Ballymaloe festival

15-17 May: The Kerrygold Ballymaloe Literary Festival of Food and Wine is dedicated to the celebration of the culinary arts. It’s a weekend filled with fascinating facts, inspirational stories, intriguing discussions, incredible knowledge, fantastic music, fabulous dancing and delicious food. Visit www.litfest.ie for more.

Music gathering

15-17 May: Fleadh 64 Traditional Music Gathering is an annual festival celebrating Irish traditional music, song, and dance. With a host of musicians, dancers, poetry on the Diamond for a Céilí Mór and evening music sessions in local venues, Clones is the place to be this weekend. Visit www.fleadh64.com for more details.

May madness

16 May: Families visiting Wilton Shopping Centre, Co Cork, are in for some fun and exciting times with Mickey and Minnie Mouse this Saturday. The family day is on from 1pm until 4pm, it is suitable for all ages and admission is free to shoppers. For further information on the event, call 021-454-6944.

Burren Slow Food

22-23 May: The Burren Slow Food Festival showcases food, adventure and activities. A range of events will take place, from walks, runs and cookery demos to showcasing fresh produce at the farmers’ market. The venue is Lisdoonvarna Pavilion Hall and the Burren, Co Clare. Visit

www.slowfoodclare.com

Oceans to City

30 May to 6 June: Welcome to Ireland’s newest festival, the Ocean to City Cork Harbour Festival – a celebration of sea to shore. Events include films, talks, a river trail, harbour cruise, seafood market and the dragon boat challenge. Visit www.corkharbourfestival.com for a full schedule of listings.