Cruinniú na nÓg 2025

A day of free creativity for young people on June 7, 2025

Click the following link to download the programme or view below: Cruinniú na nÓg 2025 Programme.

  Age group Time Venue Library Email  Description 
Comic Book Making in Mallow Library  9 to 12 3pm Mallow Library  MallowLibrary@corkcoco.ie  this event offers a unique opportunity for young artists to explore making comics. Participants will learn how comics work, discover how to create their own characters, and draw their own stories. No comics experience is necessary, participants will learn everything on the day
Dance Workshop on Schull Library  9 to 12 2:30pm-4pm  Schull Library SchullLibrary@corkcoco.ie  This workshop is aimed at introducing kids to ways we can connect, play and create our own styles of dance. The skills are focused on promoting confidence, teamwork, imagination and self-expression in a safe and supportive creative environment.
Zine-Making Workshop in Macroom  9 to 12 3pm-4pm Macroom Library  MacroomLibrary@corkcoco.ie  A Zine-making workshop is a creative event where you get to design and write your own zine using many materials like paper, markers, and printmaking tools. You'll try fun techniques like drawing, cutting, gluing, sewing and printing to add personal touches to your zine. With creative prompts to inspire you, you'll make a unique, handmade zine to share or keep as a special creation.
 
Clay-Modelling in Macroom  9 to 12 11am  Bandon Library  BandonLibrary@corkcoco.ie  Cork County Council is excited to announce a free art workshop for children aged 6yrs up as part of the Cruinniú na nÓg celebrations. Scheduled for Saturday, June 7th, at Bandon Library, this event offers a unique opportunity for young artists to explore making fun projects in Clay 
 
This workshop was inspired by a suggestion from a 4th class pupil at Ahiohill National School through the My Creative Wish initiative. Which encourages the children and young people of Cork to have their say in the programming of Cruinniú na nÓg, out National day of Creativity for Children and Young People.
To ensure a meaningful experience, spaces are limited. Interested participants are encouraged to contact Bandon Library at Bandonlibrary@corkcoco.ie for more information and to reserve their spot. This initiative aligns with Cork County Council's commitment to fostering creativity and providing accessible cultural experiences for young people across the region.
Story-Making in Dunmanway  5 to 8 10:30am-11:30am  Dunmanway Library  DunmanwayLibrary@corkcoco.ie  David McLoghlin is a prize-winning poet and a writer of memoir / autobiography. He teaches poetry and memoir (life writing) to adults and young people. In this class, he’ll work with the children on how to write a story, whether autobiographical or fiction, in various genres. We’ll talk about what we think are the important aspects of a story, and then we’ll practice telling our story via speech, in drawings and via the written word.
Dry Point Printmaking in Millstreet 9 to 12 2:30pm-4pm MillstreetLibrary  MillstreetLibrary@ Drypoint, which is a printmaking technique in which an image is incised into a metal plate or acetate with a hard pointed needle. These scratches on the surface hold ink and can be printed onto paper using a printing press.
Story-Making for 5-8 year-olds 9 to 12 2:30pm  Dunmanway Library  DunmanwayLibrary@corkcoco.ie  the wonderful world of crochet. Crochet is a great skill to learn at any age, but for children especially as it teaches them a new skill away from screens, using their hands for something other than “swiping”; they will be actually making something, for themselves or for others as gifts. In this workshop children will learn to use a crochet hook and make their own jewellery and coasters using the basic chain stitch. 
Clay-Modelling in Macroom 9 to 12 2pm-3:30pm Macroom Library  MacroomLibrary@corkcoco.ie  through the medium of clay. In this 1.5-hour workshop the children will have the chance to make their own imaginative worlds with clay, using techniques such as coiling, pinching and slab building. The pieces will be decorated with textures and patterns to be then taken away to be glazed, fired and returned in two weeks
Dance Workshop at Youghal Library 9 to 12 2:30pm-3:30pm  Youghal Library  YoughalLibrary@corkcoco.ie  Cork County Council is delighted to announce a free art workshop for children aged 9 to 12 years, as part of the Cruinniú na nÓg celebrations. Taking place on Saturday, June 7th, at Youghal Library, this engaging event provides a unique opportunity for young artists to explore movement and creativity.

The workshop will begin with a thorough, full-body warm-up designed to energise and ground the participants. Following this, they will be introduced to basic ballet and contemporary dance steps. There will be opportunities for improvisation, guided by imagery, allowing participants to creatively explore what they’ve learned. They will also experience free movement inspired by Rudolf Laban’s concepts of movement levels—low, medium, and high. The session will conclude with a calming cool-down and stretching exercises.

This workshop was inspired by a suggestion from a 6th class pupil at Castlemartyr National School, submitted through the My Creative Wish initiative, which empowers children and young people across Cork to contribute ideas for Cruinniú na nÓg—Ireland’s national day of creativity for children and young people.

To ensure a high-quality experience, places are limited. Parents or guardians are encouraged to contact Youghal Library at YoughalLibrary@corkcoco.ie to learn more and reserve a place. This initiative reflects Cork County Council’s ongoing commitment to nurturing creativity and providing accessible cultural opportunities for young people throughout the region.
Mini Musical Stars Workshop, Macroom  5 to 8 12noon-1pm  Macroom Library  MacroomLibrary@corkcoco.ie  Macroom Library – Mini Musical Stars Workshop
Get ready to shine in Macroom Library on Saturday, June 7th from 12pm–1pm! This free workshop for kids aged 5 to 8 is all about singing, dancing, and playful performance. With costumes, props, and instruments, children will create their own mini show to share with parents at the end. It’s a fun-filled hour to embrace your inner star!

The idea came from a pupil at Dripsey NS through My Creative Wish, part of Cruinniú na nÓg—celebrating young creativity across Cork.

To reserve your child’s spot, email MacroomLibrary@corkcoco.ie.
Let’s Sing Sibereeen  5 to 8 11am  Skibbereen Library SkibbereenLibrary@corkcoco.ie  Skibbereen Library – Let’s Sing! Workshop
Calling all young voices! Join us at Skibbereen Library on Saturday, June 7th at 11am for a special singing session designed for children aged 5 to 8. We’ll warm up with vocal games and fun call-and-response activities before learning a catchy tune together. If time allows, participants may even perform for their parents at the end!

This workshop was brought to life by a Junior Infants student from Caheragh NS in Drimoleague, through the My Creative Wish initiative—part of Cruinniú na nÓg’s celebration of youthful creativity.

Email SkibbereenLibrary@corkcoco.ie to sign up—spaces are limited!
The Joy of Dance 9 to 12 9:45am-11am Bantry Library BantryLibrary@corkcoco.ie  Cork County Council is delighted to present a free dance-themed workshop for children aged 9 to 12 as part of the Cruinniú na nÓg celebrations. Taking place on Saturday, June 7th at Bantry Library, this energetic session invites young participants to immerse themselves in The Joy of Dance.

Led by West Cork native Chloé Pisco—an experienced Dance and Circus performer with over two decades of international work—this lively workshop will introduce styles such as contemporary, hip hop, breakdance, animation, robotic, and commercial dance, commonly featured in music videos.

Chloé’s passion for the power of movement is infectious. She believes that dance, as a universal language, brings people together and unlocks shared joy. Her workshop promises an uplifting and inclusive space for self-expression.

This creative event was inspired by a thoughtful idea from a 4th Class student at Scoil Mhuire agus Bharra Bantry National School, submitted through the My Creative Wish initiative, which empowers young voices to shape Cork’s Cruinniú na nÓg celebrations—our national day dedicated to youth creativity.

Space is limited to keep the experience personal, so be sure to email BantryLibrary@corkcoco.ie to book your place.
A Space Story  5 to 8 11am-12.30pm Midleton  Library  MidletonLibrary@corkcoco.ie  As part of the Cruinniú na nÓg celebrations, Cork County Council is hosting a free, imaginative art workshop for children aged 5 to 8 years on Saturday, June 7th at Midleton Library. Budding artists will embark on an exciting journey through A Space Story—where a flying saucer hovers over a mysterious planet. Who might emerge from the ship? Could they be friendly? Children will get to use fun cartoon character templates to bring their own alien adventures to life.


Places are limited to ensure each child enjoys a rich and engaging experience. To secure a spot, email MidletonLibrary@corkcoco.ie. This workshop reflects Cork County Council’s dedication to nurturing creativity and ensuring that young people across the region have access to meaningful cultural experiences.
Can We Built It?! 9 to 12 10am to 11:30am  Mallow Library  MallowLibrary@corkcoco.ie 
Mallow Library – Architecture Workshop (Ages 9–12)

Cork County Council is delighted to present a free hands-on architecture workshop for children aged 9 to 12 as part of the Cruinniú na nÓg celebrations. Taking place at Mallow Library on Saturday, June 7th, this creative session invites young dreamers, designers, and builders to explore the fascinating world of architecture.

Led by a local architect, participants will sketch, design, and construct imaginative structures – from whimsical forts to sustainable homes – using fun, interactive materials. Along the way, they’ll learn how buildings are brought to life and unleash their creativity in a dynamic, supportive environment.

No experience needed – just bring your imagination!

This workshop was inspired by a suggestion from a 4th Class pupil at Ballygiblin National School through the My Creative Wish initiative, which empowers children and young people in Cork to help shape the Cruinniú na nÓg programme – Ireland’s national day of creativity for children and young people.

Spaces are limited to ensure a meaningful experience. To learn more or reserve a spot, please contact Mallow Library at MallowLibrary@corkcoco.ie.
Intro to Fashion Design 9 to 12 2pm-4pm  Kinsale Library KinsaleLibrary@corkcoco.ie  Kinsale Library – Intro to Fashion Design (Ages 9–12)

As part of Cruinniú na nÓg, Cork County Council is hosting a fun and free fashion design workshop for children aged 9 to 12 at Kinsale Library on Saturday, June 7th.

In this hands-on "Intro to Fashion Design" session, participants will dive into the world of style by exploring colour, silhouette, materials, and creative expression. Children will brainstorm their own design ideas and bring them to life through 3D mock-ups made from paper, paint, fabric, and embellishments.

No experience necessary – just bring your creativity!

This workshop was inspired by a 3rd Class pupil from Ballindee National School, whose idea was shared through the My Creative Wish initiative – a programme that gives children and young people a voice in shaping Cruinniú na nÓg, Ireland’s national day of creativity for young people.

To ensure an engaging experience, places are limited. For more details or to book a place, please contact Kinsale Library at KinsaleLibrary@corkcoco.ie.
Kids Clay Workshop at Bantry 5 to 8 2pm-3:30pm  Bantry Library BantryLibrary@corkcoco.ie  Get ready for a fun-filled, hands-on clay adventure at Bantry Library this June 7th, as part of the national Cruinniú na nÓg celebrations! 
This special 1.5-hour clay workshop is designed especially for children aged 5 to 8, offering a playful and engaging introduction to the world of 3D sculpture.
Led by ceramic artist Bernadette Tuite, young participants will explore their creativity as they sculpt their very own insect, stegosaurus, and fish—as time allows. Working with soft clay, kids will learn simple sculpting techniques while being encouraged to use their imagination and enjoy the process in a relaxed, fun atmosphere.
This is a take-home and paint-at-home project, allowing children to continue the creative journey beyond the workshop by adding their own colours and personal touches at home. It's a perfect opportunity for young minds to unleash their artistic potential, build confidence, and express themselves through art—all while having loads of fun!

Whether your child is a budding artist or simply loves getting hands-on with creative projects, this workshop offers a fun and inspiring experience that sparks the imagination and encourages playful learning through art. Spaces are limited, so book early to avoid disappointment!
Discover Poetry Workshop 5 to 8 2:30pm -4pm  Newmarket Library NewmarketLibrary@corkcoco.ie  Cork County Council is excited to announce a free   poetry workshop for children aged 5 to 8 years as part of the Cruinniú na nÓg celebrations. Scheduled for Saturday, June 7th, at Newmarket Library, this event offers a unique opportunity for young artists to explore Poetry. 

 At the Discover Poetry Workshop, children will tap into their inner poets, combining language and art to express themselves and describe their world through concrete poetry. Perfect for children who love to unleash their imagination through words, shapes, and color!

To ensure a meaningful experience, spaces are limited. Interested participants are encouraged to contact Newmarket Library  at NewmarketLibrary@corkcoco.ie more information and to reserve their spot. This initiative aligns with Cork County Council's commitment to fostering creativity and providing accessible cultural experiences for young people across the region.
Sew Fun!!  9 to 12 2pm Skibbereen Library SkibbereenLibrary@corkcoco.ie  As part of Cruinniú na nÓg, we're thrilled to offer a fun and hands-on sewing workshop for children aged 9–12! 

This special event was inspired by a wonderful wish from a 6th Class pupil at Glandore National School, shared through My Creative Wish — and now it’s coming to life!

Participants will learn the basics of hand sewing and get the exciting opportunity to try out a sewing machine, guided in a safe and supportive environment. They'll create colourful, crafty projects to take home, while building confidence and creativity. No experience needed — just a curious mind and a love for making! All materials provided. 

Places are limited to ensure each child enjoys a rich and engaging experience. To secure a spot, email SkibbereenLibrary@corkcoco.ie. 

This workshop reflects Cork County Council’s dedication to nurturing creativity and ensuring that young people across the region have access to meaningful cultural experiences.
Circus Skills Workshop @ Rockchapel Gathering Festival 5 to 8 10am  Rockchapel Gathering Festival  Rockchapel Gathering Festival  Rockchapel Gathering Festival – Circus Skills Workshop
Cork County Council invites children aged 5 to 8 to join a dynamic circus-themed workshop at the Rockchapel Gathering Festival on Saturday, June 7th at 10am. Young participants will dive into the world of acrobatic pyramids, balancing acts, and joyful mayhem in a supportive, imaginative environment. Let your creativity loose and discover your inner clown!

Inspired by a 1st class student from Rockchapel NS via the My Creative Wish initiative, this event gives children a voice in shaping Cruinniú na nÓg—the national day of creativity for young people.

Spaces are limited. To book your place, contact the Rockchapel Gathering Festival.
Children’s Art & Craft Workshop_Mitchelstown Library  5 to 8 2pm-3:30 pm  Mitchelstown Library  MitchelstownLibrary@corkcoco.ie  Mitchelstown Library – Children’s Art & Craft Workshop (Ages 5–8)
Cork County Council is delighted to host a free art and craft workshop for children aged 5 to 8 years as part of this year’s Cruinniú na nÓg celebrations. Taking place on Saturday, June 7th from 2:00–3:30 pm at Mitchelstown Library, this lively session invites young artists to experiment with various creative materials.
Children will enjoy a hands-on, imaginative experience, developing fine motor skills while expressing their individuality through art. It’s the perfect opportunity to foster creativity, confidence, and self-expression in a fun, supportive environment.
Spaces are limited to ensure every child benefits fully from the workshop. To book a place or learn more, please contact Mitchelstown Library at MitchelstownLibrary@corkcoco.ie.
This event is proudly part of Cork County Council’s ongoing efforts to promote accessible, high-quality cultural opportunities for young people.
Nature Weaving Workshop_Fermoy  9 to 12 2pm-3:30pm  Fermoy  Library  Fermoylibrary@corkcoco.ie 
Fermoy Library – Nature Weaving Workshop (Ages 9–12)
Cork County Council is thrilled to present a free nature weaving workshop for children aged 9 to 12 years in celebration of Cruinniú na nÓg. Join us at Fermoy Library on Saturday, June 7th from 2:00–3:30 pm for a creative afternoon where art meets the outdoors.
Participants will work with natural materials such as twigs, grasses, leaves, and flowers to craft their own unique eco-art pieces. This workshop encourages children to connect with nature, spark their creativity, and take pride in their one-of-a-kind woven artworks.
Due to limited space, early booking is advised. To secure a spot, please reach out to Fermoy Library at Fermoylibrary@corkcoco.ie.
This initiative reflects Cork County Council’s dedication to nurturing creativity and making cultural experiences accessible to young people across the county.
Natural Creators: Fermoy  2 to4 10am-11am Fermoy  Library  Fermoylibrary@corkcoco.ie  Natural Creators is an exploratory music/sound programme with a new approach to creative learning and play, which is designed and facilitated by Irish composer/sound artist/improviser Karen Power. In soundings under our seas we will journey beneath the sea and explore sounds of ice, water and an abundance of marine life. Using found sounds, soundscapes + everyday objects from the natural environment, this workshop encourages children’s natural openness and curiosity through a series of composing, improvising, listening and play activities, creating their very first water-based composition. 

This event is suitable for children aged 2-4 years. Parental supervision is reguired for this workshop. 
Natural Creators:Cobh  2 to 4 12 noon-1pm  Cobh Library  Cobhlibrary@corkcoco.ie Natural Creators is an exploratory music/sound programme with a new approach to creative learning and play, which is designed and facilitated by Irish composer/sound artist/improviser Karen Power. In soundings under our seas we will journey beneath the sea and explore sounds of ice, water and an abundance of marine life. Using found sounds, soundscapes + everyday objects from the natural environment, this workshop encourages children’s natural openness and curiosity through a series of composing, improvising, listening and play activities, creating their very first water-based composition. 

This event is suitable for children aged 2-4 years. Parental supervision is reguired for this workshop. 
Tiny Tunes: Music & Movment! 0 to 4 1pm-2pm  Carrigaline Carrigalinelibrary@corkcoco.ie  Join us for a joyful journey into the world of melodies! 
Explore the magic of music lessons with your small ones. The session is based on a blend of ORFF and Kodaly pedagogies. Suitable for ages 1 - 5 years. 
Facilitated by Early Years Music Teacher, Katie Jacques.
An Samhradh/ Creative summer workshop for early years Children 0 to 4 3pm-4pm  Midleton  Library  MidletonLibrary@corkcoco.ie  Join Early Years Facilitator Bernadette on Saturday, June 7th for a vibrant, hands-on workshop celebrating the joys of summer through sensory play, recycled crafts, and child-led exploration. Designed for young children of all abilities, this inclusive session encourages creativity, curiosity, and the freedom to get messy while having fun. Let imaginations bloom with nature-inspired textures, beautiful collages, and open-ended activities that spark wonder and joy.
MyCreative Wish: Song-writing in Coomhla NS 5 to 8    Coomhola    We are thrilled to announce an exciting song-writing project for first and second class students at Coomhla NS. This series of 6 creative workshops will inspire young minds to explore the art of song-writing, culminating in a special performance on Saturday, June 7th, as part of Cruinniú na nÓg.

The students will be guided through a hands-on workshop series, where they will learn how to compose songs, work with instruments, and collaborate as a team. These workshops will mainly take place in St Joseph's Church, next door to the school, where the final performance will also be held.

During the performance on June 7th, the students will showcase two original songs, written by the class together, and performed with various instruments including percussion, ukuleles, and more. The students will have access to a range of percussion instruments, all kindly provided by the project’s lead artist. 

The workshops are designed to encourage students to build confidence, unlock their creativity, and see song-writing as a fun and rewarding art form. This approach fosters teamwork, patience, and helps students understand that inspiration can come from anywhere in life.

On the day of the performance, teachers and family members of the students will be invited to celebrate the students’ hard work and creativity, making it a memorable event for everyone involved.
Sing Your Heart Out! – A Songwriting Showcase by Burnfort’s 6th Class 9 to 12   Burnfort NS   Get ready for a toe-tapping, fun-filled performance as the talented 6th class of Burnfort Primary School share their very own songs! Over six exciting weeks, these young songwriters have been working hard in a special workshop inspired by one of their own creative wishes. With plenty of imagination and teamwork, they’ve created original tunes that they’ll proudly perform on Saturday, June 7th, as part of Cruinniú na nÓg – Ireland’s national day of free creative activities for children and young people. Come along and support the stars of tomorrow!
Kyle NS, Poetry Slam! 9 to12 12 noon  Kyle NS    Come Join the Fun!

Everyone is welcome to come and listen to the amazing poems and stories written by the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd class children from Kyle Community National School!

With help from a professional  author named Arnold Thomas Fanning, the children used their imaginations during fun writing workshops. Now they’re excited to share their work with you!

It’s all happening at Youghal Library on Saturday, 7th June 2025 at 12 o’clock as part of Cruinniú na nÓg.
Art Exhibition at Whitegate National School 9 to 12 12 noon-3pm Whitegate NS   Art Exhibition at Whitegate National School!

The 5th and 6th class pupils of Whitegate National School are excited to invite everyone to their very own art exhibition on 7th June 2025, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the school.

This special event will feature a fantastic display of both individual and group artworks created by the pupils during six creative workshops. These workshops were led by local artist Áine Farrell, as part of the Cruinniú na nÓg celebrations and the My Creative Wish initiative.

Come along to see how the students have used their imagination and artistic skills to bring their ideas to life!