That heatwave seems like a distant dream now doesn’t it? This time last week, we were sunbathing in our gardens listening to Summer Scorchers playlists on Spotify. That memory will have to sustain us until at least June, when the next two days of heat roll around. Until then, we’ll be spending our time at exhibitions, festivals and lectures aplenty, as per this week’s stellar list of what’s on in Dublin and beyond. Happy Weekend from IMAGE!

On Friday: Get crafty at the Lasting Impressions Exhibition

Image: Adi Toch

If you want to get out of Dublin this weekend, head to the National Design & Craft Gallery in Kilkenny to view Lasting Impressions, an exhibition covering a range of crafts and the process of their making. 18 leading craftspeople from Ireland and the UK will display at the exhibition, including glassmakers; jewellery makers; textile artists; furniture designers, and more.

SATURDAY: Hop to the Jameson Caskmates Hop Up at Eatyard

You were probably planning on heading to the Bernard Shaw at some point this weekend anyway, so why not throw some Jameson into the mix? The final sessions of their whiskey and beer tastings take place this Saturday, and as a collaboration between Jameson Caskmates IPA, Brewtonic and Eatyard, you know this is the perfect foodie Saturday.

TUESDAY: Be as young as you feel at the Bealtaine Festival

Image: Via Facebook

You know what they say; age is just a number. And Bealtaine Festival is showing us all how true that is. Focused on creativity as we get older and active and engaged ageing, Bealtaine kicks off on Tuesday and has events all across the country, including movie screenings, workshops, dance classes and more. Open to everyone who wants to celebrate creativity and living life to the full no matter what the age.

WEDNESDAY: Ponder at the Headstuff Lecture #19

Image: Headstuff

Headstuff Lectures are a place to sit back and listen to musings on any and all subjects; almost like a live version of your favourite podcast. This month’s sees lectures from presenter Kevin McGahern; comedian Tony Cantwell; stand-up Eve Darcy; author Margaret Scott and Headstuff writer Ciaran Conliffe, all hosted by Alison Spittle.

THURSDAY: Get snappy at the Photo Ireland Festival

Image: PhotoIreland Festival

PhotoIreland Festival begins on May 1st and continues throughout the month, and this year’s theme is of particular prominence. The festival will be presenting works from two artists who focus on women’s rights, with Laia Abril’s work On Abortion launching the festival on the 3rd. If you’re interested in hard-hitting photography, or even just want to spend some time pondering the upcoming referendum, this is a creative place to do it.