From dancing to dining, appreciating culture and cocktails, it’s going to be a busy weekend …
This year marks the 19th edition of Culture Night, on Friday September 20, which celebrates the vibrant arts and cultural landscape across Ireland. It’s estimated over 1.2 m people attended 1,700 events last year which were held in heritage sites and quirky venues. In this year’s programme, I’ve noted several fashion-forward events. These include the “Alternative Fashion Showcase” at GalleryX, Hume Street, Dublin 2 which will feature a diverse set of Irish clothing and accessories. There’s also a chance to dress up and strut your stuff on an impromptu catwalk too.
The family run glove making business, George Horn Ltd, has been in business since 1943 relocating several times when the original glove factory burnt down in Ashtown. Now in Stoneybatter, the studio will be openings its doors to give an overview and demonstration on how to make a pair of leather gloves from cutting to sewing and finishing.
Gabriela Avram of Friends of Lave, Limerick will be discussing the history of Limerick lacemaking which was originally established in 1829. Its lace, which is a hybrid lace manmade with a needle on a machine-made net base, has been worn by everyone from Lady Edith Roosevelt to Countess Markievicz and Queen Victoria.
Aphra Hill, Dublin Culture Night Coordinator, says one of the most vibrant events will be “City Sounds: Brazilian Forró Drop-In Dance Class and 353 Samba Club” on Central Plaza. She says, “This starts at 6.30pm and whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, this drop-in class is your chance to learn the lively, energetic moves of this traditional Brazilian dance style. Stick around to experience Dublin’s top samba band, 353 Samba Club, for an electrifying performance featuring costumed samba dancers directly after this event. This dynamic group will have you on your feet, dancing to the infectious beats of Brazil’s most iconic music. Experience the spectacle of samba as our stunning dancers bring the energy of Rio to Dublin.” Remember all Culture Night events are free, and for the full programme visit; www.culturenight.ie.
More toe tapping, this time to The Banshee Brass, a Dublin-based quintet which is committed to promoting the tradition and artistic medium of chamber music. They will be performing in The Cellar Bar in The Merrion Hotel, on Friday from 6pm to 8pm with a diverse programme featuring jazz, folk, pop hits, and classical standards. I love this venue in the original 18th-century wine vaults, with cosy seating nooks and a great menu; www.merrionhotel.com.
This weekend is the Garinish Island Arts Festival, entitled “Crosstown Drift” from September 20 to 22. This event combines culture and creativity and provides a great opportunity for attendees to explore the beautiful 37-acre island, located in the sheltered harbour of Glengarriff. The immersive programme starts on Friday morning at 11am, when Glyn Sherratt, Head Gardener, will take guests around the horticultural highlights of Garinish, bringing its history, wildlife and plants to life. For the foodies, food writer Joe McNamee will be discussing sustainability in food with Aishling Moore, of Cork city’s renowned Goldie seafood restaurant and legendary fish smoker Sally Barnes. For music lovers, there are music walking tours and an evening concert series on Saturday 21 with Cormac Begley and on Sunday 22 September with Lisa Hannigan performing live. For a full list of events happening over the weekend and to book tickets visit; www.thegoodroompresents.com
At IMMA, its EARTH RISING Festival returns, from September 20 to 22. Celebrating art and culture as catalysts for environmental change and collective action, EARTH RISING includes free exhibitions, workshops, talks, performances, screenings and more; www.imma.ie.
It’s also Negroni Week (who knew?) an excuse to visit your favourite cocktail bar for an aperitivo. At House Dublin there is even a Tanqueray No Ten Negroni fountain in situ, which is worth seeing, as is the menu of bespoke cocktails; www.housedublin.ie.
Taste of Kildare Festival of Food & Drink is taking place from September 20 to 22 at Naas Racecourse. The focal point of the event will be the Talk Stage where hosts and food writers, Dee Laffan and Ali Dunworth, will share the latest foodie news and chat to local producers (for example Beara Bitter, Sweet Cheeses, The Nude Wine Company and Taste of Home) about their production process. There will also be twelve chefs, including Rachel Allen, demonstrating in the Calor Chefs’ Theatre as well as music and lots of glorious food, from masterclasses to afternoon tea and local food trucks. Don’t miss the wonderful craft market, Gather, which will feature some many Kildare-created brands; www.tasteofkildare.ie.
In Belfast, The Ivy Brasserie has just opened this week in the iconic former Robinson & Cleaver building, noted for its statement staircase and spectacular windows. Decorated in its signature flamboyant style The Ivy Belfast will be the hottest table in town from breakfast to dinner. To book a table, sign up for its newsletter and receive special offers visit; www.ivycollection.com.
