10 Things to do in Northern Ireland

Here are ten exciting things to do 30 June – 6 July

 

  1. Stendhal Festival, Limavady, County Londonderry, 4 – 6 July. Kick start your summer with singing, dancing and all modes of merriment courtesy of a stellar cast of performers from artistic walks of life. This festival offers music, comedy, poetry, a dedicated family programme and a host of visual arts for your senses to feast upon.

 

  1. Wild & Fired BBQ School at Brook Hall Estate & Gardens, Derry~Londonderry, 5 July (more dates throughout the summer). Lo & Slo’s Wild & Fired BBQ School offers an immersive, interactive experience combining foraging, dining, and BBQ workshops in a historic, private walled garden, showcasing Northern Irish culture through locally sourced food.

 

  1. Disney Winnie the Pooh Hunny Hunt at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, County Down, 28 June – 31 August. Pack your Big Boots and explore Hillsborough Castle’s captivating gardens to find the missing hunny. On the way, see if you can spot Rabbit’s Garden, Eeyore’s Cabin and Piglet’s Burrow, inspired by Disney’s Winnie the Pooh. Rest your paws at Owl’s Book Corner to enjoy classic Pooh tales and be sure to enjoy playing a game of Poohsticks. Complete the adventure and collect your very own Winnie the Pooh sticker. This experience is included in all admission tickets to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens (Members go free, no pre-booking required). Kids go free to the gardens this summer.

 

  1. Open House Festival, Bangor, County Down, 1 July – 31 August. Open House Festival is an annual summer event that takes place in the beautiful seaside city of Bangor, County Down, curated and run by Open House, a local charity dedicated to regenerating the city through arts and culture. The festival’s eclectic programme includes music, comedy, film, theatre, boat trips, food and drink, talks and tours, and crafting events.

 

  1. Sensory Nature Walk at Ulster Folk Museum, Cultra, County Down, 2 July – 20 August. Join the Ulster Folk Museum Education Officer, Nigel, as he brings you around different habitats and encourages you to take your time, noticing the different plants and animals that can be found. If you would like, you can record your experience on a postcard to keep or send to a loved one.
  2. Wildflower Crown Making Workshop at Carrick-a-Rede, Ballintoy, County Antrim, 3 July. Join Nature Engagement Officer, Dr Cliff Henry for a creative afternoon of Wildflower Crown Making, surrounded by the colours and scents of summer. Let your imagination bloom as you craft your very own floral masterpiece and learn about the vital conservational work that helps protect the vibrant wildflower meadows at Carrick-a-Rede.

 

  1. Wild Woods and WatersTrail at Marble Arch Caves, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, weekends throughout July. Led by local guides passionate about showcasing all the area has to offer, this experience is perfect for those wishing to experience the sights, sounds and fresh woodland air in this wilder place.

 

  1. Guided Canoeing at Crom, Newtownbutler, County Fermanagh, 3 –4 July (more dates throughout the summer). Join an unforgettable guided canoe trail on the serene waters of Upper Lough Erne, starting from the jetty at the Visitor Centre at Crom Estate. This adventure, led by the experienced Upper Lough Erne Canoe Company, offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and rich history of the area.

 

  1. Hidden Heritage – A President’s Nest, Cookstown, County Tyrone, 5 July. Nestled in the beautiful countryside outside Ballygawley is the original ancestral Homestead of President US Grant. This farmhouse, excellently preserved, is where his great-grandfather John Simpson was born and left in 1760, emigrating to Ohio. You will have the opportunity to meet the President himself and learn what his ancestor’s life was like in both Ireland and the USA and sit back and relax to the sound of local musicians.

 

  1. Tales & Traditions: Living History Tours with Navan Centre & Fort, Armagh, County Armagh, 1 July – 31 August. Step back in time and explore the ancient past like never before. Each day the 12:30pm tour at Navan Centre & Fort offers a unique, hands-on adventure led by our expert living history characters, from warriors to storytellers. Get ready for epic experiences that the whole family will love this Summer.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Subject to availabilities with select dates.

 

First ‘legal wall’ in Belfast to open with street art paint jam

The first legal street art wall in Belfast will officially open this Friday 4 July with a free street art paint jam for up-and-coming artists and creatives.

The wall, funded by Belfast City Council, is located on Little Patrick Street in the city centre and will be managed by Seedhead Arts, with permissions from NIE Networks which owns the wall.

It is the first of three walls due to be open this year, providing a place for artists to freely express themselves, without the need to seek permissions from landowners to house their artworks.

It is hoped the legal walls, as they are known, will deter graffiti in the city. They are the latest initiative from the council to support street artists and nurture creative development.

The locations for the other two walls are still to be finalised, with engagement ongoing between council, Seedhead Arts and property owners.

“Belfast already has an impressive array of street art which has become a huge draw for visitors and really brightens up our city for residents and communities too,” explains Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly.

“We want to harness that creative spirit and create further opportunities for young artists by offering them safe spaces where they can create, practice and experiment without fear of getting into trouble.

“Legal walls have long been used in Europe to nurture artists and encourage collaborative art projects, and I’m pleased that our first Belfast wall is now in place.

“We know graffiti and tagging can be real issues for businesses and communities so we hope that these walls will also help reduce nuisance behaviour, by instead providing a place where creativity can be freely expressed.

“Council is really keen to encourage creative development in the city. Our Belfast Canvas project has transformed over 110 utility boxes since 2019 and provided a platform for both established and emerging artists to showcase their work, and we’re currently helping a further six street artists with mentoring and coaching to develop their skills.”

Adam Turkington from Seedhead Arts will help operate the wall at Great Patrick Street. It will be open 24/7 for professional and emerging artists to use, along with anyone with an interest in street art.

No booking is needed, but the wall will be continuously monitored to manage content and ensure it is well maintained.

“Legal walls are a key building block for any city wanting to support its artistic community and, although there are spaces in the city that have been unofficially legal for some time, this is the first time that Belfast has a formally designated a space in this way,” said Adam.

“In particular, in Belfast, where we have a huge number of young women who are street artists, this will hopefully provide a space where they can safely meet and practice their skills.”

Artists can check out and use the first legal wall at a free street art party on Little Patrick Street, run by Seedhead Arts, from 12pm to 4pm on Friday 4 July.

Admission is free and open to everyone. Some materials will be available, but artists are also encouraged to bring their own.

Further details are available on the council website – belfastcity.gov.uk/events

New Documentary by Trevor Birney ‘The Negotiator’ to screen at Ireland’s premier film festival

The Negotiator – which examines the life and work of the man credited for bringing the Good Friday Agreement into being, Senator George Mitchell, has been announced as a major new addition to the Galway Film Fleadh, Ireland’s leading film event.

The Fine Point Films documentary, directed by journalist and filmmaker Trevor Birney (No Stone Unturned; Quinn Country, Cyndi Lauper: Let the Canary Sing, Kneecap) and developed in association with Queen’s University Belfast, follows Birney as he profiles US Senator George Mitchell, whose leadership in securing the Good Friday Agreement transformed life for entire generations in Northern Ireland.
The Negotiator will join Fine Point Films other 2025 film Boy George and Culture Club, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in May, at the festival.
The Negotiator is a timely, powerful, and deeply personal feature documentary that will bring a vital perspective to the Galway Film Fleadh, which has chosen to spotlight the urgent issues it raises.
Producer of the BAFTA winning, Kneecap and Emmy-nominated founder of Fine Point Films, Trevor Birney, Director of The Negotiator said:
 
“We’re honoured that The Negotiator has been invited to screen at the 37th Galway Film Fleadh. This welcome is not only a recognition of the pressing issues explored in the film, but also of the enduring example offered by Senator Mitchell.
“The Negotiator serves as both a tribute to Senator Mitchell’s extraordinary role in Northern Ireland and a timely reminder of what true diplomacy can achieve.”
 
Produced by Stephen Douds and Andrew Tully, The Negotiator explores the art of political negotiation and the quest for lasting peace.
The Negotiator will screen at the Pálás Cinema on Friday, morning the 11 July at 09:30, and is expected to generate significant interest among audiences and media alike. Boy George and Culture Club will screen at the Town Hall Theatre on 11 July at 22:30.
Bookings for both Fine Point Film screenings at galwayfilmfleadh.com, or explore the full programme, including screenings, Q&As, filmmaker interviews, panel discussions, and more, at galwayfilmfleadh.com, or contact the Town Hall Theatre box office at 091 569777.
The festival is supported by the Arts Council of Ireland, Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland, TG4, Coimisiún na Meán, Galway City Council, and Fáilte Ireland.

High Points Youth Ballet gets ready to welcome global dancers to Belfast International Ballet Festival 2025.

Northern Ireland Youth Ballet Company, High Points Youth Ballet, will return this summer with Belfast International Ballet Festival welcoming dancers from across the world to the city.

From 28 July – 2 August 2025, over 100 students and professionals will train in a number of venues including the Crescent Arts and High Points Studios, culminating in a series of performances in the MAC celebrating local and international dance. Bringing masterclasses alongside performances, guest teachers and dancers based in USA, Turkey, Italy, Ukraine, Germany, Portugal, Ireland and Scotland will be joined by local dancers, composers and choreographers. Supported by Belfast City Council, over 60 dancers from Northern Ireland’s Ballet community will come together to share artistic talent, unleash creativity, celebrate diversity and embrace collaboration over the 6 days of dance and performance.

Amelia Larmour from High Points Youth Ballet at Belfast City Hall to launch this year’s Belfast International Ballet Festival which will welcome dancers from across the world to the city from 28 July – 2 August. Tickets available at The MAC Belfast | Metropolitan Arts Centre
Photos by Sofia de Vasconcelos Lourenco featuring characters from The Fairy Doll.

Set to join this year’s illustrious line up Ayfer Zeren and Sara-Maria Barton will co-lead the festivals youth and adult dance master classes. From Istanbul, Ayfer boasts a remarkable career as a ballerina, artistic director and ballet educator. Working with Royal Ballet, Stuttgart Ballet and Bolshoi Theatre, she has performed across the world. Alongside Ayfer, Sara Maria Barton is Artistic Director of S-MB Company and has over 30 years of teaching experience as a Classical Ballet Tutor. An international medallist, Sara-Maria has worked with Royal Ballet, Birmingham Royal Ballet, English National Ballet, and Scottish Ballet, and has danced across UK, Europe, USA, and China. Both Ayfer and Sara will bring their students to perform in the Festival performances at The MAC Belfast.

From America, Angela Zielen, Director of The Art Society at Loblolly Acres Delaware will participate in the festival. Angela has danced with the First State Ballet Theatre and is the former Assistant Director of the National Ballet Competition. Joining Angela from USA Stephen Everson will make his second visit to the festival. Trained at Ballet 5:8 School of the Arts, and Project Ballet, and former guest artist with Charleston Ballet Theatre, Stephen has performed in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker.

From the Ukraine, dancers Oleksii Kniazkov and Elizavita Gogidze will bring their extensive experience working in professional ballet and will dance a pas de deux (partner dance) from Le Corsaire. A classical ballet Elizaveta has danced on stages in Europe, Asia, Canada, Argentina, Dubai, USA and England. A graduate at Kyiv State Ballet School in Ukraine, she was the first soloist of the National Opera of Ukraine. Also from Ukraine, Oleksii Kniazkov is Principal dancer with Kharkiv National Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre. Awarded the Grand Prix of International Dance in 2018, his many leading roles include Romeo and Juliet, Spartacus, Swan Lake, The Nutcracker and Sleeping Beauty.

This year five professional artists from Northern Ireland will join the festival, including as a Choreographer Belfast-native Anna McCoy, currently dancing with Semperoper Ballet Dresden, and co-founders of Six Dance Collective, Composer Amelia Clarkson from Donaghadee and Choreographer Ruaidhrí Maguire, currently working with Ballet Ireland. Dancers Anna Katherine McCoy and Leigh Alderson will perform a world premiere, Zlatý Motýlek (meaning Golden Butterfly), together, whilst Rachel Neale will perform a variation from Carmen. Current vocational students and alumni of HPYB’s training programme Georgia Crawford, Amy Crawford, and Lauren McConnell will perform during the festival, alongside former rugby player turned ballet dancer Oscar Hunter.  Ballet Historian Amy Growcott will deliver a lecture on Saturday 2nd August whilst students from the Irish National Youth Ballet, directed by Lindsay Ashe-Browne, will perform a selection of the piece ‘Eclipse’ choreographed by Zoë Ashe-Browne.

High Points Youth Ballet, formed in 2011 under the leadership of Rana O’Brien, and its international team of Artistic Director Jake Allison and Creative Director Anna Carapellotti, are spearheading the festival. They will bring together leading dancers from home and across the world. Jake and Anna will deliver ballet technique classes and stage selections from classical repertoire on the High Points Youth Ballet dancers for two shows to be presented in the MAC on 1 and 2 August 2025.

Commenting ahead of Belfast International Ballet Festival, High Points Youth Ballet CEO, Rana O’Brien said: “We are delighted and excited to return with this event highlighting dance artists and educators from across the world and locally. The festival will feature numerous dancers who will collaborate to create new pieces. The festival will involve young dancers aged 10 and upwards, who will attend master classes at High Points studios and the Crescent Arts Centre studios. They will rehearse and perform 3 shows at the MAC on Friday 1 and Saturday 2 August, to showcase their skills and share their performances with family and friends.”

“To deliver such quality requires support and investment, and we appreciate the ongoing support from Belfast City Council through the cultural grants scheme,” concluded Rana.

Councillor Ian McLaughlin, Chair of Belfast City Council’s City Growth and Regeneration Committee, said: “Council is delighted to support High Points Youth Ballet and their hosting of this year’s Belfast International Ballet Festival.

“Belfast has a thriving cultural and arts scene and our community plan, Belfast Agenda, recognises culture and creativity as essential to delivering better health and well-being for our citizens.  Events like this play a vital role in our cultural strategy, A City Imagining, and provide an opportunity to inspire and nurture our next generation of creative talent in the city.”

During the festival Anna Carapellotti, a dance researcher, will deliver a dance class for people living with Parkinson’s on Friday 1 August. This class will feature music and adapted repertoire to be featured in the gala performances. Anna obtained a PhD from Queen’s University Belfast in 2022 studying the impact of dance for people living with Parkinson’s and Multiple Sclerosis.

The week-long festival will culminate in two shows on Friday 1 August (evening performance) and Saturday 2 August (afternoon matinee). For tickets, visit www.maclive.com. Follow @belfastballetfestival for updates.

For festival information visit www.highpointsballet.org.uk/belfast-international-ballet-festival

New Exhibition Celebrates the Artistic Legacy of Ards and North Down

North Down Museum is delighted to announce the opening of a new exhibition, Inspiration and Transformation, running from Thursday 19 June to Sunday 31 August in the Long Gallery. This exhibition celebrates the rich artistic heritage of the Ards and North Down Borough, showcasing the work of some of the most significant artists who have lived and worked in the area.

The Borough has long been a hub of artistic talent, with a strong tradition of nurturing creativity. From its unique landscapes to its vibrant communities, the region continues to inspire and support generations of artists. Inspiration and Transformation brings this creative legacy into focus through a carefully curated selection of works spanning decades of artistic excellence.

The exhibition features pieces from North Down Museum’s own collection, alongside rare works on loan from private collectors, many of which have never been publicly displayed. Visitors will have the opportunity to view artwork by renowned twentieth-century artists including James Humbert Craig, Daniel O’Neill, Colin Middleton, Rosamond Praeger, Colin Davidson, Frank McKelvey, and David Hockney.

Together, these works highlight how the people, towns, and landscapes of the Borough have been powerfully reimagined and immortalised in some of the finest examples of Irish modern art.

Speaking about the exhibition, The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum, said:

“I am delighted to see Inspiration and Transformation open at North Down Museum. This exhibition highlights not only the incredible talent that has emerged from our Borough, but also the deep and lasting impact our people and places have had on the world of art. Residents and visitors alike will have the chance to experience a remarkable collection of works, many on public display for the first time. It’s a powerful reminder of our proud artistic heritage and ongoing commitment to nurturing creativity.”

Arlene Matthews, North Down Museum Manager, added:

“We are incredibly proud to present Inspiration and Transformation. This exhibition not only celebrates the extraordinary talent that has emerged from our Borough but also reflects the strong connection between our communities and the creative spirit that continues to thrive here. It’s a rare opportunity to bring together works from our own collection and from generous private lenders. We’re excited to share this unique cultural experience with our visitors.”

Inspiration and Transformation runs until Sunday 31 August. Admission is free.

For more information, visit: www.andculture.org.uk

CLASSIC BIKE FESTIVAL IRELAND

Classic Bike Festival, Bishopscourt, Co Down

 Racing and parade laps all Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd August

The Classic Bike Festival Ireland which takes place over the first weekend of August has announced even more features at this year’s event.  Whilst the motorbikes are central to the Festival it hasn’t gone unnoticed that a lot of families arrive to camp up in their motorhomes, caravans and tents from Friday evening right through until Sunday afternoon. 

Accordingly, the organisers have made the Sunday offering distinctly more family attractive with the addition of free kids’ Bouncy Castles, a display by Kite Crew Ireland and Lawnmower Racing – and not forgetting the I.M.C. BAM BAM racers aged between 6 to 9 years battling it out on the race track. “We noticed that many now see the Sunday as a Family Day out so we hope these added attractions will complement that, and parents will bring their kids – under 16’s are FREE – for a great day out” a spokesperson told us, “and of course we still have our music features with Cellar Door on Friday evening and the Davy K Project on Saturday.”  

Both nights of music will be preceded by Chat Shows this year so the plan is the racing will finish and everyone will head for the fully licensed festival marquee to enjoy the two nights of Chat ’n’ Music.   DJ and Host Brian Moore enthused, “it’s always a great party atmosphere in the festival marquee with the teams and riders mixing with the Festival attendees and with the Kite Crew, Lawnmower teams and Arena Trials motorcycle competitors added to the mix I’ve no doubt it’s going to be the best Classic Bike Festival to date”.

A further feature is that the event is adding its support to the Joey Dunlop Foundation by welcoming the Ride-Out that will travel from Joey’s Bar in Ballymoney to the Classic Bike Festival on Sunday afternoon.  This is one of many events to celebrate the life and achievements of the iconic Joey Dunlop who tragically died twenty five years ago.

 

Gates Open for camping, caravans, motorhomes etc at 3.00pm on 

Friday 1st August – Paddock and festival marquee access from 6.00pm

  

Friday evening/night

Chat Show 7.00

Music from 8.00

CELLAR DOOR

Saturday evening/night

Chat Show 7.00

Music from 8.00

DAVY K PROJECT

DJ/HOST on both nights BRIAN MOORE

Fully Licensed – Festival friendly prices

Two great nights of entertainment which helps support the event

Creative Peninsula 2025 to Celebrate Arts and Crafts Across Ards and North Down

Ards and North Down Borough Council is delighted to unveil the Creative Peninsula 2025 programme, a vibrant celebration of the exceptional art and craft produced across the Borough. Now in its 24th year, this much-loved annual festival showcases local artists and makers, offering visitors the chance to experience the region’s thriving creative scene first-hand.

Running throughout August 2025, Creative Peninsula invites people of all ages and abilities to immerse themselves in a dynamic mix of free and bookable activities, including events, open studios, exhibitions, workshops, demonstrations and more.

“Creative Peninsula is a fantastic showcase of the rich arts and crafts scene within our Borough,” said the Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum. “We are fortunate to have so many gifted artists and makers living and working here, and this festival offers a special platform to highlight their talents. We look forward to welcoming everyone to explore the exciting programme on offer this year.”

Conway Square in Newtownards will be transformed on Friday 1 August into a bustling arts and crafts village for the Twilight Market and Arts Night, where visitors can browse, buy or commission unique pieces, enjoy live demonstrations, and soak up music from String Ninjas and Cool Hand String Band. A selection of local artisan food, drinks and a bar provided by McBride’s of Comber will also be available.

On Saturday 2 August, the Ulster Folk Museum hosts Woven in Time, an afternoon celebrating linen heritage with a tasting of flax-infused Weaver’s Dry Gin, a talk from Textile Curator Valerie Wilson, a weaving demonstration by Roisin Aiston, and a hands-on printing workshop led by artist Lucy Turner, where participants can create their own linen artwork to take home.

North Down Museum will host a free Heritage Craft Afternoon on Sunday 3 August, offering visitors the chance to see traditional craft skills in action. With outdoor demonstrations (weather permitting) including mosaics, stained glass, green woodwork and printing, the event celebrates the creativity and cultural heritage of handcrafts.

Throughout August, Castle Espie will host a Creative Peninsula exhibition, alongside creative experiences including potter’s wheel sessions, a Creative Café ceramics morning, and a bug drawing workshop – all inspired by its wildlife and beautiful setting.

This year’s featured artist is Kate Rebbeck, whose work graces the Creative Peninsula brochure. Based outside Portaferry, Kate will lead an Abstract Landscapes workshop at her studio on 8 August. Also returning to the programme is the Visual Artist in Residence at Ards Arts Centre, featuring Lauren Ciara McCullough at work in the Sunburst Gallery which will be temporarily turned into a studio throughout August.

“We are thrilled to offer a vibrant programme of art and craft activities this August as part of August Craft Month,” said Emily Crawford, Arts and Heritage Manager at Ards and North Down Borough Council. “With events at the Ulster Folk Museum and Castle Espie, our Twilight Market, exhibitions, workshops and Open Studios, there are plenty of opportunities to get creative.”

Tickets are now on sale. View and book at: creativepeninsula.andculture.org.uk

Offers of the Week

Here are Discover NI’s Offers of the Week

 

Grand Central Hotel, Belfast

Indulge in the grandest of summer escapes at Grand Central Hotel where you can enjoy a freshly prepared full Irish breakfast from £160 per room, per night, with a complimentary room upgrade and an additional 15% off your overnight stay on select dates this season. A sensational summer break awaits you, whether you’re longing for a vibrant getaway filled with adventure or a relaxed city escape where you can settle into your own sanctuary high above it all. Visit grandcentralhotelbelfast.com/offers/ for more information. Offer valid until 31st August 2025.

 

 

Europa Hotel, Belfast

Receive the Europa welcome and escape to your newly refurbished bedroom, from £190 per room, per night. In the evening, enjoy a two-course meal in the Causerie accompanied by a glass of wine, before retiring to your room for the ultimate night’s sleep. Visit europahotelbelfast.com/offers/ for more information. Offer valid until 31st December 2025.

 

 

For more inspiration or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com.  

 

 

Offers are correct at the time of publication and are subject to availability and change without notice. Terms and Conditions apply to each offer and can be viewed on the individual provider’s websites. Tourism NI acts as a promoter of third-party offers and accepts no responsibility for any changes, withdrawals, or inaccuracies made by providers. 

Leisure Centres across the Borough are Offering MORE this Summer!

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is excited to announce a refreshed and expanded summer leisure programme aimed at keeping children and young people active, healthy, and engaged throughout the school holidays.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, welcomed the announcement, “We’re proud to offer an inclusive and vibrant summer programme that promotes the health and wellbeing of our children, young people, and families. With extended leisure and fitness sessions across our centres, we’re supporting lifelong healthy habits and ensuring everyone can enjoy a fun, active summer come rain or shine!”

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Cllr Leah Kirkpatrick kicks off a summer of fun with Jessica and Charlie from Fairview Primary School. From summer schemes, family swims to kids’ and teen fitness, there’s something for everyone at their local Antrim and Newtownabbey Leisure Centre this summer!

Summer Schemes are now open for booking at leisure centres and community venues across the Borough. Designed for children aged five and over, the schemes offer a vibrant mix of sports, dance, games, arts and crafts – catering to a wide range of interests and abilities.

In response to growing demand, additional leisure swim sessions will be available at Valley Leisure Centre, Sixmile Leisure Centre, and Antrim Forum providing even more opportunities for fun, family-friendly activities.

To further support young people’s wellbeing, additional Junior Fitness Gym Sessions (12–15 years old) will be available Monday to Friday. All centres are also adding Teen Fitness Classes (13-15 years old) to their summer programmes.

Antrim Forum and Valley Leisure Centre will host Rookie Lifeguard Courses, while Swimming Crash Courses will be available at Antrim Forum and Sixmile Leisure Centre from July.

For golf enthusiasts, Junior Golf Memberships for under-18s are available at Allen Park and Ballyearl Arts and Leisure Centre, where the driving range also features Toptracer virtual golfing challenges.

These expanded programmes reflect the Council’s continued commitment to promoting the physical and mental wellbeing of young people through fun, inclusive, and age-appropriate activities.

For the latest updates and to book your place, visit: antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/leisure

Department For Communities Backs Return Of Orangefest Programme In Belfast

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has confirmed funding to support the reigniting of the cultural organisation Orangefest.

Belfast Orangefest, first established by the County Grand Lodge of Belfast in 2007, was originally designed to modernise the Twelfth of July celebrations to make them more accessible, inclusive, and relevant to contemporary Belfast. 

However, in recent years the committee at Orangefest have developed a wider strategy of activities which will see the Orangefest brand being used throughout the year for education, celebration and commemoration events.

“Belfast Orangefest…A New Beginning”, the project funded by the Department for Communities is supporting the organisation to identify funding streams, outreach opportunities and partnerships as well as provide critical funds for day to day infrastructure and operations.

The funding is just the beginning of a new three-year plan by Orangefest to create a year-round cultural engagement programme.

Minister Lyons said: “I am pleased to confirm funding of more than £40,000 from my department for the 2025 Orangefest. 

“Orange celebrations are one of the largest, long-standing events of their kind in Belfast, attracting tens of thousands of visitors from across the world. 

“This support will enable Orangefest to engage with other bodies to make this year’s Twelfth of July celebrations an even more inclusive and family friendly event.” 

This year, thanks to funding from Belfast City Council, Orangefest will deliver a programme of family entertainment at Belfast City Hall from 10am to 3.30pm.

The rejuvenation of Belfast Orangefest is led by a dedicated Board of Directors, who are working towards increasing city centre footfall, supporting tourism growth, developing a wider community engagement programme and strengthening inter-community relations.

Orangefest director Spencer Beattie said: “This new funding marks an important step forward for Belfast Orangefest. 

“It gives us the opportunity to work behind the scenes to secure the necessary funding and partnerships to not only to reinvigorate the Twelfth of July celebrations, but also to deliver a year-round programme that reflects the heritage, culture and diversity of our city. 

“We’re committed to building meaningful connections with communities right across Belfast and creating opportunities for learning, participation and shared celebration.”

A key aim of the Orangefest directors is to contribute to Belfast’s evolving cultural landscape by offering opportunities for regeneration, leadership, skills development and inclusive participation. 

This announcement of funding to support the growth and development of Orangefest reaffirms the organisation’s role in promoting understanding of the Orange tradition while opening doors for wider cultural exchange and collaboration across Belfast’s communities.

For more information go to belfastorangefest.com