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Extra.ie
17-07-2025
- Climate
- Extra.ie
Things to do this weekend -- July 18 to July 20
While last weekend saw the country in a status yellow high temperature warning, this weekend is forecast to be a little more unsettled with sunny spells and scattered showers throughout. This Sunday will be a big weekend for Cork and Tipperary GAA fans as the county hurling teams face off in the All Ireland Hurling Championships at Croke Park. For those who aren't interested in the hurling, there's plenty of things to get stuck into with the family out and about… This Sunday will be a big weekend for Cork and Tipperary GAA fans as the county hurling teams face off in the All Ireland Hurling Championships at Croke Park. Pic: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile Here are five of the best activities to do this weekend. You can check out more family days out and summer events on YourDaysOut. Dublin, July 19 and 20 The Rose Festival returns to St Anne's Park, Dublin this weekend to mark 50 years of the Rose Garden. The weekend event is family-friendly and free, and promises to be a fun event featuring live music as well as kids' entertainment, crafts, food stalls as well as yoga, tai chi and a dedicated bike park. Gates open from 10am to 6pm on both days. Pic: YourDaysOut Mayo, July 12 to 20 The culmination of the Ballina Salmon Festival takes place this weekend with plenty of fun for kids of all ages. On Friday, the youngsters can bop along at Baby Boppers or try paddle boarding at the Quay, while Saturday features a fun fancy dress disco was well as rockets and slime workshops. Sunday is the final day of the festival with a Teddy Bears Picnic taking place at Tom Ruane Park. Attendees to the event can expect plenty of music and games as well as a sensory hour for some quieter play. Pic: YourDaysOut Dublin, July 19 and 20 This one is for the Lego fanatics in your life! Brick Feile is the biggest LEGO fan event in Ireland and returns to CityNorth Hotel this weekend with stunning custom models, giant brick pits, a live big-build and creative challenges for all ages. Attendees are invited to check out the displays from take part in fun builds, shop rare sets and help raise important funds for Fairy Bricks. Pic: YourDaysOut Meath, July 19 and 20 If fairies are more your scene, why not step into the magical world at Loughcrew Gardens with fairy trails, unicorns, puppets, storytelling and circus fun. Attendees can enjoy crafts, bubbles, vintage games and enchanting performances from 12pm to 6pm daily. The weekend promises to be a spellbinding weekend for little believers with big imaginations. Pic: YourDaysOut Kildare, July 20 Barretstown opens its gates for an exciting family day on Sunday with a range of activities including canoeing, archery, face painting, dancing, mini golf and more! Fossett's Circus will be on hand on the day, putting on three performances throughout the day (11.15am; 1.15pm and 3.15pm). Admission to Barretstown Big Picnic is free, though the Circus is a ticketed and should be booked in advance. Pic: YourDaysOut is Ireland's leading platform for discovering things to do with a booking system built for Irish businesses with local support and at no extra cost.


The Irish Sun
15-07-2025
- Sport
- The Irish Sun
Five free events for whole family in Dublin this weekend – including sport tours, food markets & flower festival
LOOKING for something to do with the family this weekend? The 3 Dublin has a range of free events on this weekend Credit: Visit Dublin 3 This includes the Rose Festival in St Anne's Park on Saturday Credit: Alamy Up first, the Rose Festival will take place in St Anne's Park on Saturday and Sunday, celebrating 50 years of the Rose Rose Festival The event runs from 10am to 6pm each day and includes plant stalls, Visitors can try a range of fantastic activities, including axe throwing, climbing walls or exploring their breathtaking Biodiversity Village. Children's entertainment will feature Reuben the Entertainer, the Silly Billies soft play area and the DCC Library Bus. READ MORE IN TRAVEL And admission to the event is completely free. Up next, the Temple Bar Temple Bar Food Market Located in Meeting House Square, the event will be on from 9:30am to 3:30pm on Saturday with stalls offering fresh produce and artisan products. Visitors can try delicious cheeses, breads, cured meats, street food, coffee and sweet treats. Most read in News Travel The market makes the perfect day out for the entire Pirates of Parliament Street will also run this Saturday and Sunday, transforming the street into a themed pirate attraction. Inside Irish Olympic medallist's hiking trip to iconic US landmark - complete with 'perfect views' Pirates of Parliament Street The day is packed with activities and includes pirate actors, a DJ, face painting, balloon modelling and a craft station. Interactive games and photo opportunities will also be available for visitors throughout the day. Admission is free, with no booking required. What's more, the National Museum of Ireland will host guided tours exploring the history of History of Sport in Ireland Tour Tours begin at 2pm at Collins Barracks Reception and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Exhibits include early hurling balls, vintage camogie dresses and Irish artefacts related to football, rugby and cricket. The tour highlights the role of sport in Irish society over several centuries and admission is completely free. And lastly, Style in the City Events run from 1pm to 5pm and alternate between locations on Henry Street and Grafton Street. Part of Dublin City Council's initiative to support local Attendance is free, and further dates continue into August. 3 Style in the city will also return this Saturday Credit: Style in the city


Indian Express
06-07-2025
- General
- Indian Express
Chandigarh's horticulture museum lies abandoned, now used as storage
Once envisioned as a hub for educating the public on gardening and plant life, Chandigarh's Horticulture Museum in Rose Garden, Sector 16, has remained shut and neglected for more than a decade. Inaugurated in 1973 by then Adviser to the Administrator Baleshwar Rai, the museum was designed as a unique space dedicated to horticultural education. Today, however, it serves only as a storage facility for the annual Rose Festival. Most visitors to the garden are unaware that the building was ever a museum. 'I have been working here for the past 10 to 12 years, and the museum was already closed when I joined. Now, it is only used to keep Rose Festival materials,' said the museum's caretaker. 'I thought the building was part of the garden or a storage facility,' said Seema, a visitor. 'It's been closed for so long that people have forgotten its original purpose,' added Baldev, a regular visitor. Rahul Mahajan, founder of the Organic Sharing Foundation, expressed concern over the museum's deterioration. 'It is a heritage building, and it's sad to see it abandoned and used only as a store now,' he said. 'When it was first built, the museum displayed large portraits of roses, the process of budding, crafting, and growing different varieties. All of that has been lost since the Municipal Corporation took charge around 2012.' Mahajan said he has written to the authorities, offering to take over the building's upkeep. 'If the administration cannot maintain the museum, they should hand it over to us. We are ready to restore and reopen it so it can serve its original purpose,' he said. The Horticulture Museum is a fading reminder of Chandigarh's lost public heritage.


India.com
27-06-2025
- India.com
This Is Not Your Ordinary Chandigarh — 8 Crazy Fun Things To Do Off The Map!
Chandigarh is one of the most well-planned cities in India, and it lies at the foothills of the Shivalik range. This union territory is famously known for its serene architecture, beautiful landscapes, and skyscrapers. It is surrounded by different regions which serve extremely well for enchanting outdoor activities. Trekking and paragliding are two types of trekking that are usually done in places nearby like Kasauli and Bir Billing. However, Chandigarh offers a lot more than these. Let's look at what this city has to offer. 1. Rock Climbing at Sector 17 Rock Garden Aside from being a central tourist attraction, Chandigarh also has Rock Garden which serves as a hotspot for climbing for various tourists. This area has beautiful rocky structures which are perfect for exposing one's creativity. Chandigarh's iconic Rock Garden serves as an excellent climbing location for both beginners and experts as this area has beautiful rocky structures which are perfect for exposing one's creativity. There is a protective covering designed, along with instructors who will teach you step by step on what to do and how to do it in a safe way.2. Cycling Along Sukhna Lake's Trails 2. Cycling Adventures Along Sukhna Lake In addition to the breathtaking views offered by the man-made Sukhna Lake, which is set in the Shivaliks, there is much more to explore. The lake is surrounded by bike rental shops so visitors can easily rent a bike and head straight to the cycling trails that circle the lake. For those in search of a more strenuous ride, there are longer paths that lead into the nearby hills which have both flat and uphill climbs. These cycles are a test of endurance and offer captivating views of the lake as well as the distant mountains. 3. Sukhna Lake Water Activities Sukhna Lake is not only a scenic sight to behold, it is also ideal for indulging in water sports. Visitors have access to a number of activities like rowing, kayaking and even paddle boating all year round. Canoeing is especially popular during monsoons when the lake reaches full capacity. There are some events and competitions hosted, attracting attention from all over the country. If you are a sportsperson or an individual who is trying water sports for the very first time, Sukhna Lake is the perfect change of pace from land activities. 4. Unfolding Chandigarh's Reserved Forest Trails Bird watching and nature observation enthusiasts will enjoy the quiet solitude that Chandigarh's reserved forests offer and its off the beaten track hidden trails just waiting to be discovered. The Nepli Forest Reserve along with Mangal Van offers both routers which can help hikers get lost in the sprawling greenery while having a glimpse of the city and assorted bird species. Unlike conventional trekking paths, these routes lack the modern tourist stamp, providing a sorely needed untouched wilderness experience. 5. Skateboarding At The Leisure Valley Skate Park The Rose Festival and beautifully maintained gardens are famous throughout the region. However, now, Leisure Valley has a skate park catering to thrill seekers and skateboarders alike. The park features ramps, bowls, and rails that will test people at any skill level. The location is a hotspot among youngsters who are eager to show off their skills during community competitions and local skating events that are held regularly. For those who have never skated before, basic skateboarding lessons can be taken for getting familiar with the board before doing advanced tricks. 6. Night Camping Under the Stars Adventure activities do not always have to be adrenaline pumping – there is also a different kind of adventure that calls for a more relaxing and nature centered approach. Travel groups set up night camping trips where people can put up tents in remote places near Chandigarh. Just picture being able to stare at the stars while listening to wildlife sounds and waking up to beautiful misty mornings surrounded by greens. All of this can be done thanks to night camping and serves as an ideal way to relax while also indulging your adventure seeking side. 7. Zip Lining Across the Shivalik Hills Zip lining in the Shivalik hills offers a number of runs, from short zip lines for novice zip liners to long advanced zip lines that are sure to defy gravity. Zip lining is very easy to access from Chandigarh even though it is slightly outside the city limits. Adventure companies have established numerous zip-lines in the Shivalik hills. The many vantage points of these zip lines allow you to soar over valleys and tree tops, providing breathtaking views alongside strong winds, something no one will forget. Safety rules are very strict as you are provided with harnesses, helmets, and expert guides, making the ride secure but also Chandigarh is Perfect for Adventure Seekers Why Chandigarh Stands Out for Adventure Seekers What makes Chakraig a unique place for adventure lovers is its balance of metropolitan landscapes with natural habitats. Unlike Chandigarh's inaccessible nature venture spots, facilities offer easy access along with various levels of customization and diversity that meet different skill sets. Furthermore, due to the urban planners focus on the well being of public vegetation in the city, the parks, lakes, and forests are clean and well maintained. Because of the pleasing weather conditions year round, Chandigarh enables one to participate in adventure activities without the risk of extreme temperatures. From winter mornings that are excellent for cycling to rainy days that are perfect for indoor training, there's always something to keep adventure enthusiasts occupied. To Conclude The sprawling, well organized city of Chandigarh offers no shortage of activities to explore. Its calm exterior can be deceiving, but the city is packed full of thrilling experiences. Cycling, rock climbing, or paddleboarding are just some of the activities one can do. Biking and paragliding are commonplace activities but other, less advertised Kingston Roller Blading gems highlight Chandigarh's dynamic character. So, grab your gear and prepare for an adventure you won't forget!


The Sun
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Malaysian violin makers strike gold, bringing pride to the nation
IN the picturesque Rose Valley of Kazanlak, Bulgaria, two Malaysian violin makers have written a heartwarming chapter in the nation's cultural story. Against the backdrop of blooming roses and centuries-old traditions, 25-year-old Tan Joven from Melaka and her mentor, 45-year-old Tan Chin Seng from Kuala Lumpur, have brought home gleaming gold medals that shine as bright as their dedication to the ancient art of violin making. Tan Joven's story reads like a fairy tale of passion and perseverance. Just three years ago, she packed her dreams and headed to Cremona, Italy – the holy grail of violin making – to master her craft. The young artisan, who once amazed everyone by completing her first violin in just four months, has now conquered the international stage. At the 19th International Violin Making Competition on June 8, Joven's hands trembled not with nerves, but with excitement as she claimed the Gold Medal for Viola and Silver Medal for Violin in the non-professional category. For a first-time competitor, this double triumph feels nothing short of magical. 'I'm more motivated than ever,' beams Joven, her eyes sparkling with the same intensity she brings to crafting each instrument. Her success proves that with dedication and the right guidance, even the loftiest dreams can become reality. Behind every great student stands an extraordinary teacher, and Tan Chin Seng embodies this perfectly. The seasoned craftsman, who has spent over 15 years turning wood into music, achieved something no Malaysian had ever done before – winning Gold in the professional category at this prestigious competition. His winning viola, lovingly named 'Madani,' carries deeper meaning than its beautiful sound. The name reflects his heartfelt hopes for Malaysia's continued prosperity and progress, making this victory not just personal, but patriotic. Chin Seng's journey hasn't always been smooth sailing. After his initial international success in 2019 with double gold in the non-professional category, the pandemic forced a four-year break. But like a true champion, he returned stronger, collecting three medals in 2023 and 2024 before achieving this career-defining moment. This isn't just a tale of two individuals – it's the story of a growing Malaysian violin-making dynasty. Chin Seng's other students, Chang Song Jie and Sam Wong, have also tasted international success, proving that this mentor has the golden touch when it comes to nurturing talent. The competition, organised by Italy's National Association of Violin Making Art (ANLAI) and held during Bulgaria's enchanting Rose Festival, brought together over 70 handcrafted instruments from 12 countries. Under the watchful eye of jury chairman Giorgio Scolari, a renowned Italian violin maker, Malaysia's representatives stood tall among the world's finest craftspeople. Currently displayed at the Rose Museum in Kazanlak, these award-winning instruments represent more than just wood and strings – they're ambassadors of Malaysian craftsmanship, telling the world that excellence knows no borders. As the roses bloom in Bulgaria's valleys, so too does Malaysia's reputation in the rarified world of violin making. Thanks to Joven and Chin Seng, the melody of Malaysian success now echoes through concert halls and competitions worldwide, inspiring a new generation of artisans to pick up their tools and chase their own golden dreams.