Who we are

Cork Cultural Companions is an Age & Opportunity Arts initiative, delivered by Muintir Cork and supported by the HSE and Cork City and County Councils. Cork Cultural Companions has local networks of members who attend events together regularly in Cork City, Mallow, Bantry and East Cork.

Tuesday, 4 August 2026

Irish Design Works Exhibition Ballymaloe Grainstory

24th July - 16th August 2026

Irish Design Works, is an exhibition of contemporary work by a select group of Ireland’s top designers and makers hosted in Ballymaloe Grainstore.

Showcasing a mix of disciplines including furniture, ceramics, artisan rugs and knives, and sculptural works in wood and glass. Drop in to enjoy exceptional craft and design, to acquire a unique investment piece, or to commission something bespoke.

A selection of makers will be present at the show each weekend. 
Free entry. All welcome. 




Heritage Week events at Mayfield Library

 Daily Rituals

Join us at Mayfield Library for a Poetry reading with Mona Lynch. Mona launched her debut poetry collection 'Daily Rituals' during Bealtaine in the City Library this year. She is published in Quarryman, Swerve, Howl, Examiner, Poetry in the Park, Voices from the Land, World Transformed, Southword, and The Waxed Lemon. She is 85 and grew up in Blarney, moving to Douglas in 1964 where she has lived since with her husband Liam. She has four sons, one daughter and ten grandchildren. She graduated with an MA in creative writing in UCC in 2018 aged 77. The award of an Arts Council grant enabled her to work with Tom McCarthy on her first collection.

#MayfieldLibrary #HeritageWeek  #HeritageWeek2026

 

Can Linn

Can Linn - Sing with us! Séisiún amhránaíochta spraíúil as Gaeilge. A fun singalong in Irish at Mayfield Library. Fáilte roimh cách.

#MayfieldLibrary #HeritageWeek  #HeritageWeek2026

 

Gathering Tales

Let’s go on a story and sound trail around the Glen River Park, gathering story threads inspired by the park, it’s heritage and environment. Be a sound explorer and search for the sound makers of the park. Step into someone else’s shoes/paws/webbed feet…imagine their world and create your own stories. Remember, stories can be written down, drawn, recited out loud, whispered to the trees.

Whatever type of storyteller you are, you are welcome to this fun workshop! Bring your favourite notebook and pencil/pen.

A relaxed, fun workshop for children aged 5 to 10 years with writer, Ann Dalton of Seoid Productions. Meet in Ballyhooley Road carpark, 11 am on Saturday 15th August.

#Mayfield Library #HeritageWeek  #HeritageWeek2026

 

A Walk Down the Glen

A guided heritage walk in the Glen River Park with Gerard O’Brien, author of the comprehensive and beautifully illustrated history of the Glen - “Faeries, Felons and Fine Gentlemen : A History of the Glen”. Join Gerard for a walk through this peaceful oasis set secluded in an otherwise busy urban landscape. Meet in Ballyhooley Road car park, 2.30 pm on Saturday, 22nd August.

#Mayfield Library #HeritageWeek  #HeritageWeek2026

Bat Walk in Ballincollig for Heritage Week

 

Join us for a guided walk and talk to learn about the fascinating ecology of bats.

Welcome to a Heritage Week Bat Walk in Ballincollig Regional Park, starting inside Cork Biodiversity Hub. Join us on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 at 8:00 PM for an event exploring the nocturnal world of bats.

Starting with a short talk on bat ecology, get ready to learn fascinating facts about these creatures while enjoying a leisurely stroll through the park.

This event is perfect for nature enthusiasts and anyone curious about the wildlife that calls Ballincollig Regional Park their home. Our guides will lead the way, providing insight into the behaviour and habitats of bats, and demonstrating the use of 'bat detectors'. Don't forget to bring comfortable shoes, a spare flashlight (if you have one), warm clothes and a sense of adventure!

Booking essential. Places are limited. All children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. We hope to see you there!

This event has been organised through collaboration between Cork City Biodiversity Officers, Cork Biodiversity Hub and Bat Conservation Ireland . This event has been supported through the Heritage Council via Ceangal and the Local Biodiversity Officer Programme, and NPWS via the Local Biodiversity Action Fund.

Events at Mallow Library this month



As summer draws to a close, we're delighted to bring you a month full of activities and family-friendly events. Whether you're looking to learn something new, meet others in the community, or simply enjoy a good story, there's something for everyone here in the branch this August. We hope to see you here!

Discover the Story of Annes Grove Estate – Saturday 8th August at 2pm

Join us for a fascinating talk exploring the rich history, heritage, and stories of Annes Grove Estate, one of Cork's most remarkable historic houses and gardens. Everyone welcome. No booking required.

Visual Arts Workshops with Elton Sibanda - Saturday 15th & Saturday 29th August 11am – 1pm 
(2 workshops)

Unleash your creativity and explore the world of visual arts in this engaging, hands-on workshop led by local artist Elton Sibanda. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced artist looking for inspiration, this workshop offers a welcoming space to learn, create, and express yourself through art. Suitable for you adults/teenagers. Booking required. Contact Mallow Library on 022-21821 to secure a place.

Age Friendly Coffee Morning – Thursday 20th August at 11am

Join Us for a Friendly Chat and a Cuppa! Come along to enjoy tea, coffee, conversation, and companionship in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Everyone welcome. No booking required.

The 1926 Census: National Heritage Week Talk – Thursday 20th August at 2pm (National Heritage Week)

Discover your Community 100 years ago. Presented by the staff of the Local Studies Library, this engaging talk will explore what the census reveals about everyday life, families and communities in 1926.

Everyone welcome. No booking required.

Adult Beginner Embroidery Workshop – Saturday 22nd August 11am – 12:30pm 
 (Cork Craft Month)

Discover the Art of Embroidery. Have you always wanted to learn embroidery? Join us for a relaxed and friendly workshop designed especially for beginners.

Limited Spaces. Contact Mallow Library on 022-21821 to secure a place.

Introduction to Mallow Toastmasters - Saturday 29th August 2pm – 3pm

Speak with Confidence! Have you ever wanted to speak more confidently in public, improve your communication skills, or become a better leader?

Come along to this introductory session and discover how Toastmasters can help you grow in a friendly and supportive environment. Everyone welcome. No booking required.

Children's Storytime - Saturdays at 11:30am

Calling all little book lovers! Join us in the Children’s Area on Saturdays at 11:30am for Storytime! Suitable for 3-6yrs.


Volunteers Needed for Age Action Digital Literacy Classes (Age Action)

Make a Difference in Your Community. Age Action Volunteer Tutors Required.

Age Action is seeking volunteer tutors to support its One-to-One Digital Literacy Classes in Mallow Library.

Could you spare 2 hours every Friday morning for 5 weeks? Contact volunteering@ageaction.ie or Mallow Library for more information. Full training provided.



EXHIBITION:



Doneraile Court & Anne’s Grove Gardens Exhibition - Available to view 5th – 19th August

Discover Two of North Cork's Historic Treasures. Drop in and spend a few minutes viewing this beautiful exhibition celebrating the history, heritage, and horticultural beauty of Doneraile Court and Anne’s Grove Gardens. Explore the stories behind these remarkable estates and their lasting contribution to the cultural and natural heritage of Cork County.



And don’t forget our weekly groups! We have Irish Conversation groups, Creative Writings groups, HSE Mum and baby groups, Knitting groups, Quilters, Active Retirement Card playing, and of course our Book Clubs for adults and children.



Finally, don’t forget our Mallow Reads 2026 programme continues to run. Why not challenge yourself to read more? Drop in and make a reading pledge and get started on your new reading journey!



We look forward to seeing you soon!

Warm regards,



The Staff of Mallow Library

Age Friendly Coffee Morning Mallow Library 20th August


Mallow Library
Age Friendly Coffee Morning – Thursday 20th August at 11am

Join Us for a Friendly Chat and a Cuppa! Come along to enjoy tea, coffee, conversation, and companionship in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Everyone welcome. No booking required.