Festival toolkit launched to support communities organising events across Cork

A new toolkit designed to help communities planning and organising festivals and events, designed to deliver memorable and successful celebrations with extra confidence has been unveiled by Cork County Council.

The toolkit will serve as a one-stop guide for festival organisers, with information about everything from licensing and safety to sustainability and featuring items on marketing and funding opportunities as well as a directory of useful contacts and checklists.

As the publication was made available on the Cork County Council website, www.corkcoco.ie, County Mayor Joe Carroll said there was “something special about the way festivals and events unite our communities and celebrate what makes each town and village unique”.

“This new toolkit is a fantastic initiative and will be a valuable asset for organisers countywide,” he said. 

“It reflects Cork County Council’s wholehearted support for the people behind these great events.” 

According to Cork County Council Chief Executive Moira Murrell festivals and events were “at the heart of life” in the Rebel County.

“They enrich our communities, support local businesses, and create experiences that stay with people long after the event is over,” she said.

“This new toolkit brings together the knowledge and supports needed to plan exceptional, well-managed events.

“It is an example of how Cork County Council supports creativity, tourism, and community development.

“We are proud to support these festivals and events not only through funding, but through the practical, logistical and strategic supports provided by our staff and Municipal Districts.” 

Users of the guide will find information about the local authority’s Green Festivals Programme which includes downloadable assets to help reduce environmental impact. 

The 56-page brochure, which is available only in English, also includes signposts on where to get funding including from the Gaeltacht arts organisation, Ealaín na Gaeltachta. 

Information about how to apply for funding from the Arts Grant Scheme, the Local Festival and Event Fund, Creative Ireland support and LEADER funding is also included.

The document also provides links to promotional tools and resources which are made available by Fáilte Ireland and Discover Ireland as well as practical advice on insurance, accessibility and waste management.