BRIAN O'CONNELLpresents a round-up of summer events taking place around the country
MASTERS OF TRADITION
Running until Sunday in Bantry, this year’s artistic director is fiddler Martin Hayes. The opening concert tonight features Hayes (below) and Denis Cahill, as well as Tommy Peoples, Steve Cooney and Kevin Crawford. 027-52788, www.westcorkmusic.ie
BELMULLET ARTS FEST
Tonight’s highlights include the play Awake in the West at 8.30pm, while tomorrow a bus will depart from Belmullet for the Faulmore Loop Walk, returning at 8pm. 086-7376998, www.discover ireland.com
CHARLESTOWN ON ICE
It might seem a bit strange having an ice show during the summer months, but not many shopping centres can boast an Olympic-sized skating rink. This one, in the Charlestown Shopping Centre in Finglas in Dublin, opens 10am till 10.15pm weekdays and 9am to 9.30pm weekends. Tickets for a session start at €8. www.charlestownonice.ie
SLIEVE BLOOM WAY
At 77km long, this route meanders through counties Offaly and Laois through the Slieve Bloom Mountains. The way starts in Glenbarrow and can be completed in five days. www.slievebloom.ie, www.walkireland.ie
TALL SHIPS
Belfast welcomes the final leg of the Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge, with continental markets, funfairs, fireworks and a programme of night-time entertainment. Begins tomorrow. 1850-230230, www.discovernorthernireland.com
IRELAND V AUSTRALIA
There are still tickets left for this soccer friendly, which is held in the newly revamped Thomond Park in Limerick at 7.30pm tonight. The €25 stand tickets have sold out, but €35 and €55 seats are available. www.fai.ie, www.ticketmaster.ie
