Many events to catch this weekend - in between the raindrops

The recent spell of disappointing weather looks set to continue but, for those brave enough to bear the conditions, there is …

The recent spell of disappointing weather looks set to continue but, for those brave enough to bear the conditions, there is much to look forward to this weekend.

Met Éireann expects spells of sunshine this morning but more showery weather is due to follow in the afternoon. Tonight should be dry, apart from the occasional shower, and mist or fog can be expected in some places.

Tomorrow will begin with bright sunny spells but once again showers will develop through the afternoon. Widespread rain will develop later in the evening, which may be heavy and persistent at times.

Grand Canal Square in Dublin has been transformed into a 2,500-seat outdoor venue for the Analog Festival which takes place this weekend.

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Analog has been described as a "modern urban music event" and it features an eclectic musical line-up including The Cinematic Orchestra and a performance from Symphony for 100 Guitars. Tickets for Analog are free and available online at www.analogconcerts.ie.

Barbra Streisand performs at Castletown House in Celbridge, Co Kildare at 8pm tonight. A number of tickets for the concert are still available.

Some tickets remain for Rod Stewart, who plays at the RDS tonight. Gates open at 5pm and Stewart takes the stage at 8pm.

The Killarney Summerfest continues this weekend. The main focus this evening will be Fitzgerald Stadium where US pop singer Pink is the big attraction. Support comes from Director. Gates open at 5.30pm.

Tomorrow sees the Irish Marching Band Competition Day at 1pm in St Brendan's Sports Field and the Radio Kerry charity fun run at 6pm in the National Park is among other events.

The Volvo Dún Laoghaire Regatta continues today and tomorrow and, as well as boating action, there will be music, theatre and fairground attractions.

More than 500 boats and 3,000 sailors will be competing on six challenging courses.

Paul Craig, chairman of the regatta organising committee, recommends the east and west piers in Dún Laoghaire as ideal viewing points.

The State of Mantua music and arts festival takes place in Ballaghadereen, Co Roscommon, this weekend with performances from The Skatalites and The Sultans of Ping. Other attractionsinclude performance art pieces, cinema presentations and art installations. Informationis available at www.mantuaproject.com.

There is a busy sports schedule with the Leinster and Ulster Senior Football Championship finals taking place.

Tyrone take on Monaghan in Clones in the Ulster final at 2.15pm tomorrow. AA Roadwatch has warned that there will be extra traffic around Clones and on the N54 and N12.

Dublin play Laois in the Leinster final at 4.15pm at Croke Park. Usual match day restrictions will be in place around Croke Park.

Steven Carroll

Steven Carroll

Steven Carroll is an Assistant News Editor with The Irish Times