2025 looks set to be another cracking year around Ireland. Although this applies to the whole country, no place exemplifies this better than Cork. Located in the province of Munster, this is a city with a rich cultural heritage and a penchant for having fun. This means there’s always plenty to keep locals and visitors busy here.
Whether it’s playing the latest online slots at home or dining out at one of the city’s many restaurants, spending time in Cork is never dull. The sheer number of events happening in the city each year only adds to its appeal, and 2025 is set to confirm this once more and remind everyone why Cork is such a popular place.
What are some of the best events to know about in the coming year?
Cork International Choral Festival
This is one of the most highly regarded international choral festivals in Europe, and it always delivers truly exceptional performances. The Cork International Choral Festival is also known for a wide-ranging programme and an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere. It’s set to take place from 30th April to 4th May in 2025 around Cork’s City Hall.
When the festival is running, the city will welcome choirs from Ireland and around the world. It will also see masses of visitors arrive to take in the various performances. This will include gala concerts, international choral competitions and national choral competitions.
The fun that this festival brings is not confined to the venues; it spills onto the streets of Cork. This makes it a superb event to check out. If you can’t get enough of this kind of music around Ireland in 2025, the Blackwater Opera Festival in County Waterford is also worth a look.
Cork Midsummer Festival
There are lots of reasons to visit Cork, but the range of events here is perhaps the main draw. Another top-class example is the annual Midsummer Festival. This is set to take place from 13th to 22nd June and includes a diverse set of performances to enjoy. From the best in Irish music to dance and theatre performances, it’s an event you won’t want to miss out on.
The line-up details are slowly being announced, and there are already some interesting shows slated for the festival. The play Second Woman, for example, sees star Eileen Walsh performing for 24 hours. A cabaret-style performance called Happy Hour is scheduled for the Everyman and will bring a unique vibe to the city.
Cork on a Fork Fest
While music might be a key part of Irish culture, food and drinks are not far behind. This is certainly true in Cork and means that the food-themed Cork on a Fork Fest is a real winner. Set to be held from 13th to 17th August 2025, it will bring together the very best from the local culinary scene.
If you check out this festival, expect to sample some of the finest produce from local farmers and the tastiest ingredients from regional growers. The five days of this event include dining experiences, food events, cooking demonstrations, and plenty of tasty treats. There is also a children’s programme to keep the little ones happy!
Guinness Cork Jazz Festival
Music is just as important in Cork as it is across the rest of Ireland. In the city of Cork itself, the upcoming Guinness Cork Jazz Festival at the end of October sums this up. As one of the top jazz festivals in all of Europe, it is a must for any serious music lover in the area.
It not only attracts a host of jazz enthusiasts from around the world but also some of the top jazz musicians. Although the line-up has not been confirmed by the organisers yet, you can expect to see the best in jazz playing at iconic venues such as Cork Opera House.
Cork is set to enjoy another stellar year in 2025
While Dublin might take a lot of headlines, Cork is rightfully still known as one of the best places to have fun in Ireland. It’s easy to see why when you consider the range of top-class events in the city to check out in 2025. All of these events show just what makes Cork so special.
