The age of 21 is a milestone, so this year the fireworks will be brighter as the Spraoi festival in Waterford comes of age.

MORE than half a million people are expected to flock to Waterford over the next four days for the Tall Ships Race 2011, which kicks off today.

QUEUES are expected this Saturday in Waterford’s city centre for the release of more tickets for free concerts taking place during the Tall Ships festival.

ABOUT 50,000 foodies feasted on a huge banquet of flavour at the Waterford Harvest Festival in the city over the weekend.

Festival puts wind in Waterford’s sails, writes South-East Correspondent Neans McSweeney.