Celebrations planned for the Plaza Dance Hall in Buncrana's 67th anniversary

The historic Plaza Dance Hall in Buncrana will swing open its doors for two free drop-in workshops and a social dance to mark its 67th anniversary - a celebration of memory, creativity, and renewal as the much-loved venue continues its restoration following a devastating fire six years ago.

Two workshops will run on Sunday, July 13, from 1-5pm: the first explores botanical printing, using locally foraged plants to create print designs on clothing. All materials will be on hand to create a unique and wearable piece of dance wear! This workshop will be run by Gillian Steel, an artist and researcher specialising in the social history of textiles.

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Running alongside will be a second workshop, which invites members of the community to share their personal stories and memories of the Plaza, reflect on its legacy as a cornerstone of social life in Buncrana, and imagine what it could become in the years ahead. Visitors are welcome to bring photos, memorabilia, or simply their stories to contribute to this living archive.
This workshop will be run by artist and archaeologist Susie Dalton.

At 6pm, the celebration continues with a social dance in the iconic hall, featuring live music, where newly-printed clothes can be shown off on the dance floor just as the Plaza would have seen decades ago.

This special day marks not only the anniversary of the Dance Hall, but a symbolic step in its return to life as a cherished community hub.