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Irish and Ulster-Scots poets come together for Twa Tongues, Aon Tír Amháin for Culture Night 2026

4 September 2026

Derry City and Strabane District Council will host a celebration of language, literature and history as part of this year’s Culture Night with Twa Tongues, Aon Tír Amháin (Two Tongues, One Land). The author-led event, which takes place in the Guildhall on Friday 18th September at 4:00pm explores poetry in the Irish and Ulster-Scots languages.

The event brings together two acclaimed poets and writers, Darren Gibson and Proinsias Mac a' Bhaird for an engaging evening of conversation, readings and live performances. Audiences will have the opportunity to hear directly from both poets as they discuss their own creative journeys and the inspirations behind their work, as well as the reasons they chose to write in Irish and Ulster-Scots.

Pól Ó Frighil, Policy Officer (Languages) at Derry City and Strabane District Council, said they were excited for this year’s Culture Night event.

“We’re delighted to welcome Darren Gibson and Proinsias Mac a' Bhaird into the Guildhall as part of this year’s Culture Night and to learn more about their work and the inspiration behind it all.

“Twa Tongues, Aon Tír Amháin is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the creative vitality of both Irish and Ulster-Scots. By bringing together two outstanding contemporary poets, the event will offer audiences fresh insights into the role of language, identity and place in shaping artistic expression and cultural heritage."

Twa Tongues, Aon Tír Amháin brings together Irish and Ulster-Scots poetry to showcase the cultural heritage they share. Through the work of two leading poets, audiences will gain a deeper appreciation of both languages and their continuing relevance today.

Admission is free; however, advance booking is essential. No prior knowledge of Irish or Ulster-Scots is required to enjoy the event. To book please contact T: 028 71 376 579 or email: [email protected]