Discover Culture Night magic at Mayo arts centre
A CREATIVELY curated evening of free workshops and events for young people and adults for Culture Night 2026 has been developed by the Linenhall. On Friday, September 18, this annual nationwide celebration of culture marks its 21st birthday.
Commencing the festivities, Music of Mayo, the Linenhall and Gaeilge Caisleán an Bharraigh are delighted to present a very special Club Ceoil. Relish trad tunes, played by young, talented musicians from the locality, predominantly teenagers, at an event which supports and encourages use of the Irish language. Bí linn le haghaidh Club Ceoil sa Linenhall ag 4 to 5 p.m.
Art wise, there is a youth sketch club for 12- to 16-year-olds at 4.30 p.m. Whether totally new to it or a budding Banksy, enjoy a pressure free hour of drawing, led by two young artists, while making new friends and sharpening your skills. At family art sessions (4 p.m. and 6 p.m.), turn simple stones into wondrous little works at a workshop filled with colour, imagination and hands-on fun. Paint and decorate with a parent/guardian, creating unique rock art pieces to take home and treasure.
Experience traditional crepe flower making, a cherished craft passed down through generations of Traveller ladies. This beautiful tradition, an important expression of Mincéir (Irish Traveller) culture and identity, continues to be rejoiced in at cultural gatherings and within Traveller communities. Hosted by the Mayo Traveller Movement CHW Ladies at 5 p.m., participants of all ages are most welcome.
Boheh Stone with Emily Bracken, a Design Charette is a part-talk/part hands-on workshop inspired by Mayo’s ancient Boheh Stone - a vital piece of our rich, pre-colonial cultural landscape. This famous monument, containing beautiful carvings related to the sun, is considered one of Ireland’s best collections of petroglyphs (prehistoric rock carvings), with over 250 motifs dating back to approximately 3,800BC. At 6.30 p.m., learn about Mayo’s prehistoric rock art and protecting our indigenous heritage and rituals. Advance booking is required.
As a cinema loving nation, Mrs. Robinson screens at 7 p.m., telling the story of how young Mary Bourke from Ballina became Ireland’s first female President in 1990. A reforming constitutional lawyer and senator in her early career, Mary held the presidency for seven eventful years, championing women’s rights in Ireland and laying the foundations for the Irish Peace Process.
Directed by Aoife Kelleher, another leader in her field, this is a fitting watch on Culture Night in Mayo, with one of our homegrown heroes in the spotlight.
All events are free to attend. Further information on Culture Night is available via thelinenhall.com or contact (094) 9023733 with queries.