We’re dragon you out for your birthday!
Have you heard about the 36 foot beast that sleeps beneath the streets of Cork, breaths fire, is made mostly of tape, and just turned 20 years old?
It’s hard to believe the beloved Dragon of Shandon first emerged from Cork’s depths in 2006.
Still young in dragon terms, the iconic Cork creature woke from its slumber a little early this year for some fiery birthday celebrations up at St Peter's church on North Main Street on Tuesday night.
The event brought together the numerous volunteers, participants, community partners, and friends who have passionately supported the project since the dragon first took to the streets two decades ago.
As always, Cork Community Art Link promises to deliver yet another unforgettable community spectacle this Halloween. On Samhain night, the dragon will leave its lair to prowl the historic streets of Cork, accompanied by a lively entourage of skeletons, ghouls, and fantastical creatures. These spooky beings will be collaborating with local organisations including the Cope Foundation, Corlann Blackpool, L'Arche, Enable Ireland, and the National Learning Network, as the parade embarks on a captivating journey between the realms of the living and the dead to honour the rich traditions of Samhain.
The procession will showcase a dazzling array of stunning floats, imaginative costumes, eye-catching props, and mesmerising live performances from fire performance company Rogu, the Cork School of Music, and French Big Band Santa Machete.
Spectators can also look forward to vibrant performances from a stellar line-up of musicians and dance groups, including the Kabin Crew, Tribe Dance Academy, Mexicans in Cork, and the Bolivian Irish Community Integration Association, with further acts to be announced soon.
Participants and attendees are encouraged to fully embrace the spirit of the night by dressing in Halloween themed attire and festive face paint. The parade will officially kick off at Church Street on Halloween night, proceeding down Shandon Street, onto North Main Street, turning left onto Castle Street, before concluding with a grand finale at the Coal Quay.
Ahead of this year’s parade, Cork Community Art Link extended its sincere gratitude for the continued support of Cork City Council, The Arts Council, CETB, HSE, local businesses, and the dedicated volunteers who breathe life into the Dragon year after year.