A look back at Culture Night 2026

Last Friday, we opened our doors once again for Culture Night / Oíche Chultúir. It celebrates all that makes up the richness and diversity of Culture in Ireland today, connecting people to cultural activities locally and nationally and aims to open up pathways to ongoing engagement. 

Open from 4pm to 9pm, we invited the public to walk the halls of our historic home at No. 6 Kildare Street, to gaze at the art and sculpture than line the walls, and to explore the thousands of titles shelved in our Dun’s Library. The Heritage Centre team were joined by RCPI staff, President Dr Diarmuid O’Shea and Members and Fellows of the College to welcome the public into our home.  

As 2026 is the 50th anniversary  of the Faculties of Occupational Medicine and Public Health Medicine, people were able to explore the Hard Hats and Vaccines exhibition, showcasing key items that tell some of the crucial stories from both specialties.  

Visitors were also encouraged to vote for their favourite artwork as part of the Faculty of Occupational Medicine’s 50th anniversary art competition. The seven shortlisted entries were displayed in 6 Kildare Street r, with voting taking place  throughout the night. Voting will continue during RCPI’s Annual Conference for those attending in-person.  

The night ended with the fabulous Dawson Chorus, who made their return after last year’s highly successful performance. They sang some of the biggest hits, past and present, making it an uplifting and fun way to end what was already a superb night. 

In total, 1360 people walked through the doors of No. 6, making it our largest Culture Night attendance in many years. We want to thank everyone who made it so successful, from our visitors, our staff and performers. The continued success of the night would not be what it is without everyone doing their part. Here is to Culture Night 2027!