Benchspace will host a two-day Festival of Craft in Cork City in October 2026, bringing the processes of making into public view, inviting people to engage directly with craft practices across jewellery, fine metalwork, woodwork, textiles, digital fabrication and small handcrafts. Focused on participation, the festival will highlight how craft skills are developed, shared and sustained.

Day 1, at St. Peter’s, offers a free, accessible public programme, with national makers presenting their creative journeys alongside hands-on workshops and demonstrations delivered by local craftspeople. These beginner-friendly sessions provide practical, inclusive entry points for people  to experience making.

Day 2 at Benchspace opens the studio in Marina Commercial Park to the public, offering tours and demonstrations that reveal how shared facilities support creative practice and pathways to participation.

By connecting local and national makers, the festival strengthens skills, visibility and collaboration within Cork’s craft sector. It will also broaden access to creative activity, support knowledge exchange, and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive and sustainable cultural ecology in the city.

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.