Streetfest and even an open-top tourist bus to takeover Carlow for National Community Games

The National Cairn Community Games returns to Carlow this weekend for its second and final phase of exciting events, including the highly anticipated Streetfest.

Families from all over Ireland descended upon Carlow for the first weekend of the games on the 23rd and 24th of August which saw children aged between 8 and 16 compete in a wide range of athletic events at SETU Carlow. Now, in another fantastic boost to the local economy, the second phase of the games will take place this Saturday and Sunday (6-7 September).

This weekend, the games will take place at St. Patrick's College and the Visual Carlow and see the focus shift to the arts. This event will offer a platform for young people to express their creativity and be recognised for their talents outside the world of sports, with children showcasing their creative talents in areas such as visual art, model-making, and singing.

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In addition to these exciting competitions, Carlow County Council has arranged a series of family-friendly events as people visit the county for the games. Carlow locals and visitors will be delighted to know that Streetfest will run from Saturday to Sunday on Lower Tullow Street, with live music and street performances, face painting and bouncing castles bringing the street to life.

Not only this, but the Council has organised a free open-top bus tour on Saturday and Sunday which will take visitors on a scenic tour of Carlow. The bus will depart from Carlow College at 10am on both days.

Commenting on the impact of the event on Carlow, Cllr. Paul Doogue, Mayor of Carlow Municipal District, said: "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."