What’s on and where to head this October

For some, the transition from the end of summer to the beginning of autumn is marked by the children’s return to school. However, for many, that change is more so marked by the Ploughing Championships.

With both events now behind us, we can say with certainty that autumn is well under way.

Interesting events

This doesn’t mean though, that it’s time to hibernate for winter just yet. With plenty of interesting events taking place around the country and the weather playing ball for the most part, getting out and about is still the order of the day.

Whether it’s going to a gig or taking to the hills for a hike, we’ve plenty to keep you busy.

On the Road Again

An Evening with Fiachna Ó Braonáin, Tom Dunne & Alan Connor

20 October: Despite having shared stages across the world over several decades, Tom Dunne of Something Happens and Fiachna Ó Braonáin of Hothouse Flowers had never actually performed together until they were invited to do so on RTÉ Radio 1. This experience got them thinking that they should play more together – hence these new shows, with multi-instrumentalist Alan Connor drafted in. The trio will play Dolan’s in Limerick on 20 October. Tickets are on sale from the venue’s box offices and ticketmaster.ie

Monaghan Street Food Festival

1 October: Monaghan Street Food Festival is a one-day celebration of all that’s good to eat in Co Monaghan. It will have over 35 stalls and food trucks showing off their wares. These will include Blasta Street Kitchen, Matilda’s Bakery & Deli, Dinkin’s Bakery, Glaslough Chocolate Company, Silver Hill Farm and Such Fraoc Ban, small-batch jams and preserves. The festival takes place from 11am to 7pm on Saturday 1 October from the front of the Courthouse in Church Square to the Diamond. For more information, see tasteofmonaghan.com

Ballina Fringe Festival

7-11 October: Ballina Fringe Festival is an artistic exploration of life on the edge of the Wild Atlantic Way. It will feature Lisa Hannigan, the Irish Chamber Orchestra, Manchán Magan’s Arán & Im, Morag Prunty’s one-woman show Am I Irish Yet?, Fiona Hoban’s On the Road to De-Mask-Us and more. Children will love Jay Ryan’s popular Living with a Fairy stage show. For more information see ballinafringefestival.ie

Apple Market at Kilruddery

1 October: The Apple Market at Kilruddery Estate, Co Wicklow, has returned with two dates. The last of which is this Saturday 1 October. An annual occurrence at Killruddery’s weekly farmers’ market, between 10am and 4pm visitors can bring their own bottles and apples to be pressed and enjoy a little extra apple-ness in Killruddery’s Horse Yard. A great day out for all, apples and pressing kits will also be available to purchase from the farm shop in the lead-up to the event. For details, see kilruddery.com

HIKE Mount Errigal, Co Donegal. From mountain terrain to cliffside trails, Donegal has no shortage of hiking spots. Among the Derryveagh Mountain range sits Mount Errigal. At 751m, it’s the highest peak in Donegal. It overlooks Dunlewey Village and areas of natural beauty. It takes two to three hours to complete and the views from the top are more than worth the challenge.

WALK Barna, Co Galway. Just outside the buzz of Galway city are the woods of Barna. With easy terrain, it provides a space for a leisurely walk among the oak trees, which are claimed to be the last natural growing oaks in the west of Ireland. It also happens to be near Barna’s beach, Silverstrand. Rusheen is also a great place for birdwatching.

EXPLORE Rathcroghan Visitor Centre, Co Roscommon. The Medieval village of Tulsk is home to Rathcroghan Visitor Centre. With ring forts, stone age tombs and ancient burial sites, this is a place to feel connected to our ancestors and their traditions. The visitor centre also has award-winning exhibition rooms. Nearby is Tulsk Abbey, a 15th century Dominican priory.

VISIT the Milk Market in Limerick city. Taking place every Saturday morning, Limerick’s market is home to a wide array of fresh produce. The Milk Market is home to almost 50 stalls and 21 shop units. Among the products on offer are fruit and vegetables, cheeses, artisan meats, fresh fish and bread. The market is also covered over with a canopy, making it a good spot to visit on a rainy day.