Cork in ship shape for harbour festival
Ahoy there and hurry up. Friday is the last day for event organisers, community groups, clubs and businesses to apply to take part in one of Ireland’s most vibrant maritime celebrations.
The submission deadline for events to be included in the programme for Cork Harbour Festival 2026 has been extended to Friday 27 February.
Taking place from 30 May-8 June, Cork Harbour Festival kicks off with the much-anticipated Ocean to City – An Rás Mór.
Each year, Cork Harbour Festival creates a vibrant and diverse programme of events, both on land and on the water.
Organisers are invited to submit all things maritime and harbour-themed from water-based activities and open days to talks, exhibitions, shows and guided walks.
The summer festival attracts more than 25,000 visitors from across Ireland and beyond.
Cork Harbour Festival has featured a fantastic and diverse range of events over the years, and organisers are encouraged to help keep the programme fresh by planning something new, creative or a little unexpected.
Looking for inspiration? Here are just a few ideas to spark your imagination:
• Sunrise Paddle & Coffee – Early-morning kayaking or SUP followed by local coffee and pastries
• Harbour Sketch & Sip – Guided sketching or painting session overlooking the water
• Harbour Heritage Treasure Hunt – Self-guided or timed team challenge along the quays
• Harbour Photography Walk – A guided walk focusing on maritime textures, light and industry
• Taste of the Tides – Seafood tasting accompanied by stories from fishers or chefs.
A spokesperson said: “Whether it’s playful, educational or completely offbeat, the Ffstival team would love to hear your ideas and work with you to bring them to life as part of the 2026 programme.”
Cork Harbour Festival is organised by Meitheal Mara. Founded in 1993, Meitheal Mara — meaning ‘Community or Workers of the Sea’ — is a community boatyard in the heart of Cork city.
The spokesperson added: “The organisation is dedicated to promoting maritime culture and heritage through boatbuilding, education, training and community engagement.”
They added: “The mission of Meitheal Mara is to integrate and expand personal and community development opportunities through the medium of traditional boatbuilding, maritime recreation, and maritime heritage.
The primary object is to grow and integrate Cork city’s maritime recreation and tourism sector at a purpose-built river-side site.”
To have your event included in the 2026 programme email info@corkharbourfestival.com for more information and an official submission form.