Down
BuskFest is an international busking festival which takes place in Banbridge on Saturday 12th August. Now in its 14th year, the event attracts 6000+ people from across the globe to Banbridge Town Centre. The competition, which has a prize pot of £3000, runs from 1pm – 4.30pm and will culminate in an awards ceremony hosted by BBC Radio Ulster’s Ralph McLean in Solitude Park from 4.30pm – 6pm.
Armagh
Once again it’s blues that’s on the agenda, this being the 7th year of the 7 Hills Blues Festival 10th to 13th August. This annual celebration will feature over 50 bands at venues across Armagh, with some regular artists back alongside some great new performers. So save the dates and let’s get some blistering summer blues : best served chilled!
Fermanagh
This Saturday 12th August jump on board one of the Geopark Landrovers and explore the stunning scenery of Cuilcagh Mountain Park. Ranging from the rugged upland cliffs to the weathered limestone landscapes on the lower ground, this safari is a chance for you to experience and explore the patchwork of landscapes found on Cuilcagh Mountain. Booking essential. (02866348855) Max. 14 per session. Meeting point: Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre (event taking place in Cuilcagh Mountain Park), This event is not suitable for children under 12 years old.
Tyrone
The Clans of Ulster celebrates Lunása Spirit of Folk Festival on 12 August at Tullyhogue Fort, near Cookstown, from 11am-11pm. The event is being hosted by The Clans of Ulster, and commemorates the ancient tradition of Lunása, which was celebrated all over Ireland, Scotland, and Europe. It marks the end of summer and celebrates the harvest season, while honouring the role of the ancient Celtic ways. It will include family fun, with a celebration of food, music, sport, and art. There will be plenty to see and do including visiting stalls from local food artisans and local crafts. There is also a chance to participate in the Celtic warrior workshop, and see & learn about birds of prey with the NI School of Falconry.
Derry/Londonderry
Stendhal Festival is Northern Ireland’s biggest and best grass-roots music and arts festival. With over 100 performances from the likes of Ash, The Magic Numbers, Sharon Shannon and Lisa McHugh taking place over August 11th and 12th at Ballymully Cottage Farm, Limavady, there is certainly plenty of musical variety as well as a dedicated family programme that caters for children and families of all ages.
Antrim
Allow qualified guides to take you on a leisurely ramble across Church Bay and into Mill Bay on Rathlin Island this Sunday 13th August. Along the way discuss the island’s history, its people and its unique wildlife. You will be given plenty of opportunities to meet the local seal colony who bask along the shoreline and time to visit the bird sanctuary if you wish before returning to Ballycastle on the 4:15pm ferry. The guide will meet you in Ballycastle at the ferry terminal at 11am and accompany you on the crossing. Price of the tour (£10) does not include the ferry travel. The tour is wheelchair, child and dog friendly.
Belfast
Get ready for the free Twin Spires Complex Family Fun Day this Saturday 12th August. There will be lots of free fun and games including Football Darts, Interactive Challenges, a Bungee Run, Toddler Zone and plenty of bouncy castles. Plus Magic George, Science Experiments, face painting and glitter tattoos free for all the family. There will also be a creation station for all little innovators and music plus lot of tasty treats are on offer. Save the date and don’t miss out on all the fun!
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