EXPERIENCE the seaside town of Carlingford this summer for the Carlingford Oyster Festival, taking place on 8-12 August. The festival spans five days and celebrates the heritage of the town of Carlingford as well as its most famous export – oysters. Events include children’s activities such as face painting and a teddy bear picnic with Cassely’s funfair for the adults. There will also be live music in each of the pubs at night. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the festival, and to celebrate there will be a five-day music extravaganza that will see some of Ireland’s best-known music stars, like Michael English, Mike Denver and Derek Ryan, taking to the stage. More information can be found on www.carlingfordoysterfestival.com

ENJOY West Cork at the Schull Regatta this August. The two-day event that runs on 10-11 August marks five years since the revival and 135 years since the first regatta. The weekend sees an action-packed schedule of events, both on and off the water. Activities such as archery tag, crab fishing competitions, pig and pole, raft races, tug o’ war and a fancy dress parade will take place, as well as a family day in the field overlooking the harbour. One of the highlights of the weekend is the South West Coast Yawl Rowing Association Championships. The weekend concludes with a firework display. For more information, visit the Schull Regatta Facebook page.

CELEBRATE the best of traditional music and art in Drogheda, Co Louth, on 11-18 August, as Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann returns to the town for the second year in a row. For competitors alike, the week is the pinnacle of months of hard work, as they battle it out to secure the title of All-Ireland champion. Visitors to the town can also enjoy traditional music sessions and dancing. Over half a million visitors visited Drogheda for Fleadh Cheoil 2018, with the town set to welcome all back again for 2019. Additional information can be found on www.fleadhcheoil.ie.

VISIT the Dublin Horse Show this summer running until 11 August. Considered to one of the best equestrian shows in the world, the show hosts the Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup of Ireland on Friday 9 August. The competition for the Aga Khan Trophy attracts some of the best horse and rider combinations in the world. In total, 133 competitions will take place over the five days at the 146th show.

IMMERSE yourself in bluesy summer tones at the 7 Hills Blues Fest taking place in Armagh on 8-11 August. The impressive lineup boasts over 50 musical acts, playing 20 venues across the county. There will also be a Blues Picnic in Palace Park, BBQ n’ Blues, a street food market at the Shambles Yard, musical workshops and a Blues Special Walking Tour. This year sees some new faces, such as Ken Haddock and David King, who will join over 40 well-established bands. Fore more information, see www.7hillsblues.com

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