In this spirit, we are particularly pleased to have been able to collaborate in an ongoing way with the students and staff of a wonderful local primary school in St. Patrick’s, Curtlestown as well as the inspiring and vibrant neighbouring community in Fassaroe, all the way across the M1 motorway. Both of these relationships continue to bring joy to all involved and we hope to spread some of that joy throughout the festival weekend.

But world-class creativity is always a vital feature of the Shaking Bog and we are blessed to be joined by an eclectic number of fascinating artists that includes Helen McDonald and Antony Vahni Capildeo as well as - closer to home - Sara Baume, Edwina Guckian and the inimitable Mary Coughlan.

Complimenting the artistic programme is a series of nature events, the essential walks and talks that root us all in this natural environment. This year, we are grateful to be joined by many passionate and highly informed naturalists who will guide people through boglands, past hedgerows and into the woodlands at night.

Above all, this festival hopes to touch on the things that bind us together - the sharing of both grief and joy, the handing down of skills from generation to generation, the witnessing of the transformative power of great art and perhaps most of all, the collective sense of wonder and belonging that comes with a deepened connection to nature.