A diverse and engaging programme of events is scheduled to take place across Limerick City and County as part of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, which runs from July to December 2026, alongside Limerick's official pairing with Germany.

Under a nationwide initiative developed specifically for the Irish EU Presidency, each Irish local authority area has been matched with an EU Member State. These pairings have been designed to bring Europe closer to local communities by cultivating educational, cultural, civic, and economic connections between counties and their designated partner nations.

Limerick has been paired with Germany, which is Europe's largest economy and one of Ireland's most important European partners. Throughout the Presidency timeframe, the partnership will provide opportunities to celebrate German heritage, language, and culture, whilst exploring shared challenges and interests through a broad range of exchanges and public events.

The programme of events is currently being developed by Limerick City and County Council in partnership with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Centre for Irish-German Studies at the University of Limerick. During the Irish EU Presidency period, residents and visitors can attend regular guided tours and public lectures across Limerick's arts, cultural, and academic institutions. These will feature special thematic focuses on historical links, art, music, the German language, sustainability, energy, and migration.

Additionally, a number of major international conferences will be hosted by the University of Limerick, Mary Immaculate College, and the Technological University of the Shannon. These events will bring together researchers, academics, policymakers, and practitioners from Ireland, Germany, and across Europe.

The initiative reflects the core spirit of the Irish EU Presidency by encouraging greater public engagement with Europe, cultural exchange, and dialogue at a local level.

The programme of events is supported by the following organisations:

• Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

• German Embassy in Ireland

• German-Irish Chamber of Industry & Commerce

• Limerick Chamber of Commerce

• Shannon Foynes Port

• University of Limerick

• Mary Immaculate College

• Technological University of the Shannon

• Irish Palatine Association & Museum, Rathkeale

• Hunt Museum

• Limerick City Gallery of Art

• Limerick Museum

• Studio GBM

• St Mary's Cathedral

Further programme details are due to be announced at the official launch of the Limerick–Germany Pairing on 1 July. The programme will continue to evolve throughout the Irish EU Presidency period, and updates will be available at www.Limerick.ie following the official launch.

To learn more about the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, individuals can visit Ireland2026.eu.