From medieval to literature, Cork is spoiled for choice with summer festivals

Kevin O’Neill outlines the range of festivals that keep Co Cork people so royally entertained

The White Horse Vikings in action at Youghal's Medieval Festival in St Mary’s College Gardens, Youghal. The annual festival has become one of the country’s largest free events celebrating National Heritage Week. Picture: John Hennessy

From food and history to literature and walking, Cork County is spoiled for choice when it comes to festivals.

All year round, towns and villages throughout the county burst into life for days at a time in celebration of pastimes, hobbies, and more, sometimes niche, sometimes more mainstream, but all contribute to the thriving and lively places we call home.