From pride parades to cultural celebrations, here’s what’s on this weekend

Fleadh Cheoil

Until 14 August, Mullingar

Traditional musicians of all ages are invited to gather once again in Mullingar for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2023, ‘The Homecoming’. Now a beloved annual event, the programme features culture and heritage talks, Youth Sessions, dancing workshops and a whole lot more excitement.

Puck Fair

10—12 August, Killorglin, Kerry

Killorglin, in the geographical heart of County Kerry in Ireland, is home to Ireland’s oldest fair. This street festival has roots in the Gaelic calendar and is held without fail on the 10—12 August every year with free family-friendly street entertainment daily. “It is a time when old friends meet, when new friendships are forged and the cares of everyday living are put on hold.”

Howth Roots and Blues Festival

11-13 August, Howth, Dublin

The Howth Roots and Blues Festival is a music celebration showcasing the best in Irish live roots and blues artists. While many of the artists are blues based, the festival caters for fans of country, rhythm and blues, bluegrass, americanna, latin and reggae. Basically anything rootsy!

Galway Community Pride Parade 2023

12 August, From City Hall

Though there is a whole host of incredible events taking place around Galway all Pride Week, celebrations will culminate in a grand parade kicking off from City Hall at 12pm and finishing up in Fr Burke Park. For a Pride special, Club GASS will be kicking off at the much earlier time of 2.30pm, with performances taking place throughout the afternoon and evening, and well into the night.

Swiftogeddon

12 August, The Grand Social, Dublin

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A night dedicated to worshipping at the altar of Taylor Swift: non-stop Swifty all night: deep cuts, extended mixes, fan favourites and all the hits. Do you have a Blank Space in your diary? Then this night is Taylor-made for you! Join fellow fans in a celebration of the genius of the Swift – because she’ll never go out of Style.

National Heritage Week

12—20 August, All around Ireland

National Heritage Week is a nine-day celebration of Ireland’s natural, built and cultural heritage. The main aim of the week is to promote awareness of our heritage, thereby encouraging its conservation and preservation. This year’s theme invites you to explore the traditions and practices, knowledge and skills passed down through generations.

Luke Kelly Festival

13 August, Smithfield, Dublin

Dublin City Council presents the Luke Kelly Festival at Smithfield Square from 12-6pm. This FREE festival promises to be a huge celebration of Dublin music legend Luke Kelly through an engaging and entertaining mix of live music performances, interesting discussion sessions and family-friendly arts and crafts.

Featured image via Bar?? Keskin on Pexels