The historic town of Youghal will transport visitors back in time this Sunday, 3rd August, as the popular Medieval Festival returns to St. Mary’s College Gardens and Collegiate Church from 11am to 5pm, offering a full day of free entertainment and cultural experiences.
Presented by Cork County Council and delivered by Living Youghal, the festival celebrates Youghal’s rich medieval heritage with an impressive programme of activities. The event, supported by The Irish Walled Towns Network through the Heritage Council of Ireland, has established itself as one of Ireland’s premier heritage festivals.
This year’s festival promises an immersive journey through history. The White Horse Living Society will bring Viking warriors to life in an authentic medieval village, complete with live cooking demonstrations and thrilling battle re-enactments. The School of Irish Archaeology has designed interactive workshops where children can become archaeologists for the day.
Young visitors can participate in “The Big Dig” archaeological excavation, mint their own Viking coins, craft medieval beads and pouches, and even personalise a Viking dagger with ancient runic inscriptions. All workshops are bookable on the day, ensuring everyone gets a chance to experience hands-on history.
Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley:
“It is a great pleasure to welcome the much-anticipated medieval festival back to Youghal, a place I am proud to call home. It holds a special place in the town’s calendar and is a driver of local tourism and economic activity. The event attracts thousands of visitors each year and would not be possible without the dedication of local volunteers and organisers. An independent evaluation has valued its economic impact at over €850,000, which speaks volumes about the scale and significance of what this one-day event brings to the town. We are very proud to host it once again.”
The festival offers entertainment for all ages, from puppet shows and balloon art to birds of prey demonstrations and a petting zoo courtesy of Nore Valley Farm. Face painters will transform children into medieval characters, while budding knights can paint their own shields to take home as souvenirs.
Music lovers can enjoy live performances and organ recitals within the atmospheric 13th-century walls of St. Mary’s Collegiate Church. The artisan food and craft market will showcase local talent, while Youghal Camera Club presents a special photography exhibition capturing the town’s medieval character.
History enthusiasts can explore Youghal’s story through the free 30-minute ‘Voices of St. Mary’s’ audio tour, which brings centuries of local history to life through immersive storytelling. The festival also demonstrates environmental consciousness with a free mobile hydration station; visitors need only bring their refillable bottles.
The event’s significant economic impact, valued at over €850,000, highlights its importance to the local community. This free festival continues to draw thousands of visitors annually, showcasing Youghal as one of Ireland’s best-preserved walled towns.
With its combination of educational workshops, live entertainment, and historical experiences, the Youghal Medieval Festival offers Cork families a perfect Sunday outing that won’t cost a penny.