Month: August 2023

ARMAGH OBSERVATORY AND PLANETARIUM LAUNCHES NEW INTERACTIVE OUTDOOR ACTIVITY  

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New Outdoor Attraction Introduced in Time for Summer

Leading astronomical research and education centre, Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, recently announced the introduction of a new interactive outdoor activity. Launched on 1st July 2023, the attraction is comprised of two routes. The astronomy-themed Cosmo Lost in Space trail is for children, whilst Astropark Journey, an augmented reality trail, is for an adult audience.

Pictured Exploring the Cosmo Lost in Space Trail is Senan Mackle

Designed by Brilliant Trails and supported by Tourism NI and the Department for Communities, the attraction is based at the organisation’s Planetarium. The Cosmo Lost in Space trail follows the story of Cosmo, a dog that enters a spaceship which accidentally takes off to the Moon.

Young adventurers must follow the trail marked on a map to discover clues and locate the 11 Cosmo Lost in Space markers located along the route. Once all the clues have been collected, they will be able to decipher a secret code word to help Cosmo launch his spaceship and return home to Jake.

Astropark Journey, which is suitable for an adult audience, is a self-led tour of Armagh Observatory and Planetarium’s Astropark. Technology for the trail which uses Augmented Reality to provide an interactive experience, will be downloadable to personal mobile phones via a QR code obtainable within the Planetarium.

In addition to the interactive trails, work has been completed to enhance the Astropark’s accessibility, with new signage in braille, additional paths and seating areas, and a panoramic viewing gallery, which is nestled within an ecology area that overlooks the city of Armagh.

John McCord, Acting Director of Culture, Department for Communities, said: “The Department for Communities is delighted to have partnered with Tourism NI in funding Armagh Observatory Planetarium’s development with the launch of its newly enhanced Astropark, which will provide innovative and exciting ways for the whole family to engage with science at this heritage location.”

Tourism Northern Ireland supported the project through its Experience Development Programme 2021-2023

Esther Dobbin, Regions and Investment Manager at Tourism NI, says, “Tourism NI is delighted to see the launch of the new experience at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, adding another outdoor experience to the tourism offering in Armagh.

“It brings new reasons to pay a visit and will appeal to all ages, delivered in a fun, innovative and accessible way.”

The trails are part of a wider initiative by Armagh Observatory and Planetarium to increase the accessibility of its facilities. In addition to the new outdoor activity, the organisation has implemented a number of other inclusive features. These include a Changing Places facility, improved wheelchair accessibility and a Sensory Room on the ground level of the Armagh Planetarium.

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium also screens ‘Relaxed’ and ‘Chilled’ Digital Theatre Shows for children who find large crowds and loud noise challenging, and has launched an Irish language accessibility Dome Show, with plans in place to introduce Ulster Scots and British Sign language versions of the show in the coming months.

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is sited in a heritage environment with a rich scientific history. The organisation delivers internationally recognised research in astronomy and related sciences and vibrant educational and outreach programmes for all ages.

Professor Michael Burton, Director at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, adds, “It is a pleasure to launch these interactive trails at the newly enhanced Astropark.

“We would like to thank Tourism NI and the Department for Communities for the joint funding of this initiative. We would also like to thank Brilliant Trails for designing and delivering the innovative trails and app, Ruth Foster the Construction and Procurement Delivery Property Service Division Project Manager for co-ordinating the enhancement of the grounds, and the team of staff at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, who worked collaboratively to make sure everything ran smoothly.

“Whilst we are passionate about making our facilities accessible to everyone, the topography of our site can be challenging.  We have compensated for the more difficult terrain by adding easily accessible seating areas with interpretative signage.

“We hope that the enhancements and trails will provide a fun and educational experience for children and adults alike.”

Suitable footwear is recommended for both trails.

To find out more about Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, visit: https://www.armagh.space

How The Circular Economy Can Make A Difference To The Environment And Your Business

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By Ross Moffett
Sales & Business Development Director, Everun 

The term ‘Circular Economy’ has been widely known in academia for some time, yet it has been slow to penetrate into business practices. In its simplest terms, it is moving from a linear economy of ‘take, make, waste’ practices into more sustainable methods that emphasise recycling and reuse.

As a renewable energy specialist, it was incumbent on Everun to examine what we can do to reduce waste in all that we do. Our journey began almost three years ago and it has been transformative for ourselves as well as our customers. 

Even when you’re thinking about energy in its purest form, you can’t just create it. Energy is moved from one place to another, for Everun it’s important that we look at the whole journey of our assets, parts and waste. Our customers want to know that not only are we asking them to do their bit in the fight against climate change but that we are doing our bit too. We must also look inward when talking about sustainability.

What we do with and how we dispose of our wind turbines is a good example. It’s important that when we decommission turbines, we communicate that effectively with our customers and wider community. In one example we took the blades off the turbine, stress tested them for strength and then created bridges with them. It’s important to us to reduce the amount of waste being sent to landfill from our work.

In some ways this epitomises the circular economy’s principle of valuing waste. For us it’s not just the transaction of creating renewable energy, it’s about being sustainable throughout that process, and continuing to be sustainable within ourselves.

While a lot of what a business does comes from the directors and senior managers sustainability can often be something that employees can drive, as the populace as a whole becomes more aware of the demands to reduce waste. I see it within Everun and its simple things. We have a fancy coffee machine, but a staff member suggested that we take the coffee groundings and put them into the food caddies and then we allow members of our staff to take them and use them for adding nutrients to their soil and grass.

That initiative didn’t come from me, our leadership team, it came from someone internally who wanted that change to happen, and we supported them to implement it. It’s vital to bring your staff along on your journey of sustainability.

I think that’s what’s happening throughout industry and throughout businesses. There are a specific number of people who are looking at sustainability from the top level down, as part of the ESG reporting. For example, they might be looking at our suppliers and asking what are they doing to help with carbon offset, they could be asking whether our suppliers have embraced renewable energy and find out how they are contributing to the circular economy.

Meanwhile, our staff on the ground can support the wider vision by doing things that are small changes for little impact such as recycling the coffee grounds and separating their general waste for recycling.

As we approach Northern Ireland’s 2030 zero net targets, companies articulating what they are doing to offset carbon by recycling, remanufacturing or repurposing items from their production will be a key question being asked in the boardrooms.

For businesses to successfully and confidently support the ambitious climate change targets we all must embrace what the circular economy represents. It is defined as the ‘model of production and consumption, which involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and products as long as possible. In this way, the life cycle of products is extended. In practice, it implies reducing waste to a minimum.’

No one could disagree with those principles. And they are principles that can reduce costs and create employment, when applied. Another example of where Everun does this is when we decommission a turbine we take the magnets from the gearboxes and sell them onto another company who will repurpose them in their manufacturing.

Where we can take the nose cones off the turbine and use them in children’s playgrounds turning them into climbing frames. We take the nacelle, which is the bit that is housing all the gear box elements and we turn those into garden rooms, or we can turn them into single dwellings. Within these processes there is remanufacturing, sales, commissioning, promotion, painting and much more. In many cases this creates reemployment or additional employment.

The process of embracing sustainability and the circular economy can be easier for some companies than others. This is why we are proud to be sponsors of the All Ireland Sustainability Awards later this year. This is a great opportunity for businesses who don’t quite know how they can contribute to see some fantastic case studies. And for businesses who are working hard at putting climate change on their priority list it’s the place to be recognised and congratulated for your work.

Adopting a circular economy model won’t be easy for all companies, for example, if you’re in an industry that is a high energy user, and high pollutant, and all of a sudden you’re whipping the handbrake up and saying, ‘we’re going to do this’, it feels like cracking a nut with a sledgehammer. It’s important to take time, really consider your sustainability strategy and ensure you have a robust plan of action and buy in at every level within the business.

For Everun it was a no brainer. We are a renewables company installing wind turbines, solar PV, EV chargers and smart motors. It was important to us to show our clients we can walk the walk. For those who are finding it difficult or for those who are having problems getting leadership buy in, it’s a challenge that can be overcome with the right mindset, partners and resources. Partnerships have been very important to Everun, for example, we partnered with International Synergies who helped connect with the company that bought the magnets from us.

All businesses can start small in their journey to net zero. Look at your waste, packaging and other key elements of the business and ask what small changes can be made that will have a longer term impact. One small thing Everun did was switch from small orders to larger bulk orders so that we can reduce the carbon impact on shipping and packaging.

The circular economy is not just words, or papers from COP, policies from Europe, or our own Net Zero targets. It is common sense actions that will make a difference to your business.

Find out more about the All Ireland Sustainability Awards and how to enter at https://www.allirelandsustainability.com 

Tech Entrepreneurs To Invest £400k In Local Food Ordering App With Focus On Better Value For Businesses

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In response to continued rising costs for the food delivery industry from large corporate ordering apps, a group of Northern Ireland based entrepreneurs have launched a competitor that focuses on the needs of both the consumer and the business.

Eat Local, headed up by businessmen Ivan McCombe, Anthony Pereira and Sandeep Sharma, will offer restaurants, takeaways, cafes and other food to go establishments the opportunity to significantly decrease their costs for operating their delivery services.

The company, which has already invested over £250,000 to develop the app and its infrastructure has now pledged to invest a further £400,000 over the next year into the marketing of the app. 

Part of Eat Local’s mission is to encourage establishments to offer consumers the same prices on the app as they would get in the shop, more commonly known in the industry as ‘menu board prices’.

Founder Ivan McCombe said it’s time for the takeaway industry to take back their profits and to stop paying exuberant fees to global organisations which haemorrhage money from the local economy.

He explained: “Since a variety of global apps entered the takeaway market, takeaways who want to offer delivery services have been at the mercy of extortionate commissions and debilitating rising costs.

“At Eat Local we want to give takeaways back their money, keep expenditure in the local economy and reduce the prices consumers are paying for delivered goods.

“What many people don’t know is that more often than not establishments are having to increase their prices per item in order to compensate for the huge amounts of money they pay each week in commissions.

“Not just that, payments to the takeaways are delayed meaning reduced cashflow for the business and less control over their operations.”

As well as offering no commission structure the Eat Local app gives food to go establishments full control over the data, meaning the business can market directly to their own customers at any time.

Sandeep Sharma explained: “When I met Ivan and Anthony to discuss their tech product I was excited about how it can completely revolutionise the food to go market here in Northern Ireland. Being in the industry myself I knew first hand how their solution could completely change how my business operates.

“Cashflow is king and Eat Local’s commitment to giving takeaways and food to go establishments back the money they are paying in huge commissions is a game changer.

“Not just that, one of the most frustrating things for takeaways and restaurants who use global food delivery apps is that they have no control over their own data. They can’t retain any information they get about their customers.

“The way Eat Local is set up means we can give control back to our customers and give them the chance to interact directly with their own consumers.

“Likewise, we will also be investing heavily in marketing the app to consumers and bringing a lot more value added services to the table.”

One of those value added services includes an integrated ordering system which allows food delivery establishments to better control how they update, manage and operate their Eat Local profile.

Anthony Pereira explained that the user journey for both the customers and consumers was a big part of the app development process for Eat Local.

He said: “When we decided to create the Eat Local app I was able to bring my experience as a takeaway owner to the table and ask ‘what do takeaways really need from an app’, that alongside consultations with the industry we have been able to put together a product that not only rivals the global food delivery apps but offers consumers a similar customer journey.

“Our app is simple and easy to use, gives food delivery businesses more control over their profile and has been created to allow us to expand the offerings and value we bring to the end consumer.”

Eat Local is currently offering food delivery companies, takeaways and food to go establishments free access to the app and system up until September 30th during which time the company will roll out a consumer campaign.

To find out more about how you can support Eat Local to help keep cashflow in the Northern Ireland economy go to eatlocaluk.co.uk 

LQ BID ANNOUNCES FREE SIX-WEEK EVENT PROGRAMME AT BANKMORE SQUARE

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To celebrate the reopening of Bankmore Square, Linen Quarter Business Improvement District (LQ BID) has announced a free six-week event programme. Kicking off on August 10th the vibrant range of activities include a launch event with free ice-cream and traditional music concert, yoga classes, pickleball and a mobile petting zoo.

 

Free Ice-Cream & Trad Music Launch Event

Thursday 10 August, 12:00-2:00pm

Drop by Bankmore Square as the BID celebrates its summer launch with 300 FREE ice-cream scoops.

District Employee Party

Friday 11 August: 5:00pm-Close

Head to The Marcus Ward with colleagues after work for special drinks promos, as well as free pizza for the first 100 people. Marcus Ward will also be giving out discount cards which give you 10% off food & drinks during any future visit!

 

Lunch-time Yoga & Pickleball

Join Nicola Suitor for lunch-time yoga on 15th August & 4th September or try your hand at Pickleball on 21st & 23rd August.

 

Bankmore Bank Holiday Family Day Out

Sunday 27th August: 1:00pm-5:00pm

Bank-more this bank holiday with free giant games, drumming circles, face painting and other children’s performances at the BID’s family day out.

 

Mobile Petting Zoo

Wednesday 6th September: 12:00pm-2:00pm

Stop by the mobile petting zoo on September 6th to check out the snakes, hedgehogs, rabbits, and creepy crawlies!

 

Bankmore Square re-opened to the public on June 28th following a £95,000 rejuvenation project delivered by LQ BID, co-funded by Department for Communities and supported by Department for Infrastructure. The Square’s new look will deter anti-social behaviour by using the space in a new way including the installation of a wildflower garden, new circular central feature to facilitate events, and partial removal of wall to open the space to areas of high footfall and increased surveillance.

 

Events are open to all members of the public and do not require booking, however some are weather dependent. Check out @LinenQuarter on social media for the latest updates and view the full list of events here.

Jacqueline shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI

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Antrim

Ballycastle Seafront Artisan Market, August.The flagship artisan market of the Naturally North Coast & Glens on the beautiful Ballycastle Seafront.  This is an excellent showcase of local food, culture, heritage, and traditions, and it is an ideal destination for anyone looking for an authentic experience.

Find out more HERE

Armagh

See Little Red Riding Hood at the Market Place Theatre Armagh.  A curious young girl weaves her way through the wintery woods to her grandma’s house. A journey full of surprises… A playful and imaginative re-telling of the timeless Brothers Grimm story.

Find out more HERE

Belfast

Frock Around the Clock End of Summer Vintage Fair. The End of Summer Vintage & Handmade Fair will feature 36 fabulous stalls of vintage and handmade loveliness including some of your old favourites as well as some amazing new exhibitors.

Find out more HERE

Down

CraftFest at Castle Ward. This year’s event is bigger and better than ever before, with more exhibitors, more activities, and more opportunities to immerse yourself in the world of local craftsmanship.

Find out more HERE

Fermanagh

Rugby Tots Summer Classes, Enniskillen.

Find out more HERE

Derry/Londonderry

The Summer Activity Programme continues this August at the Seamus Heaney Homeplace.

Find out more HERE

Tyrone

From the Hill to the Fort, a celebration of Lunasa.  Take a guided tour of Hill of The O’Neill, have a break for tea/coffee and scones.  Then make your way by coach to Tullaghoge Fort and meet an O’Neill from the early 17th century.

Find out more HERE

 

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 7 – 13 August

  1. Feile 35, Belfast, County Antrim, 7-13 August. Visit Ireland’s biggest community arts festival, Féile an Phobail, for its 35th anniversary and celebrate Irish culture. With over 300 events there is something for locals and visitors alike. This festival is packed with an eclectic mix of events ranging from concerts, lively debates and discussions and art exhibitions to massive community and sporting events showcasing the very best of Belfast. Explore what’s on offer whether it’s the Féile Trad Trail, music workshops, or food & drink events such as the unique heritage of Dunville Irish Whiskey.
  2. Open House festival, Bangor, County Down, 12 August. Bangor seafront will go back in time for this Seaside Revival festival celebrating all things vintage. The core festival will take place at the stunning Bangor Castle Walled Garden. The festival’s eclectic programme includes music, comedy, film, theatre, boat trips, food and drink, talks and tours, and crafting events. Make sure to visit the classic car and bike show, record fair, vintage market, swing dancing and live music.
  3. Famous Maize Maze, Limavady, County Londonderry, 7-13 August. Explore the trails throughout a 13-acre cornfield with plenty of twists, turns and dead ends to challenge the whole family. If you can find your way out there are lots of other adrenaline pumping activities in the main activity centre from high ropes, a zip line, canoeing, archery and abseiling. All located in the beautiful setting of the Roe Valley.
  4. W5 Summer Camps, Belfast, County Antrim, 7-13 August. This summer at W5, explore the world of science and technology at the Bright Sparks and Techno Sparks summer camps. This unique and exciting week-long summer camp is perfect for inquisitive young minds ranging from 8-14 years old. Techno Sparks invites those 11-14 years old to get stuck in with coding, film production, robotic programming, engineering, virtual reality and much more. Bright Sparks is calling all young budding scientists ages 8-11 to try out science-based activities such as crime labs, rocket races, animation and building challenges. Spark your creativity and knowledge this summer at W5 summer camps!
  5. Erne Adventures – Hydrobikes & eBoards, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 7-13 August. Jump onboard and discover a unique way to experience the water day or night! Why not ride around Enniskillen Castle and explore the views with the new eBoard experience, an electric-powered water scooter. This is the perfect way to explore Ireland’s only island town through this unique water sports experience.
  6. Coast and Country Food Tour, Coleraine, County Londonderry, 12 August. Experience the exceptional foodie culture of the Causeway Coast. Over six hours you will travel by luxury coach stopping off to sample fabulous locally produced artisan foods and meet their producers. You will get the chance to see an area of outstanding natural beauty as you savour the flavours of this beautiful part of Northern Ireland. The tour includes a visit to a farm as well as Bushmills Whiskey, the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world.
  7. Heart of the Glens Festival, Cushendall, County Antrim, 7-13 August. The Heart of the Glens Festival is based in Cushendall in the beautiful Glens of Antrim, on the famous Causeway Coastal route/Antrim Coast Road. Celebrate the wonderful delights of the nine Glens, showcasing 80 events, with something for all the family. Main events include The Lurig Challenge Run, Food Fest night, Adult Treasure Hunt, the ever popular ‘Theme’ fancy dress night. Enjoy the ‘Dalriada Sounds’ concert showcasing the talent both of the locals and invited guests from other areas with dancing, music, singing and poetry.
  8. Lough Neagh Discovery and Conference Centre, Craigavon, County Armagh, 7-13 August. Get close up with nature and the biodiversity of Oxford Island while exploring the nature reserves’ many beguiling trails. This free nature centre consists of four miles of footpaths, five birdwatching hides, ponds, wildflower meadows and much more. With two playparks and a summer scavenger hunt why not pack a picnic and make a family day of it on the superb shores of Lough Neagh.
  9. Wellbrook Beetling Mill, Cookstown, County Tyrone, 12-13 August. Situated in a peaceful, wooded glen along the Ballinderry River, Wellbrook Beetling Mill stands as a reminder of Ulster’s once-flourishing linen industry that dates back to the late seventeenth century. Explore the last working linen mill of its kind here and watch costumed guides demonstrate the “beetles” at work, the wooden tools used to tighten the fabric and give it its sheen. This location is a fabulous insight into the past and a lovely place to wander on the banks of the Ballinderry river whose waters helped power the mill.
  10. Hill of The O’Neill and Ranfurly House, Dungannon, County Tyrone, 7-13 August. This fine listed building is the gateway to one of the most ancient sites in Ulster- Hill of the O’Neill. Experience history and learn about the dynasty that ruled over Ulster for over 400 years. Enjoy 360 panoramic views from the glass tower and learn about the Flight of the Earls. Finish your trip by exploring the beautiful heritage park with a cup of coffee from the coffee shop located in the building.

 

 

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Galgorm Castle Golf Club, Ballymena, County Antrim

Why not get into the swing of things and enjoy a two-night break at the Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort from £349 pps. Stay and play with three rounds on the pro golf course, relax later in the Thermal Sap Village and wake to the hearty joys of a full Irish breakfast. Dinner can be added at a supplement of £47 per person (three-course meal Gillies, Fratelli Ristorante or Castle Kitchen + Bar). Visit https://www.galgorm.com for more information.

Armagh City Hotel, Armagh, County Armagh

Indulge in a little me time with an overnight stay in the historic city of Armagh from £122 pps. Wander amid the Georgian buildings or explore the ancient wonders of nearby Navan Fort. This offer comes with a complimentary thirty -minute spa treatment, use of the health and fitness club and a £20 hotel dining voucher per adult to enjoy lunch or dinner. Visit https://armaghcityhote.com for more information.

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

DRAMATIC LINE-UP AT ARMAGH’S MARKET PLACE THEATRE

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The Market Place Theatre in Armagh is set for a dramatic few weeks, with two fantastic dramas scheduled to hit the stage.

On Saturday 12 August, perennial favourites, Belvoir Players return with a Sam Cree classic, ‘Strictly For The Birds’, a hilarious play featuring all the comedy and mayhem that are hallmarks of Sam Cree’s writing.

Muriel and Herbie Glover and their daughter Susan enjoy life in a wee terraced house somewhere in Belfast. Their neighbour, Lily Dodds, calls in quite frequently for the loan of a wee cup of sugar or a wee drop of tea to keep her going. Herbie keeps pigeons in his loft in the back yard and has collected quite a few cups from racing his birds across the continent. When Muriel and Lily learn that they share a sweepstake that has drawn the favourite in an impending horse race and are likely to win a considerable sum of money, Muriel’s mother, who lives in Cherry Valley, descends on the household with the threat that life will never be the same again for the hapless Herbie.

Then on Friday 25 August, Holywood Players will present ‘Deathtrap’. In this acclaimed dark comedic thriller, washed-up playwright Sidney Bruhl hasn’t written a successful play in years and money is getting tight. But when Clifford, a student of a creative writing course he’s teaching, comes to him for advice on a script he’s written, his prayers are answered. Sidney recognises the script immediately as a sure-fire hit and his ticket back to Broadway success. The only issue is, does Clifford want to share the credit… and what will Sydney do if he doesn’t?

Holding the record for the longest-running comedy-thriller on Broadway, and nominated for four Tony awards including Best Play, ‘Deathtrap’ will keep you on the edge of your seats. Full of twists and turns, shocks and surprises, you will be holding your breath until the very last moment.

Please note, this show is not suitable for children under 12 as it contains violence and limited use of strong language. Tickets are priced £15 and £12 (concession) for ‘Strictly For The Birds’ and £15 and £13 (concession) for ‘Deathtrap, and can be booked online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre or through the Box Office on 03300 561 025.

The Sixteen return to the Guildhall to celebrate 10th anniversary of Derry Choir Festival

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Harry Christophers’ The Sixteen, one of the world’s most renowned choral ensembles, will return to the Guildhall in 2023 as part of the 10th anniversary celebrations of City of Derry International Choir Festival. They feature in a guest artist line-up which will also see the Ulster Orchestra, Festival Chorus and soloists performing Verdi’s dramatic Messa da Requiem at the Millennium Forum in the Festival’s Opening Gala.

On Friday 20th October, The Sixteen will visit Derry for the first time since 2016 to present their programme, A Watchful Gaze, marking the 400th anniversary of the death of composer William Byrd. Byrd was widely admired in his own time both at home and abroad, and the influence he had on future generations was immense. This programme explores the music of Byrd’s influences, colleagues and pervading faith, as well as taking his legacy firmly into the modern day with two new works by Dobrinka Tabakova.

The Choir Festival will open on Wednesday 18th October with a concert performance of the dramatic Messa da Requiem by Giuseppe Verdi. A 100-voice Festival Chorus (made up of singers from across the northwest of Ireland) will be joined by Northern Ireland’s premier symphony orchestra, Ulster Orchestra, and soloists.

These performances will be among the highlights of five days of choral events scheduled in the Millennium Forum, the Guildhall and other venues in Derry, Strabane and Inishowen from 18-22 October 2023. Over sixty choirs from across Ireland, the UK and Europe have signed up to participate in the Festival’s packed schedule of competitions, workshops and community performances.

Dónal Doherty, Artistic Director of the Choir Festival, said, “It’s always a very special occasion when Harry Christophers and the Sixteen come to the city. It will be especially memorable this year, as we welcome back this exceptional ensemble to help us celebrate our 10th Anniversary edition, in the wonderful setting of the Guildhall. Tickets will be at a premium, so book early to avoid disappointment.”

For more information on the Festival’s programme of events, visit www.derrychoirfest.com. For ticket sales, visit the Millennium Forum’s box office in person, online at  https://www.millenniumforum.co.uk/, or by calling 028 7126 4455. Early bird offers are in place for the month of August. Connect with the Festival on social media at facebook/CityofDerryInternationalChoirFestival, IG/Twitter: @derrychoirfest

Ireland’s biggest celebration of craft makers has launched

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August Craft Month returns with packed all-island programme of over 400 events

 

The highly anticipated month-long celebration of Irish craft has officially launched. This year’s August Craft Month brings together an array of talented makers hosting over 400 events with representation in all 32 counties across the island of Ireland.

Festivities last week at Marina Market, Cork, kicked off a series of unique events that will take place throughout the month of August.

Featuring live demonstrations, craft markets, great music and food, the launch truly shone a spotlight on local makers and showcased the variety of talented craft-makers involved in August Craft Month across the country.

An excited atmosphere was in the air, as the public got a taster of the month of craft celebrations ahead.

August Craft Month celebrates a rich craft heritage, the artisans keeping ancient traditions alive and new talented makers bringing real vibrancy to the scene.

With events taking place across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, August Craft Month provides unique opportunities for people to get involved as well as supporting makers by buying products and learning more about their work.

Supported by the Design & Crafts Council Ireland, Craft NI and Cork Craft & Design, the annual celebration is once again part of an island-wide summer programme.

There is a packed itinerary of over 400 eclectic events in all corners of the island, with an almost equal split on both sides of the border.

Widely acknowledged as among the finest in the world, Ireland’s linen heritage will take centre stage during August Craft Month.

The Linen Biennale Northern Ireland, an initiative of R-Space Gallery, returns for a second year in 2023 with events across Northern Ireland running across August, September and October.

The Biennale will showcase Ireland’s linen heritage and examine the future of linen and flax on the island.

Rosemary Steen, CEO, Design & Crafts Council Ireland, said, “We at Design & Crafts Council Ireland are thrilled to once again work with Craft NI and Cork Craft & Design to extend the August Craft Month programme of events across the whole island of Ireland.

“Now in our second year of celebrating the all-island August Craft Month, a real momentum has been generated. There is an incredible 57% increase in the number of events being held this year, with over 400 listed in the programme. Many well-known names are taking part as well as emerging makers.

“It is a fantastic opportunity for people to take the plunge into the crafts world, see and experience the amazing work that is going on all around us. People are looking ahead, going onto the augustcraftmonth.org website to browse, select and book the events they want to go to and building their plans around them.

“It all combines to create a real energy around the Irish craft scene, and I know people are excited to find out more during August Craft Month.”

Katherine McDonald, Director of Craft NI, said, “August Craft Month is a fantastic platform to honour and acknowledge the skilled makers we have right across the island of Ireland.

“This year’s programme has shaped up to be one of our best, with a really diverse range of craft disciplines including ceramists, textile makers, glassblowers, designer-makers and many more. It’s a great opportunity to try a craft for yourself.

“Handmade pieces are often one-of-a-kind and make the most thoughtful and considered gift or an excellent way to show some self-care.”

Ava Hayes, Cork Craft Month Director at Cork Craft & Design, said, “We are delighted to be working in collaboration with August Craft Month again to truly bring the island of Ireland to life with locally curated art and design throughout the month of August.

“As Ireland’s largest social enterprise for craft-makers, we look forward to seeing all communities immerse themselves in the nationwide campaign, and to celebrate their local crafters by visiting exhibitions and supporting in any way they can.”

At the official August Craft Month launch in Cork, Rosemary Steen, CEO of DCCI announced the launch of the David Shaw-Smith Legacy Award. The award, which holds a prize of €5,000, is available for master crafts people over the age of 50 to apply for.

It was inspired in large part by Joe Hogan, traditional basket maker and fine artist, when he said in his keynote speech at the DCCI AGM last year, that a bursary for established makers in craft would be “a public way of showing we value things; it also gives a message to craftspeople that what we’re doing is important”.

The award recognises these incredibly important craft skills and the imperative of passing them down to get the future generation of crafters involved.

For the full island-wide programme, visit www.augustcraftmonth.org. Share your own craft adventures by tagging @augustcraftmonth23 and use the hashtags #augustcraftmonth2023, #makeseebuy

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