Seven things to do this week.
TODAY The Curragh races are on today and tomorrow in Co Kildare, where Europe's top horses will compete for more than €1.6 million in prize-money as part of the Boylesports Irish Guineas Festival. There is a gig featuring Declan O'Rourke when the last race is over, and on Sunday it's Ladies' Day with the usual goodies up for grabs.
TOMORROW HB Ice Cream Sunday is the one day of the year when its cool to eat as much ice cream as you can lay your hands on. The event, which raises funds for Down Syndrome Ireland, takes place today and will involve thousands of families, friends and children eating ice cream at parties all over the country. It's not too late to register for the fun - and you can hold your ice-cream party any day over the next two weeks - so call now on 1890-373737.
MONDAY This evening sees the big re-launch of The Stinging Fly Press, champions of new Irish and international writing, and the launch of their first title, Watermark by Sean O'Reilly. The event takes place at 6pm in Crawdaddy, The Pod, Harcourt Street, Dublin. A limited, clothbound edition of O'Reilly's novel is available. One hundred copies will be signed and numbered by the author on the night. 6pm.
TUESDAY There's always a great atmosphere at the Docklands 7km Fun Run, whether you are in training for the mini-marathon next month or just fancy a gentle stroll around the area. Entries are taken on the day, but get there early (by 6.30pm) to be sure of a place. Otherwise just cheer on the runners, joggers and walkers who all are raising money for Temple Street Children's Hospital. 8pm. The race starts and ends at George's Dock. www.dublindocklands.ie
WEDNESDAY If you are one of a growing number of consumers who are concerned about how their food is grown and processed, the Local Food Communities workshop in Airfield House, Dundrum is for you. Hosted by the Dublin Food Co-Op and Feasta, the event looks at how speciality foods can help reconnect consumers with farmers and give the public more choice about the foods they eat. To book a place, call 01-2984301. Doors 8pm
THURSDAY The Swedes have invaded Cork as part of the European Capital of Culture programme, with Scandinavian-themed events running until Monday. Today sees the launch of a design exhibition entitled New Swedish Pewter, which brings together a group of young designers. 11am-6pm in the Clarion Hotel, Lapps Quay. Swedish food can be sampled at the hotel until Saturday when Carlskrona, the King of Sweden's ships, docks at North Custom House Quay.
FRIDAY Spirit Style is a fashion and music event in Spirit nightclub on Middle Abbey Street, Dublin. It aims to raise funds for the Christina Noble Foundation, which helps children in danger in Vietnam and Mongolia. The show will feature a variety of local DJs and work from NCAD, Grafton Academy and Sallynoggin Fashion College. Tickets €25 from Ticketmaster on 0818-719300. Doors 7.30pm.
