WHAT IS CULTURE NIGHT?
Culture Night is an annual all-island public event that celebrates culture, creativity, and the arts. This year, it will take place on Friday, 19th September. From 4pm onwards, cultural venues across County Monaghan will stay open for everyone to come enjoy the unique experience of Culture Night, a free night of fun, entertainment, and discovery. Monaghan has a vibrant rich cultural community, and this is a great opportunity to sample the area’s cultural and creative offerings for free throughout the evening. We are delighted to have so many organisations involved, and we hope you enjoy exploring the rich cultural landscape of County Monaghan. From storytelling to music spectacles, various arts and crafts workshops, heritage events and exhibitions, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
All events are free to access but remember booking maybe required.
SENSORY MARKS, SENSORY SOUNDS
Sensory Marks; Join artist Siobhan Maguire for an inspiring workshop of collaborative printmaking, inclusive of people with intellectual disabilities. Explore markmaking and printing techniques to create a communal artwork that will become the stunning backdrop for the Sensory Sounds event.
Sensory Sounds: Experience an evening of sensory-friendly music and performance in a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. This event is designed to engage the senses gently and joyfully, offering a space where everyone can enjoy live music, movement, and artistic expression in a way that feels safe and accessible.
Venue: Camphill Community, Corraskea, Ballybay Co. Monaghan, A75 E065
Sensory Marks Time: 5:00pm to 6:30pm
Sensory Sounds Time: 7:00pm to 9:00pm
Booking: jaki.maughan.ballybay@camphill.ie
‘A HOLE IN HEAVEN’S GABLE’
Exhibition by Geraldine Martin
This event marks the opening of an exhibition of new work by south Monaghan artist Geraldine Martin. Geraldine is an accomplished artist and illustrator whose design work will be familiar to anyone that attended the Kavanagh Weekend and July Evening festivals over the years.
Music by Tiarnán Ó Duinchinn and Donal McCague. This reception is open to the wider public, young and old.
Venue: Round Tower Church, Inniskeen, A91 D1WT Time: 7:00pm to 8:00pm
Booking: No booking required
CELEBRATING COMMUNITY THROUGH SONG AND STORY
We are delighted to invite you to our inaugural Culture Night celebration in our newly opened Community Centre. Join us for an evening of music, storytelling, and conversation, as we come together to celebrate the richness of our local culture and the warmth of community spirit!
Venue: Magheracloone Community Centre, Knocknacran East, Magheracloone, Carrickmacross, Co Monaghan, A81HC99
Time: 8:00pm to 10:00pm Booking: Booking required. To book contact Maghercloone Community Centre on 087 4837602
THE ART OF PARABOLA
Discover the beauty of curves made from straight lines in this relaxing and creative 1.5-hour workshop using parabolic stitching techniques. Perfect for adults of all skill levels — no experience necessary!
What’s Included:
• All materials provided, including sustainable yarns reclaimed from the renowned Liz Christy weaving studio
• An Irish-made picture frame to mount your finished piece
• Easy-to-follow written and pictorial instructions so you can work at your own pace and continue creating at home
This workshop is facilitated by Hannah McMahon, CONVERT.
Venue: Carrickmacross Library, Carrickmacross, A81 HY83
Time: 6.00 pm to 7:30 pm Booking: Spaces are limited and booking is essential. To book contact Carrickmacross Library on 042 966 1148 or carrickmacrosslibrary@monaghancoco.ie
HEAR MONAGHAN PLAY
Experience the vibrant spirit of County Monaghan at this live music performance featuring talented young musicians from the local community. This uplifting event showcases original and traditional works by Monaghan composers, brought to life by the next generation of performers. Developed and rehearsed in the lead-up to Culture Night, this free public event celebrates community pride and youth creativity.
Venue: Tin Church, Laragh, Co. Monaghan, A75 RH32
Time: 6:45pm to 7:45pm
Booking: No booking required
CELEBRATION OF BLAYNEY SESSION
Join us in The Foyer of Íontas for a special cultural celebration of the town and its people. An exciting evening of session tunes led by local musicians, interspersed by recitations, storytelling, poetry, drama, and much more! We will also welcome anyone who wishes to perform a piece of their own, whether a song, story or otherwise… The more the merrier!
Anyone who wishes to participate by performing a piece of their own, let us know, by email david@iontascastleblayney.ie or by text 087 9107893. Íontas Kitchen will also serve all attendees with a delicious meal of traditional Irish fayre! A night not to be missed!
Venue: Íontas, Conabury, Castleblayney, A75 HK09 Time: 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Booking: Booking Required. Book your free ticket on the Íontas website
BIG TOM - A LIFE OF SONG
Step into a night of heartfelt music and storytelling as we honour the life and legacy of Big Tom, one of Ireland’s most beloved country music icons. Big Tom: A Life in Song is a moving tribute that celebrates the man behind the music, bringing his unforgettable journey to the stage through the songs that made him a household name.
Featuring a talented lineup of performers, this live show will take audiences on a nostalgic journey filled with emotion, laughter, and cherished memories. Through powerful musical performances and specially crafted stage sketches, key moments from Big Tom’s life will be brought vividly to life — from his early days in Castleblayney to his rise as the King of Irish Country.
Whether you grew up listening to Big Tom or are discovering his music for the first time, this event promises a joyous and touching evening that captures the spirit of a true legend.
Venue: Oram Community Centre, Oram, Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan, A75 DX85 Time: 9:00pm – 10:00 pm Booking: No booking required
TEEN ART WORKSHOP
(12 - 17 YEARS)
Take a break, get creative, and express yourself in this inclusive and relaxing art workshop designed just for teens. Each participant will have the chance to explore a variety of materials and techniques—painting, drawing, mixed media—and create a unique piece of art to take home. Whether you’re a budding artist or just looking for a fun way to unwind, this workshop is all about creativity, self-expression, and enjoying some time to make something truly your own.
Venue: Clones Library, 98 Avenue, Clones, Co. Monaghan, H23 RW70 Time: 5:00pm to 6:00pm
Booking: Spaces are limited and booking is required. To book contact Clones Library on 047 74712 or cloneslibrary@monaghancoco.ie
TEXTURED CANVAS WORKSHOP
Facilitated by Masterapiece, discover the joy of texture and abstract art in this fun, beginner-friendly workshop! Using clay, beads, and canvas, participants will be guided step-by-step to create their own unique, tactile artwork to take home. Led in a relaxed and welcoming environment, this session is perfect for anyone curious about trying something new—no experience needed! All materials and creative support are provided to help you explore texture, colour, and composition in your own way.
Venue: Clones Library, 98 Avenue, Clones, Co. Monaghan, H23 RW70 Time: 6:00pm -7:00 pm.
Booking: Spaces are limited and booking is required. To book contact Clones Library on 047 74712 or cloneslibrary@monaghancoco.ie
CLONES & CROSS BORDER
ART
GROUP EXHIBITION
Clones & Cross Border Art Group invite you to explore their latest exhibition, showcasing a vibrant collection of paintings, drawings, and mixed media works created by local artists. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious, come along to enjoy an evening of colour, conversation, and creativity in the heart of your local library.
Venue: Clones Library, 98 Avenue, Clones, Co. Monaghan, H23 RW70
Time: 6:00 pm - 7:30pm Booking: No booking required
CLONES FILM FESTIVAL CULTURE
NIGHT SCREENING
Each year, Clones Film Festival marks Culture Night with a specially curated selection of cinematic highlights from its annual programme. Audiences are invited to enjoy a rich mix of short films, documentaries, and feature films from both Ireland and around the world. This event showcases the power of film to reflect diverse cultures, spark conversation, and celebrate creativity. Whether you’re a film enthusiast or simply curious, come along and experience stories that inspire, challenge, and connect us.
Venue: Clones Courthouse Time: 8:30 pm Booking: No booking required
ANNAGHMAKERRIG SESSION: DANI LARKIN
Songwriter and virtuoso guitarist Dani Larkin returns to Annaghmakerrig as a performer. An electrifying singersongwriter and folk award nominee, Dani’s live performance is sure to be captivating.
6.30pm- Join us for a mini-tour of the Big House, studios and lakeside gardens in the Tyrone Guthrie Centre artists’ residence and workplace.
6.30pm-7.30pm: Tea & Coffee available 8.00pm: Annaghmakerrig Session, Dani Larkin
Venue: Dance Studio, The Tyrone Guthrie Centre at Annaghmakerrig, Newbliss, Co Monaghan, H18 PP70 Time: 6:30 pm – 9:00pm Booking: Free event/ booking required. To book, email culturenight@monaghancoco.ie
Cultúr i gCorr na gCoillte (le mic oscailte)
Join us for a vibrant, bilingual celebration of Irish culture at Cornagilta, featuring music, song, dance, literature, language, and storytelling. This special Culture Night event invites everyone—from fluent Irish speakers to those with just a cúpla focail— to come together and enjoy the richness of our shared heritage. Renowned storytellers Paddy O’Brien and Colum Sands (Drumlin Storytelling Festival) will also take part in the programme. This event is open to all ages
Venue: Cornagilta School and Heritage Centre, Tydavnet, Co.Monaghan H18ED89 Time: 8:00pm Booking: Spaces limited and booking required. Ticket Tailor: https://buytickets.at/monaghancountylibraries/1794993
Cuairt gCleamairl
Bí linn fá choinne oíche dhraíochtúil ag Campas Síochána Mhuineacháin agus Cleamairí Feirste ag cur brí agus anam i gcultúr na hÉireann!
Líonfaidh na scéalaithe, na filí, na hamhránaithe, na ceoltóirí agus na cainteoirí Gaeilge cumasacha seo an t-atmaisféar le fuaimeanna agus scéalta ár n-oidhreachta - uilig trí mheán na Gaeilge.
Bí ag súil le scéalta, filíocht, ceol agus amhráin na hÉireann, ag críochnú le céilí bríomhar ina bhfuil fáilte roimh chách páirt a ghlacadh ann.
Ceiliúradh suáilceach ar theanga, thraidisiún agus spiorad pobail atá ann - ná caill é!
Join us for a magical evening at Monaghan Peace Campus as the Cleamairí Feirste bring the heart of Irish culture to life! These talented storytellers, poets, singers, musicians, and Irish speakers will fill the atmosphere with the sounds and stories of our heritage — all as Gaeilge.
Expect Irish tales, poetry, music, and song, culminating in a lively céilí where everyone is welcome to join the dance.
A joyful celebration of language, tradition, and community spirit — not to be missed!
Venue: Campas Síochána Mhuineacháin, Bóthar na Muineachán, H18 RP20.
Time: 7:00 in – 8:00 in
Booking: Ní gá áirithint a dhéanamh
THE SPIRIT OF TRADOODLE
HANDBAND
PUPPET-MAKING WORKSHOP
HandBand Puppet Workshop with Anne Cradden (Ages 7+). Get ready for a burst of creativity and fun! Join visual artist Anne Cradden for a playful workshop where children (and their grownups!) can dive into the world of imaginative puppet-making. Using all sorts of quirky and colourful recycled materials, you’ll create your very own HandBand Puppet — maybe a punk princess, a singing alien, a jazzy jungle cat… or whatever character your child dreams up! Once the puppets are made, children can join the Tradoodle Big Band Session and bring their characters to life. A joyful, hands-on experience perfect for sparking creativity and making memories together. Parents/guardians stay throughout — and are encouraged to join the fun
Venue: Monaghan Town Library, Monaghan Peace Campus, Monaghan Town, H18 RP20. Time: 5:30 pm. to 6:30 pm
Booking: Spaces are limited and booking is essential. Eventbrite https://www. eventbrite.ie/e/handband-puppet-making-workshop-with-anne-cradden-tickets1631141240359?aff=oddtdtcreator
TRADOODLE LAUNCH WITH THE
TRADOODLE BIG BAND AND GARADICE
An evening of music awaits as we celebrate the launch of the 8th Annual Tradoodle Festival. Join the Tradoodle Big Band for a boogie! Feel free to bring along an instrument and join in, or if you prefer, sit back, relax, and listen to some tantalising tunes.
Then, settle in for a stunning performance by Tradoodle Festival headliners Garadice, a phenomenal traditional ensemble who bring a rich, soulful blend of traditional and contemporary Irish music..
Venue: Monaghan Peace Campus, Monaghan Town, H18 RP20. Time: 6:30pm – 8:00pm Booking: No booking required
FAMILY STORYTIME IN MONAGHAN LIBRARY
Come along for a special storytelling session with Senem Donatan Mohan, a well-known storyteller and author based in Dublin. Originally from Turkey, Senem shares exciting stories from around the world that spark children’s curiosity about nature and the world around them.
Her storytelling encourages children to ask questions, think creatively, and imagine new possibilities. It’s a fun and inspiring event for the whole family!
Venue: Monaghan Town Library, Monaghan Peace Campus, Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Time: 5:30pm to 6:00pm
Booking: No booking required
BEHIND THE MUSEUM DOORS:
THE MAKING OF THE ‘PROJECT CHILDREN STORIES’ EXHIBITION
Meet the team, explore the process, and see how objects and stories become an exhibition. Tours are available at 5pm and 7pm – Groups should meet at reception in the Peace Campus
Please note that this tour is suitable for adults only. Numbers are very limited.
Venue: Monaghan Peace Campus Monaghan Town, H18 RP20.
Time: 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Booking: Spaces are limited and booking is required: To book contact Monaghan County Museum on 047 82928
A NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM STORYTELLING SESSION!
Drumlin Storytelling Festival and Monaghan Museum come together for a live storytelling session in the unique surroundings of Monaghan County Museum.
Join our professional tellers for stories on a different level and an unforgettable night at the Museum.
Venue: Monaghan Peace Campus, Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Time: 7:00pm to 8:00pm Booking: No booking required
ARMAGH AND MONAGHAN URBAN SKETCHING EXHIBITION
An exhibition of work created by artists who took part in summer workshops in Armagh and Monaghan with artist Lynsey Mc Kernan
Venue: Monaghan Peace Campus, Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Time: 6:00pm to 8:00pm Booking: No booking required
ABSTRACT HERITAGE EXHIBITION
Originally from Guatemala and now living in Monaghan, visual artist Andrea Soto has found in Ireland not only a new home, but a place where her artistic voice has flourished. For this special Culture Night edition, Andrea presents a compelling series of abstract paintings that reflect the dialogue between her Guatemalan heritage and her life in Ireland.
Through vibrant colour, light, and expressive form, Andrea distills the essence of her native land—its landscapes, warmth, and spirit—while also honouring the journey that brought her to Ireland. Her work is both a celebration of identity and a heartfelt gesture of gratitude to the country that embraced her.
During the exhibition, Andrea will host a live artistic activity inspired by the central theme of cultural connection. Open to all ages, this interactive experience invites visitors to engage with Guatemalan culture through art, encouraging creativity, curiosity, and conversation.
Venue: Monaghan Peace Campus, Monaghan Town, H18 RP20
Time: 6:00pm to 8:00pm Booking: No booking required
ART FLOW STUDIO EXHIBITION
To celebrate this year’s Culture Night, Art Flow Studio will present a vibrant exhibition featuring artwork from around the world!
Travelling has always been a lifelong passion for Rosanna Myles and collecting local art during her journeys has allowed her to share the stories and cultural experiences she’s gathered along the way. In this special collaboration, Art Flow Studio will create original pieces inspired by the stories and artifacts Rosanna has collected from countries including South America, India, Africa, and Vietnam. Join us on the evening to experience the cultural beauty, history, and treasures from these faraway lands.
Venue: Art Flow Studio, Unit 1, Lakeside Walk, North Road, Monaghan Town.
Time: 5:00 pm to 9:00pm
Booking: No booking required
PYGMALION’S STATUE IS A LOLITA
A haunting, dialogue-free short film that reimagines grooming as the act of sculpting. Pygmalion’s Statue Is a Lolita follows an adult woman shaped into a fetish by a controlling older man. Through faceless compositions, static frames, and symbolic imagery, the film critiques the male gaze, objectification, and the violence beneath aesthetic obsession. As the sculptor’s fantasy unravels, the statue begins to break, flee, and reclaim herself. A dark feminist reckoning with silence, power, and the myth of transformation where creation is control, and escape is the only act of selfhood.
Trigger Warning: Contains depictions of grooming, coercion, and implied sexual violence. Viewer discretion is strongly advised.
Venue: The Garage Theatre, Monaghan Education Campus, Armagh Road, Monaghan H18 XE9
Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Please note - this is a 10-minute short film installation played on a loop. Booking: No booking required
SHE.HER.ME
-AN ART WORKSHOP FOR WOMEN
Take time for yourself in a creative, supportive space designed just for women. Led by artist Aisling Slattery Fanning, She.Her.Me is a relaxing and inspiring art class where you can unwind, connect, and express yourself through painting, drawing, and mixed media. Together with other women, you’ll explore your creativity and create an original artwork that celebrates you. No experience needed—just bring your curiosity and a willingness to enjoy some well-deserved me time. All materials provided. Open to women of all backgrounds.
Venue: The Garage Theatre, Monaghan Education Campus, Armagh Road, Monaghan, H18 XE9 Time: 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Booking: Spaces are limited and booking is required. To book contact The Garage Theatre on 047 39777
CHAT THROUGH THE BLUES
Join us for a special Culture Night event featuring live performances by acclaimed musicians Grainne Duffy and Paul Sherry, followed by an intimate Q&A session exploring their creative journeys, songwriting processes, and experiences in the music industry.
This interactive evening offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from two talented artists about the highs and challenges of life on the road, the evolution of their unique sounds, and the realities of promoting music in today’s digital world.
Whether you’re a music lover, aspiring artist, or curious about the creative process, this event promises inspiration, connection, and behind-the-scenes stories from two of Monaghan’s finest.
Venue: The Garage Theatre, Monaghan Education Campus, Armagh Road, Monaghan, H18 XE9 Time: 8:00pm to 10:00pm
Booking: Spaces are limited and booking is required: https://www.garagetheatre.com/event/culture-night-2025/
UKE JAM
Sound in Motion is excited to bring the Uke Jam back to Monaghan for Culture Night! This lively, feelgood music session brings together ukulele enthusiasts from across the region—including the Clones, Greenan’s Cross, Carrickmacross, and Castleblayney uke hubs—for an evening of rhythm, harmony, and community.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned strummer, this event is all about sharing the love of music in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Led by passionate facilitators, Uke Jam is a chance to play, sing, and connect with others through the simple joy of making music together. Bring your uke, your voice, and your good vibes
Venue: McKenna’s Bar, 62 Dublin Street, Monaghan Town, H18 HD92
Time: 6:00 pm
Booking: No booking required
SHARING TRAD
Award winning harpist Evelyn McCaul will bring Culture Night to several nursing homes in the county. Evelyn will facilitate a performance of traditional music and song for all to enjoy! Attendance at these events is restricted to residents of participating nursing homes.
Venue: Events restricted to participating nursing homes
Comhairle Chontae Mhuineachaín Monaghan County Council
To find out more on Culture Night go to www.culturenight.ie
Culture Night is brought to you by the Arts Council in partnership with Monaghan County Council
We want to thank all the organisations, groups and individuals for taking part in Culture Night Monaghan 2025.
For further information contact culturenight@monaghancoco.ie | www.monaghan.ie | facebook.com/culturenightmonaghan
Follow us on Twitter @culturenight and @MonaghanCoCo Follow us on Instagram @culturenightmonaghan and use hashtags #CultureNight #OícheChultúir #OneNightForAll
Comhairle Chontae Mhuineachaín Monaghan County Council