Discover the Cooish Festival Celebrating Isle of Man’s Rich Traditional Language Heritage
The Cooish Festival, an annual celebration of the Isle of Man’s rich Manx language heritage, invites participation from all community members. This five-day event begins on November 5 and features 25 diverse activities designed for individuals of all ages and levels of proficiency in the language.
Understanding the Cooish Festival
The term “Cooish” translates to “friendly conversation” in Manx Gaelic. It was recently added to the Oxford English Dictionary, highlighting its cultural significance. Ruth Keggin-Gell, the Manx language development officer with Culture Vannin, has organized the festival in collaboration with various local organizations.
Inclusive Programming for All
The Cooish Festival aims to be inclusive, offering activities for absolute beginners and fluent speakers alike. Keggin-Gell emphasizes the importance of making the Manx language accessible to everyone. The events encompass a wide range of activities:
- Formal lectures
- Board game sessions
- Traditional music performances
- Online Manx language lessons
Event Schedule Highlights
Below is a brief overview of some key events during the festival:
| Date | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| November 5 | Cosy Lunchtime Cooish | Cafe Villa, Douglas |
| November 6 | Open Manx Class: Fun with numbers | Greens Cafe, St John’s |
| November 7 | Manx Songs and Rhymes for Mini Musicians | Mannin Music Studio, Pulrose |
| November 8 | Come and paint a Manx Language Mural | House of Manannan, Peel |
| November 9 | Big Breakfast on the Mountain in Manx | Victory Cafe, Mountain Road |
Engaging the Community
The festival aims to boost the number of Manx speakers, which stood at 2,223 according to the 2021 Isle of Man census. Culture Vannin aspires to enhance access to the language and foster a sense of community among speakers and learners. Many events are free, though pre-booking is encouraged for those with limited space or associated costs.
The Cooish Festival exemplifies a commitment to preserving and promoting the Isle of Man’s unique linguistic heritage. It encourages everyone to learn and engage with the Manx language, embracing a spirit of inclusiveness and cultural pride.
