First Fortnight Festival

First Fortnight Festival

About the event

First Fortnight is an annual Irish mental health arts and culture festival that takes place every January to challenge mental health stigma through the arts. It features a wide range of events like music, theatre, spoken word, and film, and is organized by a charity that also provides free creative therapies to marginalized groups like the homeless. These events capture the spirit of the festival, creative, inclusive and rooted in community.

At First Fortnight, we believe creativity is most powerful when people take part. Our participatory events invite audiences to move beyond observation and actively engage in the creative process. Led by artists and mental health professionals, these experiences open access to artistic expression and build confidence, connection and community. Through hands-on workshops and collaborative art-making, participants are encouraged to explore, experiment and express themselves. This active involvement supports wellbeing, strengthens understanding of mental health and helps break down stigma. Each event is a reminder that creativity belongs to everyone and that art can be a powerful tool for healing and personal growth.

Event type

Cultural Festivals

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