Mayor's Diary
There’s something magical about May in county Cork. In Celtic tradition, Lá Bealtaine marks the beginning of summer, and this year’s bank holiday weekend brought that sense of seasonal awakening to life.
The scent of freshly cut grass mingled in the warm air, and a sense of energy and renewal seemed to settle over the county.
It is in this uplifting spirit that Cork County Council is proud to support and promote a vibrant calendar of activities this month, celebrating creativity, community, and care.
Our Bealtaine Festival for 2025 is already in full swing, offering a wonderful programme of free events in libraries across the county. Bealtaine is a national celebration of arts and creativity as we age, and this year’s programme includes poetry readings, arts and crafts, storytelling, Japanese painting workshops, and mindfulness classes. These events are open to all and offer a great opportunity to try something new or reconnect with a forgotten passion. They also highlight the incredible role our local libraries play as free, inclusive cultural hubs.
We kicked off the month with Poetry Day in Macroom Library, where local poets shared their work followed by an open mic session. The momentum continues with artistic-led workshops in Youghal, Millstreet, and Castletownbere, alongside storytelling sessions and exhibitions running throughout May. The Stories from the Blackwater Catchment project in Fermoy is particularly special, bringing together young students and older residents to share stories, memories, and questions about their lives along the river.
May also marks the return of our Healthcare Hoolies concert series, which brings live music into community hospitals and care homes. This initiative, now in its fifth year, is a shining example of how Cork County Council is enriching lives through culture.
With over 50 concerts planned in 30 facilities across the county, the power of music will once again lift spirits and bring joy to residents and staff alike. We are also calling on musicians to join our expanding panel. If you have a passion for performance and a heart for community, we want to hear from you.
To round off the bank holiday weekend, I had the privilege of hosting my charity gala on Saturday 3 May at the West Cork Hotel in Skibbereen. Bathed in sunshine and surrounded by community spirit, it was an evening to remember. The event raised vital funds for Cancer Connect and CoAction West Cork, two extraordinary charities that support people during their most vulnerable moments.
I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed. Your generosity will have a lasting, positive impact.