Scarefest
Shankill Castle, Co Kilkenny (pictured) will open its doors for this haunted Halloween festival. The old castle will host ghost tours by candlelight in the building, as well as the adjoining graveyard. The tour is suitable for over-15s only and booking is required. There will also be a series of child-friendly workshops. More information on shankillcastle.com
OFFline Film Festival
Movie buffs will love the mix of Irish and international films that will be screening this weekend during the festival in Birr, Co Offaly. One of the festival's highlights will be the filmmaking that takes place around the town, enlisting locals to help. For more, visit offlinefilmfestival.com
Cliffden 200 Marconi Festival
As part of Clifden's 200 Bicentenary celebrations, the Co Galway town will pay tribute to inventor Guglielmo Marconi. To celebrate, there will be a series of walks, talks and exhibitions. Further information at clifden2012.org
Cuisle – Limerick City International Poetry Festival
The festival includes poetry readings, workshops and discussions by international and national poets, including Medbh McGuckian and Terry McDonagh. For more information, visit belltable.ie
Tipperary Dance Platform
The Tipperary Dance Platform showcases some of the world's best dance companies while also giving Ireland's younger talents the chance to show their skills. There will be a series of dance workshops for beginners. For full information, visit iselichiodi.com
Heineken Cup rugby
Europe's premier club rugby competition is under way again, with Leinster hosting Exeter this afternoon, and Connacht and Munster playing away, to Zebre and Racing Metro, respectively. More information on ercrugby.com