12/06/2026
Courage - This is the theme of Waterford 2026.
📆15th - 21st June
📍Various Locations around Waterford
Courage: We see it every day: in people rebuilding their lives in a new place, in neighbours offering support, in volunteers giving their time, and in communities choosing connection, solidarity and belonging.
We see courage not only in those who arrive and begin again, but also in those who welcome, who reach out in friendship, and who help create places where everyone feels valued and included.
At a time when building strong, connected and compassionate communities matters more than ever, Refugee Week reminds us of the importance of standing together and celebrating the diversity, experiences and relationships that enrich life in Waterford.
The programme has been organized by the Community Connection Project, the Refugee Resettlement Programme and Waterford Libraries, with support from community groups across the county.
What makes this year's programme especially meaningful is that many of the books, films and activities have been shaped by recommendations and contributions from local residents and new communities across Waterford, reflecting the many stories, cultures and experiences that make up life here today.
Some highlights from the week include:
• Opening Event – Monday 15 June, 3.00pm, Central Library
Launch of "Courage in Our World, Our Culture & In Our Lives", a community-curated exhibition of books and films exploring identity, belonging, migration, resilience and culture.
The event will also feature Daring to Fly, a collaborative art exhibition created by 17 women from different community groups and nationalities, guided by artist Niamh Ní Chearbhaill. The Mayor of Waterford will officially open the event. There will also be an Open Mic, refreshments, and an opportunity to meet some of the people involved.
• Community Film Screening – Wednesday 17 June, 5.30pm, Central Library. A screening of A World Not Ours, the award-winning documentary by Mahdi Fleifel, exploring identity, belonging and displacement through the lives of Palestinian refugees in Lebanon.
• Guided Walking History Tour – Thursday 18 June, 11.00am
Join the Waterford Welcome Ambassadors for a guided walking tour exploring Waterford's rich history while connecting with others and sharing stories along the way.
• Children's Activities in Libraries. Throughout the week, Waterford City and County Libraries will host storytimes and family activities for children.
Ireland's own history has been shaped by migration, by people leaving these shores in search of opportunity, safety and hope, and by the communities that welcomed them along the way.
Refugee Week offers an opportunity to reflect on those connections while celebrating the diversity, creativity and sense of belonging that continue to shape Waterford today.
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