KidsOut: There will be clowns, balloons and games this Saturday at the family-friendly Larchill Arcadian Gardens, Larchill, Co Kildare.
Larchill is Europe's only surviving ornamental farm. Restored by the De Las Casas family over the past decade, Larchill features 10 follies as well as a wooden playground, toddlers' sandpit, pet corner and a junior science room.
Open Tues-Sun and bank holiday Mondays noon-6pm. Admission 7.50 adults, €5.50 children and 27.50 family (two adults and up to four children).
Kate Holmquist
Listening
What's hot on your iPod?
Singer Moya Brennan
"I've been listening to a lot of Christmas carols. My iPod's covered in snowflakes! When
I decided to record a Christmas album I knew which Irish carols I would cover but the rest was a blank canvas.
So off I went to iTunes. I was amazed to find every carol I searched for and I think I've arrived at a good track listing - old and new, familiar and not-so-familiar."
- In conversation with Ciara Bambrick
SceneOut
To the south of Clonmel is the Nire Valley, which runs eastward into the Comeragh Mountains along the border between Co Waterford and Co Tipperary.
It is breathtakingly beautiful with unspoilt mountain walks, pony trails and angling throughout.
The East Munster Way, part of the network of national walking routes, is signposted. Melody's Nire Valley Riding Stables has been running since 1964. Hanora's Cottage, a family-run guesthouse and restaurant, is a well-loved spot. - Catherine Foley
InFestival
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, Letterkenny, Aug 21-28
Co Donegal this year hosts the national festival of Irish traditional music (left) which attracts more than 20,000 competing musicians from around the country and up to 250,000 visitors. The first Fleadh Cheoil was held in 1951. As well as the competitions there are parades, pageants, céilithe, impromptu street sessions and concerts. For more detailed information contact the fleadh office at 074-9125133 or 074-9176766, Letterkenny Tourist Office at 074-9121160 or go to www.fleadh2005.com CF
