We take a look at a few eclectic events happening in Portlaoise this week and into the weekend.

Literature at Eleven

Autumn is in full swing in Portlaoise Library with the return of Literature at Eleven, the library's tribute to prose and poetry. On Thursday 26th from 11:00am to 1:00pm sit back and relax with tea, coffee and biscuits in the library and listen to some lovely prose and poetry, some of which will be delivered by library staff. In their own words: "This long-running Portlaoise Library event is perfect for book lovers who enjoy the social atmosphere of a book club without having the pressure to read a full novel." This event promises to provide a warm atmosphere and a perfect setting to find out more about the lives and works of great writers.

The event is free and there's no need to book. Just drop in between 11:00am and 1:00pm.

Trad Session For Young Musicians

On Friday night Dunamaise Arts Centre will welcome "musicians, singers and listeners of all ages" to a trad session for young musicians. Led by Bill O'Brien, this is a lovely way to get young people playing traditional music to meet each other. Starting at 7:00pm with the session going on until 9:00pm, it's an uplifting way to start the weekend and the good news is it's free to come along, whether as a listener or performer. 7:00-9:00pm Friday 27th September.

Classic Rock at Kavanaghs

If the music of Hendrix and Cream is your thing, then Friday night at Kavanagh's Bar and Venue in Portlaoise is the place to be. Voodoo Sunshine, a trio of lead guitarist Simon Peare, Drummer Mike Mesbur and Bassist Tony Carty, all long established players on the Irish music scene, will be firing out rock classics for the Kavanaghs crowd. Voodoo Sunshine play Kavanaghs on Friday 27th September from 9:00pm. Tickets are €19.80 inc. booking fee, available at kavanaghsportlaoise.com.

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, facilitated by artist Rebecca Deegan. The event returning this weekend, boasts "wearable art displays, upcycling ideas, demos from slow-fashion designers and makers, this event is a sustainable fashionista's ideal afternoon out!" It's on from 2:00 to 5:00pm with tea and coffee served and is only €3 admission. Looks like a fun way to put some new life in your wardrobe. For more info check out The Dunamaise Arts Centre website.

Just a few things to do in Portlaoise coming up to the weekend.