Cruinniú na nÓg
Children and the power of their imagination never fails to astonish. Cruinniu na nÓg is a Creative Ireland Programme initiative of the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, supported by your local authority and RTÉ. The most amazing programme of events has been developed to capture and stimulate those young imaginations. With over 500 events all around the country, this is one of the best festivals for children in Summer 2018. They aim to encourage children and young people of all ages to take part in the creative arts – theatre, arts, music, dance and so much more. Celebrate a National Day of Creativity with them on June 23rd. All events are free. Although some require pre-booking. We have some of the highlights below. But for a full list of events check out the Cruinniú na nÓg website here.
Wonder and Awe in Wexford
If your teenager has ever threatened to run away with the circus, then Wexford Arts Centre is the place to be. Waterford Youth Arts will be presenting a Youth Circus & Spectacle Workshop on Sat June 23rd at 10.30am, and then it’s onto the Presentation Centre in Enniscorthy at 2pm. For older children from 9-16 years there will be the opportunity to try some classic circus skills such as unicycle, juggling and acro dance. No previous experience is required. Children need bring only their sense of adventure. Find out more here.
Delightful happenings in Drogheda
Sat 23rd also sees the town of Dundalk embrace its creative young people. Droichead Arts Centre in association with Louth County Libraries hosts Storytelling with Grainne Rafferty. Ireland has always been famous for its storytellers and Drogheda Library will become a magical place or wonder and mystery as children aged 4 and over are introduced to a host of characters who will amaze and delight young minds.
Musical Picnic in Dublin
On Sat 23rd there will be a picnic with a difference in the National Concert Hall. Here, budding musicians can meet the musicians and take part in musical workshops. This is the chance to try an instrument you were always curious about and learn how they are played. There will be face painting and a fabulous treasure hunt. Followed by tasty picnic lunches available to purchase from the Terrace Café. And after all that interactive fun there will be a family concert with a jazz twist. Find out more here.
Fantastic film in Clare
As part of Cruinniú na nÓg celebrations in Clare, there will be a special screening of Making the Grade. Starting at 3.30 this free event will show the beautiful Ken Waldrop documentary. It explores the unique relationship between students and their piano teachers. Anyone who has sat struggling with their minor arpeggios will love this film. For more details click here.
Cruinniú na nÓg in Cork
The Triskel Art Centre in Cork will have a special screening of Babe as part of their Cruinniú na nÓg Festival. Its hard to believe that this classic movie where talking animals are the stars of the show, first hit our screens in 1995. And now children of a new generation will have an opportunity to cheer on everyone’s favourite pig. For more details see here.
Play it loud in Enniscorthy
Do you know an under-18 year old who has ever fancied themselves as a rock star? Then Enniscorthy is the place to be at 8pm on Sat 23rd. They will get the opportunity to play in front of a crowd as the Youth Gig showcases local youth rock bands and musical acts in County Wexford. And the audience of adoring fans can also take time out to admire the artwork generated during the gig.
This is just a small snapshot of the amazing events that are taking place on Sat 23rd June to celebrate youth and creativity. Finally , all details were correct at time of publication. But please confirm with organisers before travelling.
