New festival is launched in Laois with 50 free events across county
The new Laois Climate Action Festival was launched on 3 October Photos: Alf Harvey
A NEW festival has been launched in Laois with 50 free events and activities across the county.
The first Laois Climate Action Festival from 6 – 23 October was unveiled in county hall on Thursday at a futuristic photo call, featuring upcycled robots created by Bernard Brady of Portarlington Art Collective.
The festival is showcasing 50 diverse climate-positive events and initiatives and aims to highlight climate action, sustainability and the remarkable work of local partners.
Bernard’s striking array of robots, made entirely from repurposed materials, encapsulated the festival’s central message of reducing waste through creativity. The robots are a powerful symbol of the innovative ways in which waste can be reimagined and reused.
Curated by Laois County Council’s newly formed Climate Action Section, the festival programme is designed to engage the entire community in the effort to create a greener future.
Council climate action coordinator Suzanne Dempsey said the festival is not only a platform to raise awareness but “a celebration of the fantastic work being done in our community” to promote sustainability.
She said: “The programme has been carefully curated to highlight local efforts and engage the public in creative and meaningful ways. We’re proud to showcase 50 events that offer something for everyone, encouraging a collective effort toward a more sustainable future.” The festival's extensive schedule includes a variety of workshops, seminars and creative sessions, ranging from discussions on biodiversity and sustainability in schools to upcycling projects and nature walks.
Local organisations, including PPN, The CUBE, Laois Libraries, Laois Partnership and Laois Chamber Alliance will host many of the events, which will provide educational opportunities and hands-on experiences.
Standout events include the Climate Cocktail Club, the Laois premiere of Mrs Robinson and Colm O’Regan’s comedy gig Climate Worrier, combining entertainment with critical discussions on climate action.
The council’s interim chief executive Simon Walton described the festival as “a key initiative in our commitment to addressing climate change” at a local level, demonstrating the significant progress being made in fostering climate-positive projects and engaging the wider community.
He said: “We are confident that this festival will have a lasting impact, encouraging meaningful action throughout the county.” The festival programme caters for all interests and age groups, giving everyone an opportunity to take part whether through interactive workshops, insightful discussions or creative exhibitions that provide a platform for learning, innovation and community involvement.
