Looking for some fun and engaging activities to do with your kids this weekend? Here are the top five recommendations that promise to be exciting and memorable for the whole family. 1. Explorium: National Sport and Science Centre Location: Ballyogan Road, Dublin 18, Ireland Pricing: General admission tickets are €15 for children and €18 for adults. Family tickets are also available at discounted rates. Explorium offers a unique blend of sports and science activities that cater to all ages. With interactive exhibits, a science gallery, and adrenaline-pumping sports zones, kids can learn while having a blast. Highlights include the Gravity Room, a challenging climbing wall, and an exciting high ropes course. There’s also a dedicated area for younger children, ensuring a full day of fun for the entire family. More details can be found on their website . 2. Zombie Apocalypse at Zero Latency Location: Sandyford, Dublin, Ireland Pricing: Prices start at €49 per person for a 30-minute session. For an adventure that’s both thrilling and immersive, the Zombie Apocalypse at Zero Latency is a must-try. This virtual reality experience places you in the middle of a zombie outbreak where you and your team must survive and navigate through the chaos. It’s perfect for older kids and teenagers who love action-packed games and VR experiences. Check out more information on their website. 3. Jump Zone Trampoline Park Location: Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, Dublin, Ireland Pricing: Jump sessions are priced at €12 for a 1-hour jump and €20 for a 2-hour jump. Grip socks are mandatory and can be purchased for an additional €2.50. Jump Zone is Ireland’s largest indoor trampoline park, offering a variety of fun activities such as open jump sessions, foam pits, and dodgeball games. It’s a great way for kids to burn off energy while enjoying the freedom of bouncing around in a safe and supervised environment. More details are available on their website . 4. Jurassic Newpark Location: Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny, Ireland Pricing: Admission is €10 per person, and children under 2 years old enter for free. Jurassic Newpark is an exciting dinosaur-themed attraction located at the Newpark Hotel. It features life-sized dinosaur models, an interactive fossil excavation area, and a dino dig for young paleontologists. The park also includes a pet farm and adventure playground, making it a well-rounded destination for a family outing. For more details, visit their website . 5. Kia Ora Mini Farm Location: Gorey, Co. Wexford, Ireland Pricing: Entry fee is €9 per person, with family and group discounts available. Kia Ora Mini Farm offers a fantastic experience for younger children and animal lovers. Kids can interact with a variety of farm animals, including rabbits, goats, and llamas. The farm also has go-karts, a fire engine ride, and a large outdoor play area. It’s a wonderful way for kids to enjoy the outdoors and learn about farm life. More information can be found on their website . Whether your kids are into science, adventure, sports or animals, these activities offer something for everyone. Plan your weekend now and make lasting memories with your family at these top destinations!

Get ready for an unforgettable weekend at the Night and Day Festival , returning to the Lough Key Forest Park in Boyle, Co. Roscommon, from June 28th to 30th. This three-day event promises a mix of music, activities, and fun for all ages! Lineup The festival has a fantastic lineup featuring both established and emerging artists. Attendees can look forward to performances by top-tier acts across multiple stages. The festival has a strong focus on showcasing Irish talent, ensuring a diverse and engaging musical experience for all. Here’s who’s playing: Ash The Undertones Bell X1 Gemma Hayes Mick Flannery Damien Dempsey The Frank And Walters Ailbhe Reddy The 4 of Us Chalk Susan O’Neill Cry Before Dawn The Mersey Beatles Activities & Family Friendly Fun Beyond the music, Night and Day offers tons of activities to keep everyone entertained. Festival-goers can explore art installations, participate in interactive workshops, and enjoy various exhibitions. Families are also more than welcome! The festival includes a range of kid-friendly activities, ensuring young visitors have a blast. The Adventure Play Kingdom and other specially designed children’s areas provide safe and exciting entertainment options. Kids under 12 can enter for free when accompanied by a parent or guardian, making it an affordable family day out. Food and Drink A variety of food vendors will be on-site, offering everything from gourmet meals to traditional festival snacks. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or a quick bite, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Additionally, several bars will serve a wide selection of beverages, including craft beers and artisanal cocktails, ensuring you stay refreshed throughout the event. Glamping For those looking for a more luxurious festival experience, glamping options are available. These include pre-pitched tents equipped with comfortable beds, letting you have a relaxing and hassle-free stay. The glamping area provides additional amenities like exclusive showers and toilets. Accessibility The festival organizers are committed to making the event accessible to all. Lough Key Forest Park is equipped with facilities to assist visitors with disabilities, including accessible restrooms and dedicated viewing areas. Efforts are made to ensure that everyone can enjoy the festival’s offerings without barriers! Hours Night and Day kicks off on Friday, June 28th, with the campsite opening at 12:00 PM. A few performances will start that evening, setting the stage for a weekend of continuous entertainment. The event runs until late Sunday, June 30th. Ticket Prices Tickets are available in various packages: Adult Weekend Tickets : Starting at €159 Teen Weekend Tickets : Starting at €89 Child Weekend Tickets (Under 12) : Free, but must be accompanied by a ticket-holding adult Day Tickets : Available for specific days, starting at €65 Mark your calendars and prepare for a weekend of music, art, and family-friendly fun at the Night and Day Festival 2024. With a packed lineup and exciting activities, this is an event you don’t want to miss. Grab your tickets now and join the celebration! For more details and to purchase tickets, visit the official website .

The National Museum of Ireland is hosting the Rainbow Trail exhibition throughout June as part of its celebration of Dublin Pride! What’s On This exhibition highlights significant moments and figures in LGBTQ+ history through a self-guided tour that features eight key artefacts associated with the LGBTQ+ community. Key exhibits include notable artefacts like the dress worn by Panti Bliss during her pivotal “Noble Call” speech at the Abbey Theatre in 2014, which sparked nationwide discussions on homophobia and was a significant precursor to the 2015 Marriage Equality Referendum. Also on display are the wedding dresses of Katherine Zappone and Ann Louise Gilligan, symbolizing Ireland’s journey to legalize same-sex marriage. The exhibition also features digital interactive elements, including touchscreen terminals that provide deeper insights into LGBTQ+ history through multimedia content such as videos, images, and personal stories. Notably, the exhibition includes oral histories from prominent figures in the Irish LGBTQ+ community, such as Nell McCafferty, Lydia Foy, and Tonie Walsh, offering a look back at the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals in Ireland. By offering a mix of historical artefacts and contemporary digital media, the Rainbow Trail creates an engaging and educational experience for visitors, providing greater awareness and appreciation of the rich history and ongoing struggles of the LGBTQ+ community in Ireland. This exhibition is part of the museum’s broader “Rainbow Revolution” initiative, which aims to ensure LGBTQ+ experiences are represented and celebrated in national collections. Tickets and Opening Hours The Rainbow Trail is free to the public and does not require booking. Visitors can collect the trail guide from the reception during museum hours: from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Sundays and Mondays, and from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM from Tuesday to Saturday. Visit museum.ie for more information.

Bridgerton fever is high as the final of the third season of everyone’s favourite regency romance has hit our screens, with fan favourite Lady Penelope Featherington’s ( played by Derry Girls actor Nicola Coughlan ) love life taking centre stage. To celebrate the finale of the season, The Heritage have launched a special stay that is sure to make you swoon – their Lady Penelope’s Soirée. Spread the word Lady Whistledown, launched on the 16th of May, Lady Penelope’s Soirée at The Heritage includes a decadent afternoon tea fit for any Lord or Lady, a screening of Bridgerton in their in-house cinema, an overnight stay and a delicious breakfast the following morning.  After checking into one of their luxury rooms, afternoon tea awaits you in the Galleria where you and your guest can dine for the afternoon and watch the world go by. Duke’s Delight, a thyme poached chicken and sourdough sandwich, Lady Whistledown’s Slaney egg mayonnaise and Viscount’s salmon symphony are just some of the high society inspired finger sandwiches you can feast on. For something sweeter Lady Violet’s lemon dream or Lady Penelope’s perfect fruit scones might reign your choice. Your evening entertainment will be an in-house screening of the new series of Bridgerton in their cinema complete with its own popcorn machine and comfy seats.  The Heritage is a beautiful resort, set in the heart of the serene countryside in the pretty village of Killenard in County Laois , just over an hour’s drive from Dublin. A royal escape for you and friends, the Lady Penelope Soirée stay includes afternoon tea, Bridgerton screening in the cinema, an overnight stay and breakfast the following morning, stays start from €255 based on two people sharing. Afternoon tea starts from €39. To see all offers, visit  www.theheritage.com

It’s getting warmer, and that means that certain summer cravings are back! Here’s a list of our favourite ice cream places in Dublin. Murphy’s Ice Cream Location: 27 Wicklow Street, Dublin 2 Known for using fresh, local ingredients from Dingle, Murphy’s offers unique flavors like Dingle Sea Salt and Irish Brown Bread. Scoop Location: 56 Aungier Street, Dublin 2 A trendy spot known for its innovative flavors and high-quality ingredients, Scoop is a must-visit for any ice cream enthusiast. Teddy’s Ice Cream Location: 99 Strand Road, Sandymount, Dublin A Dublin institution since 1950, Teddy’s is famous for its creamy 99s, a classic treat for locals and tourists alike. Gino’s Gelato Location: Various locations Offering authentic Italian gelato, Gino’s is celebrated for its rich, creamy texture and wide range of flavors. Amore Gelato Location: 1 St. Andrew Street, Dublin 2 Located in the heart of Dublin, Amore Gelato serves up traditional Italian gelato with a modern twist. Scrumdiddly’s Location: 24 George’s Street Lower, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin Known for its generous portions and endless toppings, Scrumdiddly’s is perfect for those who love to customize their ice cream. These ice cream shops have something for everyone, whether you prefer a fruity scoop or a creamy 99 to satisfy your cravings!

Calling all Swifties! In celebration of Taylor Swifts Eras Tour coming to Dublin this week, EPIC have put together a unique guided tour for lovers of Swift! Did you know Taylor Swift’s Irish roots can be traced throughout Dublin? In 1866, Taylor Swift’s great-great-grandfather, George Findlay, enlisted in the Royal Navy and later settled in the UK after meeting Emma Maria Whiffin in South Africa. Their son George was born in Southampton, but they separated shortly after. He then recorded himself as a bachelor when he married Louisa Anna Darling in Dublin in 1880. The Findlay family, with their artisan roots, were members of Dublin’s Hosier’s Guild for at least three generations, moving through neighbourhoods like Phibsborough, Portobello, and Harold’s Cross as their fortunes improved. Before Love Story On September 12, 2008 Taylor Swift rose to fame with her single ‘Love Story’. This was her first exploration of the themes of romance, personal growth, and in some respects, heartbreak and tragedy. However this wasn’t the beginning of her relationship with these themes. There was a love story before ‘Love Story’. 172 Years Before the Hit Single, on Saturday 11th of June 1836, two young people emigrated from Ireland to the USA, aboard the ship AMY sailing from Derry. Along with some friends, they sought their fortunes in Philadelphia. Susan Davis was a 21-year-old dressmaker, Francis Gwynn a 21-year-old weaver. Their chance encounter sewed the seams of a tale that would transcend generations, and create a global impact far greater than either could have ever imagined. Their two-month-long voyage culminated in the ship docking in Philadelphia on August 20th. It’s unclear if Susan and Francis departed together and went their separate ways, or if they stayed in touch. What is clear is that: 3 years later, the pair married. Their love burned bright, and delivered them six children; Ann, John, William, Francis, Joseph, and Mary. Although sadly, five of those children predeceased Susan and Francis, they were survived by daughter Mary Gwynn, who is Taylor Swift’s great-great-grandmother. Mary laid the loving couple to rest, a mere two months apart. Some might speculate the latter died of a broken heart, or that might just be folklore. Swiftie Guided Tour at EPIC EPIC’s one-of-a-kind guided tour explores the Irish roots that shaped Taylor Swift. Discover Yeats’ influence in her songs and the  love story of her ancestors . Hear tales of the bluegrass beats from Ulster emigrants, and uncover how the Clancy brothers were rocking the Aran jumper long before Taylor made it iconic. Celebrate her collaborations with Ed Sheeran and Rihanna, and enjoy the magic of the ‘Irish pub’. The guided tour is on daily from June 22nd-27th every 3pm. Tickets cost €23 for an Adult and €11.50 for a under 18’s. book, visit https://epicchq.com/event/the-love-story-before-love-story-swiftie-tour/ . Experience Taylor Swift’s journey through music, love, and Irish heritage!

Perched on the edge of Cork Harbour, Cobh beckons summer visitors with a blend of old-world charm and world-renowned attractions, making it the perfect destination for an unforgettable summer getaway. Few towns in Ireland have quite so much to do as Cobh, steeped in history, brimming with activities, and picture-perfect from every angle. From historical experiences to adventurous escapades, leisurely trails to high-octane activities, you’re guaranteed to make unforgettable memories with the whole family, but beyond the typical tourist attractions there are some lesser known and unexpected things to do which might just inspire a day trip or summer stay in Cobh. Streetscape and living history Simply wandering along the promenade and picturesque streets of Cobh is its own opportunity to step back in time, with living history all around you. Period features, architecture, monuments and memorials are simply everywhere you look and best of all, it’s free! Look up and you will be enthralled at the stunning St. Colman’s Cathedral, a Gothic revival masterpiece that dominates the town’s skyline. Its majestic spire offers panoramic views of the harbour and beyond, a sight not to be missed. The original White Star Line ticket office where tickets were bought to board Titanic is still in use – it fittingly now houses the Titanic Experience (Museum) , while the modern day Sirius Arts Centre is housed within a building dating to 1854 designed by Anthony Salvin and built by James Smith Barry of Fota which was built to house the Royal Cork Yacht Club. Dotted around the town are other fascinating gems including the Annie Moore statue, Lusitania Memorial, Heartbreak Pier and the Titanic Memorial Gardens and the iconic ‘Deck of Cards’ houses which are row of colourful houses stacked side by side on a steep hill with the iconic cathedral as the backdrop, probably Cobh’s most photographed scene. Take a walk on the wild side  Cobh is brimming with attractions that cater to all interests. For nature enthusiasts, a visit to Fota Wildlife Park is essential. Located just a short train ride or drive away, this expansive park is home to a diverse array of animals roaming in natural habitats, offering a unique and engaging wildlife experience.  There is also the nearby Cuskinny Nature Reserve which is a haven for flora and fauna, bring your binoculars to go bird spotting on Cuskinny Bay or from the roadside viewing area on the lagoon. There is plenty of biodiversity to be spotted growing in the cracks and crevices of the town’s old walls and within the atmospheric Old Church cemetery for something a bit off the beaten track! Great Food Cobh’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses.  In this coastal town you can indulge in the freshest seafood and enjoy savoury dishes made with locally sourced produce all while soaking in stunning views of the harbour. Whether you seek a taste of traditional Irish cuisine or modern twists you’ll find your choice of cosy cafés or waterside restaurants within easy walking distance.  For a food lovers excursion head to Belvelly in Cobh where the award-winning Frank Hederman Smokehouse is open for pre-booked tours. Here you’ll learn about the traditions and techniques of a working smokehouse and gain insights to the time-honoured process involved in curing and smoking fish and seafood which supplies markets in Cork including the English Market and further afield, you’ll even get to sample generous platters of food with homemade brown soda and refreshments offered, and they pack anything that you don’t eat as a picnic. Cobh’s Art and Music Trails For a daytime activity with a difference why not dip into culture why not follow Cobh’s Art Trail (compiled by Cobh Tidy Towns). This self-guided trail features colourful murals, intriguing sculptures and art galleries or pay a visit to the sensational Sirius Arts Centre. One of many reasons to linger on a summer visit is the Cobh Music Trail. As evening falls, follow the winding trail through the town’s lively pubs and venues, where you’ll be treated to a mix of musical genres. From traditional Irish folk tunes to contemporary hits, the music trail showcases the immense talent of local musicians, making it the perfect spot to kick up your heels. Cobh rolls out the musical entertainment on the bandstand in the Promenade every Saturday and Sunday throughout the summer with a mix of Brass Band, solo artists and Orchestras right through to September. Cruise Spotting and making a splash! Summer time in Cobh is synonymous with big cruise liners docking at the quayside, as international tourists spill out to discover the town’s historic and cultural attractions, the arrival of large cruise liners creates a festival atmosphere in the town with local animation groups dressing up in colourful vintage apparel to roll out a Cobh welcome. The full list of cruises docking can be viewed on  www.portofcork.ie/cruise-schedule/ . Cobh Confraternity Brass and Reed Band play a farewell recital on the quayside as many liners sail, bringing a sense of nostalgia and fun as the ships slip away from the quayside. Towards the end of the summer there is the Cobh Peoples Regatta – an annual maritime festival taking place from  16 -18 August 2024 with fun for all, on the water and on shore. Or why not get out on the water yourself with a boat tour or self drive excursion! Getting there Although located on an island, Cobh is very easy to access. With a direct road, frequent rail services and a ferry connecting it to the mainland, you’ll find your way.  There are twice hourly train services to Cobh on weekdays which add ease, accessibility and day-tripability and the joy of travelling by rail. The Cobh Connect bus services depart from Patrick’s Quay in Cork City regularly with several stops around Cobh and there is also a night service at the weekends for nighttime revellers. You can also access by car and ferry via the Cross River Ferry.  For more information, an easy way to build itineraries for day trips or multi day visits please visit  www.visitcobh.com

As World Chocolate Day approaches this Sunday, July 7th, Dublin offers a variety of activities for chocolate enthusiasts to celebrate this delicious day. Here are the top five chocolate-related activities you can enjoy in the city. 1. Visit Butlers Chocolate Experience Butlers Chocolate Experience is a must-visit for any chocolate lover. Located in Clonshaugh, this tour takes you through the history of chocolate, the process of chocolate making, and offers a chance to see master chocolatiers at work. The highlight is undoubtedly the opportunity to create your own chocolate masterpiece. Tours include tastings and a visit to the on-site café and shop where you can purchase a variety of Butlers chocolates to take home. 2. Indulge in a Chocolate Afternoon Tea Experience the ultimate indulgence with a chocolate-themed afternoon tea at The Westbury Hotel. This luxurious experience features a selection of chocolate pastries, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and a variety of chocolate-infused treats, paired with a selection of teas and champagne. It’s the perfect way to relax and savor an afternoon dedicated to chocolate. 3. Visit the Chocolate Factory For an alternative chocolate experience, head to the Chocolate Factory in Dublin. This unique space, located in an old Williams & Woods chocolate factory, now serves as a creative community hub. While it houses a variety of artists and makers, it also offers a range of chocolate-themed events and workshops. You can take part in chocolate-making workshops where you learn about the history of chocolate, the process of making it from bean to bar, and get hands-on experience crafting your own chocolates. The workshops are perfect for anyone looking to deepen their appreciation for chocolate and try their hand at being a chocolatier. In addition, the Chocolate Factory hosts various events and pop-ups that often feature local chocolatiers and their products. It’s a great way to discover new flavors and meet fellow chocolate enthusiasts. 4. Enjoy a Chocolate Walking Tour How about going on a chocolate walking tour with Fab Food Trails , where you can discover some of Dublin’s best chocolatiers and chocolate shops? The guided tour includes stops at several locations where you can taste a variety of chocolate treats, learn about the history and craft of chocolate making, and even meet some of the artisans behind these delicious creations. 5. Savour Hot Chocolate at Queen of Tarts Queen of Tarts is a charming café known for its delectable baked goods and exceptional hot chocolate. Made with rich, high-quality chocolate, their hot chocolate is a perfect treat to enjoy on World Chocolate Day. Pair it with one of their famous chocolate desserts, such as the chocolate raspberry tart, for a truly indulgent experience. Whether you’re tasting, creating, or simply indulging, these activities promise a sweet and memorable celebration of World Chocolate Day!

Mark your calendars for The Barretstown Big Picnic on Sunday, July 7th! This annual event, held at the Barretstown Castle in Kildare, is a perfect day out for families, offering plenty of activities and entertainment. Activities and Attractions The event is packed with a variety of activities for all ages: Fossett’s Circus : Enjoy one of three spectacular circus performances throughout the day. Make sure to book in advance as spaces are limited. Outdoor Adventures : Get active with canoeing, horseback archery, and fishing. Family Fun : Engage in face painting, giant games, mini-golf, dancing, and much more. Creative Workshops : Participate in arts and crafts sessions designed for all ages. Relaxation Zones : Unwind in the beautiful surroundings of Barretstown with picnic areas and serene walking paths. Food and Refreshments A variety of food and drink options will be available for purchase from local vendors and the Barretstown Dining Hall. Enjoy delicious treats and beverages as you explore the event. Tickets and Pricing Entry to The Barretstown Big Picnic is ticketed, with the following options: Entry Ticket : €20 suggested donation per car, covering all on-campus activities and parking, except the circus. Family Circus Ticket : €50, includes entry for two adults and two children, access to all activities, a circus performance, and parking. Important Information Date and Time : Sunday, July 7th, from 11:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Location : Barretstown Castle, Ballymore Eustace, Co. Kildare. Booking : Advanced booking is recommended, especially for the circus. Pets : Pets are not permitted, except for service animals. Accessibility : The event is designed to be accessible for all, with specific facilities for those with mobility issues. Join Barretstown for a day of joy, laughter, and community spirit as they celebrate 30 years of Barretstown’s incredible work. Whether you’re looking for adventure, entertainment, or a relaxing family day out, The Barretstown Big Picnic promises a memorable experience for everyone. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit The Barretstown Big Picnic .

The Irish National Stud and Gardens has just received a huge global award that recognises the Co Kildare tourism attraction as being in the top 10% of things to do worldwide. The prestigious Travelers Choice world award given by Tripadvisor recognises travellers’ favourite attractions globally which is based on tens of thousands of reviews and ratings collected over 12 months thus yielding the famous tourism attraction a spot at the top. The Travelers’ Choice awards honour travellers’ favourite destinations, hotels, restaurants, things to do, and beyond, based on the reviews and opinions collected from travelers and diners around the world on Tripadvisor over a 12-month period. Travellers’ Choice recognises businesses that earn consistently great reviews. Travelers’ Choice award-winners are among the top 10% of listings on Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice honours select accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently demonstrate a commitment to hospitality excellence. CEO for the Irish National Stud and Gardens Cathal Beale said: “We are honoured to be recognised with this amazing world accolade for our attraction here in the heart of Ireland’s thoroughbred country. When visitors arrive here they escape to a world of woodlands, tranquil gardens and thoroughbred horsed but most importantly our world class guides help them to unravel a great Irish story and leave them with a lasting memory.” Located on the edge of Kildare Town and the Curragh plains in Ireland’s thoroughbred county of Kildare the Irish National Stud & Gardens celebrated its best ever visitor attendance of just over 150,000 last year.  The unique attraction of outstanding natural beauty is home to some of the most magnificent horses and sumptuous gardens found anywhere in the world and is in fact the only tourism venue in the world that is also a working stud farm. A record number of 370 foals were born at the Kildare attraction last year which makes the stud largest equine maternity ward in Europe. The heightened popularity of the Kildare visitor attraction can be attributed to recent investments onsite such as the Irish Racehorse Experience, an interactive experience offering firsthand insights into breeding and owning a racehorse as well as having an exhilarating real-time virtual race on horseback. There were ongoing improvements to the family facilities, playground, picnic areas, walking trails and especially its two gardens which include the famous Japanese Gardens and the more natural St Fiachra’s Garden where their team of gardeners have focused on native Irish plants, sustainability and pollination amidst lakes and hidden stone beehive huts.

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann , the biggest Irish traditional music festival, will be on in Wexford from August 4th to August 11th! This event promises a week of great Irish music and dance – coupled with 1,200 tin whistles breaking a Guinness World Record… The Fleadh Cheoil is know for its huge program of events, so there’s something for everyone! Here are some of the highlights: 1. Competitions Central to the Fleadh are the music and dance competitions that showcase the best talents in traditional Irish arts. Participants of all ages will compete in various categories, including solo performances, duets, and groups, covering a multitude of instruments and dance styles. 2. Concerts and Performances The festival will feature a series of concerts by famous musicians and bands, so everyone will have the opportunity to experience live performances of traditional Irish music. These concerts will be held at various venues throughout Wexford Town. 3. Workshops and Scoil Éigse For those looking to dive deeper into Irish traditions, the Scoil Éigse summer school, running from August 4th to 9th, offers classes in music, song, dance, and the Irish language. The choice of classes is huge, with lessons like Adult Mixed Instrument, Amhránaíocht, Banjo, Bodhrán, Button Accordion, Comhrá, Concertina, Fiddle, Flute, Foundation, Harp, Piano Accompaniment, Piano Accordion, Rince ar an Sean Nós, Traditional Singing, Uilleann Pipes, & Whistle. Masterclasses will also be available to all students. All of these workshops are led by experts and provide a hands-on experience for participants of all skill levels. 4. Guinness World Record Attempt A standout event this year will be the attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the largest group of people playing the tin whistle simultaneously for over 5 minutes straight! Organised by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann and the FEC, this world record attempt invites tin whistle players of all ages to participate! 1,200 people are needed to break the record, so bring your tin whistle, your friends and your love of music, and make history together!  The Boys (and Girls!) of Wexford and Dawning of the Day March will be played, and sheet music for the event is available here. This event is scheduled for August 8th and promises to be very, very memorable! 5. Fringe Fleadh In addition to the main events, the Fringe Fleadh will offer plenty of activities and performances across County Wexford. This includes spontaneous music sessions, street performances, art exhibitions, and more! spontaneous music sessions, street performances, art exhibitions and more! the boys Ticketing and Pricing Tickets for the various events can be purchased directly from the official Fleadh Cheoil website . Pricing varies depending on the event, with options available for individual concerts, workshops, and full festival passes. Early booking is recommended due to the high demand and popularity of the festival. Embrace the Culture Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is not just about the music; it’s about rich cultural heritage and community – why not be part of it this August? For more information on the schedule, events and ticketing, visit the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024 official website !

The Royal Cork Yacht Club in Crosshaven, the world’s oldest yacht club, is gearing up to welcome sailors and boats from around the globe to Volvo Cork Week 2024 from July 15-19. This year’s event will feature over 120 boats and attract 8,000 sailors and spectators to the harbour town for a week of thrilling races and maritime festivities! Crosshaven will be buzzing all week with exhilarating races on the water and a variety of entertainment and celebrations onshore. The neighbouring harbour villages of Cork will be bustling with activity, offering the perfect vantage points to witness the stunning spectacles on the water. There is something for everyone, from seasoned sailors to curious onlookers. Family Fun First up is the Family Day this Sunday, 14th July, from 12-5pm with lots of nautical fun promised. The picturesque waterfront of Royal Cork Yacht Club (RCYC) will transform into a bustling hub of excitement with a treasure trove of free fun, educational, and nautical activities designed to keep young sea-lovers. Activities include face painting, balloon modelling, an expanded family-friendly area which includes a Play Zone for children’s games, and a bigger Coastal Market.  Families will also enjoy trails to Camden Fort Meagher, a colouring competition with some fantastic prizes, a children’s marine talk with Sam Cox at 1pm, the famous Pipers Fun Fair and boat trips from Custom House Quay on the Cailin Ór. Red FM’s Katie Jane Cronin will broadcast live from the Royal Cork Yacht Club from 2-5pm.  World Class Racing The Harbour Race on Wednesday, July 17, promises to be a spectacular viewing event. A number of Championship races will also take place from Monday to Friday (starting at 10:55 am) both inside and outside the harbour. Highlights include the 1720 European Championships with over 20 1720s, designed in Cork, and the renowned Beaufort Cup, which will be the biggest yet featuring international entries from countries including the USA and Ecuador. This race for international uniformed service personnel encompasses a race around the Fastnet Rock and back to Cork. Entertainment As sailors return to shore after a day’s racing, the fun continues on dry land! The Royal Cork Yacht Club has a full week of entertainment lined up, featuring live musical acts each afternoon, cocktails, resident musician Phil Holbird, onshore sailing activities, and various retail outlets, spares, sail-repair, and other facilities. Highlights include:  Monday 15th –  Heineken Après Sail Welcome party – 4pm  Tuesday 16th –  ‘Fastnet Tuesday” Mount Gay Après Sail – 4pm Wednesday 17th –  Orchard Thieves Après Sail – 4pm, Mid-Week Party in the Marquee – 7pm Also taking place on Wednesday is the sold-out Volvo Cork Week Ladies’ Day charity lunch, in support of Crosshaven RNLI celebrating 200 years. It will feature special guests Volvo ambassadors Dermot Bannon and Suzie McAdam. Thursday 18th   – Murphy’s Stout Après Sail – 4pm, Traditional Volvo Cork Week John Paul Construction BBQ Bash -7pm, Battle of the DJs -10pm Friday 19th –  Buskers & Ginger Après Sail – 4pm, Prizegiving & Closing Ceremony – 5pm, Closing Party – 7pm Download the full entertainment programme here on  www.corkweek.ie/entertainment/ Dining Plenty of dining options will be available at the Royal Cork Yacht Club, including a host of food trucks and food stalls, open daily from 3pm. The Bistro menu will be available in RCYC Dining Room each day from 5:30-9:30 pm. Best Viewing Points Catch the action from recommended viewing points: Camden and Church Bay in Crosshaven, the new Haulbowline Island Amenity Park, Ringaskiddy, and the promenade in Cobh. Sustainability The emphasis this year is on sustainability with a focus on conservation, reuse and recycling and environmental impacts. Sponsor Volvo Car Ireland will be on hand to showcase their range of fully electric & plug-in hybrid cars. The Club are again signing up to the Sailors for the Sea Clean Regatta programme, in 2022 the event was awarded the Gold standard. Getting There and Back There are buses from Cork City direct to the Royal Cork Yacht Club (220/220X). For those wishing to drive, parking is available on-site. For more information, visit corkweek.ie.