Cork Community Art Link is celebrating the milestone 20th anniversary of the iconic Dragon of Shandon on Saturday 31st October. The birthday spectacular will be brought to the people of Cork by the numerous volunteers, participants, community partners, and friends who have passionately supported the project since the 36-foot dragon first took to the streets back in 2006.
Cork Community Art Link promises to deliver an unforgettable community spectacle this Halloween. On Samhain night, Saturday 31st October, the dragon, meticulously crafted entirely from tape, will leave its lair to prowl the historic streets of Cork, accompanied by a lively entourage of skeletons, ghouls, and fantastical creatures. These spooky creatures will be collaborating with local organisations including the Cope Foundation, Corlann Blackpool, L'Arche, Enable Ireland, and the National Learning Network, as the parade embarks on a captivating journey between the realms of the living and the dead to honour the rich traditions of Samhain.
The procession will showcase a dazzling showcase of stunning floats, imaginative costumes, eye-catching props, and mesmerising live performances from fire performance company Rogu, the Cork School of Music, and French Big Band Santa Machete. Spectators can also look forward to vibrant performances from a stellar line-up of musicians and dance groups, including the Kabin Crew, Tribe Dance Academy, Mexicans in Cork, and the Bolivian Irish Community Integration Association, with further acts to be announced.
After months of rigorous preparation beneath Cork's streets, organisers are thrilled to awaken their majestic creation. Participants and attendees are encouraged to fully embrace the spirit of the night by dressing in Halloween themed attire and festive face paint. The parade will officially kick off at Church Street, proceeding down Shandon Street, onto North Main Street, turning left onto Castle Street, before concluding with a grand finale at the Coal Quay.
Cork Community Art Link extends its sincere gratitude for the continued support of Cork City Council, The Arts Council, CETB, HSE, local businesses, and the dedicated volunteers who breathe life into the Dragon year after year.
