Cork County Council is pleased to announce the allocation of €272,000 euro in funding to support festivals and events across the county under the 2026 Local Festival and Event Fund. A total of 63 festivals and events have been approved for funding following a competitive application process.

The Fund, delivered by Cork County Council with support from Fáilte Ireland, plays a key role in supporting sustainable festival development and attracting visitors. In 2026, Cork County Council received 90 high standard applications seeking over €706,000 in funding, which significantly exceeded the available budget, demonstrating the continued ambition of the sector. 

Of the successful applications, 55 small to medium-scale festivals and events will share €125,000 euro in funding, while 8 large-scale festivals and events have been allocated €147,000 euro to deliver large scale festivals and events with strong regional, national and international appeal. 

Festivals supported under the scheme span the entire calendar year and include a wide range of cultural, music, food, sporting and family-focused events across all municipal districts, contributing to local economic, enhancing community life and extending the tourism season. This is strategically important for Cork County Council, helping to sustain visitor activity, the hospitality trade and the subsequent local economic benefits outside the traditional peak summer period.

The 2026 programme will see festivals taking place throughout the year, with particularly strong activity during the shoulder and off-peak seasons, supporting Cork County Council’s strategic focus on sustainable tourism and regional development.