Ready for some free fun in the salty sea air?

Blackrock Village Festival is back this weekend and better than ever, with two days of fun planned on August 22nd and 23rd.

The best part? It’s completely free, thanks to all the amazing local businesses and dedicated volunteers that chipped in to make it happen.

The festivities kick off on Friday, August 22nd, at 5:30pm with a beautiful, free concert in the stunning St. Michael’s Church. The Cork Light Orchestra will be there to fill the air with some seriously enchanting music.

But the real party starts on Saturday when the whole village comes alive from 1pm onwards. The day begins with a parade setting off from the new Holland Park playground and making its way to Pier Plaza. Expect a traditional bagpiper and a warm welcome from the Lord Mayor.

After that, it’s all good vibes with a packed schedule of events:

• Live music all afternoon from bands like Hank Wedel and the Down in the City band, Lee Sessions, and Garden Party.
• A coastal rowing regatta hosted by Blackrock Rowing Club with races on the river.
• A salsa dancing showcase that’s sure to get you moving.
• A talk with author Diarmuid Ó Drisceoil at the Community Centre at 3pm.
• A historical photo exhibition celebrating Blackrock’s rich past.

And that’s not all. You can also enjoy boat trips, a funky bike ride, and a kids’ zone on the green to keep the little ones entertained. The fun goes on until 6pm so you’ll have plenty of time to grab a coffee or a pint and just soak up the atmosphere.

As Festival Chair Cllr Des Cahill said, “We are all looking forward to a great festival, full of fun, music and activities for all to enjoy.”