This year’s Dublin Book Festival has a packed programme of events, almost entirely free of charge with readings, interviews, debates, book launches and workshops for adults, children and schools – as well as a number of special guest appearances. The 2012 festival celebrations will be based in and around Smock Alley Theatre, Temple Bar which was, throughout the eighteenth century, predominantly home to printers and publishers.  It is very fitting that the Dublin Book Festival which celebrates Irish publishing and Irish-published authors should return to this area.

The Festival, which has been programmed by Julianne Mooney, features a vast array of events taking place in Smock Alley Theatre and The Gutter Bookshop. From crime and literary fiction, to health, cookery and gardening to poetry and Irish language titles, there is a huge mix of genres, authors and contributors represented. The central aim of the festival is to create a community atmosphere in which to show the diversity, vitality and talent of Irish publishers and writers. The Dublin Book Festival confidently promises something for everyone and – with the majority of the events being free – there is plenty to entertain and inspire this November.

The National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, were founded by the Royal Dublin Society in 1795. The Gardens, 19.5 hectares on the south bank of the Tolka contain many attractive features including an arboretum, sensory garden, rock garden and burren area, large pond, extensive herbaceous borders, and annual display of decorative plants including a rare example of Victorian carpet bedding.The National Botanic Gardens is perfect for family days out, for picnics as well as lovely walks.

Dublin Zoo’s annual Boo at the Zoo takes places on Sunday, 28^th and Wednesday, 31^st October. To celebrate the season of ghosts and goblins, Dublin Zoo will host two fun filled days full of special tricks and treats for families and friends.  Spooktacular activities will take place from 12pm – 3pm on both days.

Visitors will enjoy festive face painting, scary arts and crafts as well as spooky Halloween keeper talks. Young visitors will also enjoy a howling good time at the Monster disco on the lawn.

Dublin Zoo, a not for profit organization, is open seven days a week from 9.30am to 5.30pm in October and 9.30am to 4pm in November and December. Dublin Zoo is stop 19 on the Dublin City Tour.