FINGERS CROSS THE rain might stay away for as long as possible this May Bank Holiday weekend, but no matter what the weather’s like, there’s plenty in store around the country.

If you have details of any events on this weekend, feel free to add them in the comments section below.

Drogheda Arts Festival

Where? Various locations in Drogheda

When? Thurs 3 May – Mon 7 May

What’s on? Theatre, film, music, comedy and dance are all represented at the Drogheda Arts Festival. The weekend’s programme includes a outdoor screening of The Life Of Brian and a performance by Gemma Hayes.

Website: DroghedaArtsFestival.ie

Crisp Fest

Where? The Bernard Shaw, Richmond Street South, Dublin

When? Sat 5 May, 6 – 9pm

What’s on? The snack lovers behind BlogAboutCrisps will be on hand, handing out free crisps and crisp sandwiches and answering questions about your beloved corn snacks.

Website: Crisp Fest on Facebook

Roscommon Lamb festival

Where? Loughnaneane Park, Market Square, River Suck and various other locations

When? Wed 2 May – Mon 7 May

What’s on? Now in its fifth year the Roscommon Lamb Festival offers International Sheepdog Trials, a fishing challenge, farmers’ market and an attempt to set a world record in sheep shearing.

Website: RoscommonLambFestival.com

Kilkenny Rhythm and Roots Festival

Where? Various venues around Kilkenny City

When? Fri 4 May – Mon 7 May

What’s on? Alabama Shakes and Charlie Parr are among the arists on the bill for the Kilkenny Rhythm and Roots Festival, now in its 15th year. Swing, bluegrass, rockabilly, cajun, folk and the blues are all on offer.

Website: KilkennyRoots.com

Roots of Zorro Mexican Festival

Where? Various locations around Wexford Town

When? 4 – 6 May

What’s on? Evidence has been unmasked to show that Zorro, the swarthy swashbuckling hero was infact a red-bearded Irishman from Wexford, so to celebrate Cinco de Mayo the town will host plenty of events with music, dancing and food.

Website: VisitWexford.ie

Vantastival

Where? Bellurgan Park, Bellurgan, Dundalk, Co. Louth

When? Fri 4 May – Sun 6 May

What’s on? God is an Astronaut, Cathy Davey, Ham Sandwich and Le Galaxie are among the acts performing at this weekend festival, which also features theatre, art and crafts and cinema. Those with or without campervans are welcome.

Website: Vantastival.com

Blarney Castle Vintage and Classic Car Festival

Where? Blarney, Co. Cork

When? Sat 5 May – Mon 7 May

What’s on? Along with the vintage and classic cars on show there’ll be live music. arts and crafts, Irish dancing and archery displays in Blarney this weekend.

Website: BlarneyCastle.ie

Maritime Matters Festival

Where? The Hook Lighthouse, Fethard-on-Sea, Wexford

When? Sat 5 May – Mon 7 May

What’s on? The Republic of Ireland Strongman competition, a teddy-bears picnic, shows by Claiomh Medieval Knights and tours by the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group will all be on offer this weekend

Website: HookHeritage.ie

Limerick Riverfest

Where? Various venues around Limerick City

When? Fir 4 May – Mon 7 May

What’s on? Live music from The Saw Doctors, fireworks lighting up the Limerick sky, a day-long BBQ competition and the Great Limerick Run, and much more…

Website: Riverfest.ie

Cork International Choral Festival

Where? Venues around Cork city and county

When? Wed 2 May – Sun 6 May

What’s on? More than 4,500 singers from around the world will take part in gala concerts, competitions, fringe events and more…

Website: CorkChoral.ie

Connemara Mussel Festival

Where? Renvyle, Connemara, Co. Galway

When? Fri 4 May  - Sun 6 May

What’s on? Cooking demonstrations, competitions, walks, fly fishing, exhibitions, and a seafood gala dinner… is it any wonder a tonne of mussels was eaten at last year’s festival?

Website: ConnemaraMusselFestival.com