Bounce 2025, Northern Ireland’s showcase of talent from artists who have a disability, are d/Deaf, or are neurodivergent, is taking place in Belfast and Derry over 4 dynamic days, from 2 to 5 October! The theme of Bounce 2025 is ‘Not Just…’, provoking creative conversation on disability representation, diversity, and intersectionality in the arts sector. The opening events ‘Not Just…BS’ (Breakfast Symposium) in both Derry and Belfast, will provide a space for artists and audiences to connect and network alongside artistic interludes from writers and performers. Bounce 2025 events bring opportunities for you to laugh, create, contemplate, and participate through theatre, dance, film, circus, visual arts. This is a packed programme of works inspired and led by artists who are d/Deaf, have a disability, or who are neurodivergent with vulnerable, intimate, joyous, comedic and challenging voices of celebration and rebellion, sex and sexuality, identity and belonging, postpartum depression and the power of language. Highlights include: Foyle Pride and Mel Bradley present ‘Not Your Pity Party’ in the Nerve Centre with disabled artists who also identify as LGBTQIA getting the spotlight. For the first time ever, Northern Ireland’s first ever Autistic Comedy Showcase will be held in the Black Box in Belfast. The line-up will feature six comedians on the autistic spectrum who have been performing comedy across Ireland and the UK for years. Toilet Paper Diaries, written and performed by Manchester’s Porcelain Delaney in a one woman show, at the Crescent Arts Centre. De mo Neamhthoil an installation by Soso Ní Cheallaigh at the Centre for Contemporary Art in Derry. Open Arts Big Takeover at the Crescent Arts Centre with performances from Open Arts Community Choir, Monday Players, Luminous Soul with Mae Murray Teen Hub, Readings from our creative writing group. Theatre maker Jody O’Neill from Cork will present her production ‘Yellow’, a live show about living with autism at the Crescent Arts Centre. She will present her film screening of the theatre production What I (Don’t) Know about Autism at the QFT on Sunday 6th October with Q&A. As Bounce Artist in Residence this year, Brian Connolly presents a unique performance art and installation in the Atypical Gallery. For the full listing of events, visit universityofatypical.org/bounce .

The Dublin Festival of History will run from 26 September to 12 October 2025, with our Big Weekend at the Round Room at the Mansion House, from Saturday 27 September to Sunday 28 September. The Dublin Festival of History is an annual free festival, brought to you by Dublin City Council, and organised by Dublin City Libraries, in partnership with the Dublin City Council Culture Company. Now in its thirteenth year, the festival has built a reputation for shining a fresh perspective on history and its importance in our everyday lives, attracting best-selling Irish and international historians to Dublin for a high-profile programme of history talks and debate each Autumn. What's On The Big Weekend at the Mansion House (27–28 September):  Flagship talks from renowned Irish and international historians in the iconic Round Room. Walking tours of our neighbourhoods:  Explore the Liberties, Georgian Dublin, or the Docklands, led by experts who stitch personal and public history together. Library events across the city:  Talks and discussions in local branches bring world history and community history into the same space. Exhibitions and open houses:  Heritage sites, including 14 Henrietta Street, reveal stories of ordinary Dubliners. Online sessions:  For anyone who can’t make it in person, or wants to revisit a talk later. Tickets, Booking & Participation Free admission  - All events are free of charge. Booking recommended  - Due to popularity and limited capacity, advance registration is strongly encouraged for high-demand talks. Venue coordination  - Events take place across multiple venues in Dublin, including libraries, heritage houses, theatres, and public spaces. For more information, visit dublinfestivalofhistory.ie .

Write By The Sea Literary Festival is a must-visit event for literary enthusiasts. Running from September 26th to 28th this festival is perfect for budding writers, passionate readers, or simply someone who enjoys the art of storytelling! What’s On This year’s programme is bursting with exciting events designed to inspire and entertain. Expect a mix of workshops, interviews, panel discussions, readings , and more. Here’s a peek at what you can look forward to: Creative Writing Workshops : Hone your skills with hands-on workshops tailored to different genres and levels. Whether you’re into fiction, poetry, or memoir writing, there’s something to help you find your voice. Author Interviews : Get up close and personal with some of Ireland’s top literary talent. Learn about their creative process, challenges, and the inspiration behind their works. Panel Discussions : Engage in conversations on topics ranging from writing for change, the future of publishing, and the art of storytelling. Readings and Performances : Sit back and enjoy as authors, poets, and performers bring their words to life. Children’s Events : Write By The Sea isn’t just for adults. Kids can explore the magic of stories with interactive events that encourage creativity and imagination. Book Signings : Meet your favourite authors and have your books signed—a perfect way to capture a special memory of the weekend. Guided Literary Walks : What better way to take a break from the workshops than with a refreshing stroll around the beautiful Kilmore Quay, led by knowledgeable guides who will share fascinating local literary history? For the full programme of events, visit the official Write By The Sea website where you can dive into all the details. Additional Information The festival kicks off on Friday, September 26th , and runs through Sunday, September 28th . Three days of literary fun, with events spread across each day. The festival takes place in Kilmore Quay, a village on Ireland’s southeast coast, easily accessible by car and public transport. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Wexford town, and you’ll find plenty of parking options in the area. Ticket Pricing Write By The Sea offers a variety of ticket options to suit different preferences: Weekend Pass : €135 – Gain access to all events across the three days, giving you the full festival experience. Day Pass : €75 – Ideal if you can only join for one day of the festivities. Workshop & Select Event Tickets : Workshops are €25, while select events typically range from €20 to €40 per session. For all the details and to secure your spot, visit the Write By The Sea official website . Happy reading and writing!

The image of strangers raising a pint and proclaiming “To Arthur!” once echoed across pubs and streets, forming one of Guinness’s boldest global marketing moves. Owned by Diageo, Guinness rolled out what became known as Arthur’s Day  and the accompanying “To Arthur” campaign around 2009, with great fanfare and international reach. But by 2014 the campaign was quietly shelved, with Diageo pivoting to new strategies. In this article, we explore what led to its rise, why it was discontinued, and how Guinness now honours its heritage post-Arthur’s Day. The Rise of Arthur’s Day & “To Arthur” Campaign Arthur’s Day was launched in 2009 to mark the 250th anniversary of the original Guinness brewery’s founding in 1759. The marketing message was simple but evocative: at 17:59 (5:59 pm) , referencing the founding year, Guinness drinkers everywhere were encouraged to raise a glass in honour of Arthur Guinness. The “To Arthur” campaign visualised that toast spreading from bar to bar, town to town - a unifying gesture tied to Irish identity and global Guinness culture. At its height, Arthur’s Day was promoted around the world: in Ireland, Malaysia, New York, Lagos and more. Hundreds of concerts, public events, and tie-in promotions were organized to make it feel like a national festival. For many fans, the campaign felt celebratory and nostalgic, a way to link Guinness’s deep Irish roots with music, pubs, culture, and social connection. Why Did Diageo Discontinue It? Though Arthur’s Day was initially successful in terms of brand visibility, growing criticism, social pressures, and changing public attitudes eventually caused Diageo to pull the plug. 1. Public and Political Backlash Irish government ministers and public health authorities began condemning Arthur’s Day as a “pseudo-national holiday”  engineered purely to drive drink consumption. The Irish health sector raised alarm over increased ambulance callouts and strain on public services during Arthur’s Day events. For example, in Dublin, the ambulance services reported up to a 30% spike  in demand on those nights compared to equivalent dates. Critics, including musicians and public interest groups, accused Diageo of exploiting Ireland’s drinking culture and perpetuating a stereotype of Irish people as heavy drinkers. Over time, public sentiment shifted - what once felt festive began to feel like a burdensome marketing stunt. 2. Ethical & Brand Risk Considerations Diageo had to reckon with reputational risk. As media scrutiny intensified, continuing a campaign so closely tied to excessive consumption posed a brand hazard. It became harder to defend the campaign’s social responsibility in light of mounting evidence of harm (alcohol misuse, hospitalizations, disorder). Some participating artists and stakeholders also publicly opposed Arthur’s Day, further undermining its legitimacy. 3. Diminishing Returns & Shifting Strategy The novelty wore off. As Arthur’s Day became annual, audiences began to feel fatigued. What started as a celebratory gesture gradually looked formulaic and overexposed. Marketing budgets and priorities evolved. Diageo chose to shift investment into more sustainable, scalable, and less contentious initiatives. In 2014, Guinness officially cancelled Arthur’s Day , ending the event after five editions (2009–2013). What Replaced It - and How Guinness Honours Its Legacy Now Rather than re-launch Arthur’s Day, Diageo introduced Guinness Amplify , a year-round music initiative designed to support emerging Irish artists and foster music culture without relying on a single big annual event. In lieu of the festival, there has also been a turn toward heritage and cultural tourism : In the wake of Arthur’s Day’s end, local Irish authorities and heritage groups mapped out Arthur’s Way , a heritage trail connecting significant sites tied to the Guinness family and legacy (e.g. Celbridge, Leixlip, Oughter Ard). The Guinness Storehouse (in Dublin) continues to celebrate the brand’s history, telling stories of Arthur Guinness, the brewery, and how the brand evolved. These initiatives allow Guinness and Irish tourism stakeholders to honour the brand’s storied past, without the problems of a drinks-focused commercial festival!

It's time for our weekend roundup! Here's what's on this weekend, between Friday the 26th and Sunday the 28th of September across Ireland. We've got a great lineup of things to do, from the Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival to Oktoberfest Belfast and much, much more. Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival, Lisdoonvarna - 1.09-30.09 Europe's biggest singles festival takes place every September in the small village of Lisdoonvarna on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. The month-long Irish festival attracts people from all over the world looking for Love, fun and a bit of 'craic'. The festival is over 165 years old and couldn't be more different from online dating services. Read more here. Clifden Arts Festival, Galway - 17.09-28.09 The longest-running community arts festival in Ireland, Clifden Community Arts Festival, now heading into its 48th year, will take place from September 17-28 and yet again promises to have something to excite everyone in the 2025 programme. Read more here. Oktoberfest Belfast, Belfast - 25.09-25.10 Belfast is set to raise its steins high this autumn as Oktoberfest makes its long-awaited return to Custom House Square on 25th September 2025. Promising to be “back and bigger than ever,” the festival will transform the heart of the city into a lively Bavarian beer hall every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday until 25th October. Read more here. Write by the Sea Literary Festival, Dublin - 26.09-28.09 Write By The Sea Literary Festival is a must-visit event for literary enthusiasts. Running from September 26th to 28th this festival is perfect for budding writers, passionate readers, or simply someone who enjoys the art of storytelling! Read more here.

This Halloween, Mount Congreve Gardens in Waterford invites families to step into a realm of myth and magic with its brand-new Guardians of the Gardens: Interactive Dragon Trail, running from Friday, the 24th to Monday, the 27th of October. With final entry at 5 pm every day, this fully outdoor experience brings twelve giant animatronic dragons to life across the estate’s historic woodlands, lawns, and garden paths.  As the sun sets, Mount Congreve transforms into an atmospheric and immersive dragon realm: glowing eyes, smoke curling through the air, haunting roars, and lifelike movements greet visitors around every bend. Some creatures stand over five metres tall, towering above the trails to create spectacular photo opportunities.  Families will be armed with a Guardians’ Trail Map to guide them on a magical journey full of puzzles, mythical lore, and hidden secrets. The trail experience is designed to blend storytelling with exploration, combining interactive props and soundscapes that engage visitors of all ages.  In addition to the main trail, there are several optional spine-tingling extras. A Halloween Dragon Portrait upgrade allows guests to capture their adventure in a special portrait. For younger children, the Little Dragon’s Play Zone (1–3 years) provides toddler-specific playtime, and the Kids Dragon Bounce (4–11 years) gives older children a space to enjoy inflatables, explore, and play.  Admission for the dragon trail is priced at €17.50 per entrant. Optional extras include the toddler play zone, kids bounce zone and dragon portrait print.  Visitors are reminded that “Guardians of the Gardens” takes place entirely outdoors, so appropriate clothing for autumn weather is strongly recommended.  This event builds on Mount Congreve’s commitment to engaging family-friendly garden experiences and takes the estate’s storied landscapes into new imaginative territory. Tickets are available now, and visitors are encouraged to book in advance to secure their chosen time slot. For more information and booking details, visit www.mountcongreve.com

The Dingle Food Festival 2025 is serving up flavour, fun, and sustainability in the heart of Kerry this October 3rd–5th. Taking place from Friday 3rd to Sunday the 5th of October in Dingle County Kerry, food lovers are in for a treat as local food is celebrated at the hero of this year’s festival. Zero Waste will once again be a key driver of the 2025 Food Festival, as Dingle continues on its mission to be the first Irish “Zero Landfill Waste” festival. Showcasing the Flavours of the Peninsula Over the weekend the Bia Dingle Showcase, in the centre of the town, will highlight the local food of the Dingle Peninsula as festival goers can meet local producers and literally taste the peninsula! Festivities kick off Friday night with Ceiliúradh Bídh Chorca Dhuibhne. This ticketed event is a harvest celebration of the naturally produced food & drink from the Dingle Peninsula, intertwined with local music, song, food and drink to celebrate the food traditions of Corca Dhuibhne. Learn from Culinary Stars Masterclasses invite visitors to learn from the best! and include, Cork based Chef Takashi – who was awarded a prestigious Michelin Star in his first year after opening Ichigo Ichie, Asia Mahealani McDonagh, the first ever Irish Pâtisserie Champion and the owner of Mahealani Pastries in Galway and Dingles very own Peter White, founding member and former president of the Irish Whiskey Society. Sustainability at the Heart of the Festival The Dingle Food Festival, with the help of the local community sustainability group Transition Corca Dhuibhne, is continuing on its mission to be Zero-Waste to landfill. Festival goers are encouraged to bring their own bowl, cutlery and cup to help in the effort of reducing the huge waste that is being created by the festival. Rinse stations and waste segregation bins will be provided. There will be stainless steel bowls available to rent and return and also festival packs on sale consisting of a bamboo bowl and cutlery set. Taste trail and market outlets will only be serving food onto reusable tableware, with the main aim being to reduce the amount of disposable packaging over the weekend. Taste Trail of Festival Delights Highlights of this year’s festival include the much loved Taste Trail, where festival goers purchase a book of taste tickets and get to sample food delights throughout the picturesque town. Along with the numerous masterclasses and workshops, there will be over 70 market stalls, street entertainment, live music and kids activities… there really is something for everyone! Tickets for all masterclass and workshops can be purchased from dinglefood.com

There are walks that sharpen the senses and others that soften them; Ballybunion’s cliff path somehow manages both. Above the roar of the Atlantic, the trail heads past ancient stone, blowholes, and hidden coves. In September, when the summer rush loosens, it’s at its best. The Cliff Walk Ballybunion sits on County Kerry’s north coast, where the River Shannon meets the Atlantic. The cliff walk is a short, signposted loop that begins near Ballybunion Castle (the 16th-century ruin that watches over town). From there, it follows the clifftop above the town’s strands, traditionally called the Ladies’ and Men’s Beaches, before heading west toward blowholes and viewpoints over the iconic sea arch known as Virgin Rock and the secluded crescent of Nun’s Beach (best admired from above; access is typically restricted due to safety and erosion). Town info & seasonal updates: ballybunion.ie County overview & inspiration: discoverireland.ie/kerry Highlights along the way Ballybunion Castle:  Ruins of the town’s former tower house, used historically as a residence and coastal lookout. Ladies’ & Men’s Beaches:  Paired strands historically designated for men and women; today both are open to all, but the names remain. Views to Virgin Rock & Nun’s Beach:  Lookouts to Virgin Rock (a natural sea arch) and Nun’s Beach (a small cove beneath the cliffs) - access to the cove is typically restricted for safety. Birdlife:  Regular sightings include kittiwake, fulmar, gannet. The cliffs provide nesting/roosting habitat, with seasonal passage in early autumn. Distance & time:  Allow 45–75 minutes for the main loop, longer if you’re a stop-and-stare type (you will be). Paths are generally obvious but keep well back from edges in windy weather, and wear proper footwear, autumn grass can be slick after rain. A September wander We recommend going for golden hour, and building your day around the tide. Clifftop views are unaffected, but if you want to go barefoot on the main beach after your loop, a falling tide is best. Check the forecast first at met.ie . Make sure to pack windproof layers as early autumn can be a bit gusty, and definitely mind the margins - the signage and fences are there for a reason. The hike is dog-friendly, but make sure to keep your dogs on a short lead. . Practicalities Start/parking:  The simplest start is beside the castle/green above the Ladies’ Beach; there’s public parking in town within a short walk of the trailhead. Terrain:  A mix of paved path and compacted earth. After rain, expect puddles and slick grass. Facilities:  Toilets and food options are in town near the beach car parks; hours can be shorter midweek in September. Dogs:  Welcome on-lead . Cliffs, birds, and grazing animals make for unpredictable distractions. Make a day of it Loop Head Lighthouse (Clare):  Across the Shannon, but within striking distance if you combine with the Tarbert–Killimer ferry. Big skies, bigger horizons. Lighthouse info: loopheadlighthouse.ie Ferry timetables: shannonferries.com Listowel (15–20 minutes inland):  Bookish, market-town charm with a castle, cafés, and shops to browse if the weather turns. Surf lesson or sea dip:  Ballybunion is surf-mad. If conditions are good, you’ll find reputable schools operating year-round. September is a fabulous time to head on this walk, with fewer crowds and milder weather - head prepared but above all, enjoy the views!

What better way to embrace autumn than with a visit to a pumpkin patch? Perfect for families, friends, or even a solo stroll, pumpkin patches have become a beloved fall activity across Ireland. Whether you’re picking the perfect pumpkin for carving, enjoying a farm-fresh treat, or snapping that ideal Instagram shot, here’s your guide to the best pumpkin patches to visit this season. Joe’s Farm Crisps Pumpkin Patch – Killeagh, County Cork Cork’s favourite crisp producer, Joe’s Farm Crisps, goes all out for the pumpkin season. Set on their working farm, their pumpkin patch is a wonderful place to spend an autumn afternoon. Known for growing everything from potatoes to pumpkins, this family-run farm turns into a Halloween hotspot come October. Pick-your-own pumpkins, including a wide range of varieties (from large carving pumpkins to mini gourds)   Tractor rides around the farm   A chance to learn how Joe’s Farm Crisps are made (and sample some tasty crisps while you’re at it!)   A pumpkin-themed photo area—great for capturing those picture-perfect autumn moments   Hot drinks and locally made snacks available at the farm’s café Open from mid-October 2024, Joe’s Farm Crisps Pumpkin Patch is located at Mount Uniacke, Killeagh, Co. Cork. Entry is approximately €6 per person, and pumpkins are priced based on size. Streamvale Open Farm Pumpkin Patch – Belfast Streamvale Open Farm, just outside Belfast, offers a magical experience with its pumpkin patch, from picking pumpkins to petting farm animals. This farm has become a go-to for families looking to create unforgettable memories in the lead-up to Halloween. A huge selection of pumpkins to choose from   Pumpkin carving stations on-site, so you can leave the mess behind!   Tractor rides through the farm’s beautiful fields   Petting zoo, where you can meet everything from baby chicks to cuddly bunnies   Special Halloween events, including haunted hayrides and spooky storytelling Streamvale Farm’s pumpkin patch is open from the first week of October until Halloween. You’ll find them at 38 Ballyhanwood Road, Belfast, BT5 7SN. Entry costs £7–£10, with additional charges for the Halloween-themed activities. Pumpkins are priced separately. Clonfert Pet Farm Pumpkin Patch – Kildare Clonfert Pet Farm, located in Kildare, is one of Ireland’s best gems when it comes to Halloween fun. Their annual pumpkin patch has become a favourite for locals and visitors, perfect for a relaxed and enjoyable day out for all ages. Beyond pumpkins, Clonfert Pet Farm is home to a variety of animals, making it a fantastic destination for families. A large pumpkin field with plenty of choice! Face painting and pumpkin carving stations   Bouncy castles and an outdoor play area for children   A petting zoo, with friendly animals ranging from llamas to miniature horses   Seasonal snacks and hot drinks available at their farm café Clonfert Pet Farm, located near Maynooth, Co. Kildare, is open for pumpkin picking from early October 2024. Tickets are priced at €7 per person, and pumpkins are sold separately. Kids’ activities may have additional costs. K2Alpacas Pumpkin Patch – County Wicklow A truly unique Halloween experience awaits you at K2Alpacas in County Wicklow, where you can pick your perfect pumpkin while hanging out with friendly alpacas! This farm has fully embraced the pumpkin craze, and accompanied by a whole bunch of alpacas, it’s a great place for a family day out! A pumpkin patch with a wide selection of pumpkins for carving or cooking   Guided walks with alpacas through the farm’s beautiful fields   Alpaca petting and feeding experiences   A small farm shop selling alpaca-themed gifts and seasonal treats   Warm beverages and snacks to enjoy as you take in the autumnal views K2Alpacas, located in Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, is open for pumpkin picking throughout October. Entry prices vary but typically range from €10–€12 per person, which includes the alpaca experience. Pumpkins are an additional cost. Make sure to plan ahead, as these spots can fill up fast during peak weekends—and don’t forget to check the official websites for ticket info, opening dates, and additional details.

The 2025 Bushmills Salmon & Whiskey Festival is set to be the best one yet, with a fantastic array of food, drink, music and community events – there’s sure to be something for everyone. This year, the ever-popular festival will run from Friday 3rd October through to Sunday 5th October, continuing to embrace local heritage, while underlining the Borough’s reputation as a food and drink destination of outstanding quality. Visitors can look forward to sampling some of the best artisan produce the Borough has to offer with the annual festival hosted in the heart of the charming village of Bushmills. This year will see an array of salmon & whiskey products on offer across the long weekend, with visitors having opportunities to sample products alongside live cookery demonstrations from social media sensation The Hungry Hooker and celebrity chef Suzie-Lee! Visitors will experience the warm hospitality Bushmills has to offer, with a side serving of whiskey - if you enjoy ‘a wee dram’ as the festival continues to provide a platform for exciting food and drink producers in the local area and beyond. On Friday 3rd October, diners will have a choice of delicious menus, brought to you by three of the village’s top restaurants. The popular Bushmills ‘Supper Club’ experience is designed to captivate the taste buds, with delicious drinks and sumptuous dishes created collaboratively by Tartine and renowned Slemish Market Chef Rob Curley. The Bistro at the Courthouse have very special evening planned to start the festivities (pre booking advised). The bespoke menu will focus on food and drink produce from the Causeway Coast and Glens. As a special treat, local storyteller Colin Irwin will entertain with tidbits about whiskey between courses, and musician Anna Brolly will be singing for the guests. The Bushmills Inn will also be showcasing their ‘Innkeepers Menu’ – a 3-course dinner with the dishes inspired by salmon & whiskey, with the option to add on their specially crafted festival cocktail or a Bushmills Whiskey Flight. On Saturday 4th October, Naturally North Coast & Glens Artisan Market will set up in the side car park near Therapy Style with street food and craft stalls. They will also host ‘Meet the Maker’ sessions held in Bushmills VIC from 11am - 4pm. While on Sunday 5th October, the full market also moves onto main street, as the village closes to traffic and becomes a hub of activity set against a backdrop of live music adding to the festival atmosphere. The world-famous Bushmills Distillery will be open all weekend, hosting tours and whiskey tasting. Enjoy a walking tour through the working core of the world’s oldest licensed distillery, then taste for yourself the culmination of more than 400 years of expertise and innovation. The popular ‘Whiskey Hub’ returns to Main Street Carpark on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th October. On Saturday, a newly added feature of the Whiskey Hub for 2025 invites visitors to hear about the history of Bushmills Distillery, the oldest whiskey distillery in the world, along with the chance to see products made from old whiskey barrels. For whiskey enthusiasts who would love to sample a wee dram, on Sunday, distillers from across the island of Ireland will offer visitors a chance to sample a range of exciting and interesting blends of whiskeys. Over the three days, Council’s VIC team will showcase a selection of products recently awarded ‘Food & Drink Producer Award Winners of 2025’ from 10am – 5pm daily, including opportunities to sample some for yourself! For those of you with green fingers, The Community Garden will host various activities throughout the day in conjunction with Council’s Biodiversity Officer. Tartine’s Salmon and Chowder Shack will be open on Saturday and Sunday from 11am – 5pm. Serving award winning seafood chowder and delicious Salmon bites. Ewings famous smoked salmon will also be available to purchase. ‘The Crumble Cart’ at Tartine will serve warm apple crumble made with local apples and served with whiskey custard to go. The recently restored Courthouse Shared Space Creative Hub, Bushmills, will present an interesting and varied programme of events across the weekend, welcoming visitors to see its historic transformation into a shared space and creative hub for the community. In the Bistro, talented local chefs and producers will also be demonstrating how to use salmon, whiskey and accompanying products to elevate and enhance meals at home. Come along and get a tip or two! A fantastic programme of live music and entertainment will be available across the village all weekend, with lots of fun activities for the kids. On Sunday, Millennium Park will have a host of fishing activities for both young and old, experienced or novice, such as fly casting and fly tying. Come and have a go, see if you can hook something! There will also be quiet time sessions for individuals with additional needs on Sunday from 11am – 12noon. For those interested in the history of the village, the Inland Fisheries Salmon Station will return for 2025 opening on Friday and Saturday for pre-booked tours. To book your place visit: https://bit.ly/3IfLLGs . Local resident Antony Macnaghten invites visitors to join his Heritage Walking Tour on Friday and Saturday from 1pm & 3pm. (booking via Bushmills VIC). For more information and for the full event programme visit: www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com

It's time for our weekend roundup! Here's what's on this weekend, between Friday the 19th and Sunday the 21st of September across Ireland. We've got a great lineup of things to do, from the Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival to Culture Night and much, much more. Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival, Lisdoonvarna - 1.09-30.09 Europe's biggest singles festival takes place every September in the small village of Lisdoonvarna on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. The month-long Irish festival attracts people from all over the world looking for Love, fun and a bit of 'craic'. The festival is over 165 years old and couldn't be more different from online dating services. Read more here. Culture Night, All across Ireland - 19.09 Culture Night (Oíche Chultúir) is Ireland’s biggest evening of free arts and culture, and it’s back on Friday, 19 September 2025 . For one night only, hundreds of museums, theatres, galleries, libraries, studios, historic houses, and cultural institutions across the country will open their doors late, inviting the public inside at no cost. Read more here. Clifden Arts Festival, Galway - 17.09-28.09 The longest-running community arts festival in Ireland, Clifden Community Arts Festival, now heading into its 48th year, will take place from September 17-28 and yet again promises to have something to excite everyone in the 2025 programme. Read more here. Vantastival, Drogheda - 19.09-21.09 Vantastival rolls back into Louth this weekend with three days of live music, campervan culture, and family-friendly fun. Alongside a stellar Irish line-up, including Susan O’Neill, Junior Brother, and Gemma Hayes, festivalgoers can expect food stalls, craft workshops, and plenty of space for families to enjoy. A celebration of creativity on wheels, it’s one of Ireland’s quirkiest late-summer festivals. Read more here.

Waterford has officially gone to the dogs – in the very best way. The county has unveiled its brand-new Pawsport , an imaginative stamp-collecting travel guide celebrating the region’s most dog-friendly destinations. Designed for four-legged adventurers and their humans, it’s an invitation to explore Ireland’s oldest city and its stunning countryside, taking in scenic walks, heritage attractions, delicious dining spots, and welcoming accommodation – all with tails wagging. From sandy paws on wide Atlantic beaches to cosy cafés where dogs are treated like family, the Pawsport is filled with pup-approved stops. Simply pick up your guide, set off to the featured locations, and collect stamps along the way – the ulti-mutt keepsake for every canine explorer. Outdoor Adventures & Trails Adventures begin on the celebrated Waterford Greenway, a 46-kilometre traffic-free trail stretching from the Viking City through Mount Congreve Gardens, Kilmacthomas and onwards to Dungarvan. This historic route crosses eleven bridges, three viaducts, and even a 400-metre tunnel, with sweeping views of the Comeragh Mountains and Dungarvan Bay. Nearby Bunmahon offers a warm welcome at the Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark café or The Engine House Pub and Café, where local produce pairs perfectly with a dog by your side. Closer to the city, the Anne Valley Walk offers a peaceful woodland path just outside the city, and the Copper Coast’s dramatic cliffs and coves are perfect for brisk coastal strolls. Those seeking manicured beauty can wander the Lismore Castle Gardens or the lush wetlands walk at Mount Congreve Gardens. Even in the heart of the city, the leafy lanes of the People’s Park provide a green retreat where dogs on leads are welcome. Heritage & Unique Experiences Heritage lovers can step back in time aboard the Waterford Suir Valley Railway, a scenic heritage train from Kilmeaden to Bilberry where leashed dogs enjoy riverside views, historic lime kilns, and castle ruins. On the water, Southeast Charters and Osprey Viking Tours offer dog-friendly voyages along the River Suir, while the Epic Walking Tour brings paws and people together on a guided journey through Waterford’s medieval streets. Dog-Friendly Dining When it’s time to refuel, Waterford’s dog-friendly dining scene is brimming with flavour. The Cliff House Hotel pairs fine dining with sweeping sea views, or 360 Cookhouse in Dungarvan is a favourite stop for Greenway explorers. In the city, the Stableyard Foodhall serves artisan delights with a side of canine hospitality. In picturesque Dunmore East, the Splash Cafe at Dunmore Adventure Centre overlooking all the harbour activities is dog-friendly with an elevated outdoor deck to enjoy a vista of the nearby coves; ideal for dog owners; inside, you’ll also spot a Polaroid gallery wall of all doggie visitors.  Pet-Friendly Stays  After a day of exploring, there’s no shortage of pet-friendly places to stay. Ardmore Glamping Pods and countryside-chic Comeragh Pods offer cosy, under-the-stars escapes. The Mount Congreve Garden Lodges provide luxury self-catering right beside the famous gardens, with one lodge featuring its own dedicated dog room for four-legged VIPs. Waterford Castle Lodges, Faithlegg House Hotel, and The Park Hotel Dungarvan also extend a warm welcome to canine guests, many for a small additional charge. Your Ticket to Tail-Wagging Fun Whether it’s chasing waves, uncovering history, or curling up somewhere cosy, the Waterford Pawsport ensures every dog has its day. Collect stamps from participating attractions, trails, and eateries to create a unique memento of your shared adventures. Get your paws on one today and start exploring the region’s most pup-friendly experiences. Pick up your Pawsport at the Waterford Tourism Office at Bishop’s Palace or at any participating location; for more information and to plan your paw-fect getaway, visitwaterford.com .