On a wet Saturday August 20th 2016, the annual Cork Coal Quay Festival took place. The festival saw the Corn market and North Main street traders come together in the Coal Quay area in the centre of Cork city -regarded as one of the  oldest parts of the city to join in the festivities. Now in it’s 5 year, the festival celebrated the rich tradition, heritage and culture of music, song, stories and more resonating the nostalgia of Cork city.

At 12 noon on the day, the bell chimes of the historic Shandon bells could be heard with the Banks of My own lovely Lee to celebrate the opening of the festival.  The Coal Quay Shawlies began the celebration as they set off from the North Gate bridge walking along North Main street to Kyle Street finishing at Cornmarket street where they were met by the Lord Mayor of Cork who officially opened the festival. The Cobh Animation team as well as the People of the Middle Parish traders were also present dressed in traditional costumes adding to the atmosphere of yester year.  Prayers were said in remembrance of the deceased Coal Quay traders and doves were released in their memory. Various musicians performed including the Roaring Forties entertained the crowds.

The damp and torrential rain did not deter some brave ECCG members dodging the odd downpour of rain attending the festival to capture images of the festivities in the one of Cork City’s most historic areas.

See a gallery of images from the shoot here. Enjoy!

 – Noelle Lowney