Make the Most of Darker Evenings

As the evenings get darker, it can feel harder to get motivated, but taking an evening class is a fantastic way to brighten up your autumn and winter nights. Not only can you learn something new, from languages to interior design, fitness to food, but it’s also a brilliant way to meet like-minded people and make new friends. It might be tough to get up and get out at first, but you’ll never regret it.

We’ve done a bit of the legwork for you, highlighting some great courses across Cork, but this is just the tip of the iceberg. There are dozens more opportunities to explore. And if you’re looking to get your hands a little dirtier, why not try an organic  gardening class? Gardening is not only relaxing and creative but also a practical skill that keeps giving all year round.

Have a suggestion for a course we haven’t listed? Let us know, we’d love to hear from you!

1. Creative Writing: An Introduction

• Location: Ashton School, Blackrock Road
  
• Description: Explore the art of storytelling and unlock your creative potential in a supportive environment.
  
• Time: Mondays, 7:00–9:00 PM (6 weeks)
  
• Start Date: Monday, September 22, 2025
  
• Link: https://ashtonadulteducation.ie

2. Organic Gardening

• Location: Cork College of FET – Mallow Campus
  
• When: Tuesdays, 7:00–9:00 PM (10 weeks)
  
• Start Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2025
  
• Details: Learn sustainable gardening practices, including soil health, composting, and plant care.
  
• Link: Mallow Campus Night College
  

3. Spanish for Beginners

• Location: Bishopstown Community School
  
• Description: Learn the basics of Spanish in a friendly and supportive environment.
  
• Time: Wednesdays, 7:00–9:00 PM
  
• Start Date: Wednesday, September 24, 2025
  
• Link: bishopstowncs.ie
  

4. Introduction to Digital Photography

• Location: Cork College of FET – Tramore Road Campus
  
• Description: Learn the basics of digital photography, from camera settings to composition.
  
• Time: Tuesdays, 7:00–9:00 PM
  
• Start Date: Tuesday, September 30, 2025
  
• Link: tramoreroadcampus.ie
  

5. Pilates Level 1

• Location: Douglas Community School
  
• Description: Build core strength and flexibility in this beginner-friendly Pilates class.
  
• Time: Tuesdays, 7:00–8:00 PM
  
• Start Date: Week of September 22, 2025
  
• Link: dcscork.ie
  

6. Acrylic Painting

• Location: Carrigaline Community School
  
• Description: Unleash your inner artist and learn the techniques of acrylic painting.
  
• Time: Wednesdays, 7:00–9:00 PM
  
• Start Date: Wednesday, October 1, 2025
  
• Link: carrigcs.ie
  

7. Introduction to Irish Sign Language

• Location: Bishopstown Community School
  
• Description: Learn the basics of Irish Sign Language in a supportive environment.
  
• Time: Mondays, 7:00–9:00 PM
  
• Start Date: Monday, September 22, 2025
  
• Link: bishopstowncs.ie
  

8. Introduction to Acting

• Location: Cork College of FET – Tramore Road Campus
  
• Description: A fun and creative course that aims to introduce the basics of acting.
  
• Time: Thursdays, 7:00–9:00 PM
  
• Start Date: Thursday, October 2, 2025
  
• Link: tramoreroadcampus.ie
  

9. Ukulele for Beginners

• Location: Carrigaline Community School
  
• Description: Learn to play the ukulele in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
  
• Time: Tuesdays, 7:00–8:15 PM
  
• Start Date: Tuesday, September 30, 2025
  
• Link: carrigcs.ie
  

10. Yoga for Beginners

• Location: Bishopstown Community School
  
• Description: Learn the basics of yoga in a calming and supportive environment.
  
• Time: Thursdays, 7:00–8:00 PM
  
• Start Date: Thursday, September 25, 2025
  
• Link: bishopstowncs.ie
  

11. Introduction to Digital Marketing

• Location: Cork College of FET – Douglas Street Campus
  
• Description: Learn the fundamentals of digital marketing, including SEO and social media strategies.
  
• Time: Mondays, 7:00–9:00 PM
  
• Start Date: Monday, September 29, 2025
  
• Link: douglasstreetcampus.ie

12 Wellness Retreats

• Location: Various venues in Cork
  
• When: Dates vary; check individual retreat schedules
  
• Details: Participate in wellness retreats offering yoga, meditation, and holistic healing practices.
  
• Source: BookRetreats.com/

13 WSET Level 2 Award in Wine

• Location: The River Lee Hotel, Western Rd, Cork
  
• When: Monday, October 6, 2025
  
• Duration: One-day intensive course (10:00 AM – 5:30 PM)
  
• Details: An in-depth course covering global wine regions, tasting techniques, and food pairings.
  
• Cost: €250
  

 Vinspire Wine and Spirit Academy