Vive La France! Vive le SOLAS – French Festival this weekend

Get ready for the most anticipated event of the year at SOLAS – the annual French Festival, Oh là là! SOLAS has prepared two action-packed days to celebrate our strong cultural connection with our Gallic neighbours.

David Maher of SOLAS explains, "Keeping the French Festival alive here in Portarlington is very important as we have so much to celebrate in terms of heritage, architecture, and close cultural ties to our nearest EU neighbour. Last year's event was a tremendous success, and we are once again honoured to welcome the French Embassy and a delegation from France."

A full list of the key events can be found at www.ecogardenshop.ie/events, including jazz performances, face painting, puppet shows, delectable food, wine tasting, the 'Tour de Port' cycle race, and vibrant dance performances.

Events @ SOLAS

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Thursday, 13th July, 12 pm:

• Kids Growing Workshop: www.thegardenshop.ie/gardening-workshop.

Saturday, 15th July (French Festival):

• The French Market from 10 am to 2 pm.

• Wine Tasting at 2 pm.

• Ballet, face painting, live music, the 'Tour de Port' cycle race, slime making, and face painting.

Sunday, 16th July (French Festival):

• Enjoy captivating puppet shows from 12 pm to 12.30 pm and 1 pm to 1.30 pm.

• Join the Tug of War Competition at 2 pm.

• Take part in children's crafts at 2 pm.

• Learn about the history of Portarlington's French connection at 3 pm.

Food @ SOLAS

This weekend, as part of the French festival at SOLAS, our menu will be influenced by the flavours of the continent. Indulge in filled baguettes, croque monsieur, and French onion soup. We will also have a selection of French-themed local burgers available from Fierghys' butcher in Portlaoise.

SOLAS – PLANTS

This week's plant spotlight includes ‘Centaura Dealbata’, Agastache, and Digitalis Purpurea. These flowering perennials are perfect for semi-shade areas in your garden. They will add a pop of colour under the canopy of trees.

SOLAS – SHOP

As part of 'Go Plastic Free' July, our 'Product of the Week' is from an Irish company that repurposes and transforms waste plastics into high-value products while diverting them from landfill and incineration. These heavy-duty pots are robust, long-lasting, and ideal for indoor or outdoor use all year round.

Join us for a special 'French summer weekend' at SOLAS Eco Garden Centre, located in Portarlington, Co. Laois R32 RPX8. We are open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. We look forward to welcoming you soon!

Dublin Road Business Park, Portarlington, Co. Laois, R32 RPX8

Phone: (057) 937 3330