5 things to do this St Patrick's Day

By Marguerite Kiely

The county is gearing up for pageantry and parades, but if you still don’t have plans, there are plenty of fantastic events on offer this weekend.

Learn Irish dancing

You may never be Michael Flatley but if you want to jig up a storm, head to The Crane Lane this Thursday (and every Thursday) at 7.30pm where Irish dancing classes are on offer. Basic steps are covered, followed by a ceili full of craic agus ceol. Admission €5.

Visit Sherkin Island

Only a 10 minute boat ride from the mainland, Sherkin Island is a hidden gem. The small island with a tight-knit community has a very special parade in a picturesque location that is well worth a visit. Everyone is welcome as local residents dress up in green, with some surprises promised! The parade will set out from Jolly Roger Hill, at 2.30pm.

Arts and crafts

Shop local and support artists from Cork at the Nano Nagle Market. Jewellery, paintings, baked goods, prints and all will be available from talented craftspeople over the weekend. The market will take place on Saturday and Sunday from 11am – 4pm, at Nano Nagle Place Front Plaza.

Turn up the heat

If all the festivities are too much, take time to chill in a sauna. This weekend Sauna Republic is offering 1 hour sauna sessions at Coolmain beach. Revive your senses with a dip in the ice-cold Atlantic before heating up in the wood-fired barrel sauna.

Experience Vivaldi

If you want to enjoy some classical music in a gorgeous setting, this is the concert for you. Chamber orchestra London Concertante will perform Vivaldi’s ‘Four Seasons’ in the beautiful surroundings of St Fin Barre’s Cathedral on Sunday 19 March at 7.30pm. Tickets start at €31.60.