CARRIGALINE, CO. CORK

Basant is a cherished festival in the Indian Subcontinent, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the vibrant yellow hues that accompany it. While rooted in Hinduism as a celebration of the season’s onset, Basant transcends religious boundaries and is embraced by all cultures. During this time, the landscape is painted in shades of yellow, with sprawling mustard and sunflower fields, and locals adorned in yellow attire take to the skies with kites, marking the end of a quiet winter with outdoor revelry.

In Ireland, Basant has evolved into an annual one-day, non-profit, community-based family fun event held in Carrigaline Community Park, Co. Cork, P43 TK70. The aim of the festival is to promote South Asian Art and Cultural Identity in Ireland and beyond. This year, 2024, marks the third consecutive year of the event, scheduled for June 1st from 2:00 to 8:00 pm. We’re thrilled to enhance the festivities by introducing a variety of programs, including kite flying, food stalls, traditional attire displays, dance performances, live Dhool (Punjabi drumming), kite flying demonstrations by the expert kite pilots, kite crafting workshops, film screenings, competitions, prizes, art exhibitions, mango party, and much more. We anticipate a diverse turnout and encourage participants to embrace the spirit of the occasion by dressing in yellow.

The event is organized by Amna Walayat in collaboration with South Asian community members Jasmin and Sana. The County Council, Creative Ireland and Rethink Ireland collaboration with Sample-Studios have generously supported the event with funding, supplemented by contributions from our regular sponsor, Spice Garden. Tomiwa Morris is volunteering as our media coordinator, and Cllr. John Healy will represent the Mayor of the County Cork Cllr. Frank O’ Flynn at the event.

Moreover, our intention is to celebrate Basant annually and gradually expand its scope, with the aim of establishing a South Asian Weekend in Carrigaline in the future.