Cruinniú na nÓg 2026, Ireland’s National Day of Free Creativity for Children and Young People, takes place on Saturday, 6 June 2026. Children and young people are invited to take part in an exciting programme of FREE events taking place across County Louth.
With over 30 events taking place in Ardee, Carlingford, Drogheda, Dundalk, Dunleer and Lordship, this year’s programme offers a vibrant and inclusive selection of activities for children and young people aged up to 18 years. Events span visual arts, performance, storytelling, music, crafts and cultural experiences, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy and explore.
Cruinniú na nÓg 2026 is funded by the Creative Ireland Programme and delivered locally by Louth County Council.
Encouraging children and young people to get involved, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Cllr Seán Kelly, said:
“I encourage children and young people across County Louth to get involved in the wide range of Cruinniú na nÓg events taking place on Saturday, 6th of June and to take the opportunity to explore their creativity and connect with others.
“Initiatives such as Cruinniú na nÓg, delivered locally by Louth County Council, play an important role in supporting creativity, inclusion, and wellbeing across our communities, ensuring the arts are accessible to all. I would like to thank the Council’s Arts Office for their continued work in delivering inspiring and engaging programmes for young people throughout the county.”
Programme Highlights
Exploring Identity and Belonging Through Performance
Led by the Loving Life Choir in Drogheda Town Centre, this engaging performance brings together a diverse group of young singers (ages 5–17) to explore themes of identity and belonging. Featuring a live choir performance, an interactive Belonging Wall, opportunities for audience participation and a sensory-friendly space, the event offers an inclusive and thought-provoking experience for all.
The Twilight Takeover
Taking place at Droichead Arts Centre and delivered by Droichead Arts Centre in partnership with Nighttime Economy Drogheda, this youth-led showcase highlights emerging local talent. Seven young performers will present original work developed through mentorship, offering audiences an exciting mix of singing, songwriting and spoken word in a professional theatre setting.
An Immersed Ocean Experience
Presented by Louth County Council in collaboration with Meath County Council, this cross-county event will take place at St Mary’s Parish Hall, Drogheda and Bettystown Library. Designed for children aged 6 months and upwards, it offers a calming, sensory-rich environment inspired by the ocean, creating an accessible and immersive early-years creative experience for families across both counties. Cruinniú Comics, Creative Collaboration in Dundalk.
Cruinniú Comics
Hosted by AAEX Teens at The Still in Dundalk Library, this collaborative workshop invites young people to explore visual storytelling in a fun and relaxed setting. Participants will work together on a large-scale comic creation while also designing their own original pieces to take home, encouraging creativity, teamwork and self-expression.
A Countywide Celebration of Creativity
The wider programme features:
- Hands-on workshops including puppet making, clay modelling, LEGO building sessions and creative studio workshops
- Music, dance and movement experiences, including African drumming and multicultural activities
- Storytelling and theatre, including Walking with Legends Live at An Táin Arts Centre
- Family-friendly events such as the Super Saturday Family Hangout and Children’s Carnival Collective
- Inclusive and sensory experiences at ABACAS and early years venues
- Outdoor performances and street spectacle
- Workshops at Highlanes Gallery exploring contemporary art and street art practices
All events are FREE of charge, ensuring every child and young person can take part. As places are limited for many activities, advance booking is strongly recommended. Full programme details and booking information are available at: cruinniu.gov.ie/events
