A remarkable vintage tractor and a lifetime of family memories will take centre stage later this month as Dunmanway native Sandra Patterson embarks on a solo charity tractor run over 220km. On 19 August, she will set off in her beloved 1975 Ford 6600 (pictured below), from Ballinacarriga to Castletownbere via the Mealagh Valley, returning on 20 August. The route has been carefully chosen to recreate the longest journeys made by her father, John Patterson, who regularly drove the same tractor for decades while hauling grain and beet.John has been living with dementia and has been a resident of Clonakilty Community Hospital for more than seven years. In recent months, Sandra’s mother, Betty, and her uncle, Billy Kingston, have become residents of Dunmanway Community Hospital. Proceeds will be shared equally between the hospitals through Sandra’s GoFundMe page: gofundme.com/f/the-john-patterson-legacy-run-2026

Cork Craft Month returns throughout August with its biggest programme yet, featuring over 90 workshops, demonstrations, exhibitions and markets designed to connect the public directly with the county’s vibrant craft community. From a two-day porcelain workshop with artist Sara Roberts in Nohoval, to a willow weaving workshop with Cois Laoi Willow in Greywood Arts, the programme highlights the extraordinary breadth of creative talent across Cork. See corkcraftanddesign.ie

A beautifully illustrated new children’s book inspired by Ireland’s native plants, folklore and changing seasons is encouraging youngsters to discover nature. Written by Kerry-based herbalist Sarah O’Neill, Danu, Child of the Wild follows a young girl and her loyal hound, Finn, as they journey through the Celtic seasons of Samhain, Imbolc, Bealtaine and Lughnasa. Created for kids aged six and over, the book introduces familiar plants such as hawthorn, elder, plantain and daisies through storytelling and adventure. Danu, Child of the Wild (€14.99) is currently available from O’Mahony’s Booksellers Tralee and Limerick, Dingle Bookshop, Woulfe’s Bookshop in Listowel and The Dungeon Bookshop in Killarney.

Following the announcement of her forthcoming album, Mother of Pearl, BRIT Award-nominated Freya Ridings (pictured above), has also announced a massive UK and EU tour, including a date at St Canice’s Cathedral in Kilkenny, Thursday 10 September at 7.30pm. The English singer/songwriter will perform on as part of the new Come On Up To The House concert series at St Canice’s Cathedral, which also features headliner acts such as Jeff Tweedy and The Tallest Man On Earth. Tickets are € 46.50. See set.ticketsolve.com

Back by popular demand, Munster’s first and biggest health, wellness and lifestyle festival, Elevate Fit Fest, returns to Shanbally House & Gardens, Nenagh, Co Tipperary, on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September. This year’s headliner is Roxie Nafousi, with other speakers including Tom Coleman and Trisha Lewis. There will be events throughout, in the Move Tent (pictured below), Talk Tent, Mindfulness Tent and Flow Tent, with everything from yoga, pilates and breathwork to soundbaths. Prices from €53. See elevatefitfest.ie

Do you have a book, event,product, craft, business, or local initiative that celebrates rural life in Ireland? The Country Vibes pages in Irish Country Living are always looking for unique finds and community happenings to share with our readers. Whether it’s a new book release, an upcoming festival, a handmade product, a farm diversification project or a special event in your area, we’d love to hear about it. Send us details, photos, and contact information for consideration. We can’t guarantee coverage, but we’re always keen to discover the people, places,and ideas bringing vibrancy to rural Ireland. Please send to Country Vibes icl@farmersjournal.ie

Beauty in the air by Anna Smyth, Co Cavan

The breeze flows gently, through the lush green grass.

A chirping bird is to be seen, flying low by a nearby bush.

And I wander along my way, as how happy life is, at last silently peaceful.

Cows gather in a large herd, and start to plough the field with their mighty hooves, as the light drizzle is moving them forward.

The sun is slipping past a clutter of clouds, cows run without looking back, birds flutter of swooping and

circling the air.

Cud is well chewed,

the field is completely bare, the water seeps of drain pipes making mud and the

air is in darkness.

With hopes of a brighter day once again, to hear the bird’s melody, to feel the sun’s warmth and to see the cows delight with the

fresh green grass.