Mayor of Galway City, Mike Cubbard with members of the Creative Youth Advisory Group
Fr. Burke Park came alive on Saturday, 6 June as Cruinniú na nÓg 2026 took centre stage with a vibrant, festival-style programme for children and young people across Galway City.
More than 20 free events, workshops and performances took place throughout the day as part of Galway City’s Cruinniú na nÓg programme, drawing large crowds of families, children and young people who immersed themselves in a dynamic celebration of creativity.
The park was transformed into a colourful hub of activity, with young people taking part in a wide range of creative experiences spanning music, art, circus, theatre, storytelling and hands-on workshops.
A highlight of the day was the Galway Community Circus Céilí, which brought young people together to celebrate circus through interactive workshops, live performances and new creative collaborations, capturing the fun, inclusive spirit of the event.
The 2026 programme also featured live music from emerging young artists, sensory and visual art workshops, multicultural storytelling, theatre and dance performances, zine making and youth-led exhibitions — offering something for all ages and interests.
Children take part in a sensory workshop as part of The Quest for the Golden Folk Slippers
The return of Youth Lates at Cruinniú Late also a highlight of the programme, proved hugely popular, providing dedicated youth-led spaces for young people to gather, create and express themselves in a safe and welcoming environment. Designed by and for young people, the initiative offered an engaging evening programme and performance space for those aged 14–18.
This year’s Cruinniú na nÓg was truly shaped by the voices of young people, led by the Creative Youth Advisory Group. Their ideas, imagination and honesty guided the development of the programme, resulting in an exciting and authentic range of activities made by and for young people across Galway City.
Galway City Council would like to acknowledge the support of its partners, artists, youth organisations and volunteers whose collaboration helped deliver such a vibrant and successful event, and to thank all those who attended and participated throughout the day.
Cruinniú na nÓg is an initiative of the Creative Ireland Programme, supported by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport and locally by Galway City Council in partnership with Youth Work Ireland Galway and a wide range of creative and community organisations.