From festivals of film, literature, and art to new exhibition openings and open air gigs, here's the best of what's on this weekend.
Galway Film Fleadh
9-14 July, Galway, more info here
The Galway Film Fleadh returns for its 36th year with a programme that will most definitely pique your interest. Highlights include the Irish premiere of the Kneecap film, where the trio star alongside Michael Fassbender in their acting debut, a documentation of the making of the world’s largest light installation on an Irish mountain, and a VR ayahuasca experience — to name just a few.
Sult Féile
12&13 July, Gaoth Dobhair, Donegal, more info here
Set in the heart of the Gaeltacht in Gaoth Dobhair, this two-day outdoor music festival’s lineup includes Example, Bell X1, Welshy, the Red Hot Chilli Pipers, Alabama 3, and many more. With single-day tickets and camping options still available, it’s set to be quite the weekend.
West Cork Literary Festival
12-19 July, West Cork, more info here
This incredible literary festival returns for another year with a stellar lineup of discussions, readings, and workshops in Bantry. Standout appearances include Colm Tóibín, Miriam Margolyes, Anne Enright, Dolly Alderton, and Caleb Azumah Nelson.
Ballymore x Sea Gardens
13 July, Sea Gardens, Bray, more info here
Sea Gardens in Bray are hosting a fun-filled family day to remember, with 100% of the proceeds going towards Wicklow Animal Welfare. Throughout the day, you can expect face painting, balloon animals, a magic show, a kiddies disco, and plenty of fun and games, crafts, snacks and more. Oh, and fancy dress is very much encouraged.
Pillow Queens
13 July, Iveagh Gardens, Dublin, more info here
With very special guest Morgana opening up the evening, the Iveagh Gardens gigs continue with the one and only Pillow Queens. Having released their latest album, Name Your Sorrow, back in April, this Irish band’s live set is not to be missed. If you feel like doing some homework first, you can read our interview with Sarah, Pamela, and Cathy here.
Kaleidoscope at Outset Gallery
Opening 13 July, Outset Gallery, Galway, more info here
Kaleidoscope is a showcase of new mixed-media paintings and installations from Galway-based artist Peter Bradley. “Inspired by the diversity of creative identity in his hometown, Bradley has combined traditional methods of painting, photography, collage, and flat sculpture with a modern formalist construction to harness light and shadow. Mirroring how our personhood is composed of intersecting elements, these works are presented across multiple layers, highlighting the complexities that make up who we are. Using layered transparency, light, and reflectivity in his work has allowed Bradley to analyse the relationship between the viewer, the work, and the environment.’”
Movies on the West Lawn
13 July, Malahide Castle, more info here
Hosting a day of fantastic films on the West Lawn, Malahide Castle presents two delightful movies that will make for an unforgettable Saturday. First up, at 2pm, is 2023’s Wonka starring Timothée Chalamet as the master chocolatier, followed by a 7pm screening of the ever-iconic Dirty Dancing.
Earagail Arts Festival
13-28 July, Donegal, more info here
Returning for its 37th festival of world-class performances from around the globe, the Earagail Arts Festival 2024 programme spans everything from the circus arts of Catalunya and the capoeira of Bahia, to the traditions of Tory to the stories of Arranmore and the blues of Bamako to the blues of Ballybofey.
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