It’s an age-old Cork tradition.

But let’s face it; bonfire night tends to create a huge, dangerous mess and the smoke stinks, so it makes sense to try something a little more environmentally friendly instead.

That’s why Cork City Council has planned six summer fun events this evening, Monday, June 23rd, celebrating St John’s Night with a ‘Non-Fire Night’.

“St. John’s Night falls near the summer solstice, a time when pagan cultures would light bonfires to honour the sun and celebrate its power.” explained a Council spokesperson.

 

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“The burning of bonfires was also seen as a way to purify the land and ward off evil spirits. We now know that burning bonfires is extremely harmful to our environment, polluting the air and scorching our green spaces so badly it can take years for the grass to regrow. Fires also pose a risk to people’s safety.

These are the reasons why we now celebrate St. John’s Night in Cork City with Non-Fire night celebrations where people of all ages come together with music, fun and creativity in their local communities.”

Events planned for today, Monday, June 23rd: 

• Knocknaheeny: Nu Farm Green Space, 4pm-7pm
• Mahon: Loughmahon Park, 6pm-8pm
• Togher: Clashduv Park, 5:30pm-7:30pm
• Mayfield: Iona Park, 4:30pm-7pm
• The Glen: Comeragh Green Space, 4pm-6pm
• Farranree: Popham’s Park, 4pm-7pm

“The family-friendly events, which are organised in close partnership between Cork City Council’s Community team and local committees, are the perfect occasion for neighbours and newcomers alike to celebrate this unique highlight of the city’s heritage calendar.”