This weekend is one of the most jam packed ones we’ve seen this summer. Although we’re not having the same clear skies as we once were, that’s no reason to not be getting out and about for the summer months. So, whether it’s music, culture, arts, activities or just general craic you’re after VIP’s got you covered with our top five things to do.
Beatyard Festival
The Beatyard is of Dublin’s most popular summer music festivals taking place in the seaside town of Dun Laoghaire at the Harbour. This year’s programme includes the likes of US ‘architect of P-Funk’ George Clinton, reggae artist Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, fusion band Snarky Puppy, DJ Tensnake and many more. The festival is also seriously into its food, beer and coffee with craft beers rather than big brewing brands and a 3FE coffee pop-up in the little food and drink shanty-town that the festival boasts. As well as the music on offer, there will also be an array of games & sports, quizzes, discussion panels, arts and design workshops and a flea market. The festival takes place over Saturday and Sunday and can be purchased here.
Vodafone Comedy Festival
The Iveagh Gardens, just a short walk south of St Stephen’s Green, is the location for one of the biggest Irish comedy events in the calendar. Everyone who’s anyone in contemporary homegrown comedy will be taking part, including Aisling Bea and Al Porter. The pretty urban park is just minutes away from Camden Street, one of the city’s most vibrant arteries, packed with restaurants and bars. It will be taking place from July 28 – 31st and tickets are selling fast so make sure to grab pair here.
7Up Free and Happenings screenin of Jurassic Park this weekend
This Saturday, 30th of July 2016, Fitzwilliam Square, Dublin 2 will be transformed into a stunning outdoor Summer cinema location for one night only! All in the name of 7UP Free and Happenings #SummerCinema. Head down at 8pm for a screening of the iconic Steven Spielberg classic Jurassic Park and join in on the adventure as the sun sets! You’ll be able to relax in a comfy billow bag with your complimentary 7UP Mojito Free, or pull up a blanket and get cosy in the heart of the city centre. Tickets will be on sale at usheru.com until 2PM on the day and a number of tickets will be available at the gate as well!
Waterford Spraoi
Ireland’s oldest city transforms itself into a vast stage featuring a vibrant multi-disciplinary programme of street arts and daring performers for all the family. Its Viking legacy lives on today in the aptly-named, historical heart – Waterford Viking Triangle. Here, visitors can take the fun and informative Epic Tour and check out the Viking exhibitions, housed in the 12th Century Reginald’s Tower. It takes place July 29-31st and is a perfect festival for the whole family!
Carlow Garden Festival
Fourteen fabulous Carlow gardens will open to the public over the course of a week and international horticultural experts will be on hand to dispense invaluable advice. Besides great gardens, the county is also the home of one of the oldest megalithic tombs in the country, Brownshill Dolmen, whose capstone is estimated to weigh at least 100 tonnes. This festival takes place until August first and is definitely not to be missed if you’ve got green fingers.
Head over to Balfes to try the first alcohol-based Champagne and Bellini popsicles
Balfes, one of Dublin’s most popular all-day dining destinations, located in the heart of Dublin’s Creative Quarter, is serving up an exclusive treat this summer. Guests of the chic social hub, hugely popular for its sharing plates, can now complement their dish with the arrival of POPS, premium ice popsicles in Champagne, Bellini, Strawberry & Mint or Apple & Elderflower flavours, with a limited edition Moscow Mule exclusive to Balfes. We highly recommend trying these out to help you relax and unwind after a long week at work!
Enjoy!