A County Alive with Creativity: Kildare’s Young Voices and Talents Shine at Cruinniú na nÓg 2026
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2 June 2026: Kildare County Council, in partnership with Creative Ireland Kildare, is delighted to once again bring Cruinniú na nÓg to communities across the county. Taking place on Saturday, 6 June 2026 , the event will see County Kildare’s young people take centre stage for Ireland’s national day of free creativity, showcasing their voices and talents through a wide-ranging programme of activities.
This year’s programme will feature a wide range of free workshops, performances, and creative experiences taking place across towns, villages, libraries, and cultural venues throughout the county.
Children and young people aged from 0 to 18 are invited to get involved and explore their creativity through a wide variety of activities including music-making, street art, digital media, dance, storytelling, film, theatre, and crafts. These opportunities are designed to inspire imagination, build confidence, and encourage participation.
Cruinniú na nÓg forms part of the Creative Ireland Programme’s commitment to ensuring that every child and young person in Ireland can realise their creative potential. In Kildare, the day reflects a strong and ongoing commitment to youth engagement, access, and creative expression.
Speaking about the event, the Cathaoirleach of the County of Kildare, Councillor Carmel Kelly, said: “Kildare County Council is committed to supporting young people in developing their creativity and sense of belonging. Cruinniú na nÓg offers a valuable opportunity for children and young people to express themselves, try something new, and engage with the arts in accessible and exciting ways.”
Gillian Allen, County Librarian & Creative Ireland Coordinator said: “We’re delighted to present another dynamic programme this year, shaped by young people and delivered in collaboration with artists, libraries, communities, and organisations across the county. There is something for everyone, whether you’re picking up a paintbrush for the first time or performing in front of an audience.”
This year’s celebrations are further enriched by the involvement of Meryem Atasever, Kildare’s Creative Youth Ambassador and member of Kildare’s Comhairle na nÓg, whose work highlights the importance of empowering young people to develop and share their own creative voices. Meryem said: “Creativity is a state of mind that you can learn to switch on and develop. It’s about freedom, problem-solving, and expressing yourself in your own way. In my own words, I would describe creativity as the colour that makes life more interesting.”
Naas Library & Cultural Centre will host a flagship day of events for all age groups from 0 to18 years including:
- Urban Art
- Youth band rock festival with Music Generation
- Seisiún Ceoil with Comhaltas Kildare
- Youth film screenings
- Sensory Lego adventures
- SING Ireland Choir Performances
- Creative Writing and much more.
For a full list of events taking place across the county, visit the Cruinniú na nÓg website: Cruinniú na nÓg
All events are free of charge, though some may require advance booking.
Cruinniú na nÓg is an initiative of the Government of Ireland, funded by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and Kildare County Council.
