Fun stuff at Muff: Several thousand people from all over Ireland, as well as many overseas patrons, are expected to attend this year's annual Fair of Muff near Kingscourt, Co Cavan, tomorrow, writes Patsy McArdle. The one-day event, reputed to be the oldest fair in Ireland, dates back to the 12th century. It was banned for two years in the 19th century because of bitter faction fights, which led to some fatalities.
Kingscourt pub owner Jim Gartlan, who owns a farm at Muff, has arranged to transform a huge barn into a pub for the day and he has also made provision for a live band and dancing.
Birr turns back the clock
The Co Offaly town of Birr expects an influx this weekend for the local Vintage Week and Arts Festival, which is in its 38th year.
The festival will see the clock turned back on Sunday when an Olde Time Traditional Fair Day will take place. See www.birrvintageweek.com
Davitt discussion
Michael Davitt is the chief subject of this year's Parnell Summer School, which begins in Avondale, Co Wicklow, this Sunday. This year is the centenary of the death of Davitt, father of the Land League. Minister for Education Mary Hanafin opens the school at 2.30pm on Sunday.
Knock novena begins
The annual National Knock Shrine Novena gets under way next Monday. The shrine has seen record numbers of pilgrims this year. The parish priest of Knock, Mgr Joe Quinn, says very large attendances are expected daily for the nine days.
Cop cup out of reach
The Garda soccer team bowed out of the European Police Championships in Krefeld, near Dusseldorf in Germany yesterday, after being beaten 2-1 by Germany in the semi-finals.
The Garda put in some arresting performances during the tournament, drawing 1-1 with France, 0-0 with Bulgaria, and beating Denmark 2-1.