IMMERSE yourself at the Kilkenny Tradfest from 12 to 17 March. The festival has been going from strength to strength over the last eight years and the line-up promises plenty to entertain the masses, with céilís, sessions, Irish dance, pub gigs and more. Taking place in various venues around Kilkenny, the programme includes Christy Moore, Leonard Barry, Declan Folan and Michael McCague, Steph Geremia, Horslips and The Kilfenora Céilí Band. There will also be various masterclasses and workshops on 14 March from adult drumming, to uileann pipes and séan nós dancing. Tickets range from €10 to €45 and are available of Eventbrite. For more information see www.kilkennytradfest.com.
GO racing at Limerick Racecourse on 15 March. There will be seven national hunt races including the Grade 2 Dawn Run EBF Mares Novice Chase and the Shannon Spray EBF Grade 3 Mares Novice Hurdle. Gates open from 12am with the first race starting at 1.40pm. Children under 12 years go free, concession tickets cost €10 and adult tickets cost €15. There’s a special online two day admission ticket for the 15 and 29 March for €25. For tickets and more information see www.limerickraces.ie.
EXPLORE the Donegal coastline with experienced guides during the Ardara Walking Festival on 14 and 15 March. Discover some of the region’s spectacular scenery and hidden gems with expert guides from Walk on the Wild Side showing you the way. There are walks to suit all walking abilities from easy to moderate walks and moderate to difficult walks. The fee is €25 for one day or €40 for two. You will need good walking boots, rain gear, spare warm clothes, warm liquids and food. Only experienced walkers should attempt the more difficult walks. For more information see www.adara.ie.
ENJOY the Westmeath Bachelor competition as 11 eligible bachelors are put through their paces to see who will be crowned Westmeath Bachelor 2020 on 13 March in the Mullingar Park Hotel. Registration is now closed to get involved but you can still cheer on the lads as they perform a party piece and give a run down on the fundraising they have done for their chosen cause. The bachelors will be judged by a celebrity judging panel of Louis Walsh, Anne Doyle, Brian Dowling and Tara O’Farrell. Tickets cost €30. For tickets and more information see www.westmeathbachelorcompetition.ie.
CELEBRATE the life and times of St Patrick at the Home of St Patrick Festival in Armagh until 17 March. The festival promises a varied and energy-filled showcase of culture, music, song, art, drama, dance, exhibitions and plenty of family fun. One such event will be the sunrise with St Patrick at the Navan Centre and Fort, where you can bask in the sunrise with songs, stories and breakfast for all attendees. Brian Kennedy and Jason Bryne will take to their respective stages on 13 March too. On 14 March there will be a hand printed linen bunting workshop on offer. Events take place at various locations across Armagh. For tickets and the full programme of events see www.visitarmagh.com.