Introduction
Monaghan County Council is delighted to launch a jam-packed programme for Cruinniú na nÓg 2025. The programme is coordinated by Creative Monaghan and delivered by artists, creatives and community organisations across County Monaghan.
Ireland is the first, and only, country in the world to have a national day of free creativity for children and young people under 18. Cruinniú na nÓg is a flagship initiative of the Creative Ireland Programme’s Creative Youth Plan to enable the creative potential of children and young people.
Following an open call to creative practitioners, artists and the wider community to get involved, a diverse, inclusive programme has been devised to reach children and young people across County Monaghan. From film, to dance, to arts and crafts,there is something for all ages to engage in.
We look forward to seeing children and young people engaging in the programme with plenty of laughter, all while learning through creativity and simply having fun together!
Cruinniú Projects
This year we are pleased to support several projects as part of our wider Cruinniú programme. These projects take place in the weeks leading up to Cruinniú na nÓg and culminate with an activity or presentation on Cruinniú Day. Projects are led by creative practitioners and provide children and young people with an opportunity to engage in creative activities over a sustained period of time.
Cruinniú Shared Island
The Cruinniú na nÓg – Shared Island initiative seeks to build on the experience and expertise of local authorities’ existing strategic north-south ambitions and transform them into a collaborative network across the island of Ireland. It intends to recognise and utilise the inherent creativity of all who live on the island of Ireland. This year Monaghan County Council received funding from the Shared Island Fund to support cross-border engagement in our Cruinniú programme. For more information on Cruinniú na nÓg go to www.creativeireland.gov.ie
Clay on Canvas Workshop - Carrickmacross
Design your very own ‘Clay on Canvas’ landscape, brought to life with vibrant powdered dyes! Perfect for beginners, this relaxing session encourages you to embrace your unique style while creating a stunning piece of art. No experience needed—just bring your imagination!
Workshop 1 (7 to 9 years) – 10:30 a.m.to 11:30 a.m. Workshop 2 (10 to 14 years) - 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.
Date: Saturday, 7th June Time: 10:30 a.m.to 11:30 a.m. & 11:30 a.m - 12:30 p.m.
Location: Carrickmacross Library, Carrickmacross, A81 HY83
Audience: 7 to 9 years and 10 to 14 years
Booking: Spaces are limited and booking is essential. To book contact Carrickmacross Library. Tel: 042 966 1148 Email: carrickmacrosslibrary@monaghancoco.ie
Clay on Canvas Workshop - Clones
Design your very own ‘Clay on Canvas’ landscape, brought to life with vibrant powdered dyes! Perfect for beginners, this relaxing session encourages you to embrace your unique style while creating a stunning piece of art.
No experience needed—just bring your imagination!
Date: Friday 6th June Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Location: Clones Library, 98 Avenue, Clones, H23 RW70
Audience: 8 +
Booking: Spaces are limited and booking is essential.
To book contact Clones Library: Tel: 047 74712
Email: cloneslibrary@monaghancoco.ie
“Shake, Rattle and Roll” Dance Performance
Young people in Castleblayney have been taking part in dance classes inspired by the music and moves of the Rock ‘n’ Roll era. The classes included lively dance styles capturing the energy of the theme “Shake, Rattle and Roll.” The project ran over 8 weeks and will culminate with a performance on Cruinniú Day, Saturday, 7th June.
Date: Saturday, 7th June Time: 7.30 p.m.
Location: Castleblayney Library, Castleblayney, A75 V383
Audience: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No booking required
Storytime in Castleblayney Library
Young people in Castleblayney have been on a creative journey!
Facilitated by local designer Jacinta Caraher they have created ‘A Story Sack’ with 3D characters. Come along on Cruinniú Day and enjoy a fun story time session where the characters will come to life!
Date: Saturday, 7th June
Time: 11.00a.m.
Location: Castleblayney Library, Castleblayney,A75 V383
Audience: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No booking required
Cruinniú Creative Day @ Íontas
Come join us in Íontas for an exciting day of art, movement and fun!
This year’s theme is CELTIC, where we’ll be making creative Celtic crafts, moving like mighty warriors, and even learning some cool Celtic dance moves! Let’s get creative as we blur the lines between art and drama and have a lot of fun together in the process!
Our Creative Day is all about exploring CELTIC creativity, making cool things with our hands, and with our movements, and all the while mixing the two together. Children are asked to bring a small snack and drink on the day, and to wear comfy old clothes.
Date: Saturday, 7th June 2025 Time: 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m
Location: Íontas Theatre and Arts Centre, Castleblayney, A75 HK09
Audience: 8 to 12 years
Booking: Spaces are limited and booking is required.
To book contact Dave by email on david@iontascastleblayney.ie or Text/WhatsApp 087 9107893 with your name, contact info and child’s name & age.
The Dyspraxic Céilí
The Dyspraxic Céilí brings the vibrant spirit of Irish cultural dancing to everyone, specially designed with neurodivergent young people and those with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) in mind.
Dance at your own pace in a welcoming space. Our specially trained instructors understand neurodivergent learning styles and use clear, step-by-step instructions paired with visual demonstrations. The gentle pacing and plenty of repetition ensure everyone can follow along comfortably.
Come along and discover the social connection, physical joy, and cultural richness of Irish dancing!
Date: Saturday, 7th June 2025 Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: Íontas Theatre and Arts Centre, Castleblayney, A75 HK09 Audience: 14 to 18 years
Booking: Spaces are limited and booking is required. To book contact Dave by email on david@iontascastleblayney.ie or Text/WhatsApp 087 9107893 with your name, contact info and young person’s name & age
Maidin Scéalaíochta agus Ceardaíochta as Gaeilge
Bígí linn i Leabharlann Bhaile Mhuineacháin fá choinne maidin scéalaíochta agus ceardaíochta draíochtúla as Gaeilge. Beidh tú tumtha i dtimpeallacht lán-Ghaeilge ina mbeidh traidisiún saibhir an bhéaloidis agus finscéalta na hÉireann i gcroílár na himeachta. Tabharfaidh an seanchaí na miotais ársa, na sióga diabhalta, agus na laochra gaisciúla ar an saol!
Cuireann Muineachán le Gaeilge agus Leabharlann Bhaile Mhuineacháin fearadh na fáilte roimh theaghlaigh draíocht na scéalta traidisiúnta a bhrath agus sult a bhaint as gníomhaíochtaí spraíúla i dtimpeallacht compordach, cairdiúil. Scaoil le do shamhlaíocht agus tú ag éisteacht le scéalta a sheachadadh ar aghaidh ó ghlúin go glúin agus a chuireann go mór le hoidhreacht chultúrtha bhríomhar na hÉireann.
Date: Dé Sathairn, 7ú Meitheamh | Saturday, 7th June
Time: 11:00 r.n. go 1:00 i.n. | 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Location: Leabharlann Bhaile Mhuineacháin, Baile Mhuineacháin, H18 RP20
Monaghan Town Library, Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Audience: Gach aois | Suitable for all ages
Booking: Ní gá áirithint a dhéanamh | No booking required
The Dangerous Harpist in her Cloud Truck
She may look whimsical, but don’t be fooled—The Dangerous Harpist is armed with a harp and zero fear. Ursula Burns plays bold, brilliant music from Harpula’s Pandorium—a tiny cloud-covered truck with big vibes. Family-friendly, slightly surreal, and totally unmissable.
Date: Saturday, 7th June 2025
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: Monaghan Peace Campus. Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Audience: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No booking required
Wonderful Walkabout Costumed Juggler
Keep your eyes peeled... there’s a mysterious juggler on the loose! Dressed to dazzle and full of circus charm, our costumed walkabout performer will be roaming throughout the day—juggling, joking, and spreading joy. Catch them if you can and maybe even learn a trick or two!
Date: Saturday, 7th June
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: Monaghan Peace Campus. Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Audience: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No booking required
Out of the Blue Show
All the way from Turin! Wash away your troubles with this wonderfully subversive and interactive circus show by leading Italian female clown Fra Martó, all about doing the laundry. Immerse yourself in laughter and bubbles. Never has trying to keep the house clean been so much fun!
Date: Saturday, 7th June 2025
Time: 12:45p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
Location: Monaghan Peace Campus. Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Audience: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No booking required
Feel the Rhythm! Spoons and Body Percussion Performance
Children in Monaghan have been discovering the captivating world of wooden spoon percussion and body rhythms in this dynamic workshop series! Under the expert guidance of professional musician Hanna Shchokina, they have mastered the traditional art of wooden spoon playing and created exciting rhythms through claps, stomps, and body percussion.
Come along on Cruinniú Day and ‘feel the rhythm’ as the group showcase their new skills at a special performance!
Date: Saturday, 7th June Time: 1:30 p.m.
Location: Monaghan Peace Campus. Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Audience: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No booking required
Have a go at being a Circus Performer!
Unleash your inner performer at our ‘drop in’ Circus Arts Workshop! Step into a world of wonder as you master hoop tricks, defy gravity with plate spinning, and discover the magical arts of the circus ring! This is a fun, relaxed workshop suitable for all ages. All you need is a sense of adventure and a willingness to embrace the extraordinary!
Date: Saturday, 7th June 2025
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: Monaghan Peace Campus. Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Audience: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No booking required
Make Your Own Nature Jewellery Workshop
Make jewellery from nature with Monaghan County Museum! Humans have been inspired by the beauty of nature to adorn and decorate ourselves for as long as we have been creating art. In this drop-in workshop we will work with foraged and found ‘treasures’ of nature to create a temporary piece of jewellery for you to wear. Celebrate the summer in full bloom as you create a necklace or bracelet fit for the fairies!
Date: Saturday, 7th June
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: Monaghan Peace Campus. Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Audience: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No booking required
Create Your Own Offering Bowl Workshop
Join Monaghan County Museum for a relaxed clay workshop where creativity meets intention. This is a space to slow down, connect with your hands, and shape something meaningful from the earth.
In this session, you’ll be guided through creating your own offering bowl—a simple yet powerful vessel for holding wishes, prayers, or small treasures. We’ll enhance each piece with imprints from nature, adding texture and symbolism. Let the clay centre you. Leave with something beautiful, made by your own hands.
Date: Saturday, 7th June 2025
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: Monaghan Peace Campus. Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Audience: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No booking required
Sensory Room
Get creative in our sensory room featuring a rich variety of texture experiences, thoughtful décor, ambient lighting, and soothing music. Our facilitator will be present to enhance your sensory journey and guide you through gentle movements.
Date: Saturday, 7th June
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: Monaghan Peace Campus. Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Audience: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No booking required
Mark Making with Siobhán - Print Art Workshop
An inclusive art programme, inviting children and young people of all ages and abilities, to explore print making using everyday items like sponges, Lego and kitchen utensils, to create vibrant collages.
Date: Saturday, 7th June
Time: Workshop 1 - 10:45am and Workshop 2 - 1:45pm
Location: Monaghan Peace Campus. Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Audience: Suitable for all ages
Booking: Please note that, whilst booking is not essential, spaces are limited.
Once Upon a Time in Monaghan - Storyboarding for Short Film Workshop
In this interactive drop-in workshop, you’ll learn the art of storyboarding—the essential visual planning process used by professional filmmakers to map out their creative vision. You’ll discover how to craft a series of compelling drawings that bring your story to life, scene by scene.
Dive into a world where Monaghan becomes your film set and your creativity knows no bounds! Create original characters or reimagine figures from Irish folklore and global myths. Whether you’re retelling ancient legends or inventing entirely new ones, you’ll craft a captivating 1 to 3 minute film concept rooted in the rich landscapes of Monaghan.
Perfect for young storytellers ready to visualize their imagination and learn professional filmmaking techniques. No experience needed—just bring your creativity and watch as your unique vision unfolds frame by exciting frame!
Date: Saturday, 7th June
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m
Location: Monaghan Peace Campus. Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Audience: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No booking required
Exploring Myths and Legends Film Screening
Young people from Monaghan and Fermanagh have come together to gain an insight into the world of storytelling, drama and film making! Facilitated by creative practitioner Eve Li and Re-Act Productions, they had the opportunity to gain experience of technical filmmaking, including, directing, camerawork, lighting and post-production.
They explored and exchanged, stories, myths and legends from the border region and beyond. Inspired by their own creative responses, they have made 2 short films. The films will be screened at the Cruinniú Day celebration in Monaghan Peace Campus on Saturday, 7th June.
This project was funded by the Shared Island Initiative
Date: Screenings on Saturday, 7th June Time: 10:30 to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Monaghan Peace Campus. Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Audience: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No booking required
Famous Faces Exhibition
A celebration of learning, creativity and expression! Join us for an inspiring exhibition where art and education come together! Students from Ballybay Community College have researched influential figures across various subjects and created original artworks representing global icons. Supported by professional local artists they have developed new artistic skills by trying out a range of creative practices. Support our talented young artists as they showcase their dedication and creativity. Family, friends, and the entire community are warmly welcomed to this special exhibition.
Date: Saturday, 7th June
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m
Location: Monaghan Peace Campus. Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Audience: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No booking required
‘Our Town’ Visual Art Exhibition
The ‘Our Town’ Photography and Painting Project gave children and young people the opportunity to create their very own masterpiece! They learnt how to take photographs and how to turn them into art pieces using painting techniques and collages. Supported by professional artists, they have put together an exhibition for everyone to enjoy! This project was facilitated by local artists Mary Scott, Barbara Golec-Regiec and Andrea Soto.
Date: Saturday, 7th June
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: Monaghan Peace Campus. Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Audience: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No booking required
‘The
Glow Girls’
This fun and interactive creative workshop series, designed exclusively for girls aged 10-14, took place in Clones Library. Facilitated by Shelly McGee, The Glow Girls created a supportive space where young women explored the foundations of confidence, gratitude, self-care, and creative expression. The group will showcase their work at the Cruinniú Day event in Monaghan Peace
Date: Saturday, 7th June
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Monaghan Peace Campus. Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Audience: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No booking required
Clay and Play Night with Foróige
Where creativity meets self-care in a vibrant, inclusive environment designed specifically for young people. Try out a variety of creative activities including clay and fashion design. Learn to prepare quick and delicious meals that fuel your body and take part in relaxing and creative mindfulness activities!
This event is coordinated by Foróige and open to Foróige members across County Monaghan.
Funded by the Nighttime Economy Unit
Date: Saturday, 7th June
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Location: Foróige Space, Monaghan Peace Campus. Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Audience: 14 to 18 years
Booking: To book contact your Foróige leader.
‘Turn Junk into Art’
Come and discover how your everyday items can become amazing art! Join Artist Aisling Slattery Fanning for a Junk Art’ workshop! Play with different materials, add fun layers to your artwork, and even include your own drawings. It’s all about showing that art is for everyone and that we can turn things we might throw away into something beautiful! All materials provided.
Friday, 6th June: Mums and Tots Workshop: 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Saturday, 7th June: 5 to 11 years workshop: 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Family workshop: 2:00 to 3:30 p.m.
Teen workshop: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Date: Friday, 6th June and Saturday, 7th June
Time: See blurb for details
Location: The Garage Theatre, Monaghan Town, H18 XE98
Booking: Spaces are limited and booking is required. To book contact The Garage Theatre on 047 39777.
‘A
Hint of Snow White’ Theatre Experience
MOCO Music Academy invite you to experience the wonder of the theatre on Cruinniú Day! Come see the magical story of Snow White, her friendly helpers (the Dream Team) and the not-so-nice Queen Malodorous!
Date: Saturday, 7th June
Time: 3:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.
Location: The Garage Theatre, Monaghan Town, H18 XE98
Audience: Suitable for all ages
Booking: Booking is required.
Book here: https://garagetheatre.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873668875
Thinking Outside Your Box! Creative Thinking Workshops
Under the expert guidance of Monaghan-based Creative Practitioner Tina Murphy, students in two schools will explore diverse techniques designed to spark and nurture their creative thinking abilities. Through immersive experiences in music and art, they will be empowered to express themselves authentically, journey through their imagination, and develop crucial skills for enhancing mental wellbeing. This project is restricted to participating schools.
Students will showcase some of their work as part of the children’s art exhibition at the Cruinniú Day Celebration event in Monaghan Peace Campus.
‘Grounded’ – A Teach na nDaoine Community Arts Project
Using a variety of creative mediums, these community arts workshops provided children and young people with the opportunity to explore the themes of identity, wellbeing and relationship building.
Activities included card making, egg painting, clay making and other creative activities inspired by the theme ‘grounded’
Participants will exhibit their clay creations on Cruinniú Day at the celebration event in Monaghan Peace Campus.
Date: Exhibition on Saturday, 7th June
Time: 10:30 to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Monaghan Peace Campus. Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Audience: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No booking required
Project Children by Music Generation
Music Generation Cavan/Monaghan proudly presents an extraordinary musical collaboration commemorating Project Children’s 50th anniversary! This landmark initiative unites young musicians in a powerful celebration of harmony and heritage. This project will honour five decades of community building through the universal language of music, inspiring the next generation while paying tribute to this remarkable milestone. For further information follow Music Generation Cavan/Monaghan on social media