Irish Redhead Convention in Cork

Image: Irish Redhead Convention

'Most Irish people have red hair' is one of those misconceptions that's known around the world. If you're in Cork this weekend, you could be forgiven for believing it: as the Irish Red Head Convention gets underway in Crosshaven.

500 natural redheads are expected to turn out for the occasion. Now in its third year, the festival is for the 10% of Irish people with natural red hair (a close second to Scotland's 13%) and takes place on Saturday 18 August. 

The programme features plenty of red-themed events, including 'the red head soapbox' for anyone who feels the need to give a sudden speech, the ginger-chef cook-off, redhead fashion photography sessions, and the carrot-tossing competition. International flair will come courtesy of New York-based fashion blog howtobearedhead.com.

From: Irish Red Head Convention

There will also be plenty of awards, including 'best red eyebrows' and 'most freckles per square inch.' 

The entire event is in aid of The Irish Cancer Society, and the convention has raised €6,000 for the charity in its first two years. It is run by natural readheads Joleen and Denis Cronin with help from local businesses and clubs.

Every redhead in attendance will receive an 'Official Red Head Certificate of Genuine Foxiness,' but the organisers are keen to stress 'those unlucky enough not to be Ginger and Gorgeous' will also be welcome on the day.

Take a look at some of the craic from last year's event (including the carrot tossing):

From: shuanoc1