June bank holiday in Laois: Festivals, family days out and classic cars
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Timahoe Hertiage Festival
Step back into Ireland's rich history at this heritage festival on May 31 and June 1, where vikings will take over Timahoe, with reenactments, medieval combat displays, a viking village, and gael crafts.
There will also be beekeeping demonstrations, an art and craft fair, cooking demonstrations, and a 5km heritage run to kick off festivities.
Stradbally Woodland Railway
Situated in the grounds of the Stradbally Hall estate, the railway opened in 1969 as the first volunteer-run heritage railway in Ireland.
The railway stemmed from an earlier idea which saw an original Guinness Brewery steam locomotive steamed while mounted on blocks for the August 1967 National Steam Rally. A short section of the track was laid for the 1968 event and the engine pulled several small passenger carriages.
This June Bank Holiday Weekend, visitors can experience the charm of the railway for a train ride through the woods at Stradbally. The trip will kick off at 11.00am on Sunday and 4.00pm on Monday.
Junefest At Castleview Open Farm
The Castleview Junefest is open to everyone and ideal for families this June Bank Holiday, with activities such as face painting, bouncy castles, animal bingo, and barnyard dancing.
The farm, which originally operated as an intensive beef finishing unit, the now home to a range of animals on 14 acres with looped walkways throughout.
Dunamaise Arts Centre
Immerse yourself in the arts in Portlaoise during the long weekend, with the Shawn Cuddy Summer Country Show back this year on Friday by popular demand.
He will perform a host of his trademark hits along with some new material from his latest album. Special guests will include TR Dallas, Michael Collins and Curtis Magee.
Lisa Lawlor School of Dance will present Dance the Night on Saturday showcasing a dynamic variety of dance styles including hip-hop, lyrical, theatre craft, jazz and ballet.
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Classic car run
The Gordon Bennett Irish Classic Car run will begin in Laois this Bank Holiday weekend, running from Friday, May, 30 to Monday, June, 2.
The run celebrates the Original Gordon Bennet Cup Race held in Ireland in 1963, with all vehicles manufactured before 1995 welcome, however booking spaces are limited.
The event is international and will run over the three days, beginning at Treacy's Pub, The Heath. It will also feature a Gala dinner, a driver BBQ and dinner, costume day, and scenic drives each day.
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