The Irish Film Institute is now offering cinema lovers the chance to name one of their seats for a friend or family member as a gift, just in time for Christmas.

The national cultural institution for film aims to exhibit, preserve and educate audiences about Irish and international cinema, and has been a core staple of Temple Bar for decades. New releases, national seasons, directors' retrospectives, thematic programmes, festivals, and special events have been regular features of the IFI's programme.

It is also home to the IFI Irish Film Archive, which houses Ireland’s national film archive of over 30,000 cans of film dating back to 1897.

Whether celebrating a wedding, wishing a happy birthday, announcing a new arrival, or looking for an alternative festive present – dedicating a seat to a loved one is a lasting way to show that you care. The move also helps keep the IFI's historic 18th century home fit for screening the best Irish, independent and international cinema.

As a charity, your contribution makes it possible for the IFI to continue to channel its revenues into nonprofit activities, including film education and preservation programmes.

With a donation of €300 you can add your name or that of a friend or loved one to a seat in Cinema 1 for three years; businesses are invited to join us at the level of €500 for three years. The IFI can provide certificates to gift to the recipient, with seat plaques created by local design company SNOW Studio.

Seat naming length is 50 characters, and the naming of a seat - allocated by IFI within the auditorium - does not entitle the reservation of that seat for any screening.

With three film screens, a book store and a glamorous bar, you'd never be starved of entertainment.

E-mail [email protected] for more information or check out their website here.