world into a worse place, one algorithm at a time. **Let’s meet at Caboose Commons in Fairfax to enjoy some good discussion and meet new friends.**

Learn the elegant art of Japanese Calligraphy in a single, focused project! **When:** Sunday, 15 Feb 2026, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM **Where:** Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 **Registration** is **Online Only** at: https://portal.nova-labs.org/event-6471021 **Details:** Learn the elegant art of Japanese Calligraphy in a single, focused project! We'll teach you how to properly use and care for the tools. By the end of class, you will create a beautiful, inspirational Japanese word on Hanshi paper to display proudly in your home. Start your calligraphy journey today! This class includes the Brushes that you'll need in this class so you can keep practicing on your own! Children are welcome, but registration is required. Any child under 12 must be registered and attend with a parent or guardian.

Let’s hang out and journal together, trade stationary and stickers, and have a good time! Please note, we do not have a reservation, so we will do our best to find some good spots when we get there.

**🎉 Book Swap: Bring Your Books to the West End Neighborhood Library! 📚** 📅 **Date:** Saturday, February 21st, 2026 🕒 **Time:** 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM 📍 **Location:** West End Neighborhood Library - 2301 L St NW, Washington, DC 20037 **Agenda:** * **3:00 PM - 3:30 PM** \- Check\-in and chat * **3:30 PM - 4:00 PM** \- Introductions * **4:00 PM - 5:00 PM** \- Book swap **Please note**: * Gently used books are ideal for swapping. * If a book you bring isn’t swapped, you are responsible for taking it home. * This is a “stay-and-swap” event, so please join with the intention of engaging and connecting with the group.

**The Arts of Life with Nancy Burbridge - Discover Yourself through art!** **You're Invited to 'Arts of Life'** A meditative journey through art with local artist Nancy Burbridge Join us every third Friday of the month at the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum, Virginia from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM for creativity, relaxation, and self-discovery. In this interactive session, you will learn how to draw, paint, and explore the beauty within, cultivating the best version of yourself in a serene and supportive environment. Come experience the magic of art and meditation as tools for self-expression and inner growth. All materials are provided, and no prior experience is necessary. Just bring your curiosity and a willingness to explore! We can't wait to see you there! Fri., Feb. 20th, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. Held at Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum- Virginia, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl., Suite 200, Chantilly, VA, 20151. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/m6Ncn](https://shorturl.at/m6Ncn)