This year’s Young Aspects programme takes place on 20 and 21 September in Bangor and features a range of creative events to fire young imaginations.

Suitable for children of all ages, the events range from story-telling, to drawing, a comic workshop, and more.

The Festival is delighted to welcome illustrator Barry Falls who is holding an illustration workshop in Bangor Carnegie Library on Friday 20 September at 3.30pm. Suitable for 7 – 12 year olds, the workshop will explore characters, story and how words and pictures can work together to brings stories to life. Barry will use his new book ‘It’s Your World Now’ and his exhibition which will be on display in the library, to inspire the children. Tickets cost £7.

North Down Museum will host Cosy Bedtime Stories on Saturday 21 September at 6pm. Get your jammies on and bring a blanket to this lovely event where you’ll hear stories from new books and some old favourites. Suitable for 4 years +. Tickets cost £3 including cookies and a drink.

Young Aspects also features Toddler Storytime, Book Inspired Yoga, a digital art workshop, poetry collage making and a Sensory Story event. All perfect for your little readers and artists!

Speaking about the programme, Aspects Festival Director Patricia Hamilton said: “Young Aspects is an excellent opportunity for kids to get creative. The events are always a hit with our young audience and we would encourage everyone to book early to avoid disappointment.”

To view the full programme and to book tickets, visit aspectsfestival.com

Leading water supplier Rowell Water is tackling the worrying increase in plastic plaguing the planet with several innovative solutions, including the reusable Roc Bottle.

As suppliers of water coolers in the workplace Rocwell Water want to help everyone reduce the amount of plastic in use.

Brian Patrick Quinn of Rocwell Water is keen to emphasise that the new product is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to reducing environmental impact. The Roc Bottle concept has been in development for almost a year and will be available in coming weeks.

“The reason we developed the concept was to offer our customers and alternative to the standard single use cups with water coolers,” he said.

“We started to supply compostable and biodegradable cups to our customers but decided we want to do more, offer a premium stainless steel reusable bottle, which we can co brand in any companies logo.”

Roc Bottle is a premium reusable bottle and designed for liquids both hot and cold, so it also can reduce single use tea/coffee cups in the workplace.

The bottle keeps hot drinks hot for 12 hours & cold drinks cold for 24hours.

Brian said that Roc Bottle will be available to three different sectors, business, education and retail.

“Companies are now wanting to reduce/ban plastic bottles from the workplace,” he said. “We can supply a premium water through our water coolers which allows staff to refill their Roc Bottle with the same quality of water they buy in their local store. It is cost effective and water is always chilled/room temperature plus saves waste costs of plastic bottles in the bins.

“In terms of education we have teamed up with Eco Schools NI to offer our Roc Bottle to education campus’ throughout NI and supply water fountains/chillers to the schools to allow pupils to refill their bottle anytime they want.”

The Roc Bottle will also be available in store to cater for the customers who want to refill on the go.

Following the shocking scenes on David Attenborough’s Blue Planet II and the campaign from BBC programme ‘War On Plastic’ the team at Rocwell Water is acutely aware of the need to be a responsible company.

“We pride ourselves on the quality of water we provide to our customers,” said Brian.

“Rocwell Natural Mineral Water is one of the few companies in Ireland to achieve Natural Mineral Water Status. We meet the stringent EU, UK, Northern Ireland and Irish quality standards and our water, to meet the Natural Mineral Water Status we had a number of criteria, including that our water is naturally free from pollution, contamination and harmful micro-organisms. We have also met the same high standards required for our spring water.”

Rocwell Water also supply mains fed water coolers and fountains, which are more cost-effective, and reduce the need for large plastic refill bottles.

“There are a number of businesses who have switched to mains fed as their use of 19L bottles has increased,” said Brian. “Roc bottle will also work with this model.”

As with everything, however, there is a cost. Rocwell Water’s revenues from disposable and compostable plastic cups will reduce, but they believe it is a price worth paying in the long run.

“The company recognises we all have a responsibility to do better if we can, and we believe if we offer the service of providing Roc Bottle, branded if required, customers will prefer Rocwell as their preferred supplier to the others on the market with a reduction in plastic heading to landfills or using energy to recycle it.

“If we can reduce plastic, encourage people to drink more water it is good for all.”

The Roc Bottle comes in three different sizes. It is made from food grade stainless steel as a premium triple sealed vacuum and is leakproof. Liquids in Roc Bottle will stay hot for 12 hours or cold for 24 hours.

More information is available at www.rocbottle.com 

A brand-new mixed cuisine restaurant has opened Belfast City Centre.

New hospitality company Global Caterers Belfast have invested £500,000 into a 2,700 sq. ft unit in Wellington Place in the heart of the city.

The opening of the restaurant has created 20 new jobs and is located just minutes from Belfast City Hall and opposite the £70m office scheme Merchant Square.

Fronted by Indian Head Chef, Jainal Abedin and Italian Sous Chef, Luigi Savarese, Mumbai Milano will not just fuse two of the most famous cuisines in the world but has committed to using local Northern Ireland produce throughout their menu.

Chef Jainal, who has worked all over the world including Dubai, London, Bombay and Jersey, said he hopes to bring a global taste to local produce.

He added: “Choosing this location in the city centre was key to ensuring the success of Mumbai Milano, we wanted to both cater for the local market as well as attracting tourists and visitors into the city.

“The location was a no-brainer for us, especially with the Merchant Square development across the way. This part of the city centre is seeing an influx of new offices and student accommodation so there is a market for more restaurants in this area to cater for what is anticipated to be an area of increased footfall. We have identified other sites across the city for potentially expanding the concept to a second location however we are entirely focused on the Wellington Place site for now.

“I’ve always had a desire to fuse both Indian and Italian cuisine, so when we decided to open the restaurant I knew exactly what we wanted to create.

“I am confident the people of Belfast and beyond will love what we have to offer.’’

Chef Luigi, who worked for Paul Rankin for a number of years, brings four decades of experience with him. The chef, who came to Northern Ireland 20 years ago said he was delighted to be on board with the Mumbai Milano team.

He added: “Northern Ireland has a longstanding love for both cuisines; however, it is rare to have a restaurant in which the customer can avail of the standouts from both cultures. People today desire good quality, delicious food, that is good value for money and that is exactly what we offer.

“To be able to showcase these beautiful cuisines and create a fusion menu that we think will both intrigue and excite people is a delight.

“So far the feedback has been great from the public.”

The 120-seater restaurant opened its doors last week and will be open seven days a week. The menu includes everything from traditional Indian curries to authentic Italian pizza and pasta.

General manager Liam Whiteway said: “The menu offers a wide range of classic Indian and Itallian meal options as well as some unique fusion choices.

“All food offerings will be complemented by an extensive drinks and cocktail menu with quirky elements including cocktails infused with candyfloss, honeycomb and other sweet treats.

“The interior fit out is stylish plush fabrics in a luxurious comfortable setting.”

For more information go to http://mumbaimilano.co.uk

Spinning Yarns Festival returns to the award-winning Antrim Castle Gardens on Saturday 31 August & Sunday 1 September celebrating the wonderful world of all things wool & linen. This two day event has something for all ages to enjoy.

Weave your way through our marketplace, offering an array of country craft, textile traders and food stalls including The Sewing Drawer, Fabric Affair, Down on the Farm, Flossy Treats, Baked in Belfast and Parlour Yarns.

Chef, Paula McIntyre MBE will be rustling up some tasty treats during her cookery demonstrations from ‘field to fork ‘whilst Angeline Murphy, fashion designer, will show you how to create a dress from a duvet in her sustainable sewing and reuse of textiles talks.

New to this year’s line-up, we are delighted to have Louise Kelly, doll maker and soft toy designer who is based in County Londonderry join us for Spinning Yarns. Louise will be holding classes throughout the event on the art of doll making, you can often see her on ‘The Sewing Quarter’ craft TV channel.

Our local Craft Group, Hookery, will be hosting a drop-in knitting and crochet space where you can learn new skills. Find out how crafting can improve both your mental and physical well-being with Joanne Lee and her team of mindful crafters.

The endearing Alpacas, a mobile farm, glitter tattoos, face painting, balloon modelling, arts & crafts will keep the little ones amused whilst the grown-ups can kick back and enjoy the live music from Connor Taggart. 

So if you needle little inspiration or simply a “darn” good day out join us at Spinning Yarns where we have it all sewn up!

For more information and details visit www.spinningyarnsfestival.com  

The biggest and best gaming and anime convention in Northern Ireland, Q-Con, is promising a fun-packed three day for all ages, including a special series of family events on the closing Sunday.

Now in its 26^th year, the events on Sunday, September 1 will include the Cosplay Masquerade at Elmwood Hall, that will see the best, most creative and amazing costumes on parade.

Hosted by QUB Dragonslayers Q-Con will see over 6,500 attendees across the weekend, beginning August 30, throughout the Queen’s University campus.

And, to release your inner Spidey senses, there will be a screening of ‘Spiderman – Into The Spiderverse’ at QFT on the Sunday, as well as the anime feature ‘Ponyo’ from master animator Hayao Miyazaki on the same day.

“All our events throughout each day are aimed to make sure that all audiences have plenty to get their teeth into,” said Ben Harrison of Q-Con. 

“On the Sunday we’re delighted to make it a day all the family can revel in.

“We know from previous years that parents want to be involved with their children as they all love games – tabletop and video – and they love the whole fantastic world of anime and the imaginative places it takes us into.”

If you want to help shake off the return-to-school blues KopopX will have you moving and grooving in a 50-minute workout to the best of Kpop.

Designed by gaming and anime fans Q-Con attracts people from across the UK and Ireland and further afield, with last year seeing a five percent increase in attendees. People from all ages are present throughout the weekend, with Sunday being particularly family friendly.

“When we see so many people around the university district coming along on trains, buses and in cars dressed up as their favourite comics, games and anime characters it shows just how popular gaming and anime has become, and how Q-Con caters for a demographic so often missed by the mainstream media,” said Ben. 

Taking place across the Queen’s campus, including the Whitla Hall, Elmwood Hall, Queen’s Film Theatre, the Computer Science Building and many other venues it is essential to plan your weekend to pack as much in as you can.

For more information and tickets go to q-con.org.uk

• 

The biggest and best gaming and anime convention in Northern Ireland is returning to Queen’s University, Belfast for its 26^th year.

With three fun-packed days from August 30 to September 1 the event is expected to attract over 6,500 attendees.

Hosted by QUB Dragonslayers Q-Con promises a host of events, including an appearance from the creator of the classic game ‘Doom’, John Romero, who will challenge people “to beat him at his own game” as well as an exclusive meet and greet.

With 26-years-experience under their belts the volunteer Dragonslayers know how to lay on three days of fantastic – in all senses – experiences.

“Since we began in a few rooms at Queen’s with 150 people Q-Con has exploded in popularity and excitement,” said Ben Harrison. 

“We promise we’re working hard to make sure that 2019 will be even better. From video gaming to tabletop gaming, and live text adventure in The Dark Room, through to our cosplay we are packing the weekend out.”

Designed by gaming and anime fans Q-Con attracts people from across the UK and Ireland and further afield, with last year seeing a five percent increase in attendees. People from all ages are present throughout the weekend, with Sunday devoted to families.

“When we see so many people around the university district coming in on trains, buses and in cars dressed up as their favourite comics, games and anime characters it shows just how popular gaming and anime has become, and how Q-Con caters for a demographic so often missed by the mainstream media,” added Ben. 

“The geeks are coming, and they’re going to have more fun than ever!”

Taking place across the Queen’s campus, including the Whitla Hall, Elmwood Hall, Queen’ Film Theatre, the Computer Science Building and many other venues it is essential to plan your weekend to pack as much in as you can.

For more information and tickets go to q-con.org.uk

SSE Arena Belfast: 8^th to 10^th November

Tickets go on sale: Thursday 29^th August at 8am

• Marvel fans assemble for this action packed, live arena stunt show
• Following a successful first tour, Marvel Universe LIVE! returns to Belfast with an all new storyline and never before seen characters in one epic battle of good versus evil

Super hero action, thrills and drama will soar, smash and burst into arenas across the UK next autumn as Marvel Universe LIVE! returns with a brand new show. Visiting nine UK cities in this all new production, produced by Feld Entertainment, Marvel fans will see Spider-Man, The Avengers and the Guardians of the Galaxy join forces with Doctor Strange, master of the mystic arts, in a race against time to recover the Wand of Watoomb before it falls into Loki’s hands.

For those looking to get their hands on the best seats in the house, tickets go on sale 29^th August.

Ticketmaster: In person: From 100 Ticketmaster Outlets Nationwide
By Telephone (24 Hour): 0844 847 2455

Book On-Line: www.ticketmaster.ie

The audience will witness cutting-edge special effects, pyrotechnics, and impressive 3D video projection mapping in this completely new thrilling adventure. With aerial stunts, martial arts and daring motorcycle skills, fans of all ages will be immersed in the Marvel universe in a show unlike anything they’ve ever seen before!

Called on by Doctor Strange, the Guardians of the Galaxy join Marvel Universe LIVE! on a momentous crusade against the scheming Nebula who teams up with the conniving and loathsome villains Loki and Green Goblin. The incredible superhuman forces of Iron Man, Thor, Black Panther, Hulk and Black Widow will unite in clashes that pit student against mentor, sister against sister and brother against brother.

“Our tremendously talented creative team and a nearly super human cast, have created a show that brings Marvel to life,” said Juliette Feld, producer of Marvel Universe LIVE! “The show creates an experience that immerses families in non-stop action, creating movie-style thrills and jaw-dropping stunts that showcase the powers of your favourite Super Heroes right before your eyes.” 

The show will be flying into arenas in Nottingham, London, Sheffield, Glasgow, Liverpool, Belfast, Dublin, Newcastle, Manchester and Birmingham from September until December 2019. 

SSE Arena Belfast: 8^th to 10^th November

3Arena Dublin: 15^th to 17^th November

It’s set to be a spectacular Bank Holiday weekend at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, County Down, with a series of exciting events and activities that will keep all the family entertained!

Make a day of it and discover what Hillsborough Castle and Gardens has to offer, with activities from Saturday 24 August – Monday 26 August including:

• Georgian Ice Cream Workshop – cool off and have a go at making your very own Georgian ice cream. Watch a live demonstration on how to make gelato, then all children can get creative and make their own ice cream sundaes! Aspiring little chefs can take home an ‘ice cream sundae making’ certificate too!

• Get crafty with Kite Making –retrace the footsteps of one of America’s founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin who visited the Castle in the 1770s.Inspired by his famous kite experiment, make your own kite to fly in the stunning gardens on Saturday and Sunday. 

• Enjoy the sounds of Downshire Bass Band – there will be entertainment from Northern Ireland’s leading brass band, Downshire Brass Band on Saturday and Sunday. The band will be performing in the South Terrace among any array of colourful flora.

• Go on a fascinating nature trail – children can go hunting for bugs and other wildlife with maps and adventure kits provided. Pick up a pair of ‘bugnoculars’ and explore the magnificent grounds with 100 acres of ornamental grounds, peaceful woodland and meandering waterways.

• Join one of the new interactive Family Tours – join a tour of the sumptuous State Rooms and discover the weird and wonderful things some of our guests have left behind!

Booking is recommended for all activities with limited spaces available. For more information and to book tickets visit hrp.org.uk/hillsboroughcastle

Hillsborough Castle and Gardens has been completely transformed by independent charity Historic Royal Palaces after five years and a £24 million investment – supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and other generous donors. Greeting visitors upon arrival is a new visitor centre complete with café and shop.

Open Arts, one of Northern Ireland’s most dynamic arts and disability organisations will be celebrating the 10th anniversary of its dance group Luminous Soul by hosting the inclusive dance festival MeetShareDance in Belfast from 5 – 7 September 2019.

Luminous Soul is the only contemporary dance development programme for disabled people in Northern Ireland and features members who have a range of disabilities: physical, sensory, learning disabilities and mental health illness.

Now in its eighth year, MeetShareDance is an international workshop dance festival which is based around the ideas of inclusivity and exchange.  It aims to raise the profile of integrated dance in artistic and everyday life. The festival has previously taken place in Porto, Madrid, Helsinki, Berlin, Lubjana and Dublin – this will be its first visit to Northern Ireland.  

Eileen Branagh, Chief Executive of Open Arts said:

“MeetShareDance embodies the ethos of what Luminous Soul as a disability dance group has been doing for the past 10 years.  We bring people of all abilities together to learn to dance, make new connections and share their talents with each other and the public. 

Over a decade of dance, Luminous Soul members have worked with and been trained by some of the most well known inclusive choreographers in the UK and Ireland and some have even gone on to have their own successful careers in professional dance.  We’re really looking forward to celebrating the group’s achievements with dancers from all over Europe at MeetShareDance in Belfast in September.” 

During the festival forty amateur and professional dancers from eight countries – Spain, Portugal, Germany, Ireland, Greece, Luxembourg, UK, Slovenia – will take part in three days of inclusive dance workshops at the Crescent Arts Centre. Participants in MeetShareDance will then showcase their skills to the public with a performance of a newly devised collaborative piece in Cornmarket at 1pm on Saturday 7 September. 

Gilly Campbell, Head of Community Arts and Education, Arts Council of Northern Ireland, commented:

“The Arts Council of Northern Ireland is committed to providing opportunities for everyone to access and engage with the arts.  Congratulations to Open Arts on celebrating ten years of providing high-quality dance development opportunities, for people with disabilities, through the Luminous Soul programme and we look forward to the Meet Share Dance Festival coming to Belfast to mark the occasion this September.”

For further information on Luminous Soul and the MeetShareDance 2019 festival, visit www.openartsni.org 

Open Arts is principally funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and receives Core Multi-Annual Funding from Belfast City Council’s Tourism Culture & Arts Unit.