On Friday, September 19th, Dublin had its 20th annual Culture Night. First launched in 2006, Culture Night was created to encourage people to explore different aspects of Dublin’s culture that they may not have been aware of previously.
Several different cultural spaces, such as theaters, museums and galleries, which are not typically open late at night, stayed open late into the evening. Events ranging from concerts to workshops took place all throughout the city, completely free.According to RTE, Culture Night, though originating in Dublin, spread to several different Irish cities and towns by 2008. This year, over 1,700 events were held throughout the country, with 300 of them in Dublin.
According to the Dublin City Council, in honour of the 250th anniversary of the birth of Daniel O’Connell, Dublin’s O’Connell Street was used as a Culture Night venue for the first time in history. One of the events held there included a “tea dance” beneath Clery’s Clock, accompanied by a swing band.
“I’ve walked down O’Connell Street many times, but I’ve never seen it so lively”, said Issie Slentz. “I think it’s great that culture night is also accessible to people living on the north side.”
South of the Liffey, numerous other venues took part in the celebration. For instance, the National Gallery, located on Merrion Square, partnered up with the French Embassy to present Painting Mirrors, an interactive digital art experience. Visitors could have their portraits taken and projected on the gallery walls in the style of famous artists. Meanwhile, the Gaiety Theatre offered free adult acting classes for beginners.
Trinity College also hosted several events this year, including a performance by Trinity Orchestra, a group inspired by Irish trad group Lankum. The college also opened the Book of Kells library and Trinity Trails, holding a free, 30 minute tour of the Trinity Trails and a self guided tour of the library.
Amir Sallachi believes these events are a great opportunity to learn more about Dublin without having to spend money. Rachel Nolan, an NCAD student, said that she enjoyed Culture Night even with the rain, as she spent her night at the Capel Street DJ stand.
