Culture Night is set to light up Clare this Friday, September 20, with almost 50 events showcasing a diverse range of cultural offerings across the county. From traditional music and dance to art exhibitions, concerts, and poetry readings, there is something for everyone to enjoy on this special night of community and creativity.
In Tulla, attendees can enjoy a number of events including traditional music and dance performances, alongside art and photography exhibitions.
Mountshannon promises a magical evening, uniting the community through a special concert and by a candle-lit walk.
Broadford, Killaloe and Scarriff will also host events in East Clare.
West Clare has an exciting line-up as well, as Kilrush and Lissycasey will echo with traditional music, while Knockerra Hall will be filled with art and music.
The community spirit will be alive and well at Halla Eoin in Kilbaha, for a gathering of local culture and Cultúrlann Sweeney in Kilkee will host a live music concert.
Ennistymon will host six events, offering a Culture Night Trail with poetry, music, song, art, and much more, bringing the town to life.
In Ballyvaughan, attendees will be treated to a performance by Immram, while Doolin Arts will host a special evening at Hotel Doolin.
In Shannon, a full evening is planned, including folklore storytelling from Balor Otherworld at Shannon Library, followed by dancing at the crossroads with the Kirby family.
There will also be a drumming circle led by Brian Fleming, and a choir performance at Drumgeely Plaza.
Clarecastle will host its first ever Culture Night event with an open-mic session as well as performances from Padjo Dolan, Amy McNamara and Dean Power.
Ennis, the heart of the county, will be buzzing with 17 events across town. Highlights of the evening and night include an Irish language storytelling workshop with Aindrias de Staic, who will talk about the tradition of storytelling in County Clare.
There will also be a musical journey in the Clare Museum, a celebration of cultural diversity at CBS Ennis, poetry and music at glór, a multidisciplinary event at EASI Artist Studios, traditional music and so much more.
The cultural richness of the town will be on full display.
“We have been inundated with requests by artists and communities, all looking to be part of Culture Night,” said Siobhán Mulcahy, Arts Officer at Clare County Council.
“It is wonderful to see Clare so active in this National Event and we look forward to another wonderful Culture Night in all areas of Clare.”
Culture Night 2024 in County Clare truly has something for everyone.
Culture Night is a celebration for the whole family to enjoy. All events are free with some requiring pre-booking while some may also have age restrictions in place.
Details of all events in the county are available from culturenight.ie/Clare and brochures and fliers are available from local libraries.
Andrew Hamilton is a journalist, investigative reporter and blogger who has been working in the media in Ireland for the past 20 years. His areas of special interest include the environment, mental health and politics.