It's fair to say that ukuleles have well and truly regained their cool factor (if they ever even lost it). Just ask Eddie Vedder. Now Ireland's getting in on the plucked lute action as the country's second ever ukulele festival takes place in Dun Laoghaire this weekend. August 20-21 is set to draw players and enthusiasts from around the country, as well the world (there will be representatives from the US, UK and Belgium), for a weekend of fun and great music. A number of events will take place, included the Grand Ukulele Busk, featuring hundreds of ukulele players. That kicks off at the East Pier Bandstand at noon on Saturday. Ukulele workshops, an Open Mic Night at the Kingston Hotel and a day-long gig in the People's Park on Sunday will all add to the event.

Check out [link]www.ukulelehooley.com[/link] for more information.

And if you're not entirely sold on the miniature instrument as yet, well…