Aspects has a long tradition of embracing writing in all its forms. For 2016, Ards and North Down Borough Council’s 25th Anniversary Aspects Festival continues to celebrate every aspect of Irish writing with bestselling authors, comedy, crime, song-writing, poetry, sport, family events, resources for aspiring writers, and a Festival Yurt, all happening in Bangor (18-25 September).
A standout highlight of this year’s programme is ‘Lit Up Inside’ with Van Morrison, who will be performing and talking about his song writing and poetry – with some very special invited guests!
Aspects 2016 is getting ready to welcome a glittering list of literary luminaries including Paul Muldoon, Glenn Patterson, Sinéad Moriarty, Gerald Dawe, Tara West, Owen O’Neill and many more.
The festival has seen the stratospheric rise of many local wordsmiths over its 25 year history, and this year offers you, no less than any other, the chance to hear new voices in Irish writing as they make their way in the literary world.
This year also brings a first for the Aspects Festival, as it sees the launch of ‘The Bangor Book’. Bangor has a long tradition of writing, and this special publication charts and showcases this rich history – from the ancient to some of the highest profile contemporary poets and authors.
To nurture reading and creativity, there will be workshops that emerging writers won’t want to miss, and family events to engage both young and old.
Mayor of Ards and North Down, Alderman Deborah Girvan said, “In this silver anniversary year, Ards and North Down Borough Council are looking forward to welcoming everyone to join us in this celebration of the wealth of writing talent in the Borough and beyond. We hope readers and aspiring authors of all ages will be inspired by the programme.”
The core of the festival takes place from the 18-25 September. Bangor Castle Walled Garden will host our Festival Yurt, a unique and atmospheric venue for Aspects’ weekend events. For further details and to book see aspectsfestival.com.