First performed in Wexford in 1965, the return of Don Quichotte was well worth waiting for, writes Cathy Desmond.

Our regular contributors select their highlights of the year

Balmy temperatures, no rain to spoil the party and a minister bearing a gift of a million euro - the omens were good at the opening night of WexfordFestival. Families out for an evening stroll mingled with opera-goers in posh frocks and tux at the hurdy-gurdies on the waterfront and local troubadours on guitar and keyboards warmed up the crowd before the opening fireworks lit up the clear skies.