At Spike Island, we’re celebrating our 86th birthday this year with our annual Family Fun Evening and Fireworks Display, commemorating the historic handover of Spike Island from Britain to Ireland in 1938. In honour of this momentous occasion, we’ll be celebrating our Independence Day with a spectacular fireworks display, musical performances and family fare on Saturday 13th July.
At this special Independence Day celebration, visitors will enjoy captivating entertainment and an abundance of family-friendly activities while immersing themselves in the island’s rich history.
Attendees can look forward to pop-up musical performances, face painters, and much more, ensuring a truly memorable experience for guests of all ages.
Visitors will board the ferry across the world’s second-largest natural harbour, enjoy a guided tour on arrival, explore the fort’s amazing museums and exhibitions and walk the amazing island nature trails. On this special night, there will also be family entertainment, children’s activities, musical performances, face painters and more.
As the night unfolds, the highlight of the event will be a spectacular fireworks display over Cork Harbour. A total of 1300 fireworks will illuminate the sky, symbolising the inmates who tragically lost their lives during Spike Island’s history as a prison in what promises to be a special tribute and a poignant reminder of the island’s past.
To facilitate the smooth flow of the event, boats will begin departing from 5.15pm. Early arrivals will have ample time to enjoy the island’s attractions and will also be among the first to depart the island after the event concludes. Return boats will commence at 10.30pm, departing every 10 minutes.
Visitors are advised to check their ticket times for the return boat, with the last departure scheduled for approximately 11.45pm.
Attendance for this special celebration is expected to be high, and therefore, advance online booking is essential.
To mark the 220th anniversary of the laying of the foundation stone for Fort Westmoreland, Spike Island is hosting an exhibition entitled ‘Entwined History: Revealing Spike Island’s Forts’.
The plans on display show the path from concept to reality as architects, engineers, craftsmen and masons worked together to create a fortress ready to withstand any attack.
We feature General Charles Vallancey, a man behind the design of Fort Westmoreland I. The first edition of his book, ‘A Vindication of the Ancient History of Ireland’ published in 1786 is on display along with other artefacts related to the early stages of the fort and the Royal Artillery.
Nicky Lovick
Cónal Creedon
Neil Lancaster
Imran Mahmood
Dr Marie Cassidy
Michelle Dunne
Arlene Hunt
Jo Spain
Lace up your running shoes and prepare for an unforgettable experience at the Spike Island 5km Race! Returning this April, the unique event promises an adventure like no other – where else can you begin your race within the walls of a 200 year old fortress before making your
The race kicks off at approximately 5:25 p.m, promising an adrenaline-fueled dash through the island’s scenic routes. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a leisurely walker, all are welcome to participate – runners can undertake the 5km route while there is a special 3km course tailored for walkers. Our dedicated marshals will be on hand to guide you and ensure you stay on track throughout.
Unveil the Dark Secrets of Spike Island on one of our After Dark Tours!
Guided by our expert storytellers, dive into the dark history of what was once Ireland’s most notorious prison with spine-chilling tales of the murderers and deviants who once roamed its halls!
