The annual Spirit of Mother Jones Festival will be held in the Shandon Historical Quarter from Thursday 24th July until Saturday 26th July 2025.

This unique festival celebrates the life of Mary Harris born in Cork in July 1837, who emigrated to America after the Great Famine, and who in 1867 lost her entire family to yellow fever yet went on to become known throughout the world as Mother Jones.

In spite of her tragic personal loss, she became the inspirational champion of Labour, especially through her support for the miners and by her efforts to eliminate child labour.

Mother Jones was regarded as "the most dangerous woman in America" due to her work for trade unions, social justice and human rights over many decades. Her fearless exploits are legendary.

The festival is free and open to all and involves a summer school with local and international speakers on the issues associated with Mother Jones and the heritage of her birthplace. There will also be a selection of films, discussions, documentaries, singing and music. Several Irish trade unions contribute to the sponsorship which enable free admission to the events.

The festival itself is organised entirely by a local independent voluntary committee and is based in local venues such as the Maldron Hotel and the Dance Cork Firkin Theatre located in the beautiful Shandon area, in the heart of Cork City.

Cork City, known as the 'Rebel City' is very proud to honour her most famous rebel daughter each year in her birthplace. The annual Spirit of Mother Jones Award, announced each year at the festival now enjoys an international reputation.