Cruinniú na nÓg, the national day of free creative activity for children and young people, was held on June 10th this year. Kerry County in Ireland participated in the event, offering a diverse program of workshops and events. With over 30 activities available, there was something for everyone, including a circus show, film screenings, music workshops and performances, creative writing sessions, poetry workshops, youth theater performances, and in-person and online exhibitions.
One of the highlights was the Mr. BOOM Show by Drum Dance Ireland, which took place outside Library Place in Killorglin. Participants had the opportunity to join in and play the drums, adding to the lively atmosphere. Cllr John Francis Flynn, a native of Killorglin and the Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, expressed his delight at the event, emphasizing the importance of giving children and young people a chance to showcase their talents.
The program was coordinated by the Arts Office and Creative Ireland Kerry Office at Kerry County Council, with funding support from Creative Ireland through the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport, and Media. Kate Kennelly, the Creative Ireland Coordinator and Arts Officer at Kerry County Council, praised the young talent and passion for creativity in Kerry, highlighting the opportunity that Cruinniú na nÓg provides to inspire the next generation.
Cruinniú na nÓg Kerry 2023 spanned across the entire county, with events taking place in every Municipal District. The program showcased creativity and innovation, with activities such as theater performances, workshops on dance, drumming, heritage, wildlife, and teenage films in various locations like Dingle, Kenmare, Killarney, and Tralee.
Kerry Libraries also played a crucial role as venues for Cruinniú na nÓg, hosting workshops and events like sock puppet-making, STEAM workshops, and origami. The Kerry County Council Arts Office and Creative Ireland Kerry Office, along with Creative Ireland, facilitated the event. People can visit the Kerry County Council Arts Office social media channels and website for images, video clips, and reviews of the successful event.