The games will take place across two weekends in August and September. The first weekend, on 23rd and 24th August, will be held at SETU Carlow, where children aged 8 to 16 will compete in a wide range of athletics events, along with team-based sports like soccer, football, and tag rugby. Families from all 26 counties of Ireland will descend upon Carlow for the occasion, filling the town with energy, excitement, and anticipation.
The following weekend, on 6th and 7th September, will see the second phase of the National Cairn Community Games at St. Patrick’s College and Visual Carlow. The focus will shift to the arts, with children showcasing their creative talents in areas such as visual art, model-making, and singing. This event offers a platform for young people to express their creativity and be recognized for their talents outside the world of sports.
While the games themselves will bring together thousands of young athletes and artists, Carlow County Council has also arranged a series of family-friendly events to ensure that visitors enjoy a well-rounded experience. The highlight of this additional celebration is Streetfest, which will transform Lower Tullow Street into a hub of entertainment and activity. Streetfest will run from 6th-7th September, with attractions including bouncing castles, live music performances, face painting and street performances. This is a fantastic opportunity for families to immerse themselves in the local culture while also enjoying the festivities that come with the games.
In addition to the Streetfest celebrations, Carlow County Council will be offering a free open-top bus tour on both 6th and 7th September, departing from Carlow College at 10 am. The bus will take visitors on a scenic tour of the town, showcasing its rich heritage and cultural landmarks, offering a unique way for tourists to explore the area.
This large-scale event provides a tremendous economic boost to the local community. According to Cllr. Paul Doogue, Mayor of Carlow Municipal District, “We’re incredibly proud to host the National Cairn Community Games in Carlow. This is not only a celebration of youth achievement but also a major boost for our town, with the local economy expected to benefit significantly from the thousands of visitors staying, dining, and shopping here over both weekends.” The event draws crowds from across Ireland and even from overseas, with over 20,000 people tuning in each year to watch the games live-streamed. This exposure presents Carlow as a vibrant and welcoming destination for tourism and events, while also highlighting the town’s excellent sporting and cultural facilities.
The National Cairn Community Games in Carlow would not be possible without the tireless efforts of a wide range of people and organizations. Special thanks must go to SETU Carlow, St. Patrick’s College, Visual Carlow, An Garda Síochána, and Carlow County Council, all of whom have worked collaboratively to bring this event to life. Most importantly, the event relies on the dedication and hard work of numerous volunteers, who are the unsung heroes of this incredible community event. Their support helps to ensure that every aspect of the games runs smoothly, allowing participants and spectators to have an enjoyable experience.
Speaking about the games as a Catalyst for County Carlow , Kieran Comerford , Head of Economic Development & Enterprise with Carlow County Council said “the National Cairn Community Games offer something for everyone: an exciting sports competition, a showcase of creative talent, and a chance to be part of a larger community celebration in the heart of Carlow. With thousands of visitors expected, the event promises to be a significant occasion for both participants and the wider community, underscoring Carlow’s position as a prime location for national events. Through its commitment to supporting young people and local businesses, the National Cairn Community Games exemplify the spirit of collaboration, community pride, and positive growth that is characteristic of the town.” To enter the competition go to Cairn Community Games National Finals - Shop Local, Shop Carlow Competition | Carlow County Council's Online Consultation Portal