Covering all sorts of cultural, historical and musical activities and interests, every corner of the island plays host to various festivities throughout the year. So, next time you’re planning to travel across the country for a festival, why not extend your trip, and spend more time exploring the surrounding area? From the wild landscape of West Cork to the hidden gems of Dublin City, Ireland is never short of surprises. Here are three superb festivals to start planning a proper weekend break around…

A TASTE OF WEST CORK
September 6-15
Various venues, West Cork
atasteofwestcork.com

Celebrating the joy of great food, A Taste of West Cork Food Festival is an iconic event on the Irish foodie’s calendar. The annual ten-day festival takes place across 41 local towns and villages, as well as eight islands. It boasts over 250 events in a variety of unique venues, from stately homes and castles to distilleries. It’s an amazing event with food markets, cooking demonstrations, banquets, tastings, exhibitions and foraging experiences on offer. There are countless ways to enjoy the food culture of West Cork. The award-winning festival also offers visitors the chance to come face-to-face with the pioneering food producers who make the local food scene so special.

While you’re in the area:

West Cork, one of the most beautiful places in the world, boasts its very own balmy microclimate, and contains some of Ireland’s most breath-taking hidden gems. For unforgettable views, take a coastal walk along the Sheep’s Head peninsula, between Bantry Bay and Dunmanus Bay. Lough Hyne, a sea-water lake near Skibbereen, can also be explored by night, with magical moonlit kayaking expeditions. Eccles Hotel, located on the beautiful Beara Peninsula, is a perfect spot to plan your stay around. Kenmare is a gourmet’s delight; and Bantry has just been voted Ireland’s best kept town. For music, try Levi’s Corner House in Ballydehob; De Barra’s in Clonakilty; and Connolly’s of Leap (on the road to Skibereen).

A Taste of West Cork

ROSE OF TRALEE
August 23-27
Tralee, Co. Kerry
roseoftralee.ie
A national institution, the legendary Rose of Tralee celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2019. Aside from the main event, which takes place in the atmospheric Festival Dome, the week-long celebration includes street entertainment, live concerts, theatre, circus, markets, funfair and fireworks. The Dome also plays host to the Rose Fashion Show, an ’80s night with Abbaesque and the iconic Rose Ball. An array of musical talent can be found at the festival too, with Aslan, Hothouse Flowers and Derek Ryan all set to perform at this year’s event.

While you’re in the area:

Don’t miss a chance to swim at the beautiful, unspoilt beach on Banna Strand, a short drive from Tralee. There’s an exhibition and guided nature boat tours running from Tralee Wetland Centre. The town is home to both Siamsa Tíre National Folk Theatre – the Festival of Folk runs there from May 6 to September 22 – and the Kerry County Museum, on Denny Street. Tralee has a reputation for its diverse dining scene, with gorgeous restaurants like Croí on Prince’s Street placing a strong emphasis on local Kerry produce. For a drink, head to the quirky Roundy’s Bar on Brogue Maker’s Lane. For great gastro pub food, try the West End Bar & Bistro in Fenit (15 kms away).

Waterford Rose Kirsten Mate Maher is crowned the 2018 International Rose of Tralee on stage in the Festival Dome at the Rose of Tralee International Festival on 21 August 2018
Photo By Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD - www.dwalshphoto.ie
Tralee Co Kerry Ireland
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DUBLIN HORSE SHOW
August 7-11
RDS, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4
dublinhorseshow.com
A cultural institution and a world class sporting event, the Dublin Horse Show is one of the country’s biggest social events of the summer. Held at the RDS, not far from the centre of Dublin, international and national showjumping events – including the world famous Aga Khan Trophy – run for five-days, with one of the largest prize funds of any equestrian event. The competition at the iconic Ladies’ Day on August 8 is also fierce, as glamorous attendees battle for the ‘best dressed’ crown. Welcoming tens of thousands from around the world, the Dublin Horse Show is a brilliant event, loved by horse aficionados, casual spectators and families alike.

While you’re in the area:

Eat locally in The Lobster Pot, Roly’s Bistro or Dylan McGrath’s fine new Shelbourne Social. Ballsbridge is easily accessible by DART or Dublin Bus, so if the hotels beside the RDS have been snapped up, don’t panic! There are fab hotels and B&Bs in South Dublin listed on Discover Ireland’s website, including the newly refurbished Haddington House (9-12 Haddington Terrace, Dún Laoghaire), with beautiful views over Dún Laoghaire pier. Make sure to squeeze in a walk along the coast or even a trip over to Dalkey Island from Colliemore Harbour.

For more details about planning your trip around Ireland, go to www.discoverireland.ie