I've written twenty million opening lines for this week's What's On guide in an attempt to write about something other than the weather but feck it, I just can't. I've been waking up with a sense of wonderment every morning, still just as surprised to see the shining sun as I was that first fateful day in, when was it? May?

Sure we've had a bit of rain here and there but the grass and farmers need it and whatever. The main thing is, we haven't had to wear our winter coats. Much.

This summer has turned out to be a brilliant one for events and gigs and festivals and don't worry, it shows no sign of letting up. For a taster of what's on over the weekend, keep on reading!

Friday, July 18

What? Festival: Galway International Arts Festival 2014
Where? Galway City and surroundings
When? Now until July 27th

Last week the Film Fleadh drew thousands of visitors to Galway, the Galway Races are just around the corner and the Arts Festival is currently in full swing - there's no doubt about it, the City of the Tribes is the place to be! The GIAF programme is heaving with theatre (including the world premiere of Ballyturk, starring Cillian Murphy) music, visual art, comedy and street acts. Gaillimh Abú!

What? Music: Sarah Jorasz
Where? Coughlan's, Cork
What time? 9.30
How much? €15

The hugely talented Sarah Jorasz has begun a nationwide tour and tonight she plays Coughlan's Live (she moves on to Campbell's Tavern in Headford, Co. Galway tomorrow night as part of GIAF as it happens). She's been likened to Gillian Welch by Rolling Stone, Mojo have called her a 'newgrass prodigy' and the New York Times claim she's 'one of acoustic music’s finest talents.' Judging from that love from the critics, it should be a show not to be missed.

What? Special Screening: Irish Premiere of The Living Room by Shane Meadow
Where? The Button Factory, Dublin
What time? 7pm
How much? €20

This screening is very special indeed; the Irish premiere of acclaimed director Shane Meadows' (This Is England, Dead Man’s Shoes) 2009 documentary will play with music from Gavin Clark (U N K L E / Clayhill) with Nick Hemming and Helen Whitaker of The Leisure Society. The night will be accompanied by another special screening, of Meadows' seminal short film Northern Soul.

Saturday, July 19

What? Festival: Longitude
Where? Marlay Park, Dublin
When? Fri 18 - Sun 20

This years' hotly anticipated Dublin festival is going to be so good! Acts playing on Friday include; Hudson Taylor, George Ezra, Bombay Bicycle Club, Bastille and Ben Howard; Saturday sees Sam Smith, Hozier, The 1975, Chvrches, Disclosure and Haim; and Banks and loads more, First Aid Kit, Rudimental, James Vincent McMorrow and Massive Attack play Sunday amongst others.

What? Arts: Nighthawks at the Guinness Storehouse
Where? Guinness Store House
What time? 8.30
How much? €17

The Liberties Festival is also taking place over the weekend and arts collective Nighthawks are hosting a very special edition of their popular show in the Guinness Storehouse. Seven top quality and diverse acts will perform, with music from One Horse Pony, Clara Rose and Shane Hennessy, comedy from Kevin Gildea and John Colleary and literature from Donal Ryan and Colm Keegan. Guests will have the unique opportunity to meander around the Storehouse on a self-guided tour, canapés will be served and a delightful time will be had by all.

What? Comedy: Capital Comedy Club
Where? The Village
What time? 9
How much? €7 / €10

PJ Gallagher, Paul Marsh and Ruairi Campbell hit the stage for Saturday's Capital Comedy Club and Simon O'Keeffe will host. Since it will probably be raining on Saturday (sorry) this is a great way to brighten your spirits.

Sunday, July 20

What? Family Fun: Laya Healthcare's City Spectacular
Where? Fitzgerald Park, Cork
When? Saturday and Sunday

I'm sorry to say I missed the spectacular shenanigans last week in Merrion Square but I heard from multiple sources that it was a brilliant time. The great thing is, it's happening all over again, this time in Cork's Fitzgerald Park and it's safe to say that visitors can expect a rollicking good time. We chatted with Cork men and reigning Street Performance Champions Lords of Strut last week - they're hilarious and super talented and well worth going to see.

What? More Family Fun: Bray Air Display
Where? Bray, Co. Wicklow
When? 3.30pm

Take yourself down to beautiful Bray on Sunday for one of the highlights of Bray's Summerfest, Ireland's biggest free air show. Supported by the Irish Aviation Authority, the Vampires of the Norwegian Air Force Historical Squadron, the Black Knights Defence Forces Parachute Team and aerobatic pilots from the Ravens will be showcasing their acts of daring.

What? Music: Jessie de Bellis
Where? The Landmark Hotel, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim
What time? 3pm
How much? €5 / €12 / €27 family ticket

Over in the not-so-lonesome West, another festival is a-foot, the Carrick Water Music Festival. Wonderful Urguayian pianist Jessie de Bellis will perform on the last day of the festival (aww) and The Roscommon Solstice Choir will perform after. A lovely afternoon of soothing music is guaranteed.