Programme announced for Cork's annual Midsummer Festival

There will be live performances of music, theatre, literature, and visual arts in Cork from June 13-22 for the Cork Midsummer Festival (CMF) 2025.

Festival director Lorraine Maye has announced details of the programme, which features many artists from or living in Cork alongside a host of international artists.

Speaking of the programme, Ms Maye said: “There will be breathtaking moments that will never happen again. You can join us at sunrise or sunset, midday or midnight.

“We’re so proud to present the work of so many extraordinary Irish and international artists and to channel the stories, hopes and energy of the city.” 

St Fin Barre's Cathedral will host Helios, a huge new artwork by world renowned UK artist Luke Jerram, which will rise and set with the day June 21.

Other highlights include Eileen Walsh’s 24-hour theatrical marathon in The Second Woman at Cork Opera House.

A new literature strand created in partnership with UCC, Western Frequencies, will include a special event with New York Times bestselling poet Claudia Rankine, the work of Ivorian artist GauZ’ performed with translations from Frank Wynne, Irish visual artist Aideen Barry in conversation with writer Sinead Gleeson, and a new collaboration by writer Patrick McCabe with musicians David Murphy and Michael Lightborne.

In partnership with Cork City Council's Open Streets initiative, there will be street events including with France’s Compagnie Off, with a procession of seven red giraffes that will parade through Cork's city centre.

There will also be a night market on June 22 from 12pm to 9pm featuring an array of treats, crafts, and entertainment on  Patrick St.

CMF’s programme features events for the whole family, including CaBubble, which invites little ones to explore their very first painting experience, in a multi-sensory experience designed especially for 0–1 years and their grown-ups, led by BEAG artists.

You can see the full programme and book at corkmidsummer.com. Phone bookings will be available from May 5 at 021-421 5159.