Monaghan County Council is looking forward to a special programme of events this October at the Monaghan Peace Campus, celebrating the enduring legacy of Project Children and its lasting contribution to peace-building and community connection.
Taking place from 10th–14th October 2026, the series of events will bring together participants, families and supporters from Ireland, Northern Ireland and the United States to reflect on 50 years of a remarkable initiative that has fostered understanding, friendship and shared experience across communities.
A key highlight of the programme will be the official launch of the new Project Children book on Tuesday, 13th October. Written by acclaimed author Jane Buckley, the publication captures five decades of personal stories and the lasting impact of the programme. The launch will see visitors gather once again in the Peace Campus to mark this milestone and celebrate a story rooted in hope for a better future for all.
The programme will begin with a special showcase event on Saturday, 10th October, highlighting a range of upcoming legacy projects. This event will feature a rich mix of cultural performances, including a fusion of Ulster Scots and Gaelic music and dance traditions, alongside youth-led creative work, digital heritage experiences and insights into plans for a future community archaeology project at Rossmore Castle.
Screenings of the award-winning documentary How to Defuse a Bomb – The Project Children Story will take place throughout the week. Narrated by Liam Neeson, the film explores the origins and impact of Project Children and its co-founder Denis Mulcahy, with contributions from key supporters including former US President Bill Clinton.
The programme builds on the successful 50th anniversary celebrations and exhibition hosted in 2025, forming part of a wider legacy initiative focused on continuing to strengthen connection, understanding and shared community into the future.
Visitors to Monaghan can also explore this story through ‘The Project Children Stories – A Legacy of Peace Lives on in Monaghan’ exhibition, which remains open free of charge at Monaghan County Museum in the Peace Campus.
Monaghan County Council is proud to support this next phase in the Project Children journey and to help sustain its legacy for future generations.