Posts filed under 'Ireland'
See the home-grown talents of Mr Damien Rice and some very special guests over the bank holiday weekend on 25 August in Dublin’s Marlay Park.
The gig in Dublin will take place come rain, hail or shine and the organisers are advising fans to “dress appropriately”. So pack your wellies, sunglasses and waterproofs and book your tickets for this melodic music event now.
It’s refreshing news that Damien and co are tough enough to perform whatever the weather. All too often the plug is pulled on an outdoor gig because of the weather and there’s nothing worse than looking forward to a music event only to hear it’s cancelled a few days before.
Damien is tough though, after splitting from rock band Juniper (now Bell X1), busking around Europe and gigging live in coffee bars around Dublin he has now found success with albums O and 9, tracks from which he’ll perform at the music event in Dublin at Marlay Park.
The line up for this live music event in Dublin’s Marlay Park looks a bit like this:
- KT Tunstall
- Guillemots
- Willy Mason
- Fionn Regan
Find out more about the gig in Dublin over at our main site, dublinevents.com
Or book now!
July 30th, 2007
I wanna have Natasha Bedingfield’s babies!
Ahem, Natasha Bedingfield is coming to Ireland’s shores with two mind-blowing shows. You can see her in Belfast or Dublin (or both if you’re a really big music fan) in September February.
Natasha’s Belfast gig
Students will be very familiar with Mandela Hall as it’s also the students union! What an absolutely terrific setting for a live music gig for Natasha. Many of her fans in Belfast will be thrilled she’s performing live at such an intimate location. She’ll be so close to the audience you’ll feel like her soulmate.
Read more details about the live music gig in Belfast
Forget the detail, book tickets now before it’s sold out
Dublin’s fair city
If you’ve ever been to a live music gig at Vicar Street in Dublin, you’ll know that Natasha’s voice and set will be heard and seen from every seat in the house. The venue was specially designed to provide maximum viewing and listening pleasure and the sexy diva will certainly provide lots of that.
Book your tickets for the gig at Vicar Street in Dublin now and look forward to songs that will give you goosebumps. Her voice is “the voice to melt radios”, (as described on the Natasha Bedingfield site) so enjoy the gig in Dublin or Belfast and let Natasha melt your heart.
Find out more about the live gig in Dublin
A little known fact to nibble on about Natasha…
She was part of a Christian rock group with her famous brother Daniel and little sister Nikola (also a rising star) called the The DNA Algorithms! Listen to 2 early tracks here, live!
July 26th, 2007
Tante Zoe’s has a highly suitable motto for the Temple Bar leisure and pleasure zone of inner Dublin. It reads: “Let the good times roll.”
No better place to start than this Cajun-Creole restaurant where the menu is peppered with Southern style flavoursome dishes. Even the darne of salmon is seasoned with Cajun spices. For an out-and-out Louisiana dish, try the roast breast of duck which is glazed with honey and mustard and topped with crisp bacon slices.
It would be wrong to assume that this restaurant is geared to American visitors, welcome though they are, the truth is – holiday makers from many nations, and the local population, find its menu especially appetising.
With 220 tables on three floors, Tante Zoe’s is in serious business on a large scale serving such lovely items as Plantation Cheese Log, Alabama Rissoles, Cajun meatballs, served fondue style with a hot spicy cheese sauce; or Cajun Calamari. Inevitably Surf and Turf features, but worth exploring is the Jambalavas section which offers Lou-Lou Mae for €19.50. What’s Lou-Lou Mae? It consists of turkey, pork, ham and a spicy sausage. This is a real meat-lover’s dish served with garlic bread and tossed salad.
Steaks also have a significant place on the menu. Of course Rib Eye merits its place. Convincingly, the Cajun-Creole Restaurant, with a large capacity for business, proves a point – Southern Cajun food is popular in Dublin.
TANTE ZOE’S
T e l : 679 4407
July 26th, 2007
Ladies and Gentlemen, wake me up before you go-go!
George Michael hits Dublin on Wednesday 1st August, he’ll be playing a music gig at the Point Theatre and tickets are selling out fast so get them before the sun goes down.
If you can’t get them for the gig in Dublin on Wednesday, check the availability on Thursday 2nd August.
You might even be able to catch George in Belfast on Saturday night (4th August) at the Odyssey Arena. The Arena is Ireland’s largest indoor music venue with standing and seating facilities, so there’s more chance of getting a ticket.
Hopefully you’ll be able to get one with freedom to dance to your favourite tunes, with classics like Fastlove, Outside and some classic Wham thrown in for good measure – it’s sure to be a great night out.
The gigs in Dublin and Belfast are part of George’s extended 25 Live tour which saw him play an amazing live gig in Dublin last year. The music event in Belfast will be the first time he has ever played in the city and is sure to be a sell out. Order tickets online now from Dublin Events!
If you make it along, feel free to post reviews of the Dublin or Belfast gig below!
July 25th, 2007
Anna Livia Dublin International Opera Festival opens with the hauntingly, beautiful Lucia di Lammermoor on Sunday 2nd September 2007 at 7:30pm at the Gaity Theatre.
Taking inspiration from Sir Walter Scott’s classic novel: “The Bride of Lammermoor”, Donizetti has created a passionate opera. The story centres around a family feud with a mesmerizing heroine played by the equally mesmerizing soprano, Angela Gilbert.
It’s set in Scotland, sung in Italian and one of the leading bel canto operas you could ever hope to experience. Hear and see for yourself here in Dublin.
Performances also take place on:
Find out more about this live operatic concert in Dublin or book tickets online now.
The Dublin International Opera Festival also brings The Pearl Fishers to Ireland. This live, operatic, musical delight takes place on alternate days to Lucia di Lammermoor, starting on Monday 3rd September at 7:30pm, then:
Some may be more familiar with Carmen Georges Bizet’s musical masterpiece, but The Pearl Fishers was his first, with the famous duet “Au fond du temple saint” thought to be one of the most famous and beloved pieces of music in the entire operatic repertoire. A love triangle in 3 acts, with Irish soprano Anne O’Byrne in main role of Leila, there’s nothing fishy about this opera.
The whole idea of a live music festival is to bring new sounds and experiences to people and The Dublin International Opera Festival is no exception, with talented opera singers and musicians from around the globe, as well as home grown in Ireland.
There’s accompanying lectures, exhibitions, family music events and masterclasses too, so even if you haven’t experienced live opera before then you can learn all about it. Take a look at the main Dublin International Opera Festival site to find out more.
Musical facts:
The film The Fifth Element featured the “mad scene” melody “Il dolce suono” from the 3rd Act of Lucia di Lammermoor in a performance by the alien diva Plavalaguna. The same scene also appeared in an episode of the series Law and Order.
The famous duet, “Au fond du temple saint” was top of BBC Radio’s “Your Hundred Best Tunes” from the last poll in 2003. (See Wikipedia)
July 25th, 2007
There’s a lot going on at Donnybrook, as Leinster prepare for the new season.
First, a new Rugby Development Officer has been named. Everyone at Leinster Rugby is delighted at the appointment of David McAllister.
The former Leinster and Ireland Under-21 out-half will be responsible for the North Midlands area. Hopes are high that his experience will help him unearth some exciting new talent.
But that’s not all. You can now sport the colours of your favourite team, as the new home jersey for the 2007/08 season is now available at the Leinster Rugby Store. Short sleeved jerseys are only €77, with long sleeved shirts costing €80.
The 2007/08 season looks to be a very exciting one for Leinster. Season ticket applications have almost doubled since last year. Priced at just €199, a new batch of Bronze season tickets has been released after the initial tickets were snapped up within weeks. Make sure you get yours quickly to avoid disappointment.
For devoted Leinster fans who can’t make it to all the home games, Leinster Supporters Memberships are available for next season.
Exile packages (€50) are designed for those Leinster fans all across the globe. The kids can join the Leinster Cubs for just €30.
Look out for more rugby news as the 2007/08 season approaches.
July 24th, 2007
Innovative circus performer Kwabana Lindsay ensured Circus Week got off to a flying start on Sunday with his amazing aerial acrobatic show ‘Fiddler on a Rope’. The audience were amazed by his challenging, dangerous stunts.
Circus Week forms part of the annual Diversions Festival and will see the streets and public spaces of Temple Bar transformed into a circus arena for 7 days of spectacular outdoor performances from Irish and international circus acts including acrobatics, trapeze, magic and stilt walking performances throughout the week. Highlights include:-
· The premiere of a new walkabout circus performance called ‘The Sommelliers’ from UK circus pioneers Bongo Bolero;
· The Italian Kerrymen known as the Fanzini Brothers new show ‘Deathwish’; and
· A one-day extravaganza of Irish circus throughout the streets of Temple Bar (Sunday 22nd, from 1pm).
Plus lunchtime performances in acrobatics, trapeze, magic and stilt walking throughout the week!
Even better, all events are FREE.
July 16th, 2007
Trastevere restaurant is centred around the largest terrace area of the Temple Bar Square. Visitors congregate at this vibrant outdoor focal point to do what human beings do best – relax, eat, drink, chat, absorb the ambience and enjoy the efficient service rendered to their needs.
Being a public square you could be serenaded by a virtuosic busker while you enjoy your meal.
Generosity and the craic characterise the social interaction inside the Trastevere restaurant. The white timber chairs add vibrancy in the dining room.
The menu is a delight for the taste buds.
Little touches make a difference like mozzarella cheese topping on the garlic bread. Wild mushrooms, beef or pork meat balls, chicken wings (with chilli sauce), calamari fritti and mussels are available. That’s just for starters.
In the pasta range, customers are spoiled for a choice with more than a dozen items conforming to classic Italian style especially the spaghetti and ravioli dishes.
In the Trastevere, you even have the privilege of designing your own pizza. Don’t get alarmed. You don’t have to make it. You select the ingredients from tomatoes, mushrooms, peppers, artichokes, spinach, olives, red onions … the list is extensive.
The menu includes a good selection of top quality meats – beef, pork, lamb and chicken. Fish is fresh from the market on a daily basis.
Fine Italian wines dominate the shelves. Ask for an Amorone!
Contact the Trastevere on T e l : 01 670 8343.
July 12th, 2007
The idyllic grounds of Stradbally Hall may not seem like the most obvious place for a music festival, but since 2004 the Electric Picnic has brought some of rock’s biggest names to these rolling fields.
Since it began as a one-day event, the Electric Picnic has always been unique among music festivals. And not just because of the mix of music.
At the Electric Picnic, you can enjoy the 24-hour cinema, watch some great plays, get a makeover in the Pamper Palace and even fire off a few rounds at paintball.
If you’ve ever thought festival food consisted of dodgy kebabs and burgers, the Electric Picnic will change your mind. There is plenty of high quality, organic food, including mouth-watering barbequed steaks.
All the traders at the Electric Picnic will be using Fair Trade ingredients where possible and the festival is doing all it can to become carbon neutral.
This year the Electric Picnic has teamed up with Act for Climate. Their ‘Adopt a TD’ scheme will help ensure Ireland’s politicians get the message about global warming.
The Electric Picnic could well be the world’s most ethical music festival. Looking at the line-up, it will also be one of the most entertaining.
The 32,500 fans who were lucky enough to get tickets for the Electric Picnic’s three-day weekend will get to see an unbelievable range of acts.
Other festivals may say they have a diverse line-up, but few can compare to the Electric Picnic. It’s not often you get to see Iggy Pop play on the same bill as the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain.
The festival has always made a point of including many up-and-coming acts, making it a great stepping stone for younger bands. It also features classic acts such as Sonic Youth, ensuring there is an older audience compared to other festivals.
The Electric Picnic runs from the 31st of August to the 2nd of September.
July 11th, 2007
Over 80,000 fans enjoyed a weekend of music and mud at the Oxegen festival.
The Killers brought the weekend to a close, with a storming set. Their brand of indie rock had the whole of Punchestown Racecourse bouncing.
Saturday was headlined by Snow Patrol and Muse. Snow Patrol were given a heroes welcome, for what was treated as a homecoming.
Over the last year, the Northern Irish band have become one of the biggest acts in the world, and few bands could have followed them.
Fortunately, Muse were the perfect choice.
Their flamboyant art-rock is made for festivals, and Muse brought Saturday to a close with a bang.
The eclectic mix of music meant Oxegen had something for everyone. Tori Amos drew an appreciative crowd, which enjoyed her experimental piano ballads. At the other end of the musical spectrum, the Wu Tang Clan also thrilled their fans, proving they are the kings of gangsta rap.
The Gossip, Scissor Sisters, Avril Lavigne and Mika were all making their first appearance at Oxegen, but they all played liked festival veterans.
This year’s Oxegen festival also saw many acts returning to Punchestown. Razorlight, The Kooks, Maximo Park and Daft Punk were all given a warm welcome by the fans at Oxegen.
If the 100 bands weren’t enough for you, the festival featured some of Ireland’s best comedy talent in the Laughter Lounge tent. There was also a fun fair and, thanks to the less than ideal weather, plenty of opportunities to enjoy mud wrestling and mud slides. In fact, anything that involved mud.
But the rain couldn’t dampen spirits, and no doubt people have already started counting down to Oxegen 2008.
July 9th, 2007
Imagine you could create your ideal golf course, bringing together the best and most challenging holes from any of Ireland’s links courses.
Just narrowing the choice down to 18 holes would be a mammoth task, and would probably lead to numerous arguments.
That’s why Richard Phinney and Scott Whitely have done the hard work for you, with the aim to “start as many arguments as they resolved.”
Their book ‘Links of Heaven’ is the result of 20 years exploring links courses from all across Ireland. They then put their dream course together “scientifically – over several pints of Guinness.”
The only rule they had was that only one hole was allowed from each course.
‘Links of Heaven’ is a lot more than just a list. There is a catalogue of every 18-hole links course in Ireland. Nearby attractions, accommodation, restaurants and pubs are also suggested, making it a vital guide to anyone new to golf in Ireland.
Experienced golfers will enjoy the histories of Ireland’s leading golf courses, as well as debating what should or shouldn’t be on the top 18 list.
According to Phinney and Whitely, the best links holes in Ireland are:
1st – Portstewart No.1 (Tubber Patrick) 425 yards, Par 4
An exciting opening to the dream course, with one of the best first holes in links golf. This is made famous by the dramatic descent from the splendid elevated tee.
2nd – Tralee No.2 590 yards, Par 5
This is a sweeping dog leg hole, with the beach providing a constant hazard to those that slice the ball. The tee allows a view of the entire course.
3rd – Portsalon No.2 (Strand) 430 yards, Par 4
A challenging hole that has been recently lengthened and altered. The tee shot has to skirt some impressive rock formations and there are some stunning views over the lough.
4th – Royal County Down No.4 217 yards, Par 3
This hole is at its best in June, when the gorse is in bloom. At any time of year, it is a very difficult hole. The tee shot has to carry over the gorse and avoid eight bunkers. The green is also hard and narrow, making putting a worthy challenge for any golfer.
5th – Lahinch No.5 (The Dell) 156 yards, Par 3
The shortest hole in the dream links is also one of the most difficult. Completely blind from the tee, this requires a bit of hit-and-hope, making it a unique challenge. This is the reason is made it onto the Best 18 and also why it is included in many people’s Worst 18 Holes list.
6th – Rosapenna Sandy Hills No.6 390 yards, Par 4
This is a picturesque hole, with views of the beach, sea and nearby hills. But don’t forget to concentrate on the golf – a natural chasm narrows the fairway and could cost a few shots if you don’t keep your mind on the game.
7th – Ballybunion Old No.11 453 yards, Par 4
An awkward left-swinging hole that has hazards surrounding the green.
8th – Ballybunion Cashen No.15 487 yards, Par 5
This hole has an atmosphere of real solitude. The tee shot takes you over the crest of a hill into a fairway surrounded by the some of the steepest sand hills on any golf course.
9th – Cruit Island No.6 160 yards, Par 3
The final hole in the out 9 of the dream links; this makes all the effort it takes to even find the Cruit Island Golf Club worthwhile. The hole is perched at the edge of a cliff with pounding white surf below.
Out: 3308 yards, Par 35
10th – Enniscrone No.13 (The Burrows) 338 yards, Par 4
This is a great links hole and, if you get the tee shot right, there is a real chance of a birdie. One wayward shot will mean making pair is a real challenge. The rough is formidable and the green is well protected.
11th – Waterville No.11 (Tranquility) 496 yards, Par 5
This hole certainly suits its name. Playing the long fairway is very relaxing, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the scenery around this hole.
12th – The European Club No.17 (Tom Watson) 392 yards, Par 4
More challenging than it first appears, this hole is a masterpiece of links design. The generous fairway means that the tee shot doesn’t have to be too exact. This can lure you into a false sense of security. A second shot to the green demands pin-point accuracy.
13th – The Island No.13 (Broadmeadow) 215 yards, Par 3
This is a classic short hole, with the option to play safe down the left for par, or go for the riskier right side for the chance of a birdie. The view of Malahide provides a lovely backdrop beyond the green.
14th – Portmarnock No.14 (Ireland’s Eye) 395 yards, Par 4
An elegantly designed dogleg left, this is a very challenging hole that needs very precise play. It was one of the great Henry Cotton’s favourite holes.
15th – Royal Portrush No.14 (Calamity) 213 yards, Par 3
Another hole that suits its name, there is a huge rough waiting to swallow any shot that is short of the green.
16th – Carne No.17 (An Murineach) 390 yards, Par 4
An Murineach is risky and exhilarating in equal measures. The hole is played on a narrow plateau surrounded by some of the best duneland available to golfers anywhere in the world.
17th – County Sligo No.17 (Gallery) 455 yards, Par 4
Easily one of the toughest holes in Ireland, this is a severe uphill dogleg left. There is a large green to aim for but hitting par is still a real trial.
18th – Laytown and Bettystown No.18 475 yards, Par 5
Finishing the links from heaven is a particularly fun and challenging hole. Two blind shots and a green surrounded by dunes will test any player.
In: 3369 yards, Par 36
Total: 6677 yards, Par 71
Richard Phinney and Scott Whitely are confident that even the best players would find it difficult to match the par of 71 at their dream course.
And of course, we all hope you enjoy creating your own ‘Links From Heaven’ as much as the two authors did.
Links From Heaven by Richard Phinney and Scott Whitely is on sale now.
July 3rd, 2007
West Essex Street in Temple Bar will be transformed by Eoin Llewellyn’s ‘The Light of Dusk’.
From 25 June to 7 July, the latest photographs from this award-winning artist will be displayed. The thought-provoking ‘The Light of Dusk’ is a comment on the existence of camps such as Guantanamo Bay, and the emotional experiences of those held there.
The exhibition, presented by Spiderfish, references the works of Beckett and asks perhaps uncomfortable, existential questions of presence and existence.
Eoin Llewellyn’s work has been displayed extensively throughout Ireland and he has won many awards. These include the Tony O’Malley Award and the Taylor Art Award. He has also been short listed for the AIB Award and Victor Tracey Award.
‘The Light of Dusk’ is part of a new project by Spiderfish that aims to reanimate unused areas of the city.
As part of Spiderfish, Mick Kelly helped gain permission from the owner of the building where the exhibition is taking place.
Spiderfish and Eoin Llewellyn breathed life into this otherwise dormant shop unit, fulfilling their aim of providing a platform upon which the creative can display their work.
June 29th, 2007
In a real coup for the Irish Youth Wind Ensemble, they will perform at the prestigious Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in Glasgow.
The IYWE will get to play alongside some of the best musicians in Britain, at the British Association of Symphonic Bands and Wind Ensembles (BASBWE) on Friday 29th June.
James Cavanagh, Music Director at the IYWE, and Timothy Reynish will both be conducting at the Glasgow concert.
Reynish is one of the most influential figures in symphonic wind band music in the world. He was Head of Wind and Percussion at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester for over 25 years. He is currently Senior Professor of Wind and Brass at the Guildhall School of Music, London.
James Cavanagh has conducted orchestras across Europe, the USA and Japan. He is dedicated to education and outreach projects, working with the National Concert Hall and the National Symphony Orchestra.
The IYWE is committed to offering young wind, brass and percussion players the opportunity to study, perform and experience music composed for wind ensembles. Some 800 young musicians have played with the ensemble, benefiting greatly by the experience.
The BASBWE conference in Glasgow offers another great chance to perform for and learn from some of the most talented young musicians in Britain and Ireland.
June 26th, 2007
It was a moment no one in Ireland will ever forget. With the quarter finals of the 1990 World Cup within touching distance, legendary goalkeeper Packie Bonner faced off against Romanian striker Daniel Timofte.
The save by Bonner won the penalty shoot-out, and sent Ireland into the World Cup quarter finals.
For that, and the many other achievements during his football career, Packie Bonner was honoured with the Freedom of the County in Donegal, the area’s highest accolade.
He became only the second person to receive the honour, after fellow goalkeeper Shay Given was awarded it last year.
An emotional Packie Bonner paid tribute to his family, friends, coaches and fellow players who influenced him.
He said: “Without them I would not be where I am today. As you go through this, you need special people and I had it in my family. They are the people that helped me get where I am.”
Mayor of Donegal Enda Bonner thanked his cousin Packie for the great memories he had given every Irishman.
He said: “This award will adequately reflect the great esteem in which Packie is held by the people of the counties for the wonderful memories he has given us and the work he continues to do.”
Packie Bonner came from very humble beginnings. Aged 10, he and his twin brother Denis were able to get their pair of football boots after a good herring season in Donegal.
He became Jock Stein’s last signing for Celtic, when he moved to Glasgow in 1978.
His Ireland debut came in May 1981, on his 21st birthday. He went on to play 642 times for Celtic, and won 80 caps for Ireland.
But it was that famous save and Ireland’s run during the 1990 World Cup that turned Bonner into a national hero.
He said: “Everybody, young and old enjoyed it. I was privileged to be part of such a great team.”
He can also now enjoy the privilege of walking his cattle through Dungloe.
June 26th, 2007
Dublin has a lot to offer throughout the year, and summer probably has more than its fair share of events to entertain visitors and locals.
There is fun for all the family at the various Activity Days. Throughout July, venues around Dublin will be hosting a selection of live music, circus workshops, puppet and magic shows, face painters and bouncy castles.
Each activity day starts at 3 pm and they will be on at:
1st of July at Bunting Road
8th of July at Fairview Park
22nd of July John Paul Park
29th of July Johnstown Park
And that’s not all. There is a great range of concerts throughout the summer. The Lunchtime Concerts series is on at 1 pm – 2 pm and features:
The Army Band – 4th July – Merrion Square
The Garda Band – 10th July – Herbert Park
Mary McEvoy & Friends – 11th July – Civic Offices
Avondale – 18th July – Wolfe Tone Park
The Niall Toner Band – 25th July – Civic Offices
Crofton Folk Band – 1st August – Herbert Park
If you have the energy for shopping after all that, you should see the Smithfield Summer Market. Opening in August 3rd, this is the biggest open air market Dublin has ever seen.
As well as stalls selling something for everyone, the Smithfield Market hosts street entertainment and kids’ activities. There is also a picnic area so you can relax.
The Smithfield Summer Market is open every Friday and Saturday until September 1st.
If you want a taste of the exotic, the Eurocultured Festival is sure to satisfy you.
This free festival features the best in European art, dance, music, performance and cuisine at Smithfield Plaza on Saturday August 18th.
Over 150 top performers from across Europe will be coming to Ireland for the Eurocultured Festival. Expect to see street art, flamenco dancing, DJs, live music, workshops and much more.
The summer in Dublin is always filled with activities, and there is a lot more to do in 2007 as well as the options here.
June 25th, 2007
Situated canal side in Portobello The Lower Deck in the upper echelons when it comes to the traditional Dublin pub.
A pleasant paved civic area in Harbour Square enhances The Lower Deck’s environment.
The black and white pictures of old Dublin at the entrance to the pub set the scene. The panelled mirrors and the
dominance of timber have resisted the advance of modernity. In fact there is only one important exception – the TV screens.
This intrusion is allowed because the clientele love their sport and especially the G.A.A. teams of Tipperary and Dublin.
The floor area is not like the big pubs in which you could land a jumbo jet no bother. The Lower Deck opts for intimacy, with comfortable enclaves which cater for groups of 8 to 10 people. It is an ideal venue for visitors seeking a live music scene and a party night out.
From Wednesday to the weekends the diversity of music tastes is catered for with sing-along cabaret shows, plenty of rock music and the monthly traditional Irish music showcase.
Tasty sandwiches are available at lunchtime. If you are a smoker, you can enjoy the relaxation of the square which was once a harbour.
Inside or out, life is good on The Lower Deck.
June 22nd, 2007
The Dublin Woollen Mills is a landmark surrounded by other landmarks. The Halfpenny Bridge, a quintessential symbol of Dublin, is adjacent to the shop.
Just outside the Dublin Woollen Mill is the statue which has become known as “The Hags With The Bags”, thanks to the Dublin trait of gentle and affectionate slagging of public art.
“The Hags With The Bags” shows two shoppers, resting after their session of retail therapy. The statue is now as much a part of the local scenery as the Dublin Woollen Mills.
The Dublin Woollen Mills has been in the ownership of the Roche family for 118 years, covering four generations. The current manager, Valerie Roche, takes pride in the fact that the business has remained uniquely Irish for so long.
Dubliners and tourists frequent the Dublin Woollen Mills seeking the highest quality tweed, fabrics, knitwear and haberdashery. Larger customers include businesses in the dress-making industry.
The Dublin Woollen Mills has survived many economic changes over the past century, and seen some new landmarks appear in Dublin.
It is sure to see a lot more in the future.
June 22nd, 2007
But it’s not an emergency. Fire is a remarkable new restaurant – occupying part of the 18th century Mansion House, the official residence of the Lord Mayor of Dublin.
Apart from the luxurious surroundings, what is remarkable about Fire? It is the wood fired oven incorporated into the high-ceilinged 200-seater dining room. This really comes into its own supreme is in the provision of Flatbreads – a la Naples Style Pizzas.
And the rest of the menu also commands respect. The special section for salads brings positive clarity to an oft vague area. The signature dish of the house is a prime aged Irish Bone in Fillet.
It has been “aged” for 21 days through which time it has been maintained with Tuscan olives, garlic and seasonings. Fillet with a bone? A contradiction? Not at all, it enhances the already mouth watering taste.
The customer demand for the special sense of occasion and culinary delights that goes with a meal at Fire is so strong that on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, two sittings have been arranged – 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Al fresco meals on the terrace appeal to many because the buzz of Dublin’s vibrant night life is en suite on Dawson Street. Lunch is available on Saturdays but the Fire is quenched on Sunday nights.
To book telephone Fire’s Manageress Catherine Connolly at 01 676 7200.
June 19th, 2007
There is now even more opportunity for potential poets to present their pieces. Due to popular demand, the Naked Lunch open mic night is now weekly.
The Carnival Bar on Wexford Street hosts the Naked Lunch poetry night, a great chance to see new poets and debut your own work. It has been growing in popularity with performers and fans ever since the first Naked Lunch.
Head down to the Carnival Bar on Wednesday evenings to either listen or give a reading.
Entry is free and it also costs nothing to perform. Whether you are a native Dubliner or a visitor, the Naked Lunch is a terrific choice when you are planning things to do in Ireland.
The Carnival Bar is known for the relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff. Apart from the poetry, the bar has some excellent DJs and reasonably priced drinks. A fun night out is guaranteed.
June 13th, 2007
Dublin Zoo is due to unveil the Kaziranga Forest Trail. This habitat has been purpose built for the Zoo’s Asian elephants, including the new addition to the elephant family.
On Monday 7th May, Bernhardine gave birth to a healthy female calf, the first baby elephant to be born in Ireland!
Although the birth took place in total darkness in the early hours of the morning, keepers monitored the process using special infrared CCTV cameras.
The calf took her first steps within ten minutes of the birth, delighting keepers and all the other staff at Dublin Zoo.
The Director of Dublin Zoo, Leo Oosterweghel, said: “We could observe the other elephants, Yasmin and Anak, offering their support to Bernhardine and taking great interest in the calf. We are all delighted with the birth of our healthy baby elephant and there is a real buzz of excitement in the zoo.”
The Kaziranga Forest Trail habitat is due to be opened during the next few weeks, when visitors will be able to see all the zoo’s Asian elephants.
The new calf is sure to prove popular with visitors. She is yet to be named but lots of suggestions have been made.
June 12th, 2007
Ireland is a place of breathtaking scenery and friendly people, not to forget home of the world’s best golf courses. Browse around and see what Dublin Events has to offer in its section Golf in Clare. A number of golf courses in Clare offer an exciting game of golf to the golf enthusiasts. So browse around and book your Golf Tee Times at one of the golf courses in Clare for your visit to this beautiful county.
April 9th, 2007
Strolling through parks, touring the unique countryside, superb nightly sessions and lively annual festivals are some of the things that make County Clare a perfect sanctuary for that get-away relaxing break or longer holiday. Excellent accommodation and dining will fortify you well to enjoy the activities and amenities of the region. If you are in search of the outdoors, look no further than Clare County. Sea, lake and river fishing, walking and cycling and of course golfing are all popular activities in the county. Doolin, Fanore and Ennistymon are charming villages famed for their traditional music sessions.
Visit http://ireland.dublinevents.com/clare/ , learn about accommodations that County Clare offers and get reserved of your choice.
April 9th, 2007
Dublin’s rock stage has always been brimming with activity with new and upcoming bands performing on both national and international scale. So, if you’re touring Dublin, don’t miss to visit Airfield-a private trust and a registered charity. It’s the most popular tourist attraction for theatre, performing arts, concerts and all sorts of educational, cultural and recreational facilities. The Art & Culture Programme includes regular art exhibitions, writer’s courses, music recitals, readings and theatre performances. Also serves as an Educational and Recreational resource.
If you wish to learn what else Airfield Art Centre offers, visit our section Dublin Concerts.
April 3rd, 2007
The seventh and final section of the Royal Canal Way takes walkers on a peaceful trek through the beautiful natural surroundings lying between Riverstown Bridge and Moran’s Bridge in Mullingar. This section of the walking route is located in County Westmeath in the Leinster province. Walkers will have to cover a considerable distance of fourteen kilometres in order to finish walking on this walking trail. There is little climbing to be done here so most walkers shouldn’t need more than four hours to get to the end of this trail. The surface terrain of this walking route is mostly composed of grassy bank. The harbour at Mullingar is notable for the fact that it is divided into two parts by Scanlan’s Bridge.
April 2nd, 2007
Castle Archdale Hostel is housed in a historic building built in 1773. It is located in the Castle Archdale Country Park. It offers excellent accommodation for both individuals and groups. Two large dormitories and two family rooms are available. This hostel is the perfect place to serve as a focal point for exploring the beautiful County Fermanagh. The hostel is centrally heated. Shower facilities are available. A TV lounge provides entertainment to the guests and allows them to socialize. A large kitchen and dining room ensure that dinners won’t be a boring affair. Secure bicycle storage is available to give the guests complete peace of mind. A reading room is available for passing the time in thoughtful contemplation. The building housing the hostel is also home to a wildlife exhibition, a museum, a lecture theatre and a field study laboratory.
March 30th, 2007
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