Important Notice for Crowd Photography & Filming for Brigid 1500 Events

Please note that photography/filming will be taking place at each of the Brigid 1500 events for promotional and archival purposes. The photographs and recordings taken are likely to be used for promotional use and will appear on our website. If you would prefer not to be photographed, please let the photographer or videographer know on the day. If you have any queries about data protection, please contact [email protected].

‘Inextinguishable’ by Greg Hallahan Celebrating Brigid 1500

Location: Solas Bhride Cetre, Kildare Town Welcome to "Inextinguishable," an art exhibition where I celebrate the spirit of Brigid using recycled cardboard as my canvas. Brigid, a revered figure in Irish culture, holds a special place in our hearts, making her influence truly 'inextinguishable.' My artworks, crafted from recycled double corrugated cardboard, breathe new life into this common material sourced from shops, stores, and even friends and family. By using this everyday material, I aim to recycle and reintegrate it into the very idea of transport, as seen in cardboard boxes moving products. This process also symbolically connects with the myths and stories of Brigid and Saint Bridget. As you explore the exhibition, you'll notice the sculptural presence of the artwork in space. Playing with inner and outer surfaces, it beckons the viewer closer and pushes them away, creating a dynamic engagement. To me, the connection between the structures and the material is profound – both hidden in plain sight, often taken for granted, yet possessing an inner power and beauty that deserves recognition. Come witness the fusion of myth, material, and art in a celebration of Brigid's enduring significance. If you have any queries about the work or if you are looking for pricing, please contact Greg on any of the following below: www.greghallahanart.com [email protected] instagram@greg_hallahan_art 0851509314

Brigid, Gobnait & Sheela-na-gig with Edel Meade

8pmEdel Meade from Co. Tipperary is one of Ireland's leading performers, noted for her stunning voice and mesmerising live performances. Join her for a very special solo concert performance weaving together a beautiful selection of music, stories and songs related to Brigid, Gobnait and Sheela-na-gig drawing from Irish folklore and mythology and premiering a brand new original song composed specially for this event. Tickets available from https://www.riverbank.ie/ Group: Edel Meade Location: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge

A day of reflection in the Footsteps of St. Brigid of Kildare

An International Pilgrimage in the Footsteps of St. Brigid will take place in Kildare Town on Saturday 15th June, 2024. A unique cultural event, it will be interspersed with reflection, storytelling, music, poetry, and prayer. The event aims to commemorate the 1500th Anniversary of St. Brigid’s life and her influential role as a pioneering woman of Ireland. The day will highlight her extraordinary achievements, spiritual legacy and lasting impact on society and relevance for today, through pilgrimage. Pilgrims are invited to gather at Solas Bhríde Spirituality Centre for registration and refreshment at 10am. Following which, the group will transfer by bus to take a walk on The Curragh Plain, 'St. Brigid's Pastures'. The group will also visit the historic town of Kildare, taking in St. Brigid's Cathedral and St. Brigid's Church to see the Relic of St. Brigid. Returning for a light lunch, the visitors will walk to St. Brigid's Well, followed by a closing ritual at Solas Bhríde. Pilgrims are advised to dress for the weather and prepare for a walk of approximately 2km. This year's marking of the 1500th Anniversary of St. Brigid's life has brought many more visitors to Solas Bhríde and Co. Kildare, travelling from as far as Australia, the United States of America and across Europe. If you would like to participate in this unique event, more information and details on how to book a place for June 15th may be found on the website  https://solasbhride.ie/

Griese Youth Theatre’s Brigid 1500 Project Screening

Building on our hugely successful 'Watch Over Us' theatre production as part of Brigid 1500 earlier this year, Griese Youth Theatre will now look at creating an archive of what our young people feel binds and connects them to each other and the world around them. In a world where we can feel isolated while surrounded by others, or in a virtual room full of people online, we will ask who our perceived protectors are? St Brigid? Pagan Brigid? Harry Styles? The GAA? St Anthony? Over the course of 10 weeks, our younger Youth Theatre members aged 11-14 will workshop these ideas with an aim to create a spoken word piece which will be filmed and shown as part of the groups summer theatre showcase in the Riverbank Arts Centre. This screening will take place on Saturday June 29th 2024. During this 10 week course, the group will work closely with a theatre director, Dee Burke and writer, Eric O' Brien. Both of whom were artists on 'Watch over Us' earlier this year. (Image attached from Watch Over Us, Bramble archway installation by Judy Lawler)

Wet Felting Workshop

Join Maire and Anne as they show you how to create your own wool fabric bag using this ancient textile technique.  Learn how to lay down layers of fibers around a resist and then using warm water, soap and your ELBOW GREASE transform the wool into a bag to take home. You will also make a long shoulder strap and discuss ways to embellish and close your bag. Please note this workshop is now full, but you can join the waiting list at the following link: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/naaslibrary/1325480

Brigid’s Worlds Conference

Brigid's Worlds

Brought to you by Kildare County Council and Maynooth University

Dates: September 13th and 14th 2024. The life and times of St Brigid and her Church of Kildare from the 5th to the 9th centuries.

Brigid 2025 Festival: Spirit of Kildare

Her Spirit, Our Story Honouring the legacy of St Brigid through music, culture, and community. Details Coming SoonExperience the Brigid 2025 FestivalJoin us from January 24th to February 3rd in Kildare for a vibrant blend of music, arts, culture, and community events that reflect Brigid’s values spirituality, peace, sustainability, hospitality, and education.  With celebrated artists like Una Healy, Mary Coughlan, Orla Gartland, Lisa O’Neill, Lemoncello, and Megan O’Neill headlining, this festival promises something for everyone. Programme details, ticketing, and event locations coming soon!  What to Expect Honouring Brigid’s Spirit with Music, Art, and Community Discover unique performances, inspiring cultural events, and immersive celebrations honouring the enduring legacy of St Brigid. Whether you’re attending a special concert in collaboration with Hot Press, exploring interactive exhibits, or participating in workshops, Brigid 2025 will be a festival to remember.For the latest news, follow us on social media and keep an eye on www.spiritofbrigid.ie.