Roll up your mat and pack the sunscreen.

Himalaya Yoga Valley, now known as ālaya wellbeing, is bringing its much-loved Community Yoga in the Park fundraiser back to Fitzgerald Park this summer, once again raising funds for Cork Simon Community.

Supported by Cork City Council, the initiative has been running for over a decade. It has raised more than €80,000 for the charity through the generosity of people from all walks of life rolling out their yoga mats every Saturday in Fitzgerald Park.

The programme will run every Saturday from July 4th until the end of August, starting at 10am in front of the Bandstand at Fitzgerald’s Park.

The opening yoga class this Saturday will be taught by Himalaya Yoga Valley founder Lalit Kumar, who established the event more than ten years ago. The sessions are suitable for absolutely all levels, from complete beginners to experienced practitioners, and are a welcoming community event for everyone.

This year, alongside the regular yoga classes, the programme will also include two special Pilates sessions, taught by instructors Sinead and Abi.

“This event is very close to our hearts,” says Lalit Kumar, Founder of Himalaya Yoga Valley.

“It is a wonderful example of community in action, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to the park again this year.”

Classes are donation-based, with a recommended minimum donation of €5, and all proceeds go directly to Cork Simon Community.

Participants can bring a yoga mat, their donation and water. Sessions are weather-dependent; if the grass is dry, the class is on. Attendees should check Himalaya Yoga Valley’s (ālaya wellbeing’s) social media channels each Saturday at 9 am for updates.

Advance booking is required via alayawellbeing.com.