Head south east to party

IT’S known as the sunny South East — and not without justification, but there’s more to this corner of Ireland than beaches and a pleasant climate. The South East embraces five counties and four rivers; it’s famous for heritage, vibrant cities and towns and a scenic landscape.

The Spraoi Festival takes place next weekend in Waterford city; it’s an explosion of colour, energy and excitement with the city transformed into a giant performing stage for acts all over the world.

A more relaxed version of entertainment takes place in Kilkenny from August 8 to 17 in the form of the world-renowned Arts Festival. Then it’s on to the Bluegrass Festival in Dunmore East between August 21 and 24 and this event is more than just about the music; the nightly and (sometimes) night-long, parties being a huge attraction.