CLUBBING

The Essential Weekender 97, Finsbury Park, London (0891 230190 information). 2, 3 Aug, 1pm-10.30pm (Sat)/Midday-10pm (Sun), pounds 25 per day

What do you mean you've had enough of weekenders? So what if Glastonbury was a wash-out - this gig promises to be different.

How does the idea of six massive, waterproof big-tops grab you? It's the perfect opportunity for outdoor types - especially the ones who haven't quite washed the Glastonbury mud out of their gear yet - to rekindle their love for open-air revelry. Assuming that London can avoid a storm of biblical proportions, everyone will be able to enjoy the weekend and, more importantly, stay dry - it's the festival the weather cannot spoil.

Saturday is Dance Day and the ultra-cool Massive Attack are headlining. While the Bristol trio are worth the admission price alone, the day is dominated by the best in dance music, with some of the UK's finest DJs displaying their vinyl-spinning wares.

On the Essential stage, James Lavelle, DJ Cam, Jon Carter and Ben Wilcox spin housey beats. The Millennium stage will house dance music's harder side, with Aphex Twin, Fluke and 808 State playing ambient techno along with ample support from Headrillaz and Dub Pistols.

The Metalheadz stage showcases the best in drum'n'bass grooves. With DJs such as Goldie, Grooverider, Fabio and Randall on the Technics, you can be sure that beats and basslines will be coming thick and fast. The World Dance stage also features drum'n'bass, and Hype and Rap headline.

There are two other dance stages but I don't have the space to talk about them. Trust me - there will be something for everyone here. Sunday, Roots Day, showcases live acts from Coolio to Gil Scott-Heron. Another six stages will be featuring 10 hours of live music - you'll definitely need Monday morning off.

EYE COMPETITION Courtesy of Bud Ice, we have three pairs of tickets for The Essential Weekender. One lucky winner also wins a crate of Bud Ice so they can hold their own private party - the first three postcards out of the hat win.

Send postcards (with addresses and phone numbers) to Essential 97 comp, Alister Morgan on Clubs, The Independent, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5DL by Wednesday 30 July.