European Sport-for-All Games 2026 to bring Limerick’s parks, streets and public spaces to life

Limerick has been selected as the host city for the European Sport-for-All Games 2026. Pictured at the announcement were Cllr Olivia O’Sullivan, Louise Burke, Sport Ireland, David Ward, University of Limerick, Jean-Francois Laurent, TAFISA, John Moran, Mayor of Limerick, Wolfgang Baumann, TAFISA, Pat Quigley, Limerick Sports Partnership, Karen Ronan, Shannon Region Conference & Sports Bureau, Louise Magner, Limerick Council, Cllr Padraig Reale and Mary Van Lieshout, Sport Ireland. Photograph by Eamon Ward

Limerick’s Parks, Streets & Public Spaces will come alive with cross sporting & cultural celebrations as the city is announced as host for the European Sport-for-All Games 2026

Limerick has been selected as the host city for the European Sport-for-All Games 2026, a five-day celebration of traditional sports, physical activity, and cultural diversity across Europe.

scheduled for August 2026, the Games will bring together over 250 participants from 26 European delegations, transforming the city into a vibrant hub of sporting and cultural exchange.

Organised by Limerick Sports Partnership, in collaboration with TAFISA (The Association for International Sport for All), Limerick City & County Council, University of Limerick, and Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau, the Games aim to promote participation in sport and physical activity while encouraging inclusion, integration, and providing an exciting cross-cultural opportunity to celebrate and share traditions with our European neighbours.

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

Speaking at the launch, Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, said “It is a huge honour for us in Limerick to host the European Sport-for-All Games 2026. This is an incredible opportunity for Limerick to showcase its commitment to sport, culture, community engagement and innovative use of urban public realm on the international stage. These Games will bring additional life onto the streets of historic Limerick City as we activate the city centre by bringing sports into the public arena. I want to commend the collaborations across all the Limerick actors who have won us the right to host this amazing event in 2026, the very year Ireland holds the EU Presidency.”

The European Sport-for-All Games will feature a diverse mix of sporting demonstrations, interactive workshops, and performances, celebrating Europe’s rich heritage of traditional and indigenous sports. Beyond the sporting arena, participants will also share their cultural traditions through dance, music, and food, creating a festival atmosphere that strengthens social connections.

Set against the backdrop of Limerick’s historic cityscape, the Games will utilize parks, streets, and public spaces as event venues, ensuring accessibility and engagement for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. This approach reinforces the core belief that sport is for everyone.

Phelim Macken, Manager of Limerick Sports Partnership, said: “Hosting the European Sport for All Games 2026 is a tremendous opportunity for Limerick to celebrate sport, physical activity, and inclusivity at every level. This event will unite local communities and welcome participants from across Europe in a festival of sport and culture. In partnership with Limerick City & County Council, we will activate our parks and public spaces to highlight Limerick as a healthy, active, and welcoming city for all. We look forward to showcasing Limerick’s commitment to sport, community, and well-being on a European stage.”

Wolfgang Baumann, President of TAFISA, said: “We are delighted to bring the European Sport-for-All Games to Limerick in 2026. This event is more than just a celebration of sport—it’s a platform for cultural exchange, inclusion, and innovation. Limerick’s rich history and sporting culture, as well as its efforts to become an Active City, make it the perfect host city for this international gathering.”

Building on previous Traditional Sports & Games initiatives, the European Sport-for-All Games 2026 will also introduce innovative elements that showcase Ireland’s rich cultural diversity and leadership in digital and technological innovation. By blending heritage with modern creativity, the Games will engage a new generation, fostering a deeper appreciation for culture, sport, and active living.

Speaking on behalf of Shannon Region Conference & Sports Bureau and Failte Ireland, Karen Ronan, said, “Hosting the European Sport-for-All Games 2026 is not only a celebration of sport and culture but also a significant economic opportunity for Limerick. Sports tourism has a proven track record of driving visitor numbers, boosting local businesses, and showcasing the region as a premier destination for international events.”