7 vibey jazzy, spooky events for a bewitching October bank holiday in Cork

It’s almost go-time for jazz cats and spooky spirits.
Whether you crave a frightfully fun party with a live jazz soundtrack or a sophisticated soirée with smooth sounds and spooky vibes, we’ve got you covered.
October is probably one of the best times of the year to visit Cork so if you’ve just arrived, you’re in the right spot; dust off your dancing shoes, polish your witches’ hat and get ready to swing into a bank holiday weekend filled with ghoulish delights and toe-tapping tunes.
Book in for Jazz Brunch at Good Day Deli
When: Saturday, October 26th and Sunday, October 27th at Good Day Deli, Nano Nagle Place, Douglas Street
Cork’s Good Day Deli swings into the Guinness Cork Jazz Weekend with live sets by Jonathan Murray Music and Friends on Saturday, October 26th and Sunday, October 27th. Enjoy smooth jazz alongside brunch from 12:30pm-2:30pm on both days, book ahead at gooddaydeli.ie/reservations.
You can also grab a coffee on the plaza outside at Nadúr Deli if you need a break from the jazz trail.
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Check out the Bandon Banshee Samhain Parade
When: Friday, October 25th, 7pm
A 10ft wicker Banshee, crafted from recycled materials, will lead Bandon’s lively Samhain parade this Friday. The “Bandon Banshee Rides Again” event kicks off the town’s Halloween celebrations, featuring art exhibitions, workshops, and a poignant Bandon for Gaza vigil.
Explore Blue Note Records at St Peter’s on North Main Street
When: All weekend
As part of the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival, ChoiceCuts and TheRecordHub.com will host a unique celebration marking 85 years of the iconic jazz label, Blue Note Records, with an immersive exhibition titled 85 Years of Blue Note at the historic St. Peter’s Cork for the duration of the festival.
The interactive exhibit will feature the label’s iconic artwork and the label’s first-ever Irish pop-up store curated in collaboration with The Record Hub. It’s open all weekend.
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A Halloween bash for remote workers
When: Friday, October 25th, The Cotton Ball, Old Youghal Road (7pm)
Tired of only seeing coworkers through screens? Anyone who works from home (from any company) can join Grow Remote for a spooktacular Halloween Party on Friday, October 25th, at 7pm at The Cotton Ball. Dress up, dance, and mingle with your remote coworkers. Prizes await the best costumes!
The Bookshelf Jazz Supper Club
When: Saturday, October 26th
This Saturday, October 26th, The Bookshelf at The Elysian is hosting a Jazz Supper Club. Enjoy live music by Gentle Jazz Man alongside a delicious, specially curated menu featuring dishes like duck couscous salad and salted cod croquettes, expertly paired with organic wines from Le Caveau Wine Merchants. Book a table over here.
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Hit Opera Lane for a spot of bargain hunting
Vision Ireland is teaming up with Starbucks to present a unique fusion of fashion and coffee during the Cork Jazz Festival, introducing the Pre-Loved Showcase at Starbucks in the Queen Anne Building on Cork’s Opera Lane.
Set for Thursday, October 24th, from 10am to 3pm, shoppers will be invited to sip and shop from a curated selection of Vision Ireland pre-loved clothing, accessories, and footwear, all whilst enjoying their favourite Starbucks coffee.
Whether you’re after a grande or venti, you can browse through and buy sustainable fashion finds, including designer and vintage items.
Kick back at The Crane Lane
All weekend on Phoenix Street, Cork City Centre
Everybody finds themselves in the Crane Lane at some point during the Jazz Festival. The smart money is on heading in early to nab a good seat.
With a lineup that’s as electrifying as a blues guitar solo, this venue is the perfect place to experience the magic of live music. See the lineup here, then enjoy a meal at Arthur Mayne’s and unwind with a handcrafted cocktail Upstairs.
Over at another Cork Heritage Pub, Sin É, the iconic home of traditional Irish music in Cork, is set to transform into a temporary house of jazz. This unique collaboration promises to be a highlight of the festival, bringing together two beloved genres in a truly special setting.
Find the full guide to everything happening in Cork Heritage Pubs in their handy guide over here.
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