Something for the weekend: Five things you need to check out (9 – 11 August)

A weekend of food and tradition.

If you don't have plans for the weekend and fancy some good food or a visit to some of the most well-known and traditional festivals in Ireland, look no further. Here's a taste of what's going on all over the country this weekend.

The Wine and Cheese Festival

The Wine and Cheese Festival will be held in The Iveagh Gardens this weekend, providing the perfect opportunity to indulge in some quality food and drink. Tickets for individual days and times are available throughout the weekend, which grant patrons access to the vendors. Along with all the wine and cheese, other food and drink options will be scattered throughout the park. Music, cheese and wine-making demonstrations and challenges will be on hand for the entertainment of all present as well. Sunday, meanwhile, will be a kids’ day, where there will be several family-friendly events.

Puck Fair

Ireland’s oldest festival, the Puck Fair, runs from Saturday to Monday this weekend in Killorglin, Co. Kerry. Dating back to the 1600s, this festival celebrates tradition and the coronation of a mountain goat as King Puck. Along with the traditional opening ceremony, the weekend will be filled with live music, street performances, workshops and loads more. At the end of the festival, there will be a dethronement ceremony and parade, culminating in a fireworks show to round off the weekend.

Carlingford Oyster Festival 2019

Celebrating its 40^th anniversary, the Carlingford Oyster Festival brings the love of oysters and country music together. What’s not to love? Throughout the weekend, fresh oysters and other seafood will be readily available for all the seafood lovers in attendance. A great lineup of country music includes Michael English, Mike Denver and Derek Ryan performing at various venues throughout the weekend. There will also be a pageant and a raffle for a week-long country music trip in Portugal.

Taste of Cavan

Image via Lorraine Teevan

With some of Ireland’s best chefs showcasing their talent, the Taste of Cavan 2019 will provide attendees with great local food and drink. Notable chefs like Neven Maguire, Simon Delaney, Jeeny Maltese and more fill this year’s lineup. There will be workshops, masterclasses, health and nutrition talks, a craft centre, and a dedicated kids' zone to cater for locals and visitors alike. Last year, Hollywood actor Jessie Eisenberg showed up and tried Boxty, so you never know who will make an appearance!

Cruinniú na mBád

Also celebrating its 40^th anniversary, the Cruinniú na mBád is a weekend full of tradition that commemorates the historic boating culture and commerce on the west coast. Hooker boats will be seen all across Galway bay and a race will be held between the boats of various sizes. In addition to the sailing, there will be several other events including a Climín race, live music, a fancy dress parade, and loads more.