The Laya City Spectacular Festivals are free, family-friendly events in Dublin (11-13 July) and in…read moreCork (19-20 July). I tried to visit the festival last evening, on Friday, but I misunderstood the event posting that I saw, which had 8pm next to the date. I thought, therefore, that I should turn up at 8pm in Merrion Square. Although I was a little early, I was surprised that the concessions weren't open "yet." A little after 8pm, I asked around and learned that the event had closed for 8pm! Darn!
So, I tried again today. Again, the posting that I saw suggested an opening time of 10pm, but when I arrived at noon (and many booths were still closed or just getting organized), I learned that the event actually was to start at noon. I think I need to find a better source of information!
As there were few people in attendance yet, I had a good chance to take a look at the layout as it unfolded. You'll find a pile of photos that I've uploaded here to help you envision what I saw. The fair is organized across Merrion Square and onto two adjoining streets, where you'll find petting animals, food, a few stations with street artists, musical, comedy, and magic performances on stages and at less formal booths, face-painting, print-making, mechanical exploration, lounging, caricature-making, and other things that I'm sure I've forgotten.
What most impressed me was how nicely different generations and ethnicities mingled, chatted, laughed, and munched. I only wandered around for about an hour, but already, the landscape was filling in quickly with families, couples, and individuals.
Take a look through the many photos here - I'll post comments with each.
And! You still have time to visit the festival today or tomorrow, and I encourage you to do so!