Festina Lente

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Bray
Festina Lente

Welcome to Festina Lente. Join us on our journey to raise vital funds to continue and advance our key work. Registered Charity No. CHY 20061425
(64)

A unique charity and education facility focused on developing equestrian and horticultural learning. Festina Lente was founded 35 years ago. Back then, it was a tiny operation but in the period since its inception, we have become an essential Learning Centre where people can thrive and grow regardless of their circumstances. A unique blend of horses, horticulture, and community brings us together

as we strive to create new opportunities in learning for those with intellectual and physical challenges and offer excellence in education and training for those who choose to follow a career path in any of the above sectors. The Festina Lente Foundation is now at a fascinating juncture. Having outgrown our current facilities in Bray and with our lease due to end shortly, we have located a permanent new home only a 10-minute drive from our current location. The successful relocation to new premises will not only mean the continuation of our existing services to 450 people each week, but also the further development of education and learning programmes to an additional 200 people weekly. But we urgently need to secure funding to complete the purchase by Spring 2022 and then begin an ambitious two-year building project to develop a National Education Centre. Having experienced such a huge growth in demand for all of our programmes, this new facility will reduce our waiting lists and provide much needed care and training for those who need it. Festina Lente Mission Statement
Our mission is to provide a unique range of equestrian and horticultural learning, training and employment opportunities that focuses on social inclusion, choice and personal development. Statement of Purpose
Festina Lente provides a range of innovative equestrian, horticultural and community based learning opportunities designed to enhance employment opportunities for those in our programmes. All of our activities conform either to the standards for Adult Day Services and prevocational training as set out by the Health Services Executive, Social Enterprises as set out by the Department of Social Protection, Vocational Training as set out by the Department of Education and Skills and Equestrian Center management as set out by and Association of Irish Riding Establishment and activities relating to all other relevant and statutory requirements.

14/11/2024

📆 2025 Festina Lente Calendars Are Here! 📆

Our 2025 calendars have arrived, and they’re full of some of our favorite equine friends in stunning, natural settings! Each month features a different horse, capturing the unique spirit of our beloved residents here at Festina Lente.

Every purchase helps support our Equestrian Learning Centre, where 100% of the proceeds go towards programmes in the Equestrian Learning Centre. Your support allows us to share the joy of horses with people of all ages and abilities.

Get yours today and enjoy a new horse companion every month of the year—all while supporting an important cause! 🐴💚

📍 Available at Festina Lente Garden Shop & Equestrian Centre

14/11/2024

In loving memory of Louise ( Looby) Knox, whose vibrant spirit touched the hearts of all who knew her. With a name meaning renowned warrior, she embodied strength and courage, facing life's challenges with unwavering determination.

In her memory, Looby had chosen to honour her legacy by donating her money to Festina Lente, where she found solace and happiness. Though she may no longer be with us , Looby remains everyone's hero, a shining example of bravery, kindness, and the power of a joyful spirit. May her memory continue to inspire us all to live life with passion and purpose.

In memory of Louise ( Looby) we have named the second horse Hero- as Looby remains everyone’s Hero..

We are very grateful for the gift of this beautiful horse Hero…

14/11/2024

🌟✨ Join us at Festina Lente for a magical evening as we turn on the Christmas lights! ✨🌟

This Thursday, November 21st, at 4 PM, we're celebrating the start of the festive season with special guest Feebee Foran from Forager.ie 🎄 Come enjoy the holiday cheer, meet our adorable mini ponies, and kick off Christmas with us.

Bring your friends and family—everyone is welcome to join in the fun. Let's make this holiday season unforgettable! 🎅🦄

14/11/2024

🎄✨ Join Us for a Magical Christmas with Santa and His Ponies! ✨🎄

Get ready for a heartwarming, festive experience like no other! On 14th & 15th December, bring the whole family to our Santa and His Ponies event—where magic comes alive!

🎅 Meet Santa & His Ponies

🐴 Pony Rides for the little ones

🎨 Craft Making Fun – create your own holiday keepsakes

🌟 Christmas Wishing Tree – hang your special wish and spread the joy!

☕ Free Hot Chocolate to keep you warm and cozy!

PARENTS GO FREE

https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/santa-the-ponies-tickets-1037945431727?fbclid=PAY2xjawGa239leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABpg3MOw8QwZ8ar_cK6ALrM3_vwY7DvkX2HOX-BQz_C1yCjIeOb051wHNRWw_aem_1yDlYh_-A0v6rqxidCMj-w

It’s a family-friendly event, perfect for creating unforgettable holiday memories. Free parking on-site and adults go free! Each child needs a ticket, and every ticket includes access to all the festive activities.

All proceeds go to support Festina Lente Charity, helping to spread joy this holiday season.

📅 Date: 14th & 15th December

📍 Location: Festina Lente Gardens

Don't miss out on the festive fun—book your tickets now and enjoy a truly magical Christmas experience!

🎟️ Get Your Tickets Today!

11/11/2024

Adam Farrelly has done a great interview with The Irish Independant on the value of Equine Therapy for ADHD... The interview is available on subscription on the link below but here are some snippets of it.... Well done to Adam, we are very proud of you!

https://www.independent.ie/life/health-wellbeing/health-features/adhd-and-equine-therapy-if-i-was-having-a-bad-day-id-come-here-after-school-horses-make-my-day-so-much-better/a1672637286.html

08/11/2024

Join local artist Rosie Keane for this festive and relaxing painting workshop in a wooden cabin in the peaceful surrounds of Festina Lente's historic walled garden.

Absolutely no experience required – this is a welcoming and friendly workshop for all levels. Rosie will guide you step-by-step on how to create your own version of this atmospheric 'Winter Robin' painting in acrylics, with special tips & tricks along the way.

Tickets include a 2.5 hour step-by-step class and a 10-minute tea break with refreshments in the Festina Lente Cafe. Plus access to the beautiful walled gardens and gift shop.

All equipment is provided, including A3 canvas, aprons, paints and brushes, etc.

Your canvas will have some core elements pre-drawn for ease so that you can get on with the fun part – playing with paint, texture and colour!

A "Connect with the Winter Robin" activity as a warm up to the session will be offered - to activate creative juices, with Social and Therapeutic Horticulturist, Dr Sinead O'Connor.

This workshop is for adults 18+ (though 16+ very welcome if accompanied by an adult)

It's a lovely activity to do with a friend or family member, but equally as enjoyable to do solo.

Come for creative relaxation and festive fun, and go home with a masterpiece!

https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/winter-robin-painting-workshop-tickets-1060844647899?aff=ebdssbdestsearch&fbclid=PAY2xjawGa3aZleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABpoG45NSuNpCle-_TcYI_RjBT_KGY-lOYP4Nq6r10A3sR5BWUBc10q2ppXw_aem_e97bL1SVogM03aoYd0Q6ug

07/11/2024

Our Equestrian Training Programme students had a wonderful talk for our Equine Dentist today..everyone really enjoyed the information and looking at the actual skull and the teeth!! Seems like Jacobie also thought it was interesting... Thank you to our wonderful Equine Denist!

07/11/2024

The Transition Training Programme made and delivered 9 boxes for the Christmas shoebox appeal in greystones 🎅🏼
Well done to you all ❤️

the homeless

05/11/2024

Meet our new Gardens Volunteer...John Hedderman, a maker of Mandalas, sharing 90+ years of Wisdom. John's incredible hand crafted Mandalas will be a welcome addition in our workshops to help with grounding for wellbeing workshops & grounding mindfulness activities.🧡🌳 how beautiful 😍

Thank you John , we appreciate your work!

04/11/2024

Such a beautiful photo of the unique Panda... 😍 he is such a lovely Equine 🐼 absolutely stunning looking also... and sometimes looks like a cartoon. His eyes are beautiful...

Who loves Panda 🐼😍❤️

31/10/2024

Keri & Marilyn's Halloween fun in the gardens 🎃🖤😂

31/10/2024

🌱Discover the Power of Nature: Become a Certified Social & Therapeutic Horticulture Facilitator

🌿Are you passionate about the healing power of nature? Do you want to make a difference in the lives of individuals with diverse social and emotional needs? Join our Social & Therapeutic Horticulture (STH) Facilitators Course and gain a QQI Level 6 Special Purpose Award Certificate in Life & Workplace Coaching.

🌱Embark on a rewarding journey that combines your passion for nature with the desire to make a positive impact on others. Become a certified Social & Therapeutic Horticulture Facilitator and cultivate wellness through the healing power of plants.

🌿( Total days of course is 18, broken down to a Friday, Saturday and Sunday x 6 times throughout the year to accommodate people who are working & want to get this qualification).

📧For more information please email
[email protected]

31/10/2024

Thank you to everyone at Heryj Lyon's architects for the fabulous crated works of art! Sinead and Patrick from Festina Lente Gardens thoroughly enjoyed taking you through your team work exercises for " Pumkintecture"..
The absolute pieces of ART you created are amazing... we hope to see you again soon! 🎃🖤

31/10/2024

Please be careful of animals tonight 🎃🖤 Halloween is a very scary time for them, the constant bangs, fireworks and strange decorations can cause alot of upset... Keep your small animals inside, dogs , cats somewhere safe as they are prone to running once they hear a bang...and also there's alot of horses in fields so be careful 🖤🎃

30/10/2024

Little Red ❤️ one of those most stunningly beautiful skewbalds in Festina Lente..Little red has 2 different coloured eyes, one blue, one brown.. ( called Wall eyed) he is such a character, and really amazing with kids....

Thanks for all you do Little Red ❤️

30/10/2024

Full length feature film “Horses and the Science of Harmony” examines the nature of harmony between horse and rider through the eyes of 3-day event rider Bubby Upton and through the lens of cutting-edge science. Horses and the Science of Harmony tells the emotional story of Bubby Upton, a rising star in British 3-day eventing, who suffered a catastrophic spinal injury yet bravely fought to get back to doing what she loves…ride. Bubby’s story is woven alongside ground breaking research to educate viewers about equine behaviour and optimal well-being, while simultaneously asking the question "what is it about horses that speaks so strongly to our hearts?'

Address

Old Connaught Avenue
Bray
CO.WICKLOWA98F702

Website

http://festinalente.ie/about-us/contact-us/

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Videos

The video you have all been waiting for.... Mark & his beatbox skillz 🎶🕺⚡️ Mark is part of our QQI Euestrian Training Programme in Festina Lente and we absolutely live the entertainment he brings to the yard ...Mark you're a legend !!! Keep up the beatboxing.... what do you all think??? 👇

🌿 Discover a Day of Self-Care at Festina Lente!🌿 Date: September 29th Time:10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Join us for a rejuvenating day of self-care in the tranquil surroundings of Festina Lente. Escape the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in nature with a series of enriching activities designed to relax your mind, body, and soul. What's in store for you: - Woodland Mindfulness: Connect with nature through guided meditation in the serene woodlands. - Wildland Foraging: Learn to forage for wild edibles and discover the hidden treasures of the natural world. - Horses and Aromatherapy: Experience the calming presence of horses combined with soothing aromatherapy. - Walled Garden Tour: Take a peaceful stroll through our enchanting walled garden, a sanctuary of blooms and tranquility. - Botanical Sketching: Unleash your creativity with a guided sketching session, capturing the beauty of nature. - Flower Reading: Explore the ancient art of flower reading and learn what blooms have to say about you... And so much more! Treat yourself to a day of holistic wellness and connect with like-minded individuals in a supportive, nature-inspired environment. Tickets are limited, so be sure to secure your spot today!** Purchase now on Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/a-day-of-self-care-in-nature-tickets-992597986297?aff=ebdssbdestsearch Let Festina Lente be your retreat into relaxation and renewal. --- Ready to unwind and reconnect with nature? Book your ticket today and prepare for a day of discovery and self-care! See you there! 🌸

🐎 MEET 3 OF THE EQUESTRIAN VAULTERS: & JELLY 🐎 We had a little chat with Layla, Juliet, Jelly & Dan who are 3 of the Equestrian Vaulting Team who will take to Ring 2 on Friday at 11.35am... They would love your support, please comment below ❤️🐎 You can watch the amazing performances on Friday 11.35am @ ring 2 , Saturday 1.35pm @ ring 2 and Sunday 4pm @ ring 1.... ❤️🐎 You will be hearing from ALL the vaulters over the coming days... ( they don't know this yet ) 😜🤣 Goodluck to everyone ❤️ comment below to support

Rosa & Tess are 2 of the helpers who will be at the horse show with us.. there are alot of people who offer their time to make the kids zone a really fun special place. The helpers in festina lente are really important and they make events like this so much easier. All of our helpers are fantastic with children and Ponies and can't do enough to help out. We really appreciate them all. Everyone will be featured at some stage between now and Sunday and they deserve the recognition as behind the scenes they do amazing work.. come visit us at the kidszone at the @rdsdublin Horse Show #helpers #helping #working #team #squad #Festinalente #equestrianlife #equestrian

Swallows often prefer to nest in sheltered, enclosed spaces. Common nesting sites include tree hollows, building crevices, eaves, and even nest boxes provided by humans. House Swallows, in particular, are notorious for nesting in urban areas, utilizing any small cavity or ledge they can find. Just spotted in one of our stables ♥️😍