The First Fortnight Mental Health Art & Culture Festival has announced the programme for the 2025 edition, with over 60 events taking place nationwide from January 5th – 14th. First Fortnight challenges mental health prejudice and stigma through arts and cultural action, programming events that create spaces for conversations around mental health with their annual festival every January - venues include theatres, beaches, music venues, and cafés nationwide. This year's First Fortnight programme includes a series of especially comissioned works; composer, musical director, and musician

Join us on January 6th at Whelan’s to celebrate Nollaig na mBan, or Women’s Christmas, with a special evening of music and poetry featuring two of Ireland’s most iconic artists—Mary Coughlan and Paula Meehan. In the spirit of this cherished tradition, the event honors the creativity, strength, and voices of Irish women. Mary Coughlan, Ireland’s finest jazz and blues singer, and acclaimed poet Paula Meehan will perform on the night, bringing their artistry to life in the intimate surrounds of Whelans.

On Monday, January 6th, 2025, the communities of Ballybough, Clonliffe and North Strand in Dublin 3 will celebrate Nollaig na mBan (Little Women’s Christmas) with a day-long festival honouring local women and showcasing incredible talent. This unique festival, now in its third year, is Ireland’s only all-female cultural event. The day begins at 2:00 PM in Charleville Mall Library, where an Awards Ceremony will recognize 10 exceptional women for their invaluable contributions to the community. The ceremony will be hosted by Catriona Crowe, a former award recipient and respected local his