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Life

06th Jul 2018

Something for the weekend: Five things you need to check out (6 – 8 July)

Eric Lalor

drugs Ireland

Sun’s out, fun’s out!

This is getting ridiculous now, but we are actually experiencing a ridiculously good summer here in Ireland. We can actually make plans with the knowledge that the weather will be exceptional. Crazy carry-on altogether.

With that in mind, we are encouraging you to go make the most of the heatwave and have some fun at some events taking place around the country this weekend.

Groove Festival

Groove Festival

Taking place in the wonderful Kilruddery House in Bray, Groove Festival runs for two days and features a host of music, arts and spoken word, all in an idyllic setting.

The Fun Lovin’ Criminals, Heather Small, The Riptide Movement, Something Happens, The Stunning, Bitch Falcons and many more will be adorning the music stages and there is a ton of other stuff going on too, including a comedy tent, more food stalls and a special area for junior festival-goers to hang out.

Bare Festival

Groove Festival

The Bare Festival takes place in Borris House in Carlow and is one of those festivals marked as ‘a little bit different’. Where other festivals strive for a unique and fun experience, BARE prides itself on taking everything one step further.

There are no limits to the fun at BARE this year with gourmet food demonstrations, the largest selection of whiskeys and craft beers at any music festival, real live wrestling and a stellar lineup to boot.

As well as featuring music acts such as Kila, Obie Trice and some members of D12 and a comedy stage, there is also the chance to visit the Great Escape Rooms. In here, you can see what it’s like to be trapped on a bus with only 45 minutes to disarm a bomb.

Aaaagggghhhh!

Laya Healthcare’s City Spectacular

Groove Festival

A firm favourite every year. The Laya Healthcare City Spectacular takes place over the weekend in Merrion Square and will feature some of the best street performers in the world.

It’s not just spectacular street performances though, you can also visit the food section, where you can sample some of the best in international street food.

Not only that, but there is a brand new zone, ‘It’s Good to Live’, where you can take part in fun and free active classes by the outdoor stage.

Ballina Salmon Festival

Groove Festival

If you like salmon and being in Mayo, this could be just the festival for you. In its 54th year, the Ballina Salmon Festival is very much a community festival and aimed at all ages. At least one-third of all events will be aimed specifically at kids.

The festival features local artists, musicians, and volunteers proudly celebrating the proud Mayo town’s status as the unofficial Salmon Capital of Ireland.

Féile Brian Ború

Groove Festival

The historic twin towns of Ballina and Killaloe commemorate the High King Brian Ború with a series of family events in both towns.

Now in its 26th year, there will be loads to do, including historical guided tours, a stunning fireworks display over the Shannon, carnival games including archery, live music and street theatre, and even a genealogy workshop.

LISTEN: You Must Be Jokin’ with Aideen McQueen – Faith healers, Coolock craic and Gigging as Gaeilge