The Irish Naval Service vessel LÉ George Bernard Shaw will dock in Limerick for the city's 'Riverfest' celebrations this weekend.
The offshore patrol vessel will open its decks to the public for free tours, offering a rare glimpse into the operations of the Defence Forces.
It is one of the navy’s most modern ships and plays a key role in maritime security, fisheries protection and humanitarian operations.
The visit to Limerick docks has been made possible with the support of Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence Helen McEntee, the Department of Defence, the Irish Defence Forces and Shannon Foynes Port Company.
Riverfest is Limerick’s annual May bank holiday weekend festival, and it begins tonight on 'Twilight Thursday’ with over 50 events taking place at cultural venues across the city.
The popular ‘Riverfest Street Party’ returns to its new riverside location at George’s Quay, bringing DJs, food and festival energy tomorrow and Saturday.
Throughout the weekend, the ‘Riverfest Village’ at Arthur’s Quay Park, with food stalls, crafts, street performances and live music creates a relaxed, yet lively riverside atmosphere.
‘A Sitting Room Outside’ at Nicholas Street invites visitors to unwind in a reimagined open-air living space beside Treaty City Brewery, combining music, food and creativity across Saturday and Sunday evenings.
On the Saturday, ‘A Whimsical Night with the Disco Pigs’ transforms the Old Cornstore on Roches Street into a high-energy spectacle of folklore, music and imagination.
‘The Great Limerick Block Party’ on Catherine Street on Sunday, will build from an afternoon celebration into the largest silent disco the city has ever seen.
Other highlights include ‘Riverfest Fashionfest’ at Gardens International, an evening of contemporary style and creativity; a special ‘Riverfest Recital’ by the Irish Chamber Orchestra Youth at King’s Island Community Centre; and the ‘Fidget Feet Aerial Spectacle’ performance of The Song of Amairgen, invoking Celtic myths and legends takes place at the Redemptorist Church.
The Human League and Limerick’s own Hermitage Green take to the stage at King John’s Castle on Saturday and Sunday night.
The Regeneron Great Limerick Run on Sunday is expected to draw thousands of runners, supporters and spectators into the city.
