Let African fun uplift you Portlaoise on Laois Africa Day

Laois County Council and Laois African Support Group are inviting the people of Laois to an uplifting day of entertainment on Africa Day 2023 in Portlaoise over the June Bank Holiday weekend. 

Africa Day is an initiative of the African Union, which celebrates African diversity and success and the cultural and economic potential of the continent. 

Laois County Council together with Laois African Support Group is among a number of organisations around the country that have been supported by Irish Aid, the Government’s overseas aid programme, managed by the Department of Foreign Affairs to host Africa Day events this year.   

The  Africa Day Laois event is taking place on the grounds of Portlaoise Leisure  Centre, Portlaoise (Eircode R32 YP11) Co. Laois on Saturday, June 3. 

"Portlaoise will be uplifted and transformed by the sights, sounds and smells of Africa, as we gather to celebrate Africa Day Laois, 2023.

"Africa’s rich culture will be showcased through family-friendly activities, along with music, craft,  performances,  and educational elements.  

"You will be entertained by live music, drama, and poetry, along with many more performances. There will also be traditional African drumming and dance displays, African fashion, arts and crafts and much more. 

"There will also be a Laois Africa v Laois Gardai soccer match on the astroturf pitch at 11.30am that morning as part of the celebrations," said the organisers.

"Last year's event took place in glorious sunshine and was truly a great celebration of African culture. We hope to see you again on Saturday, June 3.  You are invited to embrace African culture by wearing bright colours," say the organisers.

In the interest of sustainability and to help in reducing emissions and traffic congestion, attendees are encouraged to use public transport, walk or cycle to Laois Africa Day. It is also recommended that attendees bring a refillable water container to avoid the use of single-use plastic.

In Pictures: Diversity celebrated at Laois intercultural day

Please note that all minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times and that as part of the event, photographs and video of the will be taken by a photographer or event staff. If you do not wish to be photographed, please inform the photographer at the time. 

All in Laois invited to celebrated Laois Africa Day in Portlaoise

The launch at County Hall in Portlaoise was atttend by Emma O'Connor (Healthy Laois Co-ordinator), Simon Walton (Director of Services, Laois Co Council) Bolaji Adeyanju, Kemi Adeyemi, Kamar Ayanda, Kafayat Sanusi, Tom Curran (Staff Officer, Comm. Section) and Anne Marie Kirrane (Acting Admin. Officer Community Section).