Time for Cork kids to get creative at Cruinniú na nÓg

Cork County Council has announced details of its programme for Cruinniú na nÓg 2026, Ireland’s national day of creativity for young people, taking place on Saturday, June 6.

As the only national day in the world dedicated solely to free creative experiences for under 18s, Cruinniú na nÓg aims to champion young people’s imagination and creative potential.

The 2026 programme will feature more than 40 free events taking place in towns across Cork, providing children and young people with the opportunity to explore, create, and participate in a wide range of artistic activities.

Families will be able to attend a series of lively outdoor celebrations taking place in towns including Cobh, Mallow, and Kinsale, where public spaces will be transformed into hubs of creativity.

The family friendly events will feature live music, hands on art activities, performances, and interactive workshops.

Across the county, libraries will host a range of workshops, including dance, animation, and painting.

Showcase Events

The Cruinniú na nÓg programme will also include a series of special showcase events highlighting work developed by young people in collaboration with professional artists in the lead up to the day.

Mayor of the County of Cork, councillor Mary Linehan Foley, said that Cruinniú nÓg “celebrates the creativity, imagination, and talent of young people across County Cork, offering opportunities to explore, participate, and connect through the arts.

“We are inviting children, young people, and families to come together in welcoming spaces and experience the joy of creativity.

“Shaped directly by young people through the My Creative Wish initiative, this year’s programme highlights the power of creative expression and ensures every young person has the opportunity to bring their ideas to life.”

Cruinniú na nÓg is a flagship initiative of the Creative Ireland Programme’s creative youth plan, which aims to ensure that every child and young person has the opportunity to realise their full creative potential.

Further details can be found on cruinniu.gov.ie