As much a part of Ireland's culture as horse-racing, James Joyce and white-pudding, Guinness Stout is often hailed as 'a meal in a glass' (normally by hungry and drunk people) and is a symbol of Irish hospitality. Originally brewed at St James' Gate in Dublin and Park Royal in London, it is now created solely in Dublin. And yes, it DOES taste better in the bars of Dublin and Cork, which is just as well because this year's Arthur's Day celebrations will predominantly take place in those two cities, with a whole host of stars to help each pint sink a bit quicker. All events take place on 23rd September.

The bad news is that some of the gigs have already sold-out quicker than you can pour a pint of the 'black stuff' (approx 119.53 seconds, I believe) - these include Brandon Flowers appearing solo at the Dublin Academy, Snow Patrol at the famous St.James Gate Brewery, Kelis, Tinie Tempah and Example at the Village in Dublin and the Savoy Theatre (in Cork) shindig starring Paolo Nutini and KT Tunstall. Don't give up though - there are still some tickets available at reasonable prices from our links, below.

The good news is that there are dozens of other events to choose from:

In Dublin, several bars will have days or evenings (or both) of music costing around €5 admission (see below for the full list) - or you can pick out one of the bigger occasions on offer. Vicar Street hosts an evening from Eliza Doolittle, The Hoosiers and The Maccabees (€10) while the Olympia Theatre gathers together a more eclectic evening, starring new Irish sensations The Chapters and Carbon/Silicon, again for €10.

Galway also has an attractive evening confirmed at the city's Folan's Quay, featuring The Magic Numbers, Sharon Shannon and Newton Faulkner and, you've guessed it, another €10 night!

Cheers!