Kildare County Council Announces the First Ever Kildare Inclusivity Festival – 2025
Celebrating Disability and Inclusion in County Kildare
09 April 2025: At Kildare County Council, we are continuously working to break down barriers and contribute to positive change for people living with disability in County Kildare. In collaboration with the County Kildare Access Network (CKAN) and partners Nua Healthcare Services, Kildare Sports Partnership, Barretstown and The Curragh Racecourse, we are proud to announce the official launch of the first Kildare Inclusivity Festival - a landmark event celebrating disability, inclusion, and the boundless potential of people of all abilities.
The festival will take place on Sunday, 11th May 2025, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM at The Curragh Racecourse. This free community event aims to foster a culture of inclusion, by celebrating the limitless potential of individuals of all abilities through engaging activities, live performances, and meaningful community interactions.
Speaking at the festival launch, Michael Hurley, Access Officer, Kildare County Council and Chairperson of County Kildare Access Network (CKAN), said; “We are thrilled to introduce this festival as a platform to showcase ability, break down barriers, and bring people together in a truly inclusive environment. We invite everyone to join us for a day of fun, engagement, and celebration.”
Kildare County Council remains dedicated to creating opportunities that promote inclusivity and accessibility for all. The Kildare Inclusivity Festival represents a significant step toward fostering unity, respect, and celebration within the community.
Festival Highlights:
Attendees can enjoy a range of activities suitable for all ages and abilities, including:
- Family Fun Zone : Packed with engaging activities for children and families.
- Exhibition Stands & Service Provider Zone: Showcasing local services, supports, and organizations.
- Inclusive Sports Zone: – Experience adaptive and inclusive sports.
- Barretstown Magic Moments: An opportunity for families to experience the Magic of Barretstown with fun therapeutic programs for all ages.
- Live Entertainment: A vibrant lineup of music acts, magic and puppet show, and funfair games.
- Artisan Food & Craft Market: Featuring local food producers and craftspeople.
- Nua Healthcare Services’ 'Ultimate Obstacle Course': A fun and inclusive physical challenge designed for everyone to participate in, either as a group or individually.
A Collaborative Commitment to Inclusion in Kildare:
As Kildare County Council introduces this unique and innovative inclusion festival, many partner organisations have joined them to support the event.
JJ Carey, Director of Supported Living Service, Nua Healthcare, said; “We at Nua Healthcare Services are thrilled to support the Kildare Inclusivity Festival, in what promises to be a wonderful celebration of diversity and community. This event is a testament to the power of inclusion and connection in Kildare, and we look forward to joining everyone on May 11th for what promises to be an inspiring and enjoyable day.”
Evan Arkwright, Racing and Sponsorship Manager, The Curragh, commented: “The Curragh is delighted to be the host venue for the inaugural Inclusivity Festival. We are fully committed to working collaboratively with all partners as part of our focus to engage with the community and we are very pleased to support this exciting initiative as inclusivity is one of the principal core values of the racecourse.”
John Doran, Community Sport Development Officer, Kildare Sports Partnership, adds: “At KSP, we strive to increase participation in physical activity and sport for everyone in County Kildare and we are delighted to have the opportunity to support Kildare County Council at this amazing inclusion festival”
Paula Conlan, Barretstown team member explains: “At Barretstown we offer free therapeutic programs for children and their families living with a serious illness. We are very excited to support this event and are looking forward to bringing the Magic of Barretstown to the Curragh on the 11th May”.
Join Us!
Join us for this free event at the Kildare Inclusivity Festival on Sunday, 11th May 2025, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM at The Curragh Racecourse.
For further information, please visit the CKAN website www.ckan.ie
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