Open Streets: A Community Effort Bringing Ballincollig Together
Events such as Open Streets encourage people to experience their town in a different way. By temporarily prioritising people over traffic, visitors can stroll, cycle, stop to chat with neighbours, enjoy local entertainment and engage with community organisations. Such events provide an opportunity to see how public spaces can support social interaction, wellbeing and community connection while also showcasing the businesses and organisations that contribute to daily life in Ballincollig.[1]
Organised by the Ballincollig Business Association in partnership with Ballincollig Sustainable Transport Group and Cork City Council, the Open Streets event highlights the value of welcoming, people-focused public spaces and showcases the strong community spirit that exists throughout Ballincollig.[1]
A long history of volunteering
Behind every successful community event is a network of volunteers who give their time and energy to make it happen.
Ballincollig benefits from a remarkable network of volunteers who contribute in many different ways throughout the year. Community groups organise environmental projects, residents work together to enhance their neighbourhoods, sports clubs provide opportunities for participation and exercise, while cultural and business organisations create events that bring people together.
Ballincollig Tidy Towns volunteers are just one part of this wider picture. From biodiversity initiatives and litter collection to planting schemes, educational projects and community events, volunteers help create an environment that supports businesses, residents and visitors. This culture of participation is one of Ballincollig's greatest strengths and contributes significantly to the town's sense of identity and community pride.
Strong partnerships deliver strong results
One of Ballincollig's greatest strengths is the willingness of organisations to work together for the benefit of the community.
Over many years, Ballincollig Business Association and Ballincollig Tidy Towns have worked alongside one another in support of the town. While each organisation has its own focus, both share a commitment to enhancing Ballincollig's reputation as an attractive, welcoming and vibrant place. Whether supporting local initiatives, promoting community events or celebrating achievements within the town, this spirit of cooperation helps strengthen connections between businesses, volunteers and community groups.[2, 3]
Open Streets is not only about a single afternoon of activities. It also demonstrates what can be achieved when local organisations, public bodies, businesses and volunteers work together towards a shared vision. The event reflects the strong community spirit that continues to shape Ballincollig and contributes to the town's ongoing success. [1]
Looking ahead
As Ballincollig continues to grow, events such as Open Streets remind us of the importance of community participation and volunteerism. They create opportunities to connect with neighbours, support local businesses and celebrate the people who help make Ballincollig such a special place. Whether you volunteer your time, support local events or simply come along to enjoy the day, you are playing a part in shaping the future of our community.
In September, Ballincollig's Main Street will once again be transformed into a vibrant traffic-free space for the Open Streets event, creating opportunities for people of all ages to enjoy music, food, games, sports demonstrations and family-friendly activities in the heart of the town.[1]
Poster for the 2026 Ballincollig Open Streets event
Location: Main Street, Ballincollig
Date: Sunday 13 September, 2026
Time: 1pm to 4pm
The photos below capture the spirit of community volunteering at the inaugural Ballincollig Open Streets event in 2025.
Photo Credit: Vitaliy Makhnanov, Media Producer, All About Us Video, IPPVA Member.
References
[1] Ballincollig Business Association (2025). Ballincollig Open Street Festival. Available at: https://ballincollig.ie/event/ballincollig-open-street-festival/ (Accessed: 3 September 2026).
[2] Ballincollig Business Association (2025). Showcasing all that's great about Ballincollig. Available at: https://ballincollig.ie/showcasing-all-thats-great-about-ballincollig/ (Accessed: 3 September 2026).
[3] Ballincollig Business Association (2025). Ballincollig News. Available at: https://ballincollig.ie/ballincollig-news/ (Accessed: 3 September 2026).