Cork City Council Night-Time Economy Team and Cork Business Association Relaunch ‘Leave a Light On’ Campaign for 2026
Following the success of the 2025 Leave a Light On initiative, Cork City Council’s Night Time Economy Office and Cork Business Association (CBA) are delighted to launch the campaign for 2026. ‘Leave a Light On’ is a simple yet powerful initiative designed to light up the city and enhance vibrancy and community spirit during the darker months.
This year’s campaign will run from Friday, November 13th, to Sunday, January 31st, 2027. During this time, business premises in Cork city, which are usually in darkness after business hours, are invited to leave a light on, to help illuminate Cork’s streets offering a more welcoming environment for all who work, socialise, and travel through the city after dark. The campaign, sponsored by Cork City Council’s Night Time Economy team, gives financial support to participating businesses.
Cliona Barnes, Director of Cork Business Association, said:
“Cork is a city to be enjoyed both day and night, and creating a bright, welcoming environment is something we can all contribute to. Leaving a single light on is a simple gesture, but collectively it helps create a more vibrant city for everyone.”
A spokesperson for Cork City Council said,
“The Leave a Light On campaign shows how businesses and the council can work together to create a brighter more inclusive city. The campaign supports the wider objectives of Cork City Council’s Night Time Economy Strategy, which aims to enrich the experience of our city after dark and encourage greater activity and enjoyment of public spaces.”
Participating businesses are encouraged to use energy-efficient lighting, such as LED bulbs. The campaign focuses on leaving a single light on, demonstrating care for both the community and the planet.
City centre businesses can take part by simply leaving a light on in their storefronts each evening until midnight.
Participating businesses will be eligible for a €200 subsidy (including VAT), funded by Cork City Council’s Night Time Economy
Applications are open through Cork Business Association by emailing info@corkbusiness.ie
Help us shine a light on Cork! Businesses and the public are encouraged to share photos of the city centre after dark, tagging Cork City Council and Cork Business Association, with the hashtags;
#LeaveALightOnCork
#NightTimeEconomyCork
#NTECork