Music, film, theatre and poetry. Oh yeah, and there’s literature, exhibitions, symposiums and interventions. Not to mention walks, talks, workshops and dance. Or does a spectacular torch-lit parade tickle your fancy?

All of the above – and more – are taking place from today until Sunday week at the celebrated Skibbereen Arts Festival; meaning there are ten full days of fun to indulge in if you’re in the Cork area.

The Mad Pride Family Day, for example, takes place this Sunday, July 26. It will bring together local families with the aim of breaking down stigma surrounding mental illness – and involves a load of fun and entertainment: musicians, puppeteers, circus performers, face painters, arts and crafts facilitators, and artisan food producers will all be there, creating a carnival-like atmosphere.

And movie buffs will be happy to hear that Song Of The Sea will showcase on Monday. An Oscar-nominated Irish animation film directed by Tom Moore, the story is inspired by the mythological Selkies of Irish folklore. It also features the voices Brendan Gleeson, Pat Short, Lisa Hannigan, Fionnula Flanagan, and David Rawle.

Meanwhile, following on from the phenomenal success of last year’s inaugural staging, 4 Plays In A Day returns to Skibbereen – with the town itself becoming a stage for the day with four excellent plays by four different companies taking place in four different venues.

Tomorrow week, there will be an exploration of the life and times of Alan Lomax, one of the world’s greatest song collectors. He is most famous for his work around the Mississippi Delta, but he also travelled to the Caribbean, various parts of Europe, and North Africa.

Saturday, August 1 marks the 100th anniversary of his birth, so the Skibbereen Arts Festival along with host Donal Dineen will celebrate his legacy – in the company of well-known singers and musicians including David Kitt, Cian Nugent, and Liz Clarke.  

For more information, see skibbereenartsfestival.com, or visit the festival Facebook page.