Longford makers gear up for August Craft Month, Ireland’s biggest craft celebration


August Craft Month showcases and brings together the makers, skills and stories and several county Longford events are due to take place on Friday, August 30.
The largest annual celebration of craft on the island of Ireland is underway, with makers from County Longford taking part in an incredible line-up of almost 600 events this month.
From centuries-old making traditions to innovative contemporary practices, August Craft Month showcases and brings together the makers, skills and stories that continue to shape this thriving sector.
With hundreds of events taking place throughout August, the jam-packed lineup features a huge variety of crafts and spans every corner of the island.
With hands-on workshops, demonstrations and exhibitions, to open studios and markets, this is your chance to try the craft you’ve always been curious about. Many of the events are free as organisers believe being creative shouldn’t break the bank.
Whether you're a total beginner or a dedicated enthusiast, August Craft Month has an activity for you.
From sustainable sewing in Galway and carving out the Ogham alphabet in Meath, to prehistoric pottery on the Causeway Coast in Antrim, and firing and feasting in Waterford, there really is something for everyone.
There are even fun family-focused events for all ages, which will provide much-needed entertainment during the school break.
With over 3,500 makers taking part and ready to show you what they do, now’s the time to discover creative craft pursuits right on your doorstep.
Brought together by Design & Crafts Council Ireland (DCCI) and Craft NI, the programme showcases the exceptional talent, creativity and craftsmanship found throughout Ireland.
The programme provides unmissable opportunities to experience, participate in, support, buy and learn about the local stand-out craft sector.
There will be several exciting events on offer.
The first is 'Unlock the art of calligraphy with Angela Tuite' at The Maria Edgeworth Centre, Edgeworthstown on Friday, August 30 from 2pm to 4pm.
Participants are invited to explore the art of calligraphy in a calligraphy workshop at the Maria Edgeworth Centre.
Attendees are encouraged to explore elegant lettering, express themselves through the art of handwriting, and create a card that carries their own message.
All materials are provided and no experience is needed, just curiosity and confidence and the price is listed at €15
The second event listed is entitled 'Quills, Seals and Secret Correspondence – a forgotten art' at the Maria Edgeworth Centre, Edgeworthstown also on Friday, August 30 from 5pm to 7pm.
Participants are encouraged to step back into the early 19th century and uncover the fascinating world of communication before telephones, emails and instant messages.
Attendees can join historical interpreters Dr Melissa Shiels and Carrie O’Flynn for an engaging hands-on workshop exploring how letters were written, folded, sealed and delivered during the Regency period and the price listed for that event is €20.
For the full island-wide programme and to sign up for events, visit www.augustcraftmonth.org
Share your own craft adventures by tagging @augustcraftmonth26 and use the hashtags #AugustCraftMonth2026 #MakeSeeBuy