The Biggest Festivals & Events Taking Place in Cork This Summer

Who's ready for a summer full of top-notch entertainment? We can't wait to see Cork spring to life over the next few months as festivals kick off across the county. Great music, fun theatre productions, colourful parades, and stunning street spectacles are just some of the things you can expect to see and experience this year. So here are some of the biggest festivals and events taking place in Cork this summer:

Fastnet Film Festival

Head to Schull, West Cork for one of the country's most anticipated independent film festivals. Taking place over five days, the festival will use the village of Schull as its stage, with short films to be screened at the local hall, as well as in pubs, restaurants, shops, galleries and on the sides of buildings! From comedies to documentaries, there's something to suit every taste. 

More info: https://www.fastnetfilmfestival.com/ 

When: May 25th-29th 

Cork Harbour Festival

The Cork Harbour Festival boasts an impressive line-up of over 50 events taking place over 11 days. This festival celebrates the beauty of Cork's natural harbour with a varied programme of events. You're encouraged to head off on a sea safari, try your hand at scuba diving or sailing, attend the Passage West Picnic, and explore the harbour's historic forts. Families can sign up for fun-filled workshops, make model boats, or create LEGO art. 

More info: https://corkharbourfestival.com/events/ 

When: June 3rd-13th

Cork Carnival of Science

Ever wonder what it would be like to make a battery, extract DNA, or investigate the inner workings of robots? The Cork Carnival of Science is the perfect place for adults and kids to get hands-on with all things science! Over the course of a day, there will be interactive activities and workshops, family-friendly experiments, live demonstrations, seated Big Top shows, and the chance to meet live zoo animals. 

More info: https://www.corkcity.ie/en/cork-carnival-of-science-2022 

Location: Fitzgerald Park

When: June 11-12th, 11am to 6pm

Cork Midsummer Festival

Every June, this multi-disciplinary arts festival attracts dozens of music, theatre, and dance acts to Cork for 12 days of fantastic entertainment. From vibrant street parades and concerts to intimate theatre performances and beatboxing workshops for youths, there really is something for everyone here. 

More info: https://www.corkmidsummer.com/ 

When: June 15-26th 

Cork Summer Show

Taking place over a weekend, the Cork Summer Show is one of Ireland's longest-running family, lifestyle & country shows. Some of its biggest competitions and events include show classes for horses, cattle, & sheep, Pet Dog Show, 10 Minute Cook-Off, Best-Dressed Competition, Agri Innovation Awards, and crafts and baking. 

More info: https://www.corksummershow.com/ 

When: June 18-19th 

Bantry Kupala Festival

Image credit: Bantry Kupala Festival

The Bantry Kupala Festival brings together performers from all over Ireland and overseas for an exciting day of music, dance, and multicultural activities. Family-friendly and FREE to attend, there will be fancy dress, street spectacles, food stalls, arts & crafts workshops, live music, and much more. Expect colourful streets and great craic!

More info: https://bantrykupala.com/ 

When: June 25th 

Volvo Cork Week

Organised by the Royal Cork Yacht Club, this world-renowned regatta attracts hundreds of boats and thousands of visitors to Crosshaven every year. There is always a great buzz around Cork Harbour during Volvo Cork Week, and its jam-packed social programme never disappoints. For 2022, there will be a Gala dinner (tickets on sale in June), an evening Marquee band, DJ from midnight til late, and a Family Fun Day including a new Coastal Market.

More info: https://www.corkweek.ie/ 

When: 9th-15th July