Experience

the talent on display at this year’s Kilkenny Arts Festival from 5 to 14 August. The festival has grown from strength to strength and includes a diverse and broad spectrum of theatre and dance, literature, a vast genre of music and visual arts and crafts. The arts festival is Kilkenny’s oldest and largest non-profit festival and sees more than 50,000 spectators visit the city annually. Not only do those spectators come to witness the talent the festival incorporates but also to enrich themselves in the historic and unique culture Kilkenny has to offer. For more information and full line up, see www.kilkennyarts.ie

Enjoy

one of the oldest horse fairs celebrated in Ireland. The Puck Fair is happening down in Killorgin, Co Kerry, from 10 to 12 August and is an event for the entire family. The Puck Fair is an event for horse fanatics and will be attended my hundreds of traders, as well as people there to witness the crowning of the King Puck goat. A host of free, family-orientated entertainment options will be on offer and there are also over 200 stalls showcasing local entrepreneurs and Irish produce. It is a festival to immerse yourself in during the day and party the night away with concerts till the wee hours.

Explore

Castlecomer Discovery Park, set in a spectacular 80 acre woodland in Carlow. The Discovery Park has a range of recreational, educational and team-building activities. Make sure to pop into the award-winning café to sample delicious sweet and savory treats, visit the fascinating multi-media mining museum and take a spin on some of the discovery park’s boats. You can also experience the world of creative arts and craft workshops and experience first-hand the thrill of Ireland’s longest over-water zip lines and advance high-rope course. A day out for the whole family, whether you are thrill seekers or simply want to relax in the peaceful woodlands. For more information, see www.discoverypark.ie

Go racing

in Co Waterford from 11 to 14 August. Summer racing returns to the seaside venue of Tramore for an action-packed, fun-filled four days this August. Along with seven exciting horse races each day, this festival promises a fantastic schedule of entertainment for all ages – both on and off the track! The opening night of the festival gives racegoers the chance to reconnect with old friends and perhaps meet some new ones. With live music after the last race every evening and loads of entertainment for the kids, it’s a fun day out for the entire family.

Witness

the internationally acclaimed performance, which combines a vast arrangement of Irish and international music and dance as Riverdance comes home to Dublin’s Gaiety Theatre. Witness the energy of the talented dancers and experience firsthand the sensational music and renowned performers this historic show has to offer. Viewed by billions when broadcast on television, Riverdance has won many international awards for its unique and compelling performances. Now, for a limited time only, Riverdance comes back to Dublin for its 21st anniversary show. Tickets start at €16 and for more information see www.ticketmaster.ie CL