November Festivals and Events
Dragon of Shandon | Shandon | Friday October 31

The Dragon of Shandon began in 2006 as a street parade celebration of Samhain and creative partnership between artists and communities which has taken place on the night of October 31 in the heart of Shandon, Cork.
Each year thousands take to the streets of Shandon on Cork ’s Northside to walk with the Dragon as it travels between worlds in a celebration of the living and the dead accompanied by an assortment of creatures from the underworld.
The centrepiece of each parade is the Dragon, 36ft in length and made entirely of tape. This spectacular giant puppet is animated by twelve puppeteers on the night who walk it through the streets of Shandon along with an array of illuminated props, lanterns and characters.
Cork City Libraries | November

A guide to all the events taking place across the 10 libraries in Cork City can be found at November Events - Cork City Libraries
The Deco is in the Detail | Monday 3 - Saturday 15 November

Hear Their Call | Cork City | Tuesday 4 - Sunday 23 November

Keep your eyes peeled for a new exhibition winging your way!
Cork City Climate Action Unit, Cork City Libraries, and the Creative Ireland Creative Communities Programme present Hear Their Call, an exhibition showcasing illustrations of Cork’s birdlife created by students from four Cork City national schools. Working with artist Ann Lambe, the students invite you on a journey into the birdlife of Cork City and explore the role of urban nature in our communities.
The students’ work will be on display:
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4 – 6 November in the window of MTU Gallery At 46 Grand Parade
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5 – 23 November in Cork City Library, Grand Parade
Special thanks to the Arts Offices of both Cork City Council and Munster Technological University, and to the staff of the Grand Parade Library for their support and guidance.
Poland Independence Day | Cork City Hall | Thursday 6 November

A special celebration in honour of Poland’s Independence Day, set to take place on Thursday, November 6 3.30 p.m. at Cork City Hall. This event is organised in collaboration with Together-Razem Centre, the Polish community in Cork, and is an opportunity for residents and visitors alike to celebrate Polish heritage, culture, and the spirit of independence.
Poland’s Independence Day, observed each year on 11 November, commemorates the restoration of Poland’s sovereignty in 1918, following 123 years of partition and foreign rule. This day is a symbol of national resilience, unity, and pride, and it holds special significance for the Polish community worldwide, including the vibrant and growing Polish population in Cork.
The event will feature:
- Opening Ceremony: Official welcome and speeches, including an address from the Lord Mayor of Cork, recognising the contributions of the Polish community to the cultural and social fabric of Cork City.
- Cultural Performances: Traditional Polish music and dance, showcasing the richness of Polish heritage and artistry.
- Art and Exhibitions: Displays of Polish art and history, providing a glimpse into the country’s diverse cultural legacy and journey to independence.
- Raising Polish flag: Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Fergal Dennehy will raise the Polish flag at City Hall.
A Cork Christmas Celebration | Cork City | Friday 14 November - Wednesday 31 December

From 14th November to 31st December 2025, Cork City will be alive with festive sights, sounds, and flavours - from the spectacular Corkmas Parade and bustling Christmas Markets, to the enchanting Santa Experience and the return of the iconic Ferris Wheel on Grand
Parade. Festivities begin with the Corkmas Parade on 14th November at 7pm.
Full details to come – see www.corkmas.ie
Cork Rocks for Rory - June - Dec

The Rory Gallagher estate, in collaboration with Cork City Council and Cork City Libraries has put on a massive citywide tribute to the guitar legend, ‘Cork Rocks for Rory’.
This includes simultaneous photographic and original memorabilia exhibitions at Cork City Hall, Central Library and Public Museum which will coincide with a city-wide walking trail commemorating the life and legacy of the blues and rock icon.
Cork will rock like never before for Rory Gallagher's 30th anniversary - Cork City Council