Half the country might be stomping around the fields of Laois at the Electric Picnic this weekend, but if you believe good festivals come in small packages (with breathtaking views), then head for Valentia Island off the Kerry coast from September 13th to 15th.

From humble beginnings last year, the three-day Valentia Isle Festival comes of age this year, kicking off on Friday for a weekend of music and mingling. Headlining are Nancy Whang and Pat Mahoney of LCD Soundsytem fame, as well as music from David Holmes, Bronagh Gallagher, Jape, David Kitt, Heathers, Donal Dineen, RSAG, Barry Redsettaz, Cat Dowling and lots more.

On the mingling side, there’s comedy, yoga, holistic therapies, crafts areas, art installations, and a bit of matchmaking thrown in for good measure.

Weekend tickets cost €75, and Valentia Isle Festival is offering Irish Times readers the chance to win a pair of weekend camping tickets (worth €99 each). Email magazine@irishtimes.com with Valentia in the subject line by Monday at 5pm to be in with a chance of winning. See valentiaislefestival.com for tickets and more information.