Cork Celebrates Learning

The eagerly awaited 16th Cork Lifelong Learning Festival was launched today (Thursday 14 March) in Millenium Hall. This year, the festival will take place from Sunday 7th – Sunday 14th of April 2019. The annual festival has grown year on year since 2004 and encourages members of the public to embrace learning in all its forms regardless of age, interest or abilities. It’s a great opportunity to try out new experiences, by participating in events, attending lectures or exhibitions and enjoying demonstrations of skills both new and old.

Corks Lifelong Learning Festival events are free to attend and open to all. The exciting programme includes performances, poetry, workshops, walks, displays and demonstrations, and really does have something for everyone. The only limit is your appetite to try something new! Some events can be in high demand so check the programme to see if you need to book in advance.

Festival co-ordinator Siubhán Mc Carthy says ‘Cork loves learning and this is borne out by the city’s level of commitment and engagement with the Cork Lifelong Learning Festival over the past 16 years. Once again we have a packed programme of diverse free, accessible events open to all, regardless of your learning abilities or ambitions; I guarantee you’ll find something during festival week that you want to know more about. Cork as a Learning City embraces the ability of ‘Learning’ to ensure we all have more fulfilling and enjoyable lives and the festival is about celebrating the diverse and inclusive nature of Corks Learning Opportunities.'

This year’s festival includes a free Learning City Seminar in Triskel Christchurch on Thursday 11th of April with representatives of global learning cities presenting International Ideas in Action and 6 ‘Learning Factory’ events across the week in conjunction with CIT - including a hugely popular guided tour of Inniscarra Dam. Whether you’re interested in Guitar or Genealogy, Wildlife or Walking tours there’s something in this year’s festival for everyone. All events are hosted by volunteers, be they individuals, community organisations, private businesses, schools or colleges.

The free printed festival programme is out now and available online, in libraries, City Hall, or from host venues.

Students playing snakes and ladders