Cork Harbour Festival & Ocean to City

The spirit of Ocean to City was on full display at this year's Youth Race in Blackrock 🤩

Despite challenging conditions, the determination, resilience and enthusiasm shown by all the young people who took part in this year's Ocean to City Youth Race was truly inspiring.

Blackrock was alive with colour and energy thanks to the beautiful koinobori windsocks created by young people from across Cork City in collaboration with artist Kim Ling Morris, creating a spectacular backdrop for the day's racing.

The Youth Race celebrations also featured Friends of the River Dripsey, Cork Nature Network & Biodiversity Centre, Blackrock Market traders, Circus Factory and the Shandon Ukulele Ensemble, helping to create a fantastic family atmosphere along the waterfront.

A huge thank you to all of the volunteers who make the Youth Race possible each year, as well as Blackrock Rowing Club and the 17th/51st Blackrock Scouts for their continued support and hospitality. Special thanks also to CCMPSAR for providing safety cover for the Youth Race over so many years.

Most importantly, congratulations to every young participant who took to the water. Your spirit, teamwork and determination were a joy to watch.

Know someone who enjoys organisation, events, and working with people?

We're looking for someone to support the behind-the-scenes work that makes Cork Harbour Festival & Ocean to City happen. A great opportunity to gain office experience, develop skills, and be part of a supportive team.

More details here:
https://meithealmara.ie/ce-vacancy-festival-office-assistant/

Feel free to share with anyone who might be interested.

What a day. What a race. What an atmosphere. 🌊

Ocean to City 2026 was one to remember.

Over 660 participants took to the waters of Cork Harbour in our biggest race in years, creating a spectacular display of rowing and paddling from Crosshaven all the way to Cork City. From currachs and naomhóga to dragon boats, kayaks, skiffs, gigs and paddleboards, the harbour was alive with colour, energy and community spirit.

A huge thank you to every participant, volunteer, safety crew member, event partner and supporter who helped make the day such a success. We simply couldn't do it without you.

It was fantastic to see thousands of spectators lining the harbour, enjoying the celebrations in Cobh, Blackrock and our brand new Race Hub on Kennedy Quay. From live music and family entertainment to food stalls, circus performers and the spectacular Nao Santa María Tall Ship, the atmosphere was incredible from start to finish.

Congratulations to everyone who crossed the finish line and thank you for being part of something truly special.

We're still smiling and already looking forward to doing it all again next year.