Weekend events: The Skyfest fireworks show in Dublin tonight promises to be the highlight of the St Patrick's Festival celebrations, which will continue until Sunday.
As thousands of people prepare to enjoy events, which include a free barbecue with 10,000 sausages in Dublin tomorrow, the weather is looking favourable.
Deirdre Lowe of Met Éireann said it would be mild today with temperatures reaching 16 to 17 degrees. There would be a good deal of cloud. Sunshine would be variable, but it would be dry.
For the Skyfest, she said: "It should be very pleasant. There won't be too much breeze. It will be dry and feel mild in the evening when the temperatures will stay in double figures."
Tomorrow there would be rain in the west spreading eastwards and reaching the east later in the day, she said.
The Skyfest, which organisers say is Europe's largest annual fireworks show, begins at 8pm with viewing along Custom House Quay, Guild Street, Docklands North and South Quays.
AA Roadwatch has advised of traffic restrictions in the area from the Docklands to the city centre.
The Luas line from Tallaght will run only as far as Jervis Street between 7pm-9pm, although full Dart services will operate.
Tomorrow, Merrion Square is the venue for the Denny Big Day Out, a free family event with a carnival, funfair and games areas from noon to 6pm.
Fitzwilliam Street will be the venue for a "Spring Garden" barbecue where visitors can expect flowers, music, entertainment and 10,000 free Denny sausages on the barbecue. Visitors can pick up barbecue coupons for their free roll.
Other events in Dublin include the Denny treasure hunt from 10am to 5pm today starting at the City Hall.
The Luminarium, a giant inflatable maze, will be at George's Dock today and tomorrow from 10am to 6pm.
A Market Fare will be held in O'Connell Street and Wolfe Tone Park between 10am and 6pm today and tomorrow. It will offer local and international produce, arts, crafts and jewellery.
As part of its European Capital of Culture festival, Cork will host two days of carnival as well as a Festival of Fools.
The carnival will include storytelling, readings, music, food markets and exhibitions on the city streets. A funfair will be held at Emmet Place from 11am to 6pm today and tomorrow.