O’Shea Welcomes Exciting Programme of Free Culture Night Events Across Cork
Sep 17, 2026
Fine Gael TD for Cork North West John Paul O’Shea has welcomed the extensive programme of events taking place across Cork as part of Culture Night 2026 on this Friday, 18th September.
Culture Night will see more than 150 free events take place across towns, villages and islands throughout County Cork, providing people of all ages with the opportunity to experience music, theatre, visual arts, storytelling, exhibitions, workshops and much more.
Deputy O’Shea said he was particularly pleased to see a strong programme of events taking place across Cork North West, including performances in Macroom and the wider Múscraí Gaeltacht, as well as events in communities throughout the constituency.
“Culture Night is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the incredible cultural talent, creativity and heritage that we have right across Cork North West and County Cork.
“It is particularly encouraging to see such a diverse programme of free events being made available locally. From traditional and contemporary music to theatre, storytelling, the Irish language, children’s events and visual arts, there really is something for everyone.
“The event in Briery Gap in Macroom featuring the Irish Guitar Quartet is a particularly welcome addition to the programme, while the contribution of Leevy from the Múscraí Gaeltacht, performing in Watergrasshill, is another great example of the outstanding musical talent we have in our own communities.
“Our towns, villages and rural communities have a rich cultural identity, and events such as Culture Night provide an opportunity to showcase that identity while also bringing people together.
“I would encourage people across Cork North West to take a look at the programme, support local artists and performers, and perhaps try something new on the night. The fact that all of the events are free makes Culture Night particularly accessible for families and individuals.
“I also want to acknowledge the work of Cork County Council, the Arts Council, local community organisations, artists, performers and volunteers who have worked together to put this year’s programme in place.
“Following the success of last year’s Culture Night, which attracted more than 18,000 attendees across Cork County, it is fantastic to see an even more ambitious programme being delivered this year. Culture Night is a great reminder of the importance of culture in our communities and of the enormous talent we have here in Cork North-West.
Culture Night/Oíche Chultúir takes place on Friday, 18th September 2026, from 4pm until late. All events are free to attend, although advance booking is required for some events.
The full Culture Night programme is available at www.culturenight.ie
