Range of community-focused events to take place in Ballincollig this weekend 

This weekend is shaping up to be an exciting and busy one for Ballincollig, with a range of community-focused events and initiatives designed to bring people together, celebrate local talent and showcase all the area has to offer.

The Ballincollig Community and Business Showcase will take place from 11am to 3pm today, September 12, at Castle West Shopping Centre.

Speaking ahead of the event, Aisling Killilea, branch manager at Bank of Ireland in Ballincollig, said the showcase will be about celebrating the community spirit of the village.

“We are bringing local businesses, community groups, clubs, and organisations together, to display what they do, make new connections and support local,” she said. 

“We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone to what promises to be a great day for the town.”

This weekend also marks the second year of Ballincollig Open Streets, a celebration of community, culture and sustainability.

Sunday’s event is organised in partnership with the Ballincollig Business Association, Cork City Council, and the Ballincollig Sustainable Transport Group.

It will again transform Main Street into a traffic-free zone from 1pm to 4pm, creating a welcoming space for people of all ages to enjoy a variety of activities, entertainment, and sustainable transport experiences.

Demonstrations from sports clubs such as GAA, soccer, basketball, rugby and many more will take place.

Emer Cassidy, chairperson of Ballincollig Business Association, said the weekend’s activities were organised by volunteers who give hundreds of hours of their time to make Ballincollig a vibrant and welcoming place for everyone.

“We hope these events will create opportunities for people to connect, collaborate and celebrate everything that makes Ballincollig unique,” she said.

September will also see the launch of Up the Village: The Ballincollig Community Podcast.

The new monthly podcast celebrates the people, places, stories, conversations and events that make Ballincollig a special place to live and work.

Hosted by BBA members Killian and Chris O’Keeffe, the podcast aims to shine a spotlight on local initiatives, community champions, businesses and stories from across Ballincollig. The podcast is available to listen to on Spotify.

Highlights of Sunday’s Open Streets

• Live performances from local singer Fiona Kennedy and the White Horse Gospel Choir.
• Traditional music performances by Comhaltas.
• A guided tour on a Bus Éireann double-decker commuter bus.
• Introduction to and demonstrations of e-bikes.
• Children’s play activities.
• Demonstrations from sports clubs such as GAA, soccer, basketball, rugby and many more.