FAMILY YOGA FESTIVAL IN AID OF THE MARTIN FAMILY

ALL sorts of exciting, crazy and high octane events have been organised so far for the Martin family in Rathnew but this weekend, the latest fundraising venture will be urging participants to be calm, relax and enjoy the sound of silence. Sort of.

The Wicklow Family Yoga Festival takes place from noon to 4 p.m. this Sunday, May 28, at the Abbey Grounds in Wicklow town to help raise funds for the Rathnew family.

One of the main events of the day will be a disco like no other – a silent yoga disco. Claire Andrews from WicklowYoga will guide young and old through a yoga class where the participants alone will hear the music using wireless headphones. The class is suitable for all ages and abilities, including those trying their first class. The silent yoga disco will start at noon and 1 p.m. but anyone wishing to take part is urged to arrive 15 minutes early.

There are plenty of other activities planned as part of the family fun day, including kids dance and yoga, magic shows by a special magical fairy, balloon modeling, face painting, crafts and the chance to get a photo taken holding a bird of prey.

Dublin yoga instructor Anthony Kearney will be teaching a two-hour workshop at 2 p.m. for anyone wishing to explore deeper into their practice. There will be mini holistic treatments, sound bathing workshops, meditation sessions, a talk on Chinese medicine and music with Eugene Waters.

In case of bad weather, the festival will move to the Parochial Hall in the town.

Entry is €5 with children free and tickets are available from Bridge Street bookshop or at the gate on the day.