The city's fifth Riverfest was launched today and Mayor of Limerick Cllr Ger Fahy said it will be "a fantastic opportunity to showcase the positive aspects of Limerick city."

Festival organiser Fran O'Donnell, managing director of Futureama Productions, who have taken over the management of the festival this year, said after the huge success of the St Patrick's Festival, "Limerick is again in celebratory mood launching Riverfest.

"This promises to be a great party weekend with plenty of fun for all the family," he said.

On May 3 and 4 the Irish BBQ Association will present the Complete Cuisine World of Food International BBQ Cook-Off - an event that attracts thousands of people worldwide.

And there will be more food aplenty during the French and Irish Markets on Charlotte's Quay and Michael Street, which run from May 2 for three days.

For the kids there will be Formula Fun Kids racing in Arthur's Quay Park, from Friday for the four days of the festival. On Saturday, there will be a tug-o-war in the park and that afternoon will see the return of the popular Currach Regatta, featuring teams from Kilkee to Kilrush. A free open-air Ceili Mor will also be held in the park on Sunday.

Dolan's will also be celebrating their 10th birthday celebration with a three-day outdoor music festival on the docks from May 2, which will bring top artists such as Delorentos, We Should Be Dead, Headgear, Fred, Sharon Shannon, The Zutons, The Sawdoctors and The Blizzards to Limerick.

Full information on all the events taking place can be found on www.festivalslimerick.com or by calling 061 400200.