Ryder Cup 2006
What: One of the world’s most prestigious golf events.
The K Club in Kildare is playing host to this sizzling selection of matches and golf enthusiasts from all over the world are expected to converge on the greens. From September 22 to 24, 2006
www: rydercup2006.ie
Dublin Writer’s Festival
What: In its fourth year, over 40 of the best-known Irish and international poets and fiction writers will read from and discuss their work. From June 14 to 18, 2006
www: dublinwritersfestival.com
The Dublin Gay and Lesbian Film Festival
What: Ireland’s premier lesbian and gay cultural event, it is a celebration of international queer features, documentaries and short film — with much partying. From August 3 to 7, 2006 at the Irish Film Institute, Dublin
www: gcn.ie/dlgff
Puck Fair
What: This is where they crown a goat King of Puck! One of the country’s oldest festivals, complete with parade and coronation ceremony, open-air concerts, traditional horse fair, street entertainers and dancing. From August 10 to 12, 2006 in Killorglin town
www: puckfair.ie
Rose Of Tralee International Festival
What: One of Ireland’s most popular festivals, connecting the global Irish community since 1959. Young women of Irish ancestry from all over (even Dubai) take part and a five-day party takes over the Kerry capital. Expect fireworks, concerts and more.
From August 18 to 22, 2006 in Kerry, Tralee
www: roseoftralee.ie
Cork Jazz Festival
What: One of the friendliest jazz festivals in Europe. Over the 28 years it’s been running, the festival has been visited by Ella Fitzgerald, Dizzy Gillespie, Art Blakey and Sonny Rollins. From October 27 to 30, 2006
www: corkjazzfestival.com
Belfast Festival at Queen’s
What: Everything from cinema, dance, theatre, new music, jazz, blues and world music, folk and roots, exhibitions, comedy, film and education. From October 21 to November November, 2006
www: belfastfestival.com
Galway International Oyster Festival
What: One of the world’s leading oyster festivals, its three days of parties, oyster tastings, oyster opening competitions, and the glamorous oyster gala ball. From September 28 to October 1, 2006
www: galwayoysterfest.com