Festival of IDEAs |  September 17th – 20th 2026 | Drogheda

The Festival of Ideas is a dynamic, interdisciplinary celebration that explores the powerful themes of dereliction, vacancy, and revitalisation. Rooted in architecture, urban planning, art, and social change, the festival invites communities, creatives, thinkers, and activists to reimagine the spaces we overlook — abandoned buildings, forgotten corners, and dormant infrastructures — as sites of potential and transformation.

Take a look at the full programme of events: https://developmentperspectives.ie/what-we-do/projects/festival-of-ideas/

Take the Lead | 6 Weeks (Starting late September, with a one-week break for the October 26th Bank Holiday), Mondays, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM 

A 6-Week Personal Development & Community Action Programme.

Join our relaxed, 6-week community workshop to build your skills in a supportive space. You will:

• Build confidence in speaking and working effectively with others.
• Learn how local decisions are made and how to have your voice heard.
• Understand how local community challenges connect to the wider world.
• Gain hands-on experience designing and planning a real community project.

More information: paul@developmentperspectives.ie

COMMUNITY LAND TRUST Workshop | September 18th, 2pm | The Barbican Centre
Individuals and Communities across Ireland face many issues related to land and its availability (housing, gardens, amenities, playgrounds, etc). Join us to examine and explore an innovative model (community land trust) of cooperation and practice.

Register: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/workshop-community-land-trust-tickets-1997852501613?aff=oddtdtcreator

THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY | September 20th, 10am | The Barbican Centre 

Development Perspectives is working with many stakeholders to establish a circular economy hub in Drogheda.
What is the Circular Economy? Why is it important? Join us to explore these questions through discussion and theatre.

Register: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/workshop-the-circular-economy-tickets-1997852695192?aff=oddtdtcreator

Food for Thought Drogheda |  October 1st, 9:30 AM – 4 PM | DP Offices, Drogheda, A92 PY68

Exploring regenerative, sustainable & equitable agriculture in Ireland and the Global South, and the potential for shared learning & action. Register: https://foodforthought-drogheda.eventbrite.ie