Cannonball Retro cars and 8 more free family fun events in Cork this weekend

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There's a packed schedule of events across Cork this weekend with the return of the Retro Cannonball event, Cork Summer Show, and the Midsummer Festival - and if you're looking for something free to do with all the family, look no further.

With over 40 events taking place across Cork for the Midsummer Festival, and around 50,000 expected to turn up for the Cork Summer show, there's sure to be big crowds across the biggest events this weekend. We've put together a handy list of all the best free events and activities that both smallies and bigger kids will love.

Retro Cannonball Event, Little Island

Get down to Little Island this evening or tomorrow morning to check out these classic cars as they take off from the start line at the Radisson Blu Hotel. It's a group of 100 vintage cars dating back as far as the 1960s, and the convoy will be taking off on a huge trip around Ireland this weekend, finishing in Co Louth on Sunday. See more details of where the cars will be stopping on the website here.

Cork Summer Show, Curraheen Showgrounds

There's free entry for under-16s, and a special discounted rate for older teenagers for the Cork Summer Show, so it's well worth a trip out to Curraheen for the day. It's on both Saturday and Sunday, and has something for all the family - from food stalls and dog shows to live music. Tickets are €25 for an adult, €20 for students/OAPS, and €10 for 16-18 year olds - and they need to be booked in advance online here.

First Impressions, Cork Midsummer Festival

Fitzgerald's Park will host this free 'colourful & hands-on' art exhibition designed especially for kids. It's made up of sculptures inspired by nature, and has no age limit, so it's suited to toddlers and older children alike. It's running from 11 am to 5 pm every day until July 20. Find details on the Midsummer Festival website here.

PlaySpaces, Cork Midsummer Festival

These new 'playpods' were designed by kids from two schools on the Northside: St Vincent's National School and Múin's Afterschool club, in collaboration with artist Chris Finneagan. They are 'small, safe and joyful' spaces to play, and are described as a "vibrant expression of what happens when we listen to children." The playpods will be open in St Peter's Church on North Main Street from 10.30 am to 4.30 pm on June 14 and 16-21.

Detective Playful Culture Trail, Cork City

This culture trail will take you on a journey across the city with a checklist of 'playful things to do' like crossing the Shakey bridge or finding the Young Offender's bench in Bells' Field. Kids will have to play detective by finding the mascot, Blaithín the Lizard, at each location. You can get a map at your local tourist office and begin the trail whenever you want. There's more information on the Council website about all locations involved.

Outdoor Yoga in stunning gardens, North Cork

Why not try an outdoor yoga session in one of the most stunning gardens in Munster? Classes will run every Sunday at 10 am in Annesgrove Gardens all summer long. All ages and levels of experience are welcome to attend, and it promises to be the perfect opportunity to 'breathe, stretch and reconnect with nature.' (There's a nominal fee of €4, but you don't have to book in advance). For more information, see Heritage Ireland's website here.

Cork Admirals Family Fun Day, MTU

There will be food trucks, face painting, and a chance to see an American football game as the Cork Admirals host the Belfast Knights at MTU stadium on Sunday. CorkBeo previously reported on the fab event where kids under 12 have free admission, so it's a great opportunity for a family day out on Father's Day.

Clonakilty Street Carnival, West Cork

An amazing day of food, live music, and activities for all the family in Clonakilty this Saturday, for one day only. The town's streets will transform into a foodie haven of culinary delights, and first-class dining is catered for by local restaurants and an array of artisan producers. Most events are free, but you can buy tickets for a sit-down meal at €20 for adults and €10 for children here.

Crosshaven Traditional Sail Festival

The annual Crosshaven Traditional Sail Festival also takes place this weekend - and it's a get-together of vintage boats of all shapes and sizes. You can watch the boats sail along the harbour and head into the nearby pubs afterwards for food and live music. You can see what time the boats arrive on their Facebook page.