Cork City to Come Alive on June 6th for Cruinniú na nÓg, with Free Creative Events Across the City for Children and Young People

19/05/2026

Cork City Council, in conjunction with Creative Ireland, this morning announced the return of Cruinniú na nÓg on Saturday, 6th June, with a lively citywide programme of free creative activities for children and young people up to the age of 18. 

Cruinniú na nÓg is the world’s only national day of free creativity for children and young people and the Cork City programme will feature interactive and imaginative events that celebrate participation, youth voice and inclusive creativity. From circus, dance and music to street culture, storytelling and hands‑on making, events will take place in cultural venues, community spaces, parks and libraries, inviting young people to explore, create and connect.

Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr. Fergal Dennehy said:

“Cruinniú na nÓg is a wonderful celebration of the imagination, energy and creativity of Cork’s young people. Each year, this programme creates space for children and teenagers to explore their talents, express themselves and feel a strong sense of belonging in their city. I encourage families and young people across Cork to take part, try something new and enjoy this fantastic day of free creative experiences.”

Programme Highlights include:

Circus Céilí 11am–4pm | Elizabeth Fort 

Circus Factory and Let’s Play Cork take over Elizabeth Fort for a joyful, high energy day where circus skills meet modern dance, choral song and céilí. Children and families are invited to try simple circus skills, enjoy playful performances and take part in inclusive workshops. The event features contributions from New Moon Youth Dance, comedy circus performer Mr Gusto, The Voices of Peace intercultural youth choir and a lively céilí mór, alongside a dedicated sensory area offering quieter activities.

Rock the Block 1pm–6pm | Carnegie Courtyard, Cork City Library 

Rock the Block returns, this year transforming the Carnegie Courtyard into an energetic outdoor hub of music and street culture for young people aged 12–18. Live music, DJ sets, songwriting workshops and open‑mic sessions span genres from trad and folk to rap and hip‑hop, with a strong focus on participation and collaboration. Earlier in the day, The Kabin Studio will lead a rap and beats parade through the city streets, building excitement ahead of the event.

Rebel Teen Social Hive – Cruinniú Late 5pm–10pm | South Parish Community Centre 

Designed by young people through UP Cork and Cloyne Diocesan Youth Services, this special Cruinniú Late event offers teens aged 14–18 a relaxed social space that evolves into open‑mic performances with spoken word, drag, and a high‑energy teen disco. Supported by Night Time Economy funding. 

Across the city, libraries will host hands‑on creative workshops for children and teens, including storytelling, writing, puppetry, illustration and animation. Sample‑Studios and Triskel Arts Centre will offer workshops exploring filmmaking, music production, illustration and printmaking, while St. Peter’s North Main Street hosts Home, an interactive arts project inviting teenagers to explore ideas of home and housing. Shandon Art Studio, working with The Butter Museum, will combine storytelling and clay‑making inspired by ghosts along the Butter Roads, alongside a wheel‑throwing demonstration. 

Additional creative events will take place in venues across Cork City throughout the day.

All events are free, with some requiring advance booking.

The full Cruinniú na nÓg Cork City programme is available at cruinniu.gov.ie and at corkcity.ie/en/cruinniu-na-nog

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MEDIA NOTE

Cruinniú na nÓg Youth Ambassadors – Cork City

Alex Millea and Kalimah Olayiwola, both aged 17, are local Cruinniú na nÓg Youth Ambassadors, supporting the festival by sharing the importance of creativity, inclusion and youth voice. Alex is a creative practitioner and member of UP Cork, with a strong interest in youth and community work. Kalimah is a young creative practitioner and podcaster whose work explores youth perspectives and lived experience. She is a contributor to the Teen Voices podcast, amplifying young people’s stories and voices through audio storytelling. Both are available for interview on request.

Further information:

Louise Tangney

Creative Communities Engagement Officer | Arts & Events Section 

Corporate and Community Affairs, Cork City Council

louise_tangney@corkcity.ie  021 4924768 / 086 1917404