Laughs, tastes and plenty of Bloom: this weekend on What’s On

We’re truly kicking off a summer of big events this weekend, with something on in every corner of the city this weekend. From literature to food and drink and even some laughs for a good cause, it’s beginning to feel a lot like summer (if the weather would only catch up). Happy weekend from IMAGE!

All weekend: Celebrate Bloomsday around the city

On this day 115 years ago, Leopold Bloom strolled the length and breadth of Dublin city in James Joyces’ iconic novel Ulysses, which has been marked on this weekend in the city ever since. Whether you want to take Dublin at your own pace and see the sights, or get involved at one of the many readings or performances taking place, there’s something for everyone. Honourable mention goes to the Bloomsday Coastal Festival, where budding artists have the chance for their work to be framed and exhibited in the Wilton Gallery for a week if they win.

All weekend: Get to know the city through its food at the Taste of Dublin

True foodies of Dublin will be flocking to the Iveagh Gardens this weekend to welcome the Taste festival back to the city. Featuring some of Ireland’s best and brightest chefs and food experts, this is a weekend for indulgence. Attendees can expect interactive demos, beer & wine tastings, masterclasses and live entertainment, as well as the many brilliant offerings from Dublin’s best eateries. Check out our guide to the weekend for more info on where to go, what to do and what to taste.

Saturday: Laugh for charity at Laugh Out Loud in Vicar Street

One of the country’s best loved comedy nights is back, and all for an amazing cause. Laugh Out Loud is in aid of Temple Street Children’s Hospital, with over €150,000 raised over the past 12 years for essential paediatric equipment, vital patient & parental supports, ground-breaking research and making state-of-the-art new facilities and services possible. This year, attendees can expect brilliant performances from the likes of Colm O’Regan, Alison Spittle, Joanne McNally, Stephen Mullan and Colin Murphy, among loads more.

Saturday: Runaway to Bon Jovi at the RDS

I don’t care what age you are, or where you’re from — there is always room in your weekend for a bit of Bon Jovi. He’s playing the RDS on Saturday night, and let’s be honest —  who can think up a better way to spend a Saturday night than belting out Livin’ On a Prayer with your mates? Tickets are (inexplicably) still available.

• Related: Eight movies to watch with your dad this Father’s Day
• Related: Taste of Dublin is back this weekend: here’s everything you should see and do
• Related: What it’s like and where to go in Sandycove on Bloomsday