Image: Darragh Kane

North Main Street will come alive this Saturday, 24th August, as the much-anticipated North Main Street Carnival returns with another exciting ‘Open Streets’ event. As part of the festivities, Cork City Council is encouraging people to leave their cars at home and enjoy the city on foot, bike, or via public transport.

The carnival, which begins at midday, will be officially opened by Lord Mayor Dan Boyle, who will kick off the event in style. The popular ‘Roaring Forties’ band is set to perform, ensuring the crowd is in high spirits throughout the day.

This family-friendly event promises a wide range of entertainment and activities, including fire eaters, children’s games, balloon twisting, face painting, food stalls, and even some furry friends from Rumleys Farm. Traditional Punch and Judy puppet shows, magic performances, raffles, and other fun surprises are also planned to keep everyone entertained.

Dog lovers are invited to participate in the North Main Street Carnival Dog Show, and for those seeking a bit of relaxation, there will be bean bags available to chill out on. Attendees can also enjoy playing ping-pong and giant games, as the street is transformed into a vibrant, car-free community space.

Lord Mayor Dan Boyle expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating:

“Cork City Council is delighted to see the North Main Street Carnival being run again, following on from the highly successful event in 2023, and wish the Middle Parish Community Association and North Main Street traders the best of luck. These Open Streets events allow people to witness how streets and street life can be transformed when people and community are to the fore.”

The festivities won’t end on Saturday, as the weekend kicks off on Friday night with a comedy performance by the acclaimed comedian Jon Kenny at St. Peters on North Main Street. The show, starting at 8 p.m., is a ticketed event with tickets available on Eventbrite.

The North Main Street Carnival is just the first of three ‘Open Streets’ events planned in Cork City, with the next scheduled for Autumnfest on Douglas Street on 1st September and a third during Culture Night on Friday, 20th September.

This weekend promises to be a fun-filled experience for all, so be sure to come along and enjoy everything the carnival has to offer.