Culture Night highlights: 25 things to do in Cork city and county
As well as Cork's cultural centres throwing open their doors, there will be plenty of events on the city's streets. Picture: Michael O'Sullivan /OSM PHOTO
The museum will showcase some of its recent acquisitions, including a selection of Joe Healy’s extensive photographic archive of life in Cork over the past five decades. Presentations will run at 4pm, 5pm and 6pm. Free of charge but booking required — contact museum@corkcity.ie.
In a fitting au revoir before it closes its doors for a major redevelopment, the gallery is offering an impressive array of events including an interactive twist on the gallery's famous Canova casts, a programme of live music, a family-friendly workshop, and a ‘speed-dating’ mini tour of popular artworks.
Try your hand at making cyanotypes and painting 3D printed fossils in the Boole, then join in the fun at an evening of traditional Irish music, poetry and dance in the O’Rahilly Building.
No secret handshake required to get a rare glimpse of this historic building which has been home to the Freemasons in Cork since 1844. Curious visitors can see everything from old Masonic aprons and badges from the 18th century to a section honouring Elizabeth Aldworth, the only female to be admitted to the Masonic Order.
Sport and play on the banks of the lovely Lee as the city streets are given over to fun-filled pursuits. North Main Street will become a playground with street games and play equipment available for all ages, while at Cornmarket St, it will be all glow, as UV lights and specially designed play equipment highlights ways to get out and play during the dark winter evenings. Those who enjoyed watching the 3x3 basketball at the Paris Olympics can try it for themselves on temporary courts at Patrick's Street and Grand Parade. Boomshakalaka.
The popular classical ensemble teams up with a range of performers to serve up a programme of chamber music favourites from Beethoven, Schubert, Brahms and more, introduced by Evelyn Grant.
Cork’s beloved troubadour Jimmy Crowley joins forces with Australian folk singer Eve Telford, now based in Cobh, for an evening of traditional Irish music and storytelling.
Get down with DJ Stevie G as he hosts a Culture Night edition of this popular all-inclusive dance party, open to everyone, including those with additional needs, intellectual disabilities and anyone on the autism spectrum.
Explore the world of archaeoastronomy with workshops and tours looking at the links between the night sky and heritage sites such as Newgrange and Bonane Stone Circle. Weather permitting, Cork Astronomy Club will also host a session of live stargazing. Tours/presentations hourly on a first-come-first served basis.
The wonderfully titled Goodcellas, an ensemble featuring players from Cork Fleischmann Symphony Orchestra, perform music from their wide repertoire from 7pm-7.40pm. Following this, John Byrne, in collaboration with IndieCork Film Festival, will bring visitors on a fascinating aural journey through his vinyl archive of rare 20th century Irish classical music.
‘Da Buttera’ has been entertaining the people of Cork for almost 150 years, and they are sure to play some favourites in this recital.
In this playful theatrical experience, Gallo-Rosso re-enacts a house move, where characters created by everyday objects come to life.
The oldest independent publisher in Ireland celebrates a landmark 80 years in business with readings at its recently opened shop at St Luke’s Cross.
Featuring workshops on rap, songwriting and recording; an open trad session and jam, and a showcase featuring performances from viral sensation the Kabin Crew, Misneach and more. Booking: info@thekabin.ie
A Georgian dress-up corner might provide some photogenic opportunities from your evening in the city, and the venue also has an art exhibition and open-mic session, as well as a chance to explore the museum and gardens.
- For more on all events: www.corkcity.ie/culturenight
This concert, part of the creative trail through the West Cork town, explores the theme of rhythm through music and literature.
The beat goes on in Cobh as Cork’s Electronic Music Council takes over the seaside town with DJ performances and workshops, a boat party around the harbour, finishing with a flourish at the Commodore hotel.
An intriguing collaboration between sound artist Duncan O'Cleirigh and Fermoy International Choir, this piece of work made entirely of voices celebrates our common humanity.
This outdoor installation by artist Marie Brett celebrates the tradition of the holy well in Ireland, and is sure to be a visual treat — unveiled at twilight, it will grow more radiant as darkness falls.
Discover the fascinating stories of those who were transported to Tasmania from North Cork, in the company of heritage specialist Shannon Forde.
A parade with a difference, this singular gathering of shoebox-sized floats will roll along the footpaths of the east Cork village, culminating with music and the Mór Artist Collective exhibition in the Coach House at Greywood Arts.
A wealth of musical talent will be performing at this free gig in the iconic West Cork venue, including Darren Emerson of Underworld, Icelandic composer JFDR, along with a host of local musicians. Booking required: connollysofleap.com Hear the distinctive chimes of the 49-bell carillon resound in the majestic setting of St Colman’s Cathedral, in a programme performed by Adrian Gebruers.
Get in the mood for Halloween with this exploration of the Irish wake, who knows, you may even hear the Banshee.
A busy slate of events at the arts hub includes a tour with exhibiting artist Brian Lalor and a clay workshop with artist Seiko Hayase.
- For more on all events: culturenightcorkcounty.ie
