Seven things to do this week
TODAY Processed is a dirty word at Naas Farmers' Market, an organic slice of heaven which takes place every Saturday until Christmas. Among the natural goodies on offer are Jane Russell's sausages, Corry Lane Smoked Fish and Bert's Birds. There are fresh flowers at market prices, too. The Storehouse Restaurant, Naas, Co Kildare. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
TOMORROW Ireland has won the EU Contest for Young Scientists nine times, but this is the first time we have hosted the prestigious competition. Today is All-Ireland Science Day, and the public can visit O'Reilly Hall, UCD, to view the entries. A big screen is available to watch the All-Ireland football final and the event continues on Monday and Tuesday. Doors open 12.30 p.m., admission free.
MONDAY The children's season of the Dublin Theatre Festival, which runs until October 11th, includes such delights as a performance of Tom Thumb so tiny it is played out on a kitchen table. Over the next few days you can catch Portofino Ballad, musician and puppeteer Peter Rinderknecht's bewitching story. Tickets for shows cost €10 from the Ark Box Office on 01-6707788.
TUESDAY Those inventive Fire Station artists are back with an exhibition in The Vaults pub in the IFSC. Marking the Underpass incorporates video, installation, sculpture, drawing and social interaction. Artist Sarah Kenny's exploration of the old and the new communities in the area should prove popular: she videos karaoke sessions in two local pubs. The exhibition runs until October 3rd. Phone 01-6054700 for more details.
WEDNESDAY Head for Straffan, Co Kildare, today and Thursday, when there will be a cashmere mill sale beside the Guinness Steam Museum at Lodge Park. You'll find piles of both cashmere and lambswool knitwear for men and women plus a range of accessories including cashmere scarves, gloves, socks and pashminas at up to 50 per cent less than retail prices (credit cards taken). Marrakech shoes and belts will also be for sale. A hearty lunch in the tea rooms must be booked (01-6288412).
THURSDAY Tom Crean - Antarctic Explorer is Aidan Dooley's award-winning account of heroism in the Antarctic. Today is your last chance to catch it at the Everyman Palace, Cork (021-4501673).
FRIDAY In An Evening With The Other Gerry Anderson, the Stroke City broadcaster works his way through a bottle of wine while reading extracts of his autobiography and soon-to-be-published book on the Irish music industry. The £10 tickets include a wine-tasting session. Riverside Theatre, Coleraine, Co Derry (048-70323232 for details).
