Blackrock’s Village Festival is back with free concerts, boat trips and a parade
It’s back and bigger than ever.
Blackrock Village Festival is getting ready for this year’s instalment, with two days of fun planned on August 22nd and 23rd, 2025.
Best part? It’s completely free — all thanks to the incredible support of local businesses and volunteers who make the magic happen.
It all kicks off on Friday evening, August 22nd at 5:30pm with a dreamy free concert in the stunning St Michael’s Church, where the Cork Light Orchestra will be filling the air with enchanting tunes.
Then on Saturday, the real party starts. The village will be buzzing from 1pm, starting with a parade that sets off from the new Holland Park playground and makes its way to Pier Plaza, complete with a traditional bagpiper and a warm welcome from the Lord Mayor.
- From there, it’s good vibes only:
Live music all afternoon from Hank Wedel and the Down in the City band, Lee Sessions, Garden Party, Colin McLean, and more. - A salsa dancing showcase that’s guaranteed to get you on your feet.
- A talk with author Diarmuid Ó Drisceoil at the Community Centre at 3pm.
- A historical photo exhibition celebrating Blackrock’s rich past.
And it doesn’t stop there — you’ll also find boat trips, funky bike rides, and a whole zone of kids’ activities on the green to keep little ones happy.
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“We are all local forward to a great festival, full of fun, music and activities for all to enjoy.” said Chair of the Festival Cllr Des Cahill.
“This is a free event made possible through the generosity of local businesses and work by the local community.”
The fun continues from 1pm until 6pm so there’s plenty of time to enjoy a coffee or a pint and soak up the atmosphere before a stroll or cycle back down the Marina and a stop at the playground.
