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Cork City is gearing up for a unique and exciting event as part of the latest “Open Streets” initiative in conjunction with Culture Night 2024. On Friday, 20th and Saturday, 21st September, the city will transform into a vibrant playground for people of all ages, with a focus on sport, games, and street entertainment.

In partnership with Cork City Council’s ‘Open Streets’ initiative and Basketball Ireland, two temporary 3×3 street basketball courts will be installed on Grand Parade. The courts will be open to players of all abilities, offering a taste of the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics. The basketball event will run from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on both days, and everyone is encouraged to participate.

The festivities don’t stop with basketball. Cornmarket Street, North Main Street, St Patrick’s Street, and Grand Parade will all come alive with a variety of entertainment, including music, games, and activities. On North Main Street, a play zone featuring street games and play equipment will be available from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., providing fun for children and families.

A particularly innovative experience will take place on Cornmarket Street, where a “play in the dark” zone will be piloted. From 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., a marquee equipped with ultraviolet lights and glow-in-the-dark play equipment will inspire new ways to enjoy public spaces during the winter months.

Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Dan Boyle, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating:

“We are delighted to continue this series of ‘Open Streets’ events showing the potential for different uses of our civic spaces and streets. In combination with Culture Night, it promises to show the best of our city centre and what can be done when the communities and citizens of the city are given the opportunity. We are grateful to the long list of partners involved in making these events a success.”

The event will see several street closures, including North Main Street, Cornmarket Street, St Patrick’s Street, Castle Street, and Adelaide Street from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. However, car parks and quays will remain open, with regular access for buses, taxis, and blue badge holders. Although driving is still an option, organisers are encouraging attendees to walk, cycle, or use public transport.

This marks the fifth ‘Open Streets’ event in Cork this year, and the organisers are welcoming suggestions from other community groups interested in hosting similar events in the future.

For more details, visit the Cork City Council website at www.corkcity.ie.