Wondering what’s happening in your area this week? We’re looking at some of the events and things to do in Balbriggan over the weekend.

Amanda Cassidy and Andrea Mara at Portlaoise Library

Ireland Reads 2025 is a celebration of reading and the joy of getting lost in a good book. Throughout February and and particularly on Ireland Reads Day on Saturday 22nd, people are encouraged to switch off and settle in for some reading time. A government initiative and funded by Healthy Ireland, Ireland Reads is supported by public libraries and a host of organisations. As part of the celebration, bestselling authors Amanda Cassidy and Andrea Mara will be in conversation at Portlaoise Library, discussing all things thrillers and crime novels along with their writing journeys.

Both Cassidy and Mara are widely accepted as two of Ireland's most exciting authors in the thriller and crime fiction realm. This event is going to give an insight into their creative processes and promises to be entertaining and engaging.

In Conversation with Amanda Cassidy and Andrea Mara takes place at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday 22nd February in Portlaoise Library. The event is free, but will be very popular so booking is essential. You can register for the event here.

Rising Star Brings His Comedy to Portlaoise

Danny O'Brien is winning awards and it's no surprise. He's had a sell-out run at The Edinburgh Fringe and has been doing the same at Irish festivals over the last while, including filling Dublin's Liberty Hall Theatre. His stand-up show Killa-Dan-Jaro is uproariously funny and the Wicklow native's star is definitely on the rise.

If you want to enjoy a great evening of comedy, then Kavanagh's in Portlaoise on Friday 21st February at 9:00 p.m. is the place to be. For ticket bookings visit Kavanagh's website.

Saturday Sustainable Style Swap

If you fancy a wardrobe refresh, head along to the Dunamaise Arts Centre on Saturday afternoon for a clothes swap and sustainable fashion event. The event, returning this weekend, boasts "wearable art displays, upcycling ideas, demos from slow-fashion designers and makers, this event is a sutainable fashionista's ideal afternoon out!" It's on from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. with tea and coffee served and it's only €4 admission.

Looks like a fun way to put life in your wardrobe. For more info check out the Dunamaise Arts Centre website.

Just a few things to do in Portlaoise this weekend!