AS THE HEATWAVE continues, there is a real temptation to stay indoors where there’s air conditioning.

But there’s too much happening around the country this weekend to miss out on.

Here are some of the highlights:

Dublin

There are a number of events taking place across the city today for Pride but the highlight of the festival – the parade – kicks off at 2pm.

This year’s theme is We Are Family and people are expected to start assembling early as speeches will start at 12 noon.

The parade is starting at St Stephens Green and finishing in Smithfield but to find out more details on the route and the festival check out the website.

Shutterstock / Robert Kneschke Shutterstock / Robert Kneschke / Robert Kneschke

Dublin City Council is marking 25 years of Ireland’s ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child at Merrion Square Park.

DCC is inviting families to take part in the creative and interactive activities they have planned for National Playday.

The event is free and will run from 1pm to 5pm tomorrow.

Flyboarders at Seafest 2017 Andrew Downes Andrew Downes

Galway 

Making a splash in the city this weekend is the maritime festival, SeaFest 2018.

This year, the festival aims to highlight the impact of plastics in our oceans.

There are plenty of events taking place across the weekend including flyboarding, sailing, ship tours and talks, including one from famous wildlife cameraman Doug Allan.

All of the events are free and a full list of activities can be found here. 

Dragon Boat Challenge April 2018 Declan Forrest Picasa Declan Forrest Picasa

Cork

Tomorrow morning in the waters of the River Lee 40ft-long colourful dragon boats, each with a drummer aboard will race against each other.

The fundraiser which takes place twice a year at Lapp’s Quay Boardwalk is in support of Meitheal Mara.

There will be a series of heats, semi-finals and then a final kicking off at 2pm, so head down to watch.

Wicklow 

The Taste of Wicklow returns for its sixth year this weekend.

Today is all about music but there will be plenty of food on offer too, check out the full music lineup here.

Food is taking centre stage on Sunday with a number of cooking demonstrations and talks taking place from 12pm to 7pm, see the full schedule here.

Kids under 12 go free with day tickets starting at €7.50, available here. 

Meath 

Navan Racecourse will be transformed into an electronic music festival today.

Higher Vision kicks off at 1pm with tickets still available starting from €65.

A number of international and Irish acts will be performing including Sam Paganini, Route 94, Dan Stritch and Ejeca.

Got any other suggestions? Let us know in the comments.

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