Parents, need a break? Here’s what to do this weekend

January is not the month to hibernate. It's just not. Whatever anyone says. Yes, we're broke, but don't go adding a broken spirit too. Book the babysitter or head out with some gal pals. Here's a few ideas. 1 Head to the cinema For the third, and final installment of the Taken trilogy. It's edge-of-your-seat stuff (with a bit of Liam Neeson for eye-candy). Lots of action, adventure and perfect brain-freeze if you want to just sit back and enjoy your pic-and-mix (you'll even forget about that new-year diet). Opens 8th January, nationwide. Take a peek at the trailer here. 2 Lunch with the girls Don't want to blow the 'New Year, New You,' resolution diet? Try the Lo-Cal Kitchen in Castleknock. Local owners Stephen and Jenny Connolly produce delicious meals, without all those bad ingredients. Guilt free. We like. Think 'The Healthy Hangover Breakfast,' and 'Lo-Cal Fish and Chips,' weighing in at only 475 and 440 calories respectively, Plus the décor is cookie-cutter-cute too. 3 Hideaway in a cosy snug Vintage Cocktail Club (otherwise known as the VCC) is hidden just off Dame Street. It's speakeasy vibe and moody ambiance means you can break your alcohol-free resolutions without anyone seeing you. Cool cocktails and menu too. Check them out online here. 4 Escape in the city If you really won the babysitting lottery, grab your significant other this weekend and escape to the city for an overnight stay in the newly opened Dean Hotel on Harcourt Street. It's impossibly elegant. And just seriously hip. Sophie's restaurant has a terrace with a 360 degree view of the city, while bedrooms boast names like 'Punk Bunk,' and 'Mod Pod,' – decorated as cool as they're named, of course. Check them out here. 5 Comedy night (starts tonight) Escape the seriousness of your week with a pal, and sit back and relax to the comedy styling's of Tommy Tiernan in Vicar Street this from Jan 8 – 29. Tickets from €35.00. Get your tickets here.