Sun to shine on Croker triple-header

GAA fans are in for a treat on Sunday with a triple-header in the sunshine in Croke Park.

GAA fans are in for a treat on Sunday with a triple-header in the sunshine in Croke Park.

Met Éireann is predicting fine, calm weather on the day.

The Croke Park events kick off at noon with Kilkenny taking on Tipperary in the minor hurling championship, followed by the senior footballers from Mayo and Meath going toe to toe.

The big clash of the day is Kilkenny and Waterford in the semi-final of the Senior Hurling Championship in front of an expected crowd of 65,000 people. The throw-in is scheduled for 4pm.

The Fáilte Ireland Dublin Horseshow continues at the RDS over the next two days, with tomorrow’s big event being the Landrover Puissance in the main arena. On Sunday, large crowds are expected for the Longines International Grand Prix.

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The Tullamore and AIB National Livestock Show takes place on Sunday. There will be musicians, equestrian displays, vintage fashion exhibitions and trade stands. About 55,000 people are expected to attend.

The first weekend of the Kilkenny Arts Festival includes performances by musicians, poets and artists from around the world in various venues across the city. The weekend’s headline act is Electric Miles, a four-piece who put a modern twist on the music of Miles Davis. Jim and Dr Nick, a pair of fire-juggling unicyclists, will perform at McDonagh Junction at lunchtime. Entrance is free.

Also tomorrow Galway-based composer-singer Julie Feeney will be accompanied by a string ensemble in St Canice's Cathedral. Writers Kamilia Shamsie and Eugene McCabe will be reading from their latest works in Kilkenny Castle’s Parade Tower on Sunday morning. The festival continues until Sunday, August 16th.

Motoring enthusiasts are expected to flock to the annual Phoenix Park Races in Dublin. Shuttle buses will ferry spectators between the park and nearby Farmleigh House, which will act as a display area. Attractions include Michael Schumacher's Formula One Ferrari and classic cars from the pre-50s era. Races will take place throughout the weekend. Parking at the event is limited.

"Annie" continues its run in the Cork Opera House this weekend. Tickets are sold out for evening shows on both days but a number are still available for tomorrow's matinee.

The Sperrins Walking Festival takes place in Tyrone from its base in the Gortin Activity Centre outside Omagh. Events include a 40km walk over two days with overnight camping, guided tours of the local sights and wide a range of social gatherings each night. There are various walks planned that will suit people of all ages and experience.

Horse racing will take place in Killbeggan tomorrow evening. Meets will also be held in Tipperary and Downpatrick the following day.

The weather forecast for tomorrow is cloudy and dull. It is due to improve the following day, with dry, sunny spells. Bouts of drizzle can't be ruled out but are more likely to come late in the day. Hurling fans will appreciate that wind will be minimal.