Experience the magic of Leitrim’s culture night

On Friday, September 20th, Leitrim will come alive with the dazzling array of free events for Culture Night 2024. From the charming streets of Ballinamore to the historic lanes of Manorhamilton and the vibrant hub of Carrick-on-Shannon, the county will showcase its rich cultural tapestry. This year's program is packed with opportunities to dive into music, visual arts, storytelling, and more, reflecting the county's creative spirit. Don’t forget to book early for events with limited spots and plan your evening to experience all the excitement.
A standout event will be Market Yard Live in Carrick-on-Shannon. Kicking off at 5:30 pm, this event will feature a dynamic projection of live performance footage from young musicians and songwriters from Leitrim and Roscommon. The vibrant visuals will set the stage for a thrilling evening of live music starting at 7:00 pm. Enjoy eclectic performances from six groups who will perform an eclectic mix of Rock/Pop/Indie covers alongside original material, plus a special SHIFT performance on climate change that has received rave reviews after BBC Studios shows.

In Carrick-on-Shannon, St. George's Heritage and Visitor Centre will celebrate the 170th birthday of the legendary Percy French. Known for his whimsical and beloved Irish songs, French will be honored with a special performance by nine artists in period costume, bringing his timeless tales and tunes to life. This event offers a delightful trip back to the heart of Irish folklore and music.

The Dock in Carrick-on-Shannon will be buzzing with activities from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The evening begins with the launch of the Beginnings youth animation exhibition in the Jury Room Café, featuring creative animations by local young artists. At 6:30 pm, take a guided tour of two compelling exhibitions: Richard Malone’s exploration of labor and class, and Deborah Kelly’s celebration of queer imagination. From 7:00 pm, enjoy a screening of poignant Ukrainian short films that offer a heartfelt glimpse into Kyiv’s vibrant culture. 
Head to Leitrim Design House from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm to experience an exhibition by acclaimed Irish artist Elaine Quinlan. Her abstract landscapes, inspired by rural Galway, will be on display alongside a drop-in puppet-making workshop led by Rose Minnema. This interactive session, open to all ages, allows participants to explore themes of diversity and creativity through the art of puppetry.

For those interested in global issues, Leitrim Volunteer Centre will host a Global Citizenship Education Workshop at the Breffni Resource Centre from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. This workshop, organized in collaboration with Comhlámh, will explore themes of social justice, sustainability, and global interdependence. It’s an excellent opportunity for local citizens to engage with pressing global challenges and learn how to contribute to a more just and sustainable world.

The evening will also feature performances by some of Leitrim’s most beloved musicians. Drumshanbo Library will host an intimate concert with entertainer and songwriter Charlie McGettigan and his friends from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm. McGettigan, a stalwart of the Irish music scene, will be joined by multi-instrumentalist Paul Gurney, Eamonn and Orla Daly, and storyteller Phillip Nolan. This promises to be an unforgettable evening of music, stories, and camaraderie.

Meanwhile, Mohill Library will feature a performance by novelist and short-story writer Brian Leyden and musician Dave Lawless from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Leyden, co-writer of the feature film Black Ice, will share readings from his work, while Lawless will provide a musical accompaniment on the Gaelic harp. The evening will offer a perfect blend of literary and musical talent.

In Ballinamore Library, the “Rakes of Music” event will launch an online archive of traditional Leitrim music, curated by Fionnuala Maxwell. This event, from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm, will feature live performances from local musicians, as well as insights into the county’s rich musical and cultural history.

Film lovers should not miss the evening at The Island Theatre in Ballinamore, where the Ballinamore Writers Group will present an event featuring readings and conversations about Irish traditions, followed by a screening of That They May Face the Rising Sun, a film based on the work of local author John McGahern.

Finally, Manorhamilton will host an open-air screening of Kneecap at The Glens Centre and offer exhibitions and demonstrations at the Leitrim Sculpture Centre from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm, providing a fascinating look at the region’s diverse art forms.
Culture Night 2024 in Leitrim promises an unforgettable celebration of creativity and community. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this is your chance to immerse yourself in the county’s artistic and cultural richness. Mark your calendar and get ready for a night full of inspiration and enjoyment!