Cork Autumn Festivals 2024: Exciting Events Await!
We’re excited to share the details of the amazing festivals and events in Cork this autumn. There’s a mix of food, music, culture, outdoor fun, and scare attractions for everyone. So, what’s in store for Cork this autumn? Get ready to mark your calendars for these must-see festivities.
Key Takeaways
- Discover a diverse range of festivals and events in Cork this autumn, catering to various interests.
- Explore the city’s cultural offerings, from art trails and choral performances to opera and science extravaganzas.
- Indulge in Cork’s thriving food and music scenes, with festivals celebrating local produce, global cuisines, and world-class jazz.
- Immerse yourself in the autumn harvest celebrations and literary events that showcase the region’s rich heritage.
- Plan your visit to coincide with the city’s vibrant sporting events and seasonal festivities.
What delightful surprises await us in Cork this autumn? Join us as we explore the captivating festivals and events that will make this season truly unforgettable.
Festivals in Cork Autumn 2024
Cork is gearing up for a fantastic autumn with a mix of festivals and events. You’ll find everything from world-class music to cutting-edge science, iconic yacht racing, food festivals, and jazz. There’s something for everyone, whether you love music, food, the outdoors, or Ireland’s rich culture.
Don’t miss these Cork autumn celebrations:
- Brigid 1500 festival in Kildare from January 27th to February 27th, honoring St. Brigid’s 1500th anniversary with concerts and renowned artists like Eleanor McEvoy and Moya Brennan.
- Dublin International Film Festival from February 22rd to March 2nd, presenting a program of the most exciting international cinema and best new Irish cinema.
- Ortús Chamber Music Festival in Cork from February 25th to March 3rd, bringing together accomplished Irish and international musicians for performances across the city and county.
- Belfast Children’s Festival from March 8th to 16th, showcasing local, national, and international theatre, dance, music, art, and family activities.
- St. Patrick’s Festival celebrations on March 17th in various Irish cities, including significant events in Kilkenny, Dublin, Cork, and Killarney.
The Cork festival calendar 2024 keeps impressing with more upcoming festivals Cork:
- The Festival of Music on Heir Island (FOMOH) featuring 25 talented amateur musicians from across Europe and Ireland.
- The Cork Midsummer Festival hosting over 45 events in 30 venues from June 12th to 23rd.
- The Macroom Music Fest on June 22nd, with headline acts like The Stunning, Hermitage Green, The White Horse Guitar Club, and Bambie Thug.
- The West Cork Chamber Music Festival showcasing 50 concerts by 80 world-class musicians over 10 days from June 28th to July 7th.
- The Fair Days Fleadh festival in Clonakilty offering a lineup of contemporary Irish bands on August 4th.
- The Sceitimíní Festival on August 30th, promising an eclectic mix of art, music, and entertainment.
- The Clonakilty International Guitar Festival returning for its 20th year from September 13th to 22nd, 2024.
- The Cork Folk Festival from October 3rd to 6th, featuring over 150 musicians in over 20 venues across the city.
- The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival, Ireland’s biggest and longest established jazz event, taking place from October 24th to 28th.
With so many exciting festivals in Cork autumn 2024, there’s something for everyone. Make sure to plan your visit to enjoy the best of things to do in Cork autumn.
Island City – Cork’s Urban Sculpture Trail
Embark on an artistic journey with the Island City – Cork’s Urban Sculpture Trail. This trail features five public artworks that light up Cork City’s heritage. It makes public spaces more interesting for everyone.
Explore the City’s Unique Heritage
The trail showcases sculptures that tell the city’s story. You’ll see everything from ancient artefacts to a table where people can eat, play, and chat. It’s a fresh way to see Cork City.
Five Public Artworks to Discover
- A lane-length overhead sculptural piece that responds to the shifting shape of the city
- An art nouveau crafted lamp-post that encourages people to look up and explore the architecture
- A light installation that highlights stories of Cork’s past, present, and sustainable future
Download the Trail Map
Get a trail map from the Cork City Council website to start your journey. Dive into Cork events 2024, Cork entertainment 2024, and Things to do in Cork autumn. Experience the Cork sculpture trail and Cork public art.
Funding Details | Key Statistics |
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The Island City – Cork’s Urban Sculpture Trail was funded by Fáilte Ireland under the Urban Animation Investment Scheme, with commissioning support from the National Sculpture Factory. |
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“The Island City – Cork’s Urban Sculpture Trail aims to encourage people to explore new areas of the city and deepen the city’s connection with public art. We hope it will attract both locals and visitors to appreciate Cork’s beauty, character, and heritage through these sculptures.”
Cork International Choral Festival
The Cork International Choral Festival is a top event in Europe, known for its high standards and warm welcome. Since 1954, it has been Cork’s biggest festival, bringing choirs from Ireland and around the world together.
Premier International Choral Event
In 2024, Cork will host choirs from many countries for a programme full of Gala concerts, Schools Concerts, National and International Competitions, and top performances. With over 5,000 performers coming, it will be the biggest festival since before the pandemic. It will show the wide range of choral music out there.
Gala Concerts and Performances
The festival will run from 26th to 30th April 2023, filling Cork with choral music. Places like St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, Emmet Place, Triskel Christchurch, and the Freemason’s Hall will host various events. The Closing Gala Concert at Cork City Hall on 30th April will be a big event, with tickets starting at €21.
The festival aims to include everyone, no matter their background or experience. It creates a friendly space for people to enjoy making music together. This makes the Cork choral festival a special event for all.
Blackwater Valley Opera Festival
Prepare for a thrilling week of opera, classical music, and more at the Blackwater Valley Opera Festival in Cork, Ireland. This festival happens over 8 days in late May and early June. It brings world-class performances to historic venues in the Blackwater Valley.
Giulio Cesare at Lismore Castle
This year, don’t miss the four performances of Handel’s Giulio Cesare at Lismore Castle in County Waterford. The production will dazzle you with its grand costumes and set designs. Plus, the vocal talent is outstanding.
Open Air Recitals in Local Communities
For the first time, the festival is bringing classical music to local communities with BVOF Open Air Lunchtime Recitals. These free events will be in Lismore, Dungarvan, Waterford, Youghal, and Castlemartyr, Cork. It’s a chance for everyone to enjoy opera and classical music up close.
If you love opera or just want a unique cultural experience, this festival is for you. The Blackwater Valley Opera Festival offers an unforgettable week of Cork events 2024, Cork entertainment 2024, and Cork autumn celebrations. Don’t miss Opera in Cork this year!
Cork Carnival of Science
Welcome to the Cork Carnival of Science, Ireland’s biggest outdoor science event! It’s happening in the beautiful Fitzgerald Park in Cork City. The event is supported by Cork City Council and Science Foundation Ireland. It features over 50 exhibitors and live science shows to spark a love for STEM.
At the Cork Carnival of Science, there’s a world of family-friendly experiments and activities. You can make your own batteries, build with LEGO, meet exotic animals, and learn about robots. You’ll even get to extract DNA from a banana and create a ‘bang’ with help from Chemists from University College Cork.
The carnival is full of live entertainment for everyone. It’s perfect for curious kids and adults alike. The Cork Carnival of Science is an unforgettable event that will inspire you to learn more about science.
Don’t miss the Cork Carnival of Science on June 10 – 11. It’s part of the bigger Cork Midsummer Festival from June 13 to June 23. Dive into scientific discovery and join us for the exciting Cork events 2024, Cork entertainment 2024, and Cork festival calendar 2024.
Volvo Cork Week
Preparations for the 2024 Volvo Cork Week, in partnership with Johnson and Perrott, are underway. This event in Cork Harbour will bring a carnival feel to Crosshaven and nearby villages. It’s a key event for sailing fans and those who just love to watch.
Legendary Yacht Racing Event
Volvo Cork Week is famous for its top-notch yacht racing. It draws sailors from all over since it started. The event’s warm welcome and great entertainment make many sailors come back every year. It’s a top event for anyone who loves sailing or just wants to see the action.
Carnival Atmosphere in Crosshaven
The 2024 Volvo Cork Week will run from Monday, July 15th to Friday, July 19th. It promises five days of thrilling yacht racing and a lively carnival in Crosshaven. With lots of entertainment, food, and music, it’s set to be a hit with everyone.
“Volvo Cork Week has always attracted a large number of national and international entries since its inception, and the famed warm welcome and unparalleled entertainment has prompted entries to return from afar.”
Cork on a Fork Fest
The autumn breeze brings life to Cork with the Cork on a Fork Fest. This 5-day event celebrates the city’s culinary heritage and local produce. From 14th to 18th August 2024, it invites visitors to explore the flavours that make Cork a food lover’s dream.
Taste Cork’s Food Culture
This festival is a chance to dive into Cork’s food history and future. You can go on food trails, watch cooking demos, and learn about topics like sustainable food and oystering. It’s perfect for foodies and those curious about Cork’s food scene.
Unique Dining Experiences
Cork on a Fork Fest highlights the region’s diverse food scene with special dining events. You can enjoy pop-up dinners with famous chefs and supper clubs featuring local ingredients. Don’t miss the Cork on a Fork Drinks Stage for a taste of the city’s lively drink scene.
Celebrate Local Produce
The festival celebrates Cork’s local produce at its core. The Cork on a Fork Food Market, open from 11:00 am to 5:30 pm on Sunday 18th August, showcases the region’s best artisanal goods. Visitors can try delicious foods and meet the producers behind them.
Whether you’re a food expert or just interested in Cork’s food scene, the Cork on a Fork Fest is an experience you won’t forget. It celebrates the city’s food culture, dining options, and local produce, making it a top culinary destination.
Space Week Ireland
Get ready for an amazing journey into the cosmos as Cork hosts Space Week Ireland. This top event is all about space exploration and science. It’s supported by Science Foundation Ireland and MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory. The festival aims to spark a love for space science and encourage the next generation of scientists and astronauts.
Space Week Ireland runs from October 4th to 10th, during World Space Week. It’s a chance for everyone to dive into the universe’s secrets. The festival will have workshops, lectures, and exhibits on the newest space tech and research.
- Explore interactive displays and hands-on activities that bring the cosmos to life.
- Attend thought-provoking talks by leading experts in the field of space science.
- Discover the latest innovations in space exploration and their impact on our daily lives.
- Participate in stargazing sessions and learn about the night sky from experienced astronomers.
If you love space or just find it fascinating, Space Week Ireland is for you. It’s part of Cork’s autumn festival calendar 2024 and Cork’s entertainment 2024. Let’s celebrate the wonders of the cosmos together at Space Week Ireland and the science festival Ireland.
“The sky is not the limit – it’s just the beginning.” – Neil deGrasse Tyson
Guinness Cork Jazz Festival
The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival is Ireland’s top jazz event, starting in 1978. It brings together hundreds of musicians and thousands of fans each year. You’ll see a mix of Irish and international stars, plus new talents making waves in jazz.
Ireland’s Biggest Jazz Event
Since 1982, Guinness has backed the festival, making it even bigger. Now, it draws people from all over the world, boosting the local economy. Every year, over 40,000 jazz lovers come to Cork, making it Ireland’s top jazz event.
Irish and International Musicians
The festival offers a wide range of jazz, from traditional to modern. You’ll hear from famous artists and new talents alike. There are also workshops and masterclasses to help you learn more about jazz.
Pop-Up Events and Late Night Parties
There’s more to the festival than just the main stage. Enjoy pop-up events, late-night parties, and jazz boat trips. The Jazz Festival Club at The Metropole Hotel is a hotspot, open from 7 pm to 2:30 am daily.
If you love jazz or want to explore it, don’t miss the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival. It’s a key event in the Cork autumn celebrations calendar. With top-notch music, fun events, and a friendly vibe, it’s an experience you won’t forget.
“The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival is a true celebration of the best in jazz, showcasing both established and emerging talents from Ireland and around the world. It’s a must-visit event for any music lover.”
Autumn Cultural Events
As autumn arrives, Cork and the surrounding areas buzz with cultural celebrations. The Cork International Film Festival and the Derry Halloween Festival are highlights. They bring together people from all walks of life.
Cork International Film Festival
Since 1950, the Cork International Film Festival has been a top event. It brings films from all over the world to Cork. This festival lets people dive into stories from different cultures and perspectives.
Derry Halloween Festival
In Northern Ireland, the Derry Halloween Festival is a big deal. It’s Europe’s biggest Halloween celebration. The festival is full of parades, shows, and activities for families. It honours the city’s history and folklore in a fun way.
The Cork events 2024, Cork entertainment 2024, and Cork festival calendar 2024 offer a lot to see and do. The Cork autumn celebrations are full of culture and fun. From films at the Cork International Film Festival to the excitement of the Derry Halloween Festival, there’s something for everyone.
Seasonal Festivities
As autumn turns to winter, Waterford becomes a winter wonderland with Winterval, Ireland’s biggest Christmas festival. It features enchanting lights, festive markets, and seasonal shows. This event brings joy and cheer from late November to late December. It’s a great way to dive into the holiday spirit and see Ireland’s unique charm during the holidays.
Winterval in Waterford
Winterval in Waterford is a top spot for festive fun during Cork’s autumn. This Christmas festival runs from late November to late December. It highlights Irish culture and tradition with various activities and entertainment. Visitors can see magical lights, shop at festive markets, and enjoy seasonal shows in this historic city.
Looking to try local food, find unique crafts, or just enjoy the magical feel? Winterval in Waterford is ideal for celebrating Cork events 2024 and Cork entertainment 2024. With a packed schedule of Cork festival calendar 2024, it’s sure to be a memorable event for all who go.
“Winterval in Waterford is a true celebration of the Christmas spirit, where the charm of Ireland’s winter wonderland comes alive.” – Lonely Planet
Autumn Sporting Events
As the leaves turn colour and the air gets crisp, Ireland buzzes with sporting events. The Galway Races and the Dingle Races are highlights of the Cork autumn celebrations. They draw people from all over.
Galway Races
The Galway Races, in late July and early August, is a top horse racing event. It has won the hearts of racing fans for years. It brings together a mix of serious race-goers and those wanting to experience Ireland’s culture and traditions.
The event’s lively vibe and Galway’s stunning views make it a top pick for visitors in 2024. It’s a chance to see the best of Irish culture and racing.
Dingle Races
In County Kerry, the Dingle Races offer a thrilling horse racing experience against the Dingle Peninsula’s stunning backdrop. It’s a key event in the Cork festival calendar 2024. It honours the area’s heritage and the talent of the horses and jockeys.
Whether you love racing or just want to enjoy Ireland’s countryside, the Dingle Races are unforgettable. They offer a day full of fun and excitement.
These autumn events show Ireland’s love for horse racing and its skill in mixing culture with top sports events. When planning your Cork trip in autumn, don’t miss the Galway and Dingle Races for an experience you won’t forget.
Autumn Harvest Celebrations
Ireland celebrates its harvest with festivals across the country. The Galway Oyster and Seafood Festival in late September is perfect for seafood lovers. It showcases the best oysters and fresh seafood. The Dingle Food Festival in early October celebrates local ingredients and dining experiences. These festivals let you taste Ireland’s flavours and dive into its food culture.
Galway Oyster and Seafood Festival
The Galway Oyster and Seafood Festival is a top event in Cork’s 2024 calendar. It brings visitors worldwide to taste the region’s best seafood. In late September, the festival honours oysters and fresh coastal foods.
There are many culinary experiences, like oyster shucking and gourmet dishes by famous chefs. The festival also has live music, cultural shows, and a lively vibe. It shows off Ireland’s lively food scene.
Dingle Food Festival
The Dingle Food Festival in early October is in the heart of Ireland’s autumn celebrations. It celebrates the area’s food heritage and local produce. You can see stalls with artisanal foods, from seafood to cheeses and breads.
There are unique dining experiences too, like pop-up restaurants and chef demonstrations. The festival focuses on sustainability and community. It’s a key event in Cork’s 2024 entertainment and shows the area’s food traditions.
“These autumn harvest festivals provide a wonderful opportunity to savour the flavours of Ireland and immerse oneself in the country’s thriving food culture.”
Autumn Literary Events
As autumn arrives in Ireland, the literary scene buzzes with exciting events. The Listowel Writers’ Week stands out, a top literary festival in Listowel, County Kerry. It’s been a highlight for over 50 years, drawing famous authors and fans from everywhere.
Listowel Writers’ Week
At Listowel Writers’ Week, you’ll find workshops, discussions, and readings. These events celebrate Ireland’s literary heritage. You’ll hear from both famous and new writers, making the festival diverse and welcoming.
The Femme Fatale event is a big draw, with tickets at €26.95. It focuses on Ireland’s female authors. Guests have included Dr. Marie Cassidy and best-sellers Arlene Hunt and Jo Spain.
This festival showcases Ireland’s literary past and future. It’s perfect for book lovers and those wanting to dive into Irish stories. Don’t miss out on the autumn literary events in Cork this year.
Conclusion
Cork and Ireland offer a great mix of festivals and events in autumn 2024. Highlights include the West Cork Chamber Music Festival and the famous Volvo Cork Week yacht race. Don’t miss the Cork Carnival of Science and the popular Guinness Cork Jazz Festival.
These events cater to music lovers, food enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to dive into Ireland’s culture. The Cork festival calendar for autumn 2024 has something for everyone. It’s a chance to experience the unique vibe and creativity of Cork events and Cork entertainment.
The Blackwater Valley Opera Festival and Space Week Ireland are just the start. The Cork autumn celebrations will amaze and inspire people of all ages. By checking out the Festivals in Cork autumn 2024, you’ll make memories and discover the heart of this Irish region.
FAQ
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