Roscommon County Council Arts and Culture Office has announced a call for Expressions of Interest from cultural festivals, venues and organisations across the county to participate in a special Cultural Programme marking Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union, taking place from July to December 2026.
This national initiative aims to showcase the richness of Irish arts and culture — both traditional and contemporary art forms while ensuring that every county plays an active role in celebrating Ireland’s place within the European Union.
The programme will support enhanced cultural activity in existing festivals, arts centres, libraries and cultural venues, particularly where there is a strong European connection.
Roscommon-based groups are invited to submit proposals that reflect themes such as Irish language, heritage, and traditions; creative collaborations with EU partners; shared cultural practices including food and folklore; multi-artform presentations; and work that places Irish creativity within a wider European context.
Eligible proposals must outline the planned activity, participating artists or partners, dates and locations within County Roscommon, expected audience numbers, and the European dimension of the project. Applicants may request funding between €1,000 and €4,000.
In order to submit an Expression of Interest, full details can be requested from [email protected]. The deadline for Expressions of Interest is 12 noon on Thursday, 29 January 2026.
Arts Officer Rhona McGrath encourages arts and cultural festivals, venues and organisations to consider applying, noting that the programme offers “a unique opportunity for Roscommon’s cultural community to connect locally, nationally and across Europe during a significant time for Ireland.”
Roscommon County Council will submit an application to the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport which will include the selected events. Available funding will depend on the funding allocated to Roscommon County Council by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport.
(Image by Brian Farrell shows Culture Night in King House)
