As school days return and the evenings start getting shorter, thankfully there is a rich and exciting line up of events taking place this month to keep us entertained and enthralled
Made in Kilkenny/Made Local Exhibition: Throughout September – 28 October
A celebration of excellence in craft, this exhibition takes place in DCCI National Design and Craft Gallery in Castle Yard, Co Kilkenny and showcases the work of 28 makers who are involved in the MADE in Kilkenny collective. Curated by Mary Gallagher, the exhibition features Irish craft and design, specifically in clay, wood, metal, willow, textiles, glass, wax, and leather.
It includes beautiful, handcrafted pieces made locally, which embodies the spirit of DCCI’s Made Local, Made to Last campaign. See dcci.ie for more information.
Barretstown Charity Appeal: 1 September
Barretstown Children’s Charity is celebrating its 100,000 camper and launching a national appeal on Friday, 1 September, to raise €100,000 across the month of September to support their services. Barretstown is the largest and most established provider in Ireland of therapeutic recreation programmes and camps which play a critical role in supporting the psycho-social needs of children and young adolescents impacted by cancer and other serious illnesses. See barretstown.org for more details on how you can support this worthy cause.
The Designed Table: 2 – 4 Sept
Get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating spirit of autumn at this gorgeous event at Kildare Village. Join The Designed Table from the 2-4 September, 10am – 6pm for a delightful exploration of autumn tablescape ideas that will infuse your space with the cozy charm of the season.
As part of the pop up there will be a Tablecaping and Wreath Making workshop with The Potting Shed and on Sunday, between 11am – 1pm, don’t miss a special Tablescaping and Wreath Making workshop. You’ll get to craft your very own wreath, guided by the expert Ciara Durham from The Potting Shed. The experience promises to be a hands-on celebration of autumn – a fantastic opportunity to learn, create and embrace the season. Click here for more details.
IWA Run ‘n Roll: 3 Sept
Runners, rollers, and strollers will be at their marks to promote the inclusion of people with disabilities in Irish society on Sunday, 3 September, in a relaxed, fun, and family-friendly atmosphere at St. Anne’s Park in Dublin. The race is hosted in partnership with the Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) and is open to individuals of all ages and abilities.
By ‘running‘n’rolling’ in the race over 2.5km or 5km, individuals of all abilities can show their support of people with physical disabilities and, in doing so, help raise funds for the Irish Wheelchair Association. Click here for details on how to register.
Dirty Dancing at Bord Gáis Energy Theatre: 5 – 16 Sept
Do you remember the incredible soundtrack from the film version of Dirty Dancing? Well, if you don’t, it’s time to reacquaint yourself with it and more as the classic story is being brought to the stage once more with breathtaking emotion and sensationally sexy dancing! Seen by millions across the globe this worldwide smash hit tells the story of Baby and Johnny, two fiercely independent young spirits from different worlds, who come together in what will be the most challenging and triumphant summer of their lives. Age guideline: 14+.
We know everyone says this but – you really will have the time of your life. Click here for more information.
Sounds from a Safe Harbour: 7 – 10 Sept
Taking place over the course of four days in venues across Cork City, SFSH promises to be an unmissable festival of music, dance, literature, theatre, and conversation, with lots of ticketed and free events to explore, curated by festival director Mary Hickson, Bryce and Aaron Dessner of The National, actor Cillian Murphy and playwright Enda Walsh. Other artists taking part include Alex Somers, Caroline Rose, Rónán Ó Snodaigh, Myles O’Reilly, Anna Mullarkey and many more. For full listings, and tickets, visit soundsfromasafeharbour.com.
Waterford Harvest Festival: 8 – 10 Sept
If you’re looking for good, wholesome fun, it doesn’t get much better than this! The annual Harvest Festival in Waterford is back for its 14th year with a focus on food sustainability and a celebration of the Irish Apple to the fore for 2023. The festival takes place in the historic streets and squares of Waterford City centre and is a culinary occasion beloved by visitors and locals alike. The best of Waterford’s food and drink will be centre stage at the giant Harvest Festival Market which will include plenty of top quality local food producers offering an array of unique traders with lots of fresh offerings and familiar faces. Click here for more information.
The Seán Corcoran Series: 8 – 10 Sept
The Seán Corcoran Series is a 3-day event taking place in Drogheda which will celebrate the life and outstanding work of Louth native, Seán Corcoran, presented by his daughter Rósa Corcoran, Louth County Council, and Creative Ireland. Traditional music and song was Seán’s life, and his career ranged across performance, broadcasting, film making, academia and field work. His songs will forever be associated with his name and that of Louth; he brought the songs and music of the county to a wide audience in Ireland and beyond.
On Friday 8 September, at 8pm, The Seán Corcoran Series in association with Droichead Arts Centre present An Evening with Andy Irvine and Dónal Lunny. For full programme details, or to book tickets, visit seancorcoranseries.com
Hip-Hop in Belfast and Dublin: 8, 9, 17 Sept
This year Top 8, who have been organising hugely successful Hip-Hop events for the last decade, is presenting a brilliant new programme of Hip-Hop and Street Dance outreach days which is coming to Belfast and Dublin this September after fantastic events in Limerick and Cork earlier this year.
In Belfast, everyone will be welcome to a free programme of Street Dance, Rapping and MC-ing, DJ-ing/Turntablism and Graffiti workshops, followed by an Over 18s After Party, which will take place Friday and Saturday, 8-9 September at 13 Park Road (the former Masonic Hall).
The Dublin events, in association with Dublin City Council, take place on 17 Sept. All events are free, but tickets must booked for all events, via top8ight.com.
Níl Aon Tínteán Art Exhibition: 9 Sept – 21 October
This art exhibition shines a light on the housing crisis in Ireland as multiple generations struggle to find secure homes, yet live in areas surrounded by dereliction and vacant townscapes. Art has always been a powerful tool in activating conversations and stirring emotions in relation to pressing societal issues and this exhibition presents a selection of artistic responses to ideas of housing and home. It features the work of John Conway, Adrian Duncan, Ronja Lagerqvist, Michelle Malone, Eimear Walshe and Bloomers. Click here for more information.
Bulmer’s Secret Orchard, Clonmel: 9 Sept
Looking for an evening of cracking music? The Bulmers orchard at Clonmel will host performances from many of Ireland’s top musical talent, including a headline performance from hip hop star Kojaque on 9 September. At Clonmel, guests can expect to enjoy mouth-watering food throughout the event, paired with a crisp and refreshing pint (or two!) of Bulmers. Once the festivities end, some lucky attendees will enjoy luxury glamping amongst the trees and stars with four-person bell tents available for the night. See secretorchard.bulmers.ie for more details.
Rock LIVE at Slane Castle: 9 – 10 Sept
Rock returns to Slane Castle this September with two outstanding tribute bands venerating iconic acts from past gigs at the Boyne Valley venue. With a variety of ticket types on offer – day, weekend and VIP overnight packages – it’s like a festival in miniature complete with wood fire barbeque featuring the best of local produce, Slane Whiskey Cocktails and an ice cream van.
Star act on Saturday is Live Forever, the definitive tribute to Manchester super group, Oasis, who played at Slane twice, supporting REM in 1995 and topping the bill in 2009. On Sunday the headliners are Thin Az Lizzy set to deliver an explosive night of electrifying classic rock anthems like their set at the very first concert in 1981 supported by a fledgling U2. Click here for more details.
Boyne Valley Trails September Walking Festival: 11 – 25 Sept
If you love exploring the outdoors on foot, this is the festival for you. Visitors and hiking enthusiasts are invited to discover the Boyne Valley this September by going off the beaten track, through forest trails and along unspoilt riverbanks.
Boyne Valley Trails are a Drogheda based voluntary group that wants to share the beauty, heritage and culture of Ireland’s ancient Boyne Valley, through a series of bespoke walks, trails and adventures. It will be hosting a fabulous selection of walks each month in Drogheda and the Boyne Valley. If you’re interested, click here to find out more.
Opera Gala with INO and Cara O’Sullivan Associate Artists: 12 Sept
Opera lovers, take note: mezzo-soprano Niamh O’Sullivan, soprano Kelli-Ann Masterson, tenor Dean Power, and bass-baritone Rory Dunne will form the next quartet of Cara O’Sullivan Associate Artists from September 2023 – September 2025.
These performers will make their debut as Associate Artists at a special, free-to-attend Opera Gala, held in association with Irish National Opera on Tuesday, 12 September. This will be free of charge to the public – a gift to the city, in Cara O’Sullivan’s name – and will feature the Cork Opera House Concert Orchestra, conducted by INO Artistic Director, Fergus Shiel. The programme will feature many beloved arias and opera favourites such as the famous trio ‘Soave sia il vento’ from Mozart’s Così fan tutte, Dvořák’s ‘Song to the Moon’ and the exquisite ‘Mon coeur s’ouvre à ta voix’ by Saint-Saëns. Click here for more details on this event.
46th Clifden Arts Festival: 13 – 24 Sept
Ireland’s longest-running community arts festival will light up venues across the region with a programme that displays community-led spirit and diversity of inspiration and an incredible lineup of Irish performers.
Clifden will be welcoming back the great Christy Moore and his treasury of songs for what promises to be a very special performance. There’s also a chance to see three of the greatest singer-songwriters – Lisa Hannigan, Paul Noonan, and Gemma Hayes – perform together in what is one of the most talked-about collaborations of recent years. Ireland’s eminent crooner and a consummate showman, Jack L has long been a by-word for a brilliant night out, as Clifden is about to discover. The Raines will also take to stage with their unique and pure sound, writing strong and melodic songs. Click here for more information on the full programme.
Bewley’s Big Coffee Morning Social for Hospice: 21 Sept
Beloved Irish broadcaster Charlie Bird is encouraging businesses to host a coffee morning on 21 Sept in a bid to raise €2million to support its the vital work of hospice care in Ireland. The 73-year-old is receiving hospice care at home as he continues to live with motor neuron disease.
The annual charity event has raised €43.2million for Together for Hospice, the National Hospice Movement, since its inception in 1992. The fundraising drive helps to pay for medical and general staff, palliative care beds, home care visits, specialist equipment and new hospice builds. Click here for more information or here to donate.
The Crow’s Way at Dublin Fringe Festival: 21 – 23 Sept
Suitable for audiences aged 8 and over, The Crow’s Way is a thrilling and unpredictable new show from Galway’s acclaimed Moonfish Theatre which will premiere at Dublin Fringe Festival with both matinee and evening performances at the Abbey Theatre on the Peacock stage. This stunning production is for anyone who loves adventure and is brought to life with Moonfish’s signature brand of theatre magic, following Gerda as she braves the dark and unpredictable world of the forest in a quest to save her best friend. See fringefest.com for more details.
Culture Night’s 18th Birthday: 22 Sept
Whether you’re 8, 18 or 80, grab your family, friends or head out on your own and join the biggest collective celebration of culture in Ireland on Friday September 22nd as Culture Night comes of age and celebrates its 18th birthday! What originally started in 40 venues in Dublin’s Temple Bar in 2006, is today an all-island celebration of the very best of our culture with thousands of free events happening late into the night. Mark this milestone by discovering the night for yourself! Click here for more information of what’s on in your area.
International Festival of Time: Sept 22 – 24
Set your watch for 22 September in Waterford as the ‘Masters’ of the watchmaking world are bound for Waterford Treasures and the home of the Irish Museum of Time for the second annual International Festival of Time. The masters of the timepiece and watchmaking world will fly in from across the globe to show off their skills, timepieces and knowledge. They will offer the public a rare opportunity to come face to face with many of the finest independent watch and clockmakers of our time at a ‘Meet the Maker’ occasion and a chance to view their masterpiece creations in person.
This unique event will celebrate the very best of contemporary artisanal horology with the introduction of the exclusive world of hand-crafted mechanical exceptions which will also build on the displays and stories of the Irish Museum of Time. Click here for more details.
Gordon’s Gin Disco Brunch with Doireann Garrihy: 24 Sept
What could be more fun than kicking off the autumn season with the ultimate disco brunch at new Dublin 8 bar, Doll Society! Brunch-goers can expect delicious Gordon’s cocktails, great food, throwback disco tunes provided by resident DJ, a vintage photobooth, surprise giveaways and immaculate vibes throughout. Brand ambassador Doireann Garrihy will also be there, as a special guest at the event.
Brunch will kick off at 12:30pm on Sunday 24 September and will run until 3pm. Click here for ticket information.
Alzheimer’s Memory Walk: 24 Sept
The idea of the Memory Walk is to gather generations and walk at one of over 30 locations around Ireland on 24 September with, for or in memory of someone living with dementia. The ambassadors include entrepreneur Pamela Laird, whose dad is currently living with dementia, former politician Nora Owen, broadcaster and journalist Teena Gates and TV personality Martin King. See alzheimer.ie for more details.
#Headliners Authors Evening: 26 Sept
If you’re an aspiring writer or simply love to read, this is a virtual event you won’t want to miss! On Tuesday 26 September at 7pm, Headline Publishing Group is hosting a celebration of some of its highlights for the first half of 2024. You can expect to hear from both debut and established authors writing across contemporary fiction, debuts, historical, crime, thriller and more.
Click here to register for the zoom webinar.
Fashion Evening at Newbridge Silverware: 29 Sept
Fashionistas will definitely want to book this date in their diary! Newbridge Silverware is set to host a night of autumnal fashion on Friday, 29 September at its newly-renovated and extended eatery, ‘The Silver Restaurant’. The event, taking place in Kildare, will be hosted by Mandy Maher and her co-hosts, Noel Cunningham and celebrity stylist, Marietta Doran. Starting at 6.30pm with a drinks reception, the exciting event will include dinner and a glamourous fashion show featuring jewellery and accessories from Newbridge Silverware and plenty of style from a host of local boutiques. See newbridgesilverware.com for more information or click here for tickets.
Belle Harmonics Pop Rock Choir: 29 Sept
Do some vocal warm-ups and prepare to sing along at this fabulous concert in aid of Turn2Me with the brilliant Belle Harmonics Pop Rock Choir on the 29 September in the Pepper Cannister Church in Dublin’s city centre.
Belle Harmonics Pop Rock Choir is a dynamic 30-member pop-rock choir that performs songs by artists like Sia, Kate Bush, Beyonce, and Fleetwood Mac. Formed in 2018, Belle Harmonics Pop Rock Choir is already well known to the stages and festivals of Dublin, recently performing to sold-out audiences in the Grand Social and The Sugar Club. Click here for tickets.
Very Pink Run in aid of Breast Cancer Ireland: 30 Sept
If you fancy lacing up your running shoes for a good cause, this is a great one to sign up for! The Very Pink Run is taking place at Leopardstown Race Course in Dublin, 30 Sept, and is open to all ages and fitness levels. (For those not living in the Dublin area, there will also be runs in Kilkenny and Cork on 1 Oct and 8 Oct, respectively).
The event promises to be a fun, family, festival style day out with music and children’s entertainment. Participants can run, jog, walk or even scoot either the 10k or 5k routes. Registration is at verypinkrun.ie, and all funds raised will support Breast Cancer Ireland’s pioneering research into metastatic cancer and awareness programmes nationally.
Very is also collaborating with Ireland’s leading pop-artist and fashion designer Audrey Hamilton, to mark the six-figure three-year brand partnership between Very and Breast Cancer Ireland, and to highlight the upcoming Very Pink Run in the lead up to Breast Cancer Awareness month in October.
The unique and eye-catching art installation, commissioned by Very, showcases Audrey’s original artwork entitled “FEMME”, a piece first created by Audrey in 2020, and sold in aid of Breast Cancer Ireland, when a close friend had been diagnosed with breast cancer. The installation includes activation (through a combination of 10ft high Vinyl banners, screens and light projection) at eight sites across Dublin, Kilkenny and Cork in which this year’s Breast Cancer Ireland Very Pink Run will take place between 30 September and 8 October.
