Waterford Writers

7-10 May: Waterford Writers’ Weekend celebrates the art of writing. The festival gathers authors and readers to explore the joy of the written word in Ireland’s oldest city. Storytelling, drama, local author readings, fringe events, arts exhibitions and so much more will happen over the weekend. www.waterfordcity.ie

Sweets of May festival

8-10 May: Tralee comes alive to the sound of traditional music and set dancing. Organised by the Kerry dancers set dancing club, the weekend is packed with everything from céilís to workshops. See www.kerrydancers.com for more.

Weekend in the hills

9-10 May: This event, formally known as Weekend in the Woods, is an opportunity for people to immerse themselves in their roots. It takes place in the Slieve Aughty Centre in Loughrea and aims to teach the techniques and skills needed to go home and pursue the craft or subject studied over the weekend. www.celtnet.org

Clare Wellness

11-17 May: Hosted by the Falls Spa team in Ennistymon, the wellness festival will feature a range of activities for everyone. There are numerous treatments and yoga sessions as well as a number of guided tours for fans of the outdoors. See www.fallshotel.ie for more information.

The Balmoral show

13-15 May: The Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster bank is Northern Ireland’s largest agricultural and food show with entertainment for the whole family. The show returns to Balmoral Park and has many new attractions along with hundreds of trade and shopping stands. www.balmoralshow.co.uk