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June bank holiday in Laois: Festivals, family days out and classic cars

June bank holiday in Laois: Festivals, family days out and classic cars

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Timahoe Hertiage Festival
Step back into Ireland's rich history at this heritage festival on May 31 and June 1, where vikings will take over Timahoe, with reenactments, medieval combat displays, a viking village, and gael crafts.
There will also be beekeeping demonstrations, an art and craft fair, cooking demonstrations, and a 5km heritage run to kick off festivities.
Stradbally Woodland Railway
Situated in the grounds of the Stradbally Hall estate, the railway opened in 1969 as the first volunteer-run heritage railway in Ireland.
The railway stemmed from an earlier idea which saw an original Guinness Brewery steam locomotive steamed while mounted on blocks for the August 1967 National Steam Rally. A short section of the track was laid for the 1968 event and the engine pulled several small passenger carriages.
This June Bank Holiday Weekend, visitors can experience the charm of the railway for a train ride through the woods at Stradbally. The trip will kick off at 11.00am on Sunday and 4.00pm on Monday.
Junefest At Castleview Open Farm
The Castleview Junefest is open to everyone and ideal for families this June Bank Holiday, with activities such as face painting, bouncy castles, animal bingo, and barnyard dancing.
The farm, which originally operated as an intensive beef finishing unit, the now home to a range of animals on 14 acres with looped walkways throughout.
Dunamaise Arts Centre
Immerse yourself in the arts in Portlaoise during the long weekend, with the Shawn Cuddy Summer Country Show back this year on Friday by popular demand.
He will perform a host of his trademark hits along with some new material from his latest album. Special guests will include TR Dallas, Michael Collins and Curtis Magee.
Lisa Lawlor School of Dance will present Dance the Night on Saturday showcasing a dynamic variety of dance styles including hip-hop, lyrical, theatre craft, jazz and ballet.
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Classic car run
The Gordon Bennett Irish Classic Car run will begin in Laois this Bank Holiday weekend, running from Friday, May, 30 to Monday, June, 2.
The run celebrates the Original Gordon Bennet Cup Race held in Ireland in 1963, with all vehicles manufactured before 1995 welcome, however booking spaces are limited.
The event is international and will run over the three days, beginning at Treacy's Pub, The Heath. It will also feature a Gala dinner, a driver BBQ and dinner, costume day, and scenic drives each day.
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August bank holiday in Wexford: From Fleadh Ceoil na hÉireann to the Breakwater festival the weekend is sure to hit the right notes
August bank holiday in Wexford: From Fleadh Ceoil na hÉireann to the Breakwater festival the weekend is sure to hit the right notes

Irish Independent

time2 days ago

  • Irish Independent

August bank holiday in Wexford: From Fleadh Ceoil na hÉireann to the Breakwater festival the weekend is sure to hit the right notes

There are plenty of events to keep you entertained in County Wexford over the August Bank Holiday weekend. As well as the start of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 on Sunday, August 3, the Breakwater Festival is taking place, plus there are Fringe Fleadh events and plenty of gigs and concerts to whet every appetite. Amble – Live at The Breakwater Amble will play Live at The Breakwater, Ferrybank South, Wexford on Thursday, July 31 at 7pm. Amble are Robbie Cunningham, Oisín McCaffrey and Ross McNerney, a three-piece folk group from Ireland. Since coming together in late 2022, the band have built an audience through word-of-mouth, live performance and a focus on honest, reflective song-writing. With a sold-out touring schedule and a growing catalogue of original material, Amble's music balances storytelling and melody, creating space for audiences to slow down and listen. Tickets are €49. For more details, see Lantern Events at The Full Monty Gorey Little Theatre presents The Full Monty on Thursday, July 31 at 8pm. Tickets are €15. The show is directed by and starring Stephen Acton and choreographed by Roisín Currid. My Favourite Things On Friday, August 1 at 8pm, Jazz at Johnstown is contributing to the return of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to Wexford with My Favourite Things, a jazz/trad concert with renowned piper Mark Redmond and the Chris Colloton Trio at the Visitors Centre. With an upbringing in traditional music, Redmond is noted as a musician who can fuse between various genres. Guitarist Chris Colloton is one of the most brilliant innovators in Irish jazz. Also joining Mark and Chris are Lorcan and Cillian Byrne. Tickets are €25. The Waterboys – Live at The Breakwater One of the best live bands in the world, The Waterboys will play Live at the Breakwater Festival on Friday, August 1 at 7pm. The Waterboys have been led by Scottish singer and guitarist Mike Scott since the 1980s and have evolved through countless line-ups, winning a fearsome concert reputation along the way. Their best-known songs include The Whole Of The Moon, How Long Will I Love You, This Is The Sea and Fisherman's Blues. Tickets for the show cost €55. Writing Yourself Home A 60-minute group session of breath, words, and soul will take place at Gorey Town Park on Saturday, August 2 at 3pm. Tickets are €15. You can expect grounding breathwork, readings of poetry and meaningful texts to spark the soul, guided writing prompts and optional sharing in a safe, held circle. For more details email maria@ The Highstool Prophets One day before official Fleadh starts we've got the biggest and best opener in our car park under the stretch tent! The Highstool Prophets are coming back to Wexford for Crown Fleadh Village 2025. They will be accompanied by special guests Fieldsy and The Gallivanters. The show will take place on Saturday, August 2 at 7pm. Fringe Fleadh 25 – The Beartla Ó Flatharta Band The final event in the Fringe Fleadh 2025 series, proudly hosted by Wexford County Council, takes place in Our Lady's Island on Saturday, August 2, promising a memorable evening of traditional Irish music to round off the programme in style. Starting at 7.30pm, the evening will feature the All-Ireland Céilí Band Champions, The Beartla Ó Flatharta Band, joined by a fantastic line-up of local performers and groups. Summer Sessions '25 - The Havana Club Trio Head to Library Park in New Ross on Saturday, August 2 at 7pm for an evening of free music provided by the Havana Club Trio. They will play incredible Latin music direct from Havana with an extensive repertoire of Cuban favourites and Latin-induced rhythmic songs. Summer Sessions in the Library Park is funded by Wexford County Council. Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 will be held in Wexford from Sunday, August 3 to Sunday, August 10. This annual festival celebrates Irish music and culture and features numerous competitions and performances. The festival has been running for over 60 years and is one of the most popular music festivals in Ireland. Glenside Céilí Band The Glenside Céilí Band will perform at Clonard Community Centre on Sunday, August 3 at 9pm as part of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann. Tickets cost €15. Scoil Éigse 2025 The 51st Annual Scoil Éigse organised by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann takes place in Wexford town from Sunday, August 3 to Sunday, August 10, during Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025. At Scoil Éigse, Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann's annual international summer school, students of all ages register for the various instrumental music, singing, dancing and Irish language classes. Details on Scoil Éigse classes at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 can be found on the Scoil Éigse website. Cry Before Dawn Cry Before Dawn, the acclaimed Wexford band known for their powerful fusion of rock and traditional Irish sounds, return with Open Water—their first new music in over a decade. Following sell-out shows and festival appearances across Ireland, they're kicking off the EP celebrations with a hometown gig at The Crown, Wexford on Monday, August 4 at 7pm. Tickets for the gig cost €9. Kiddies Crazy Nights at Upton Court Hotel Summer in Wexford means one thing – Kiddies Crazy Nights at Upton Court Hotel in Kilmuckridge, Co Wexford. Non-stop fun, games, and laughter for the little ones — and a great night out for all the family. This night takes place on Monday, August 4 at 7pm. Go dtí Seo – Emer O'Flaherty (CD Launch) Emer is a singer/songwriter and bilingual musician from Ennis in Clare, playing music all her life, but had not made a recording until now. The ten tracks on the album reflect Emer's musical exploration up to now, hence the title, from her roots in sean-nós ('Cúirt Bhaile Nua' agus 'Amhrán na Leabhar ') with all other album tracks, songs and music written by her. A love of nature and place are to be heard throughout her music. She will launch he CD at Wexford Library on Tuesday, August 5 at 4pm. This is a bilingual event suitable for all the family and learners of all ages. The Missing Guest – Mick Mulvey & Shane Meehan (CD Launch) Released in May 2025, this album The Missing Guest features the wonderful playing by musicians Shane Meehan (Fiddle) and Mick Mulvey (Flutes) who are described as masters of their instruments. Counted among south Leitrim's best musicians, they have honed their skills playing together in Cryan's Teach Cheoil over the years. The album evidences their shared love of beautifully intricate traditional music, as well as their sense of comfort and mutual respect as a duet. This is a free event. However, places are limited so please register in advance to secure your place. Fíor Céilí – Tara Céilí Band The Tara Céilí Band will perform at Clonard Community Centre on Tuesday, August 5 at 9pm. Tickets cost €15. Bardic Awards The Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 Bardic Awards / Ceannródaithe Awards Ceremony will take place on Tuesday, August 5 at 7pm at the Ferrycarrig Hotel, Wexford. This annual ceremony honours exceptional musicians and singers who are considered to have made an exceptional and unique contribution to Irish Traditional Music through their instrumental musicianship, singing and/or dancing. This gala dinner with presentations incorporates performances by each of the recipients all nationally and internationally renowned for their virtuoso talent, mastery and their consistent commitment to the music over decades. The 2025 recipients are as follows: John Furlong, Josephine Nugent, Padraig McGovern, Benny McHugh. Danceperados of Ireland After 11 years touring all over Europe and delighting audiences, Danceperados of Ireland comes to the National Opera House in Wexford on Tuesday, August 5 for a special once-off performance at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann. Choreographed by Ennis man and two-time World Champion Michael Donnellan, the show features some of the best dancers and musicians in Ireland. The show's 'Hall of Fame' listing former and current cast members is a veritable who's who of Irish traditional music and dance, featuring members of Beoga, Solas, Altan and Cairde to name but a few. The show will take place at 7.30pm and costs €33/€30 plus facility fee to attend. See to book tickets. An evening with violinist Martin Hayes The parish of Wexford is delighted to welcome back the internationally acclaimed violinist Martin Hayes to perform a concert here in the majestic setting of Rowe St Church. Martin played at the Fleadh Cheoil in 2024 to a sell-out concert and by popular demand, we welcome him back this year. His music is soulful, haunting and majestically beautiful. It raises the human spirit to another level, connecting us with the source of beauty who is God. The concert will take place at 7.30pm on Tuesday, August 5 at Rowe St Church. Tickets are €40 plus €1.50 fee. Tickets can be booked via Wexford Arts Centre. Pierce Turner - 'Ó Riada' Pierce Turner will be on piano and vocals, with Aongus MacAmhlaigh on cello and vocals and including local chorus at this concert at Wexford Arts Centre on Tuesday, August 5 at 8pm as part of Fleadh Cheoil 2025. Pierce has always been influenced by Turlough O'Carolan, the harpist from Sligo. They say that he married Irish traditional music to Italian romanticism. The Chieftains could've been his band. But they were Seán Ó Riada's band instead. This will be a unique and sacred evening of music to behold in the intimate Wexford Arts Centre. Tickets cost €30 plus €1.50 fee. In the Moment: Capturing the Fleadh 2024 (Exhibition) Wexford Arts Centre and Wexford Camera Club are proud to present In the Moment: Capturing the Fleadh 2024, a compelling group photography exhibition that celebrates the vibrant energy and cultural richness of last year's Fleadh Cheoil. This exhibition showcases the spirit of the festival through the lens of twelve talented photographers, all members of the Wexford Camera Club. The photographers include Darren Arkins, Bart Bulla, Kevin Cadogan, Miriam Furlong, Aoife Kavanagh, Donna Kehoe, Lucy Leonel, Alan Mahon, Ann McCafferty, Ian Moriarty, John Mullins, and Marie Phelan. The exhibition will launch at a public opening reception at Wexford Arts Centre on Saturday, August 2 at 12pm. All are welcome to attend, and the exhibition is open to the public from 10am to 5pm daily until Wednesday, August 13. O'Riada Mass As part of Fleadh Cheoil, the O'Riada Mass sung by Rowe St Choir under director Donagh Wilde, accompanied by piper Mark Redmond, will take place at Rowe St Church on Sunday, August 3 at 12pm. Library talk about the revival activism of Min Ryan and her sisters Dr Aoife Whelan will give a talk at Wexford Library on the topic 'Attracted to the national movement: the revival activism of Min Ryan and her sisters'. This talk will take place on Tuesday, August 5 from 11am to 12pm and is free to attend. In this talk, Dr Aoife Whelan will give an overview of the political activism of Mary Josephine 'Min' Ryan (later Mulcahy) and her sisters from Tomcoole, County Wexford. Best known nowadays for the public park that bears her name, Min was a founding member of Cumann na mBan in 1914 and participated in the 1916 Easter Rising at the GPO in Dublin along with her sister Phyllis and her brother Jim. She was later selected to travel to America on behalf of the Republican leadership to report to John Devoy, leader of Clan na Gael, on the events of Easter Week. Having been involved with Proclamation signatory Seán Mac Diarmada before he was executed for his role in the Rising, Min went on to marry Richard Mulcahy, IRA chief-of-staff and Dáil Éireann's first Minister of Defence. This lecture will trace the involvement of Min and her sisters in public and political life during the early twentieth century at a time when young, educated women found new opportunities to engage in political and social activism under the auspices of the nationalist movement. The Wexford Invaders: an illustrated history with Derek O'Brien This talk will take place at Wexford Library on Tuesday, August 5 at 12.30pm to 1.30pm. Join Derek to explore the history of County Wexford from the Vikings to the Normans in this fact-packed history event for all the family. Suitable ages 9+. This is a free event. However, places are limited so please register in advance to secure your place.

All aboard for family fun: The National Steam Rally rolls into Stradbally this August bank holiday weekend
All aboard for family fun: The National Steam Rally rolls into Stradbally this August bank holiday weekend

Irish Examiner

time17-07-2025

  • Irish Examiner

All aboard for family fun: The National Steam Rally rolls into Stradbally this August bank holiday weekend

There are few sights more stirring than a majestic steam engine rolling through the countryside – and few places capture that nostalgic magic quite like the National Steam Rally, now in its incredible 61st year. Set against the charming backdrop of Stradbally, Co Laois, this much-loved event returns over the August Bank Holiday Weekend, promising a vibrant mix of vintage heritage, music, family fun and community spirit. Taking place on Sunday, August 3rd and Monday, August 4th, the rally draws thousands of visitors annually and is proudly organised by the Irish Steam Preservation Society – a dedicated group of volunteers who keep the spirit of steam alive year after year. This year's rally is shaping up to be one of the biggest yet, packed with displays, demonstrations and attractions to suit all ages. Whether you're a vintage vehicle enthusiast, a music lover, or simply in search of a great day out with the kids, the 61st National Steam Rally has something for everyone. This year's country music stage line-up includes Michael English, Declan Nerney, Brendan Shine and more, with a full dance floor guaranteed all weekend A heritage showcase like no other One of the biggest draws of the rally has always been the awe-inspiring display of full-size and miniature steam engines, all lovingly maintained and brought to life by collectors from across Ireland and beyond. From chuffing giants of the industrial age to beautifully crafted scale models, these engines offer a glimpse into the golden era of steam. This year a special focus will shine on a gathering of International tractors – an unmissable feature for fans of vintage agricultural machinery. From International Harvester classics to rare McCormick and Farmall models, this display celebrates the legacy of one of farming's most iconic names. The rally will also feature a Heritage Village, blacksmith display, vintage cars, motorcycles, trucks, commercial vehicles, stationary engines and oil engines, alongside traditional farm equipment in action – a true living history experience. For those seeking a new perspective, helicopter rides will be available on both Saturday and Sunday, offering stunning aerial views of the rally and the picturesque Stradbally countryside. The Steam and Vintage Parade will take place on Saturday, August 2nd from 7pm Aerial view of the National Steam Rally Music to your ears It wouldn't be the National Steam Rally without a lively soundtrack – and 2025's country music line-up is nothing short of spectacular. This year's performers include: Michael English Robert Mizzell Brendan Shine Declan Nerney Louise Morrissey Olivia Douglas Shawn Cuddy Jack Keogh Gavin Gribben The Ennis Brothers Stacey Breen Alistair Fingleton The Allstar Big Band The Auld Brigade This exceptional line-up is sure to keep the stage area and dance floor buzzing all weekend long. Calling all international tractor owners to join a special gathering at this year's event A full weekend of attractions Beyond the engines and entertainment, the rally offers a wealth of hands-on experiences, demonstrations, and family-friendly fun. Young visitors will love the funfair, engaging activities, and the chance to experience the sights and sounds of a bygone era in a safe and welcoming environment. Meanwhile, the ever-popular Craft Village will be packed with artisan vendors offering handmade goods, unique gifts and traditional products – perfect for a browse between the day's events. The bustling Trade Stand Area brings together everything from vintage parts and tools to toys, books, clothing and local artisan products. And don't miss your chance to hop aboard the Stradbally Woodland Railway, which will be running throughout the weekend. This charming narrow-gauge railway winds through the forest beside the rally field and is a must-do for children and adults alike. The weekend kicks off with the much-loved Steam & Vintage Parade, taking place on Saturday, August 2nd, as steam engines and vintage vehicles roll through the streets of Stradbally in a spectacular showcase of heritage in motion. A family favourite and brilliant photo opportunity, it's the perfect way to start the festivities. The National Steam Rally has everything from steam engines to vintage cars, tractors and motorbikes With so much happening across the site, the rally makes for the perfect day out – or even a full weekend getaway – for families, collectors and curious newcomers alike. There are plenty of food and drink options, indoor and outdoor seating, accessible facilities, and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere that keeps people coming back year after year. And for those who love a bit of nostalgia? You'll find it around every corner – in the hiss of a steam whistle, the scent of coal and oil, and the friendly faces who make this event so special. Camping facilities are available from Friday, August 1st to Tuesday, August 5th for tents, caravans and campervans. Rally & Camping Tickets are available at Come for the heritage, stay for the music, laughter, memories and magic. Whether you're eight or 80, the 61st National Steam Rally promises an unforgettable experience at the heart of Ireland's summer calendar. Don't miss the steam-powered celebration of the year

Amy Huberman reveals the ‘romantic' text messages she sends to hubby Brian O'Driscoll in hilarious tribute post
Amy Huberman reveals the ‘romantic' text messages she sends to hubby Brian O'Driscoll in hilarious tribute post

The Irish Sun

time03-07-2025

  • The Irish Sun

Amy Huberman reveals the ‘romantic' text messages she sends to hubby Brian O'Driscoll in hilarious tribute post

AMY Huberman has given fans a sneak peek into what life is like being married to a rugby legend - and it's not what you're thinking. Yesterday, the couple marked 15 years of marriage and what better way to celebrate than asking your loved one to nip to the shop for you? Advertisement 2 Amy Huberman shared a hilarious post for her wedding anniversary with Brian O'Driscoll 2 Amy had fans in stitches as she shared a text message she sent Brian In true Amy style, the funny lady posted a comedic tribute to her hubby on their special day. Taking to Happy anniversary @brianodriscoll . " Kicking celebrations off with some stunning romantic domestic reality (discussions around milk might have taken up 2/3rds of my life by the end) ." Amy then shared a photo of a text message she had sent to Brian yesterday. Advertisement READ MORE IN AMY HUBERMAN She said: "To celebrate 15 years of marriage I would love nothing more than for you to arrive home from Pilates with a two litres of full fat milk." The author then attached another throwback photo of herself beaming from ear-to-ear while Brian walked off the pitch after a match. In the old snap, it was lashing rain and Amy had a blue plastic bag wrapped around her shoulders to keep her dry. Amy looked lovingly at Brian and reached out a hand to him, while Brian looked ahead and walked off the pitch. Advertisement Most read in News TV The mum-of-three joked in her caption: "I often get asked about my veil. Would you believe it's a pre-loved plastic sheet fashioned out of, well, a plastic sheet I robbed off someone else? You would? "You would, okay. Listen, 'Make And Do With Mary FitzGerald' ain't got nothing on me. Something borrowed, something blue and all that." Amy Huberman cracks cheeky joke about Brian O'Driscoll after fabulous seaside Bank Holiday getaway And fans all flocked to the comment section to react to Huberman's hysterical anniversary post. Gem wrote: "Congrats to you both!! Keep up the good work of making us laugh whilst taking the p*** out of each other." Advertisement Mary remarked: "Hope you get to have something stronger than milk to celebrate this special anniversary with Brian." Fran said: "That's true love right there." 'TRUE LOVE' And Andrea laughed: "You are gas! Happy anniversary." The Irish actress and her Irish sporting icon hubby, Advertisement The couple began their fairytale romance way back in 2006 after a mutual friend played cupid. family and friends in St Joseph's Church in Aughavas, Co

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