Active Carlow Unveils Custom Socks Designed by Community Winner
Active Carlow is absolutely thrilled to announce the winner of its recent competition to design a custom Active Carlow sock! The challenge was to illustrate what “being active in Carlow” means to the participants, and the incredibly talented winner is Maria, who attends the Cairdeas Centre.
On Tuesday Morning, the Active Carlow team had the pleasure of visiting Maria, her family, and everyone at the Cairdeas Centre to show them the finished product!
To bring Maria’s brilliant design to life, Active Carlow partnered with Thomp2 Socks. This company was a perfect fit for the project, as they have a fantastic backstory and share the organisation’s commitment to inclusion. Active Carlow is delighted to have partnered with Thomp2 Socks to bring this wonderful design to life.
Maria’s winning design is a vibrant symbol of community and activity in Carlow!
Great News! Our Strategic Plan is Now Easier to Read
We’re incredibly excited to share some big news about our Active Carlow Strategic Plan!
Here at Active Carlow, our main goal is to help everyone in our community get more active, regardless of their background, ability, or age. A big part of that is making sure our own plans and goals are easy to understand for everyone, too!
Why an Easy Read Version? 💡
Our Strategic Plan is essentially our roadmap for the next few years. It outlines all the actions we’re going to take to make sport and physical activity more accessible across Carlow.
We firmly believe that if the plan is about making things accessible, the plan itself must be accessible.
That’s why we worked hard to create an Easy Read version of the plan. This version uses:
- Simple, everyday words and shorter sentences.
- Clear, large text and lots of white space.
- Helpful pictures and symbols to make the ideas clearer.
This means that people with intellectual disabilities, people with lower literacy skills, or anyone who just prefers a clearer layout can now read and understand exactly what we plan to do!
A Big Thank You to the Leap Group! 🤝
We couldn’t have done this without the help of our amazing partners.
A huge shout-out and thank you to the learners from the Leap group at the Delta Centre. We had a brilliant time calling in to chat with them and get their feedback. They reviewed the draft and gave us fantastic ideas to make sure the Easy Read version was as clear and user-friendly as possible.
What’s Next? Get Reading! 👇
Now, it’s time to see the finished product!
We encourage everyone to download and read the Easy Read version of our Strategic Plan. Find out what actions we’re taking to bring more opportunities for sport and physical activity to every corner of Carlow.
Download the Active Carlow Easy Read Strategic Plan here.
We are committed to making Carlow a more active and inclusive place for all! 🎉
Spook-tacular Samhain Festival 2025 at The Exchange! 🎃
Spook-tacular Samhain Festival 2025 at The Exchange! 🎃
Active Carlow and Carlow County Council Community Section invite you to join them for two day’s of frightful fun as part Samhain Festival filled with films, dancing, and games! Join us at The Exchange, Potato Market, Carlow for a family-friendly celebration perfect for all little ghosts and goblins.
🎬 Samhain Festival Movie Nights
Get cozy at The Exchange’s spook-tacular cinema space for two special screenings of Halloween favourites! Popcorn and a juice box are included with every ticket.
Coco at The Exchange
Celebrate Samhain with Disney•Pixar’s Coco — a heart-warming tale of music, memory, and family. Bring your favourite blanket for this colourful, feel-good film!
Hocus Pocus at The Exchange
Join the mischievous Sanderson Sisters for a much-loved classic filled with magic, mayhem, and laughs. The perfect spooky fun for all ages!
Tickets (Pre-booking Essential)
- Family of 4: €15
- Per Person: €5
- What’s Included: Popcorn and a juice box. You’re welcome to bring your own sweets! 🍬
- Book Now: By clicking here.
👻 Halloween Disco & Games!
Join Active Carlow for two afternoons of music, laughter, and mischief! This FREE event is packed with fun for children aged 4 to 12.
What’s Happening?
- Live DJ and dancing
- Halloween-themed games and colouring
- Face painting
- Creepy decorations!
Details
- When: Wednesday 29th & Thursday 30th October
- Time: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Who: Suitable for children aged 4 – 12, of all abilities
- Entry: FREE entry — no need to pre-book, just show up and join the fun!
- Costume Bonus: Come in costume for bonus points! ✨
Event Location and Contact
📍 Where: The Exchange, Potato Market, Carlow
📞 More Information:
Come along for a festival filled with spooky tunes, playful chills, and magical memories! We can’t wait to see you there! 🕸️🧛♂️
Step it Out at the Carlow Autumn Walking Festival 2025
Carlow Tourism has issued its annual call to walkers nationwide to step it out in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East this October as the Carlow Autumn Walking Festival returns for its 2025 edition.
Running from Friday, October 3rd – Sunday October 5th, the festival promises a weekend of fresh air, adventure and discovery, across Carlow’s mountains, forests, rivers and villages.
The festival is a celebration of everything walking has to offer – from physical challenge to relaxation and from mindfulness to heritage. With over 15 walks on the programme, each graded A, B or C, there is something for everyone on the festival programme.
A and B Walks are led by experienced guides from Tullow Mountaineering Club and the Blackstairs Ramblers – these treks range from half-day to full-day adventures across the Blackstairs Mountains and beyond, perfect for those eager to test their stamina and enjoy panoramic views.
C Walks, organised in conjunction with Active Carlow are designed for beginners and those seeking a gentler pace. They offer a wonderful introduction to Carlow’s countryside, with plenty of time to take in nature and local stories.
Highlights of the 2025 programme include:
- The opening night hike at 6.30pm on Friday, 3rd October – a magical experience under starlit skies.
- A nature walk with Éanna Ní Lamhna, broadcaster and biologist, exploring the wildlife and habitats of the Blackstairs.
- The much-loved mindfulness meditation walk in Clogrennan Forest with wellness expert Mary Clare Harte, designed to re-connect mind and body through nature.
- This year sees a focus on the River Barrow, Ireland’s second-longest river, with three C walks, all relatively flat, giving participants the chance to experience and complete some of the most memorable stretches of the Barrow Way. These include St Mullins to Graiguenamanagh, Bagenalstown to Leighlinbridge and Maganey to Carlow Town.
Walkers will also enjoy trails through the Scullogue Gap, Tomduff Hill, Slievebawn, Black Rock Mountain, Kilbrannish Forest, Drummond, Knockmulgurry and more, each ending with light refreshments of soup, sandwiches, tea and coffee and a chance to share stories.
Launching the festival, Michael Walsh, Chairman of Carlow Tourism, said:
“The Carlow Autumn Walking Festival has always been about connection – with nature, with people, and with County Carlow which enjoys such a great range of walks. This year’s programme brings together challenging hikes, gentle C Walks, themed nature and history experiences, and opportunities for mindfulness. It’s the perfect way to embrace autumn before the clocks change and the evenings shorten.”
Full programme details, starting points, and booking options are available at www.carlowtourism.com/walkingfestival or by phoning 059-9130411. Special accommodation packages for the weekend can be found at www.carlowtourism.com/specialoffers
For further details please contact:
Eileen O’Rourke, Carlow Tourism
E: eorourke@carlowtourism.com
T: 087-23792132 | 059-9130411
W: www.carlowtourism.com
Age Friendly Sports Day 2025
Age Friendly Sports Day 2025
Age Friendly Carlow is excited to announce that it will be taking part in the Age Friendly Sports Day on Thursday, 25th September, at the National Indoor Arena, Sport Ireland Campus in Blanchardstown.
This is a fantastic opportunity for a fun, active, and social day out. Best of all, it’s a free event and a bus from Carlow will be provided.
- When: Thursday, 25th September
- Where: National Indoor Arena, Sport Ireland Campus, Blanchardstown
- Cost: Free
- Bus: Provided from Carlow
There are 10–15 places available for Carlow participants, with a nationwide limit of 120. Spaces will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
The closing date to register is Monday, 15th September.
To register, please contact the Age Friendly Carlow Office:
- Phone: 087 214 5262
- Email: agefriendlycarlow@carlowcoco.ie
Carlow County Council launches landmark Local Sport & Physical Activity Plan for County Carlow and Local Sports Partnership Active Carlow Strategic Plan.
Carlow County Council launches landmark Local Sport & Physical Activity Plan for County Carlow and Local Sports Partnership Active Carlow Strategic Plan.
Carlow has marked a significant milestone in community development with the launch of the Local Sport and Physical Activity Plan for County Carlow 2025 - 2029 and the Local Sports Partnership Active Carlow Strategic Plan. The event, held on Wednesday 27th August in SETU Carlow South Sport Campus, brought together local and national leaders to celebrate a shared commitment to increasing participation in sport and physical activity across the county.
The Local Sport and Physical Activity Plan for County Carlow is one of four pilot initiatives nationally, developed as a direct action of the National Sports Policy. It represents a whole-of-council approach, formally adopted by Carlow County Council and shaped through extensive consultation with over 600 residents, young people, stakeholders, and community representatives. The plan sets out clear priorities including more low-cost and beginner-friendly opportunities, enhanced promotion of existing activities, and a strong emphasis on inclusivity for under-represented groups.
Launched alongside it, the Active Carlow Strategic Plan 2025–2029 is the first strategy under the Local Sports Partnership’s new identity, Active Carlow. Guided by the theme Moving Together, it details how the Partnership will deliver the actions of the county-wide plan in practical, measurable ways through programmes, partnerships, and community initiatives.
Speaking at the event, Leas Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, Cllr Daniel Pender, said:
“This is a proud day for Carlow. The Local Sport and Physical Activity Plan for County Carlow represents a whole-of-council commitment to ensure that every person, regardless of age, ability, or background, can access opportunities to be active. Alongside it, the Active Carlow Strategic Plan provides the roadmap for delivery. Together, these two plans form a powerful framework for real change in our communities.”
Minister of State, Deputy Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, welcomed the launch, noting Carlow’s role in shaping the national agenda:
“The Local Sport and Physical Activity Plan is more than a local initiative; it is part of a national effort to raise participation in sport to 60% by 2028. Carlow has shown leadership by listening to its community, aligning with national ambition, and ensuring that inclusivity and accessibility are at the heart of this work.”
Louise Burke, Director of Participation in Sport Ireland, highlighted the significance of Carlow’s leadership:
“Local Sports Plans are a key participation objective of the Government’s National Sports Policy. The launch of County Carlow’s Local Sport and Physical Activity Plan is a big milestone for the county and its communities. With the development of this plan, Carlow County Council and Active Carlow have set out a strong ambition for the future of the county and how best to improve the physical activity levels of Carlow residents. I want to congratulate all involved in this plan and look forward to seeing Carlow ‘Moving Together’ more in the future.”
Chief Executive of Carlow County Council, Coilín O’Reilly, emphasised the council’s leadership and collaboration:
“These plans reflect the voices of our community, supported by national leadership from Sport Ireland and delivered locally through strong partnerships. The rebrand to Active Carlow captures the energy and ambition of our Local Sports Partnership, and with the theme Moving Together, we are committed to building a healthier, more connected Carlow.”
The development of both plans was a collaborative effort, drawing on the expertise of S3 Solutions, input from Carlow County Council staff and management, and guidance from the Active Carlow Advisory Committee and Local Sports Partnership team. Together, this partnership has captured the vision, energy, and momentum of Active Carlow as it begins this new chapter.
Both plans are aligned with Sport Ireland, Healthy Ireland, and the National Sports Policy, ensuring that Carlow is firmly positioned at the forefront of sport and physical activity development in Ireland.
You can read both documents here:
- Local Sport and Physical Activity Plan for County Carlow (CC2502-Local-Sports-Plan.pdf)
- Active Carlow Strategic Plan (CC2502-Active-Carlow-Strategic-Plan.pdf)
Rip current warning ahead of August Bank Holiday weekend
Rip currents are a major cause of accidental drownings but can be notoriously difficult to spot. The Irish Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland are pleading with swimmers and particularly those who may be visiting an area they are not familiar with over the Bank Holiday weekend, to learn the warning signs, read local safety notices and seek advice before entering the water.
With the weekend also forecasting strong winds, gusting up to Force 9 in some areas on Bank Holiday Monday, the three organisations are warning that the weather will further increase the risk of getting into difficulty, especially on east coast beaches where offshore winds will blow from land out to sea.
In offshore winds:
- Offshore conditions make it even easier to be swept out to sea and harder to return safely. Swimmers, paddleboarders and other water users are urged not to take to the water in such conditions
- Never use inflatable toys in open water
Rips are strong currents running out to sea, which can quickly drag people and debris away from the shallows of the shoreline and out to deeper water. They tend to flow at 1–2mph but can reach 4–5mph, which is faster than an Olympic swimmer. Rips are especially powerful in larger surf, but people should never underestimate the power of any water. They are also found around river mouths, estuaries and man-made structures like piers and groynes.
While they can be difficult to spot, they are sometimes identified by a channel of churning, choppy water on the sea's surface. Even the most experienced people can be caught out by rips, so we would encourage swimmers to not be afraid to ask for advice.
To avoid a rip current:
- Choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags which have been marked based on where it is safer to swim in the current conditions. Find your closest lifeguarded beach at https://watersafety.ie/lifeguards/
- Wear a bright coloured swimming cap
- Swim with others, never go alone.
If you do find yourself caught in a rip:
- Don’t try to swim against it or you’ll get exhausted
- If you can stand, wade don’t swim
- If you can, swim parallel to the shore until free of the rip and then head for shore
- Always raise your hand and shout for help
- If you see someone in difficulty or suspect they are in difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard
Graphic how to escape a rip current: Rip current graphic: https://watersafety.ie/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/WSI-Rip-Current-Illustration-1100x640-R1-2-1.jpg
A Lifeguard explains rip currents: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc6KNweXn_I
In 20 seconds learn how to escape a rip current: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=suFHTtyUfHI
More on rip currents: https://watersafety.ie/rip-currents/
Rip currents explained in 2 minutes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-4hNh-6jDL0
Open Gym Sessions for Teenage Girls
Carlow Sports Partnership are excited to announce Open Gym sessions designed for 13-16 year olds.
Guided by the professionals at Patric Fitness Centre Bagenalstown, participants will have the opportunity to explore gym equipment, ask questions, and work at their own pace – all while the gym is closed to the general public to ensure an enjoyable experience for the girls.
Tuesdays and Thursdays starting Tue 22nd July.
1pm – 3pm.
Patric Fitness Centre, Kilcarrig, Muinebheag, R21 X788.
€3 per session or €5 per week.
No pre-booking required, sign in forms will be available at the gym.
For more information contact euseckaite@carlowcoco.ie or 059 913 6247
PALs Workshops - Get More Active, More Often!
Become a Physical Activity Leader for Older Adults
Carlow Local Sports Partnership, in association with Age & Opportunity, invites you to join the PALs (Physical Activity Leaders) Workshops. This initiative is designed to empower individuals to lead and encourage more older people to be active, more often.
PALs are trained to guide members of their own groups or communities through short exercise routines, simple dances, fun games, and recreational sports. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable skills and contribute to the well-being of older adults in your community.
Date: 21st & 28th October, and 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th November (all Tuesdays)
Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Myshall Community Centre, Co. Carlow
Registration: Essential
To register or for more information, please contact:
Michael McCarthy at michaelmccarthy@carlowcoco.ie or 087 3560803
Men\'s Health 2025
Get Mind Fit: Prioritise Your Mental Health This Men’s Health Week!
Join us for ‘Get Mind Fit’, a special free event at Carlow Town Park dedicated to promoting positive mental health during Men’s Health Week. This is your chance to step away from the daily grind, invest in your well-being, and connect with your community in a supportive and relaxed environment.
What to Expect
We’ve designed a day that nurtures both your mind and body:
- Scenic River Barrow Walk: We’ll kick things off promptly at 10:00 AM with a refreshing walk along the beautiful River Barrow. It’s a great way to get moving and clear your head.
- Positive Mental Health Insights: After our stroll, you’ll have the opportunity to learn practical tips and strategies for fostering positive mental well-being.
- Connect and Socialise: Meet new people, share experiences, and build connections in a friendly atmosphere.
- Complimentary Lunch: Enjoy a delicious, free lunch on us!
Event Details
- Date: Friday, 13th June 2025
- Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Location: Carlow Town Park
- Cost: FREE!
Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to support your mental and physical health. Taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body, and ‘Get Mind Fit’ provides the perfect setting to do just that.
