Drumcondra Joycean Jaunt 2024
Join us for an informative and entertaining exploration of Drumcondra's Joycean connections on this Bloomsday Sunday!
Date and time
Location
Our Lady's Park
Our Lady's Park Dublin IrelandAbout this event
- 2 hours
“He crossed the bridge over the stream of the Tolka, and turned his eyes coldly for an instant towards the faded blue shrine of the Blessed Virgin which stood fowl wise on a pole in the middle of a hamshaped encampment of poor cottages. Then, bending to the left, he followed the lane which led up to his house.”
– Portrait of an Artist as a Young Man
At noon on the 120th anniversary of Bloomsday, Drumcondra Joycean Jaunters will convene at the current day shrine of the Blessed Virgin in Our Lady’s Park on the banks of the Tolka (across from Fagan’s).
We’ll then follow the short route taken by student Stephen Dedalus to his home on Millbourne Avenue. There, under the shadow of Drumcondra Library, we’ll celebrate the day in the spirit (non-alcoholic!) of the first Bloomsday 'jant' held 70 years ago on 16th June 1954, when amongst others, Patrick Kavanagh (whose first Dublin home was in Drumcondra), set out on a Ulyssesean pilgrimage.
All are welcome to join us on this Bloomsday Sunday, including GAA fans on their way to Croke Park.
"that she would never forget her hero boy who went to his death with a song on his lips as if he were but going to a hurling match in Clonturk Park." [home to All Ireland finals 1890-92 & 94]
– Cyclops, Ulysses
Please note that whilst attendance is free, booking is required so that we can prepare properly for you - Thanks!
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Drumcondra Library is less than a 5-minute walk from Our Lady's Park. Just cross the bridge northwards and, as in the Portrait of an Artist extract, turn left at either Millmount Avenue or Millbourne Avenue (lane-like) and follow on up to James Joyce Court and Drumcondra Library.
We are delighted to have children (of all ages!) join us. In the case of younger ones, we've found that they are attracted by the colour, the songs, and the fun of the occasion. Parents and guardians are reminded that some of Joyce's works reference themes of an adult nature.