May Bank Holiday Fun for Everyone
Celebrate the start of the summer with our pick of the best events from all around the country. Many are child-friendly, all promise a fantastic weekend of entertainment. From music to fundraising walks, food to festivals, there is something for everyone. Below are some of our highlights but be sure to check out Inspireme.ie for a complete list of events around you, all around the country this May Bank Holiday weekend.
Stetsons in Sligo
My Old Hometown, Gurteen is a fantastic country music festival taking place in Gurteen, Co Sligo over the May bank holiday weekend. Country stars who will be taking to the stage include Jimmy Buckley, Gerry Guthrie and Patrick Feeney. Throughout each day there will be jiving competitions for young and old. Afternoons will be full of dancing displays. So pull on the jeans and the cowboy boots, and make for the West.
Inspiring in Inishbofin
Off the coast of Connemara the beautiful island of Inishbofin is looking forward to its annual Arts Festival. On Friday May 4th Johnny Brady will be treating the crowds to his distinctive country music. On Saturday Carmen Cullen will be performing the songs and stories of Delia Murphy. And folk/ soul band Moon Looks will be playing into the night. Sunday will see the world-famous Irish-American group ‘Cherish the Ladies’ take to the stage. With workshops, poetry and lots of activities for children this is a real family-friendly festival. And the boat trip out will be the icing on the cake.
Celebrations in Connemara
In Renvyle, Co Galway there is a jam packed programme of events for the Connemara Mussel Festival. From magic shows to artisan markets, there is something for everyone. Some highlights include cookery displays in the festival marquee, and tai chi on the beach. The whole family can go foraging or meet the challenge of the festival 5k run. There are sean nos dancing workshops, musical events, talks and pony shows. And for early risers, a dawn mussel walk. This is a unique event in a beautiful part of the country.
Best of times in Ballydehob
Ballydehob Jazz Festival has been growing from strength to strength since it first appeared on the music festival scene in 2007. And it is fair to say that it is now one of the most important jazz festivals on the music calendar. This small village in Cork has seen world-famous musicians take to the stage. With over 40 separate events, from big concerts to small pub gigs, poetry slams to a New Orleans Jazz Style Funeral, you will be spoilt for choice.
Crustaceans in Courtmacsherry
Famous for its seaside races, the beautiful village of Courtmacsherry comes alive on the May Bank Holiday for the Seafood Feast . All things fishy will be celebrated in this West Cork village. There will be cooking demonstrations by well-known chefs. Artisan producers will be selling their wares, and there will be entertainment on the streets.
Brilliant Jazz in Bray
The 19th Bray jazz festival returns to the streets of Bray from 4th – 6th May. There is an incredible line-up of international jazz musicians. Cora Venus Lunny and Colm O’Hara will be taking to the stage on Friday night followed by the Wicklow Wolf Jazz Trail. On Saturday Joe Lovano and Dave Douglas will be bringing the best of US jazz to these shores. There is a jam packed schedule of concerts, gigs and workshops, and all only a Dart ride from Dublin City Centre.
Lovin’ Limerick
Limerick comes alive each May Bank Holiday weekend as families, foodies and watersports enthusiasts gather on the banks of the Shannon for Riverfest 2018.
There are so many different events to choose from, the challenge will be to try to see and do it all. Don’t miss the festival village in Arthur’s Quay Park where there is free music and street entertainment, artisan foods and vintage amusements. On Saturday 5th there will be a BBQ competition, and Jack L and Bell X1 will be in situ. For those who like their exercise the Bon Secours Great Limerick Run on Sunday morning, while on Sunday night the skies will light up for the fireworks display. With a zipline over the River, waterzorbing and lots of other watersports to try, this promises to be a memorable weekend.
It’s a Dogs Life in Kilruddery
The historical Kilruddery House and Gardens in County Wicklow will be the destination for dog lovers on May 6th for Burns dogs day out. There will be dog classes and stalls as well as human foodie treats. You can get advice on nutrition for your canine companion from the Burns Pet Nutrition Team. There are lots of fantastic prizes on offer. And best of all, the proceeds go towards Dogs for the Disabled and the Alzheimers Society of Ireland.
The Little Tipperary Camino
One of the most inspiring events over the May Bank holiday is the Little Tipperary Camino on May 6th. This cross country 5k walk is suitable for all ages. You can discover hidden Ireland in the Tipperary Hills, while raising lots of Money for the Irish Hospice Foundation. And when you make it across the finish lines there will be a celebratory BBQ.
All details were correct at time of publication but please make sure to check with individual organisers before you travel.
