Shining the Shores……. Lough Neagh Festival of Lights

Lough Neagh’s Festival of Lights will take place at Ballyronan Marina on Friday 23rd August with an impressive line-up of activities throughout the evening to entertain and awe audiences of all ages.

The magnificent illumination themed event is sure to draw large crowds of people from far and wide and have boats bedecking their vessels in the Marina for a dramatic light display.

Take a step back in time at our Vintage Tea Dance from 2pm in the Marina Centre with ‘Vintage Memories’ by the Washerwoman, entertainment by Liam McLaughlin and some delightful vintage refreshments.

From 4pm there will be taster sessions for canoeing & kayaking with the Mid Ulster Canoe & Kayak Club; a great opportunity for enthusiasts of all levels to try their hand at Water sports, so booking is essential (Tel: 028 7941 8399). You can also sample a short trip on the Lough, courtesy of Lough Neagh Boat Hire; booking recommended (Tel: 07928783516 or 07928766353).

Lough Neagh Rescue’s Raft Race will take place from 7pm, a perfect platform to showcase your creative flare and enter a home-made raft. Try building something fast and furious, the quirkier the better perhaps incorporating our theme of illumination.   To register Tel: 077 2516 2008.

A diverse range of activities and entertainment for you to revel in will be running throughout the evening, including an African drum band, Chinese dragon & Lithuanian Folk group, Flamenco dancers, a magician, face painters, kids craft activities, amusements as well as the Maid of Antrim vessel hosting its 50th Birthday Party.  A perfect opportunity to come along and enjoy a slice of cake, and get your discount coupon!

New to the festival this year is the International Food Market offering culinary delights from across the world, as well as our locally coveted cuisine of Lough Neagh Eels & Pollan, as well as Paella, Tapas, Hog Roast, venison burgers, Indian cuisine, Pizza, Coco Mojo, chocolate fountain and more to be confirmed; simply irresistible! Come along and tantalize your taste buds!

The festivities will continue with a spectacular fireworks display accompanied by music at 9.30pm coloring the sky and reflecting from the waters of Lough Neagh at Ballyronan, then live music from Just 2 will have everyone dancing to the beat into the early hours, bar open until late.

Entry £1 per adult – kids go free!

Find us on facebook: ‘Lough Neagh Festival of Lights’ for details of spot prizes throughout the evening!

For further information about the festival contact 028 7941 8399 or www.discoverloughneagh.com/events

Supported by Cookstown District Council through the EU’s Programme for Peace and Reconciliation (PEACE III) which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body.