EXPERIENCE the Tinahely Agricultural Show, Co Wicklow, the second-largest agricultural show in Ireland. Over 20,000 visitors and 200 trade stands come through Fairwood Park’s gates every year. The show features the best of rural life with numerous competitions, exhibit marquees, machinery, parade rings, entertainment sections, novelty events and fashion. If you’re looking for a fun-filled day out for all the family, to show your livestock or exhibit your craft or product, the Tinahely Show is the place to be on Monday 5 August. For more information, see www.tinahelyshow.ie.

ATTEND the launch of the inaugural Ballykelly Engine Show, Limavady, Co Derry, a must visit for all machinery fanatics. It features a display of tractors (including the world’s biggest tractor), trucks and other engines as well as children’s entertainment, food stalls and trade stands. There will also be a stage and live country music throughout the day, promising a great day out for all the family. The event takes place on 4 August from 11am until 6pm at the former Shackleton Barracks and visitors are advised to access via Duke’s Lane and to call John Madine (07856894084) for access.

CELEBRATE 25 years of the Sean McCarthy Memorial Weekend Ballad and Storytelling Festival in Finuge, Listowel, Co Kerry, from 1 to 5 August. Sean McCarthy (1923-1990) was an Irish songwriter, and penned some of the country’s favourite ballads such as Step It Out Mary and Shanagolden. The weekend boasts an array of competitions from storytelling to ballads as well as an art exhibition, live music and finishes with a barbecue in the beer garden. For more information, visit www.finugeweekend.com.

EXPLORE the Wild Atlantic Way this August bank holiday weekend at Cahersiveen Festival of Music and the Arts. The festival is now in its 24th year and spans four days of children’s entertainment, busking competitions, angling competitions, art exhibitions, trad sessions, outdoor social dancing, football and soccer tournaments, historical talks and walks, fancy dress, mini-motor parades and street theatre. This year, the event will also see Bressie and The Blizzards, Springbreak and Michael English take to the main stage. The festival runs from the 2 to 4 August. For more information, see www.celticmusicfestival.com

VISIT the Scariff Harbour Festival from 1-4 August this summer and experience the very best this east Clare town has to offer. This open-air street-based festival is held over four days and provides a varied programme of activities, arts, music and entertainment, all inspired by the “by the lake” theme. Activities include boat tours of the Scariff river and Lough Derg, a climbing wall, mobile mountain bike course, archery tag, water walking zorbs, stand-up paddle boarding, walking tours and displays of traditional craft making. The family-focused event will also have a kids’ fun zone in the GAA field. Music is an integral part of the weekend with acts such as The Riptide Movement and the renowned Shandrum Céilí Band taking to the stage at night. Visit www.scariffharbourfestival.ie for more.

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