Cork City will be transformed into a theatre for midsummer magic during its 10-day multi-disciplinary arts festival.
Running 13–22 June, the Cork Midsummer Festival uses the city as its backdrop and inspiration, providing a platform for exciting new artists and performances and engaging the public in an eclectic range of events.
With theatre, music, dance, visual arts and immersive outdoor performances in the mix, the festival is an authentic Irish celebration of arts, culture, and local and international talent. Events take place across the city’s heritage spaces, including the opera house, St Fin Barre’s Cathedral and Elizabeth Fort, as well as in more unusual places including community halls, warehouses and in the city streets.
This year’s highlights include The Second Woman, a 24-hour immersive theatre experience at Cork Opera House, exploring human connection and repetition. The show will feature 100 men who will star opposite Eileen Walsh as she performs over and over a scene between a man and a woman in a relationship that has lost its creativity and romance.
At the Marina Market warehouse, Night Dances will celebrate Irish and international dance culture in a high-energy performance accompanied by live music, while the Cork Proms will present a series of concerts at the opera house, blending classical and contemporary music.
Everyone can get involved in dancing at the Solstice Céilí at seventeenth-century Elizabeth Fort and enjoy watching the Midsummer Parade through the streets. Other immersive outdoor experiences will allow visitors to engage directly with art and performers.
And there’s a chance to get up close to the Sun at St Fin Barre’s Cathedral, where Helios, a dazzling new artwork by world-renowned UK artist Luke Jerram, will be installed during the festival.
Cork is a compact, friendly city with much to explore beyond the festival programme.
Heritage highlights include Cork City Gaol which offers a fascinating glimpse into nineteenth-century prison life, and Elizabeth Fort, where you can walk the ramparts and get great views over the city. For another bird’s eye view of Cork, climb to the top of the Shandon Bell Tower at St Anne’s Church and ring the famous bells.
Foodies will love the culinary delights on sale at the historic English Market which dates back to 1788. There are also plenty of picturesque areas for a leisurely stroll such as Fitzgerald Park or the campus of University College Cork with its blend of historic and modern architecture, beautiful gardens, and the renowned Glucksman Gallery.
Festival goers should also take the chance to explore beyond the city and discover the beauty of the west Cork landscape and its unique attractions. At the port of Cobh, you can follow in the footsteps of the last passengers to board the Titanic, and at Blarney Castle you can kiss the legendary Blarney Stone to gain the gift of eloquence.
