Culture night in Ulster – Donegal, Monaghan, Cavan

Since it began as a small event in Dublin in 2006, Culture Night has grown into one of the most inspirational events of the year. For one night only, on Friday 21st September, cultural organisations all over the country are throwing open their doors. We have picked some of our favourite events in the North of the country. 
 
 

Cavan

 

 
In Cootehill Co Cavan the historical Lady Anne Dawson Temple will be the unique setting for Culture night. There will be music, song and dance, and locals will impart their wisdom about local place names. One for the gaelgoirs, this will be all as Gaeilge.
 
 

Monaghan

 

St Peter’s Tin Church in Castleblaney Co Monaghan will be transformed on Culture night with the arrival of The Quiet Tree. this beautiful musical performance will take children on an adventure through the enchanted Whistleberry Forest.

The Garage Theatre in Monaghan Town has a fantastic programme lined up. From workshops on Encaustic Wax to puppetry, and a special viewing of the Púca Puppets’ Béirín Beag Buí lullaby film for young children, there is something here for everyone. We’ll head to the beautiful village of Glaslough next. The Busy Bee Ceramic Studio will have pottery demonstrations to the sound of local traditional music. Whistle while you create your very own ‘wonky pot’! Monaghan County Museum will play host to The Bugle Babes. This family friendly music event will have old war time classics in perfect harmony.
 
 

Donegal

 

Donegal County Museum in Letterkenny will be remembering those who left these shores over the years. An exhibition entitled ‘A Long Farewell’ explores the emigration of Donegal women since famine times. There will be a reenactment of an American Wake and stories of Orphan Girls who were sent to Australia in the 19th Century. While in the Town Park the night sky will be lit up for the Inishowen Carnival Spiky Tribe. There will be music,dance, fire performances and stilt walkers, making this a magical experience for all. And for a real musical treat why not head to Lifford where Charlie McGettigan will be performing some of the highlights from his incredible career. And back in Letterkenny in the foyer of the University Hospital, the LUH Choir of current and retired staff will be doing a special recital for Culture night.
 
This is just a small sample of the many events that will be taking place for culture night. Be sure to get out and about to celebrate the best of Irish arts and culture  near you. We also have hundreds of Culture Night 2018 events listed on www.inspireme.ie. Alternatively check out www.culturenight.ie for the complete programme.