Culture Night returns to County Longford

Series of cultural events planned throughout the county on 18 September

Longford County Council is delighted to mark the return of Longford Culture Night, which is set to take place on Friday, 18 September.
Special and unique events and workshops are specifically programmed at participating locations throughout the county and, thanks to the continued support of the Arts Council of Ireland, Longford County Council and Longford Late Night Economy, all activities are made available to the public free of charge.
Culture Night / Oíche Chultúir is a national moment, celebrating the richness and diversity of culture in Ireland, connecting people to cultural activities locally and nationally and aims to open up pathways to ongoing engagement.
This year free events open to the public include visual art installations, studio exhibitions, recitals and readings by local writers, poets, and music concerts catering for fans of classical, trad and world music. Events will take place across all three Municipal Districts in County Longford.
Ballymahon District
In the south of the county, the Inny Singers and trad musicians will perform in St. Matthew’s Church and Bridgeways FRC – Ballymahon; the Culture Club returns to Corlea Trackway Visitors Centre, Oonagh Casey launches her photography exhibition in Lanesborough and in Edgeworthstown several groups have come together to present 'The Evening Chapter' – an arts trail through the town involving live music, food, art exhibitions, film and history.
Granard District
The Granard District will stage several art events including Ballinalee Players night of drama, Fireside Folklore in Rath Mhuire, John Dungan Comhaltas Branch trad session in Granard Library, Harp Media’s screening of their acclaimed debut film ‘Lakelands’ and Granard One Town One Voice Choir in Lus na Gréine. As a first for Longford, artist Brigid Mulligan is also organising music of a very different kind - The Biker’s Orchestra at the Glenview Lounge, Aughnacliffe.
Longford District
The county town will host an exciting mix of cultural experiences with a strong focus on participation, creativity and live performance. New for 2026 is the Culture Night Trail, linking venues throughout Longford Town and inviting audiences to explore a wide variety of workshops, exhibitions, readings and performances across the evening.
Among the highlights will be The St. John's Sessions in the unique surrounds of St. John's Church, featuring Midlands band Cronin with special guest Steve Wickham of The Waterboys, promising a memorable Culture Night late performance. Elsewhere, the programme includes hands-on workshops in pottery, screen printing, storytelling, folklore and music, alongside poetry and prose readings, family-friendly events and interactive creative activities. Visitors will also can enjoy a range of exhibitions showcasing the work of local artists in venues throughout the town.
Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Gerry Hagan said, "Culture Night is a wonderful opportunity to experience the creativity, talent and heritage that make County Longford such a vibrant place to live and visit. From music and theatre to visual arts and storytelling, there is something for everyone to enjoy. I encourage people of all ages to explore the programme, support local artists and take part in what promises to be a memorable evening across the county.”
Longford County Council Chief Executive, Samantha Healy said, “Culture Night has become one of the most anticipated events in Ireland's cultural calendar and County Longford continues to play its part with an ambitious and diverse programme. From established performers to emerging artists, this year's events showcase the depth of creativity that exists across our communities. We are delighted to work with our partners to provide free access to cultural experiences that inspire, connect and engage people throughout the county.”
All events and activities are free and celebrate culture, creativity, and the arts. Over 16 events are set to take place across County Longford. 
Full details of all events happening across the county will be featured in next week’s Longford  Leader.
Culture Night in County Longford is funded by the Arts Council, in partnership with Longford County Council Arts Office, Night Time Economy and supported by the Department of Culture Communication and Sport. For further information on Longford Culture Night, check out CultureNight.ie or follow Culture Night on social media.
For further information on Longford Culture Night, check out CultureNight.ie or follow Culture Night , Visit Longford on social media.