Month: February 2024

Belfast YMCA Champions Affordable Housing with Strategic Land Sale in Stranmillis

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In a strategic move to address the pressing need for affordable housing in Belfast, local charity Belfast YMCA has released a prime piece of land to the market for sale in the Stranmillis Area.

Working with commercial estate agents Frazer Kidd the land in the highly coveted BT9 area is on the market for “offers in the region of £1m”.

The land, currently not in use by the charity, extends to approximately 2.84 acres and is strategically located adjacent to the Belfast YMCA’s Stranmillis hub where the organisation will retain the majority of the land surrounding the site. 

This hub is a cornerstone of the community, offering a wide range of facilities, including a day nursery, after school clubs, a gym, and community amenities. The charity plans to further enhance this area with a community garden, walking trails, and a junior park run, making it an ideal location for a residential development that aligns with the YMCA’s community-centric mission.

The underutilised land has been earmarked for development into affordable housing, lies in proximity to the bustling Stranmillis Village and the serene Malone Road and offers a unique opportunity to developers and housing providers.

Chief executive, Belfast YMCA, Chris Cupples said the sale of the unused land will allow the organisation to reinvest into the charity’s wider initiatives, allowing the organisation to play a more active role in addressing the needs of children, young people and communities across Belfast. 

He added: “We are delighted to be moving forward with our plans to market this site for sale. Affordable housing is in high demand across Belfast and this site presents a great opportunity to help provide more local housing in the years to come.

“The sale of the site will not impact upon any of the activities delivered by the Belfast YMCA Stranmillis hub, selling this land offers a strategic opportunity to partner with a trusted charity, presenting the chance to collaborate on a social housing scheme aligned with the YMCA’s mission, leveraging existing resources for mutual benefit and enhancing community wellbeing.

“The site also presents the opportunity for other social developments such as a nursing home or residential care facility.”

Belfast YMCA is a charity that has been serving children, young people and communities across Belfast for over 170 years. Today the charity operates across; Childcare, Youth and Community. Peacebuilding is the golden thread through everything they do.

 

Brian Kidd, partner at Frazer Kidd said the land “offers a rare opportunity to acquire a potential residential development site, within an extremely popular residential area, situated directly adjacent to the YMCA football playing fields.”

He added: “This land presents the opportunity to develop a scheme aligned with the YMCA’s mission, leveraging existing resources for mutual benefit and enhancing community well-being. 

 

For more information on the land download the brochure from frazerkidd.co.uk 

To find out more about the work of Belfast YMCA go to belfastymca.org

Immerse Yourself In A Magical Journey Into The World Of Famous Designer Gaudí At Belfast XR Festival

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A magical VR journey through the work of Catalan architect and designer Antoni Gaudí has been confirmed as one of the unique experiences at this year’s Belfast XR festival.

Barcelona-based Gaudí was famed for his free-flowing works greatly influenced by nature.

As part of the festival attendees will experience 20 minutes of the awe-inspiring wonder of Gaudi’s visionary creations.

Designed for small groups of six, audiences will have the freedom to explore a shared space like never before. 

The story will take festival goers back to 1926 when, weakened by age and feeling his death approaching, Gaudí invites his new assistants to discover his studio, to understand his vision and complete his work. 

Deepa Mann-Kler, director and curator for Belfast XR Festival said the experience of Gaudí, The Atelier of the Divine takes audiences into the mind of the famous architect.

She added: “Through the exceptional reconstruction of the atelier, which burned down in 1936, visitors can embark on a narrative journey into the unique psyche of the Catalan master.

“What is so very special about this story, and unusual for VR, is that this is a shared experience where you can see each other’s avatars. It truly is one of the most breath-taking installations around today, and one you will never forget.”

The Gaudí experience was created by Stéphane Landowski & Gaël Cabouat who have been working together for over a decade.

Together they have created more than 60 short films, four feature films, and three documentaries.

Stéphane specialises in the writing and supporting projects during the writing phase.

Stéphane said: “We wanted to design an experience aimed at discovering Gaudí’s brilliant universe through a reconstruction of his workshop, which has now disappeared. 

“Overcome by an all consuming mysticism, the architect ended up moving into this hybrid, modular space where as a passionate hermit, he became a tireless worker for God. 

“More than a place of work, the studio, made in his image and moulded to his obsessions, had thus gradually become an extension of the artist and, even more, a materialisation of his psyche.”

Gaël then steps in to take over at the production level.

“From the outset of the project, it was clear that we wanted to use the studio’s rendition to tell the story of the man, and to ensure that each wall, each ceiling, as delirious as his thoughts, would tell the story of his dreamlike and tortured universe, like a deforming and dynamic mirror,” Gaël added.

Belfast XR, now in its third year, specialises in curating worldclass immersive technology content that takes the art of storytelling to a new level.

The innovative arts festival which will once again merge technology and art to create a unique virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experience for attendees 

Extended Reality or ‘XR’ is the collective name for virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). VR is a computer-generated artificial environment with scenes that appear to be real, while AR is a digital overlay onto the real world, which is viewed through your phone or an iPad. 

Speaking of the annual Belfast XR Festival, which is an annual gathering for the XR arts – storytelling, visual arts, music, drama, dance, literature and theatre, Deepa said bringing virtual and augmented reality content to new audiences locally is something the team at Belfast XR are passionate about: “I realised that  there are so many incredible stories being told in this medium that audiences in Northern Ireland never get the opportunity to experience. This was my key motivation. 

“Our ambition is to create an unmissable annual gathering for XR that inspires storytelling and our passion is to bring the best global virtual and augmented reality content to new local audiences. You don’t need to have used a virtual reality headset before, as our team will guide you through the whole process.”  

Running on Wednesday February 28 and Thursday 29 at the Black Box in Belfast, this year’s festival theme is Legacy which will offer attendees the chance to experience world history in captivating ways allowing audiences to step into the past, interact with historical figures, and explore significant events firsthand. 

Belfast XR Festival is both for XR enthusiasts aged 16+ and those who haven’t experienced any form of XR in the past.

The Belfast XR Festival is supported by the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. It is also supported by the Department for Communities through Northern Ireland Screen, Digital Catapult NI, Future Screens NI and Ulster Screen Academy.

For more information follow Belfast XR Festival on social media or go to belfastxrfestival.com 

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 12 – 18 February

  1. The Big Hide Out, Comber, County Down, 12-16 February. All birdwatching enthusiasts are invited to grab a pair of binoculars and head on down to the wonderfully varied wetlands of Castle Espie on the shores of Strangford Lough. This is a wonderful opportunity to get the chicks in your brood outside and imaginations will soar as budding ornithologists learn the difference between a Shelduck and an Eider! There is a delightful shop and fantastic café, stocked with delicious homemade savoury snacks and traybakes on site. Castle Espie makes for a great half-term day out.

 

  1. Family Chocolate Experience, Castlerock, County Antrim 13-16 February. It’s chocs away for fantastic family fun at The Chocolate Manor. The Family Chocolate Experience is perfect for both adults and kids to get stuck in and craft a selection of chocolate creations. You can even design your own bar if you submit your design/photo before you arrive! These 90-minute sessions also allow participants to enjoy a hot chocolate as they learn about the origin of the sweet treat and see, smell and touch real cocoa beans and a cocoa pod from Africa.

 

  1. Valentine’s Murder Mystery, Navan Centre & Fort, County Armagh, 16 February. Immerse yourself in an evening of spine-tingling murder mystery at Navan Centre & Fort this Valentine’s weekend. A murder has just been committed at the home of King Conor and as you sip on a welcome drink of wine or mead, brace yourself for an evening of excitement and intrigue. Enjoy a hearty two-course meal and decipher the enigmatic hints that could lead you to uncover who is responsible for the demise of this brave warrior.

 

  1. Oyster and Stout Festival, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 16–17 February. Enjoy a totally unique festival celebrating the wonderful Lough Foyle Native Oyster and the Walled City Brewery’s unique Foyster Stout. Local seafood company Foyle Bia Mara will be shucking fresh oysters, the brewery’s Head Chef, Chris Moran, will be rustling up some seafood delights and brewers will be creating Ireland’s most diverse local stout with a range of intriguing flavours including Tabasco and Chocolate Chipotle.

 

  1. Kids Forest School, Ballynahinch, County Down, 17 February. Two hours of wonderful wild play awaits young intrepid adventurers as they explore dense beech tree woodland with a trained forest leader. There are two areas to explore. One has a large canopy, so its suitable for all weathers, while the other has a campfire and a water area, suitable for pond dipping. At the end of each session, you will be taken along the scenic trail for hot chocolate and refreshments. Suitable for toddlers up to age 12.

 

  1. Foraging Afloat, Killinchy, County Down, 17 February. Join Rory Martin and improve your paddling skills as you embark on a kayaking tour of Strangford Lough. Along the way you’ll learn some local history and have the chance to spot some wildlife. Rory grew up on the shores of Strangford Lough and has a real affinity for the area. After the tour you will be joined by two ecologists (David Thompson and Celia Spouncer) who have thirty years’ experience in conservation on the lough. Enjoy a foraging workshop, shoreside picnic and cooking on an open fire before the day is done.

 

  1. Lough Fea, Cookstown, County Tyrone. Nestled between wild mountain scenery, this lovely natural beauty spot is one of many lakes dotted around the Sperrins. It’s an anglers dream and also supplies the entire area and beyond with fresh water. A 4.1km walkway around the lough offers up fantastic panoramic views and makes for a gentle and idyllic stroll. The toilets and children’s play area on site help make it a great spot for a family outing.

 

  1. Half-Term Treasure Hunt at Carrick-a-Rede, Ballintoy, County Antrim, 15 February. If you’re on the lookout for a giant adventure this half-term, look no further than the treasure hunt at Carrick-a-Rede. Solve riddles and decipher clues to uncover the secrets hidden around Carrick-a-Rede. If you get the most answers right, you are in with the chance of getting your hands on a year’s free National Trust Membership. Online booking is strongly recommended.

 

  1. Monea Castle, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh. Built for Malcolm Hamilton and completed in 1618, this dramatic ruin has a Scottish look about it, with its corner turrets and two huge round towers. The castle was burned in the 18th century and abandoned. Located on private land, the public can visit but, as it is on an active farm, dogs are not permitted.

 

  1. Legenderry Couple’s Cooking Class, Derry~Londonderry, 17-18 February. An interactive dining experience perfect for the loved ones in your life. Make and eat five courses of delicious, locally sourced food, full of Legenderry flavours. Chef, Fairley Ramraj will take you through a simple but delicious menu featuring samosas and a choice of main. Participants will also get the chance to try locally made cheeses, chocolates and sauces. There are three sessions per day. Tickets are sold in pairs and each session is capped at a maximum of eight guests (four couples).

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

Matthew Bell To Officially Launch Book At Belfast Central Library

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Matthew Bell (author) with Sian Cairns (Libraries NI District Officer)

Former pro hockey player Matthew Bell will launch his memoir Second Chances at Central Library in Belfast later this month.

The book, released in December last year, tells the incredible story of Matthew’s battle with brain cancer and the gruelling recovery that followed. Once an international hockey player, Matthew’s life was upended while playing professionally in Germany. 

After enduring several surgeries and having to re-learn basic life skills, Matthew’s journey back to the pitch and the sport he loves was anything but easy. 

In the book, Belfast athlete Matthew, 28, tells the story of how he spent six weeks in hospital in Germany and endured five surgeries before being flown home to Northern Ireland by air ambulance to start cancer treatment. 

While away from home he stopped eating, talking and walking for seven weeks. Matthew’s parents were told by the consultant neurologist that he couldn’t tell them if their son would ever walk or talk again

Published by Belfast company Excalibur Press, Matthew’s book is now available to buy on Amazon as well as through their website.

Publisher Tina Calder said: “Matthew’s story is one of resilience, strength and absolute determination. It’s a beautifully open and frank account of his battle back to health.

“Second Chances stands as an inspiration to anyone who has an uphill challenge ahead of them. We are delighted to have been given the opportunity to publish this for Matthew.”

As part of Matthew’s journey and his determination to make his book available to those who need it he is generously donating copies of the book to libraries across Northern Ireland.

Sian Cairns, District Officer for Libraries NI said: “We are thrilled that Matthew Bell has chosen Belfast Central Library as the venue for an event to launch his new book. 

“Those attending the event will have the privilege of hearing Matthew share his extraordinary story and thanks to his very generous donation, library members across NI will be able to borrow the book from Libraries NI.”

The launch event will take place at 4pm, Thursday February 22 where Matthew will be joined by Excalibur Press founder Tina Calder who will speak to the former hockey star about his new book and the process of getting to where he is today. 

Of the launch, Matthew said: “It’s lovely to be able to launch my book in the library where it was published.

“‘Excalibur Press helped streamline the process of getting the book printed and published and I’m excited to be launching the book in the same offices as Excalibur. 

“To say I have a published book is hard to comprehend, but I’m glad to be able to support a wonderful charity with the proceeds.”

Sales of Second Chances will also support Friends of The Cancer Centre, a charity close to Matthew’s heart. 

To book your place at the event email belfast.central@librariesni.org.uk or call 028 9050 9150. Alternatively, bookings can be made in person at the main desk.

To purchase Matthew’s book or for more information go to excaliburpress.co.uk 

Jollyes, the pet people, invite dogs of all shapes and sizes to join the inaugural Jollyes Doggie Dander

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Lead on!

Calling all dogs in Belfast and beyond!

Pet superstore Jollyes is inviting you to take part in one of the biggest inclusive dog walks Northern Ireland has ever seen.

Starting in Victoria Park at 10:30am on Saturday, 2nd March, proud paw-rents and their loyal companions will make history as they join Cool FM’s Paolo Ross – and his best furry friend Olly the Poodle – at the inaugural Jollyes’ Doggie Dander.

This ‘walkies’ will be the perfect opportunity for you — and your loyal companion — to meet others, get active and enjoy a guided stroll through the famous C.S. Lewis Trail to Jollyes’ brand new Connswater store.

With fun games, signposted hydration stations and tasty treats dotted along the gentle route, the well-walked pups will be met at the store by Jollyes’ mascot Jolly Joe – who will present each finisher with a thoroughly deserved medal.

A caricature artist will also be on hand to capture your proud pooch’s finest moment, and everyone will be invited inside to enjoy some refreshments and Lifestage goodies.

Ahead of the doggy dander, Jolly Joe will be visiting its brand new Connswater store and Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park on Saturday, 24th February, where they will be handing out free dental treats for all canines to enjoy.

To find out more about the Jollyes Doggie Dander and the dental event, visit www.jollyes.co.uk or check out Jollyes’ social media on Twitter and Instagram.

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

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Antrim

Internationally-acclaimed star of West End shows such as Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables and Evita, Mike Sterling is coming to Theatre at the Mill for an unforgettable night of wonderful music and entertaining chat this weekend.

Find out more HERE

Armagh

Springsteen – A Tribute is Europe’s biggest and best Bruce Springsteen tribute act and they are coming to the Market Place Theatre.

Find out more HERE

Belfast

In a magical kingdom beneath the sea, the beautiful young mermaid Ariel longs to leave her ocean home to live in the world above in Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Junior at the Belvoir Theatre.

Find out more HERE

Down

Enjoy a live performance from your favourite Disney Princesses including Elsa and Anna, Belle, Ariel, Snow White and many more at the Princess Academy, La Mon Hotel.

Find out more HERE

Fermanagh

There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly The 50th Anniversary Production!  Ardhowen Theatre, Enniskillen.

Find out more HERE

Derry/Londonderry

Cinemagic presents The Good Dinosaur at the Roe Valley Arts Centre, Limavady!

Find out more HERE

Tyrone”

“Mean Girls”  meets “Succession” meets “Downton Abbey” in arguably the greatest satire written for the stage. ’Oscar Wilde’s seminal comedy “The Importance of Being Ernest” comes to the Burnavon stage this February.

Find out more HERE

 

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Roe Park Resort, Limavady, County Londonderry,

Overlooking its own stunning 18-hole parkland golf course, Roe Park Resort is set amidst the gorgeous surroundings of the Roe Valley Country Park. It has all the charm of a country house estate and all the modern luxuries you would expect! Enjoy an overnight B&B and Spa break experience which includes a Swedish back massage and an Elemis taster facial. As part of your overnight break, you have complimentary use of all facilities including the pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and gym. From £144 pp based on two people sharing (Mon-Thurs). Visit https://www.roeparkresort.com/ for more information.

Post House Apartment D, Waringstown, County Armagh

The Post House Apartment D in picturesque Waringstown is the ideal base to tour the stunning Orchard County. This apartment consists of two bedrooms and sleeps up to four guests, with a spacious living/dining area. It is located in the centre of the village overlooking the 17th century Waringstown Mansion built by William Waring whose family gave the town its name. This special three-night offer is available from £150. Visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/accommodation/post-house-apartment-d-p693761 for more information.

Culloden Estate and Spa, Holywood, County Down

End your weekend on a lavish note with a Sunday Stayover at this five-star former Bishop’s Palace on the shores of Belfast Lough. You can relax in the spa, do a few lengths in the pool, or take a stroll around the grounds before enjoying a three-course lunch in Vespers restaurant. Enjoy a luxurious overnight stay and a full breakfast the next morning, plus a late checkout! From £350 per room based on two people sharing. Visit https://www.cullodenestateandspa.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/

10 Exciting Things to do Next Week in NI

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Here are ten exciting things to do 19-25 February

  1. NI Science Festival 2024, Belfast, County Antrim, 19-24 February. This festival is celebrating its 10th year inspiring Northern Ireland in the fields of science, technology, engineering and maths! There are hundreds of events, spread across more than 90 venues, offering a glimpse of cutting-edge research and what the future might hold. From a range of workshops, interactive activities to talks and tours, you will have the chance to hear from scientists on their latest work. There are fascinating events for all ages.
  2. Belfast TradFest Winter Weekend, Belfast, County Antrim, 23-25 February. Hear this UNESCO City of Music come alive to the sounds of traditional music across a wide range of concerts, workshops, sessions, and talks across the city. This is the festival’s third outing and will showcase internationally renowned talent in traditional Irish and Scottish music, song and dance. The event is backed by Belfast City Council and the Arts Council among others.
  1. Kilcreggan Urban Farm & Garden Centre, Carrickfergus, County Antrim. This relaxed community space has a small farm where individuals and families can visit for free and get up close with animals including goats, pigs, ponies, poultry, waterfowl and geese. Pop into the garden centre or have a break in the not-for-profit Dancing Goat café which serves a range of soups, sandwiches and sweet treats. This community farm is operated as a charity helping support local people with learning disabilities.
  2. Garvagh Pyramid, Garvagh Forest, County Londonderry. A far cry from the sandy deserts of Egypt, this 21 ft pyramid was built in the 1800’s by Lord Garavagh, who was inspired by his grand tour of Egypt and planned to use the structure as his final resting place. It’s located at the south end of the village, on high ground, among mature woodland which is covered in bluebells in spring.  It’s not only a curious spot, it is wonderfully peaceful.
  3. Electric Escape, Belcoo, County Fermanagh. Explore the unspoilt wilderness of west Fermanagh in this guided tour across old bog roads and forest tracks and discover hidden megalithic tombs and sweeping views over Lough MacNean. Travelling on electric mountain bikes you’ll stop at Pollnagollum Cave, before a welcome break for refreshments at The Linnet Inn in the picturesque village of Boho. The route is suitable for all levels of fitness making it ideal for families and friend groups.
  4. ‘The Lucky Seventh’ – HMS Caroline Pump House, Belfast, County Antrim, 22 February. This lecture, in HMS Caroline’s Pump House, marks the 100th anniversary of the ship’s arrival in Belfast. HMS Caroline has clocked up 100,000 miles and saw action in the North Sea throughout the First World War. She looked set for the breakers yard before ending up in Northern Ireland as a drill ship. Will Heppa, NMRN Curator of Artefacts, will explore the early history of the Ulster Division of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve and look at HMS Caroline’s crucial role in the Second World War. Refreshments will be provided.
  5. Harry Avery’s Castle, Newtownstewart, County Tyrone. This castle is thought to have been built around 1320 by a local chieftain of the O’Neill clan. It’s unusual in both design and the fact that chieftains of the time rarely built stone castles. Its two towers look like a gatehouse, similar to Carrickfergus Castle, but in reality it functioned as a medieval towerhouse. Explore the remains of this historic building along with breathtaking scenery that surrounds it.
  6. Paddle Back in Time, Killinchy, County Down, 24-25 February. This award-winning kayak tour following a traditional smuggling route undertaken by Daft Eddie and the Merry Hearts. This exciting tour is led by Dr. Sarah Baccianti, a researcher in literature and history of medieval Scandinavia. At Mahee Island, Dr. Baccianti will guide you through the ruins of the monastic site of Nendrum, life in the monastery in the Middle Ages, and the role played by the Vikings in the Strangford Lough area between the 9th and 11th centuries. This tour includes a wetsuit and all the kit required for your adventure.
  7. The Argory, Moy, County Armagh. This is a great time of year to see blankets of snowdrops at this gentile 19th century property or see if you can spot a Kingfisher on the River Blackwater which skirts the estate. The Argory is a tranquil spot for a wander through beautiful woodland, or along its Lime Tree Walk.
  8. Castle Balfour, Lisnaskea, County Fermanagh. This castle sits at the edge of the parish graveyard just west of Main Street and was built around 1618 by Scottish planter, Sir James Balfour. It was in continuous occupation until the early 19th century. Conservation work was carried out on site in the 1960s and again in the 1990s. There is evidence on the site of an earlier ringfort which indicates the area had been inhabited long before the castle was built.

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

Lord Mayor Ryan Murphy Launches Belfast XR Festival

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(L-R) Matthew Malcolm, Creative Industries Development Officer Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Lord Mayor of Belfast Councillor Ryan Murphy, Deepa Mann-Kler, director and curator for Belfast XR Festival and David McConnell, Head of Education Northern Ireland Screen

Lord Mayor of Belfast Councillor Ryan Murphy has launched the 2024 Belfast XR Festival at the Black Box in Hill Street.

Belfast XR, now in its third year, specialises in curating worldclass immersive technology content that takes the art of storytelling to a new level.

Extended Reality or ‘XR’ is the collective name for virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). VR is a computer-generated artificial environment with scenes that appear to be real, while AR is a digital overlay onto the real world, which is viewed through your phone or an iPad. 

Speaking at the launch of the festival, Lord Mayor Councillor Ryan Murphy said: “I’m delighted to help launch the Belfast XR festival as it celebrates its third year in the city. Innovation is in Belfast’s DNA – once world leaders in linen production and shipbuilding, today we’re making waves in world-leading technology and the creative industries

“At Belfast City Council we’re committed to fostering creativity through our Belfast Agenda and the Belfast Region City Deal, and Belfast XR is a brilliant showcase of the kinds of technological innovations we will be seeing more of in the future.

“I’d encourage everyone – those with experience of augmented reality and those who are new to this kind of technology – to visit the Belfast XR Festival and experience this immersive storytelling experience first-hand.”

Deepa Mann-Kler, director and curator for Belfast XR Festival which is an annual gathering for the XR arts – storytelling, visual arts, music, drama, dance, literature and theatre, said she was delighted to welcome Belfast City Council as one of the sponsors of the 2024 festival.

She added: “I have been working with virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) since 2016 with my company Neon. 

“I realised that there are so many incredible stories being told in this medium that audiences in Northern Ireland never get the opportunity to experience. We are delighted to be able to bring together the 2024 festival with the support of all of our funders who make it possible for us to make these unique experiences available to those who wouldn’t otherwise have access to them.

“Our ambition is to create an unmissable annual gathering for XR that inspires storytelling and our passion is to bring the best global virtual and augmented reality content to new local audiences. You don’t need to have used a virtual reality headset before, as our team will guide you through the whole process.” 

Running on Wednesday February 28 and Thursday 29 at the Black Box this year’s festival theme is Legacy which will offer attendees the chance to experience world history in captivating ways allowing audiences to step into the past, interact with historical figures, and explore significant events firsthand. 

The Belfast XR Festival 2024 is also supported by the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.

Matthew Malcolm, Creative Industries Development Officer, Arts Council of Northern Ireland, added, “The Arts Council of Northern Ireland is proud to support the Belfast XR Festival, thanks to The National Lottery players. This funding support reflects the Arts Council’s commitment to encouraging innovative practices that cross artform boundaries and build digital capabilities within the Northern Ireland arts sector. 

Congratulations to Deepa Mann-Kler the team at Belfast XR in curating this terrific festival – don’t miss out!”

Belfast XR Festival is both for XR enthusiasts and those who haven’t experienced any form of XR in the past.

This year’s festival is also supported by the Department for Communities through Northern Ireland Screen.

David McConnell, Head of Education at Northern Ireland Screen said: “ As Belfast XR enters its third year, we are pleased to support its evolution as a pioneer in immersive storytelling, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and technology to new heights. 

“Belfast XR will provide a unique opportunity to experience content such as 360 film, interactive virtual and augmented reality from high-profile international filmmakers who are experimenting with new technologies, to new works from some of the most exciting emerging talent in the field.”

Belfast XR Festival 2024 has three key experiences – the heart-wrenching VR voyage of survival Stay Alive My Son, the profound audio exploration of eternal life Eternal and a magical VR journey through the work of Catalan architect and designer Antoni Gaudí in Gaudí, The Atelier of the Divine.

The festival also includes three free to access experiences available for anyone who books a ticket to one of the three main events.

Deepa said: “The Festival is aimed at 16+ years of age and is open to everyone. You don’t need to have experienced AR, VR or any of these types of experiences before. We have an amazing team who will guide you through the whole process from the minute you step into The Black Box.  

“I want people to have memorable experiences. I want them to be altered, in a good way. I want them to talk about how it made them feel. I want to increase their appetite to experience more. 

The Belfast XR Festival is also supported by Digital Catapult NI, Future Screens NI and Ulster Screen Academy.

For more information follow Belfast XR Festival on social media or go to belfastxrfestival.com 

Make giant memories in Northern Ireland this spring

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Discover NI’s guide to the ultimate family getaway!

From hunting Gruffalos, searching for fairies or helping to save seals, Northern Ireland is bursting with giant experiences to enjoy during your spring family break.

With parents and kids often dragged in different directions by the daily demands of life, an affordable short break is the perfect opportunity to enjoy each other’s uninterrupted company and make memories to last a lifetime.

Discover Northern Ireland has put together the following guide to remind families they are just a small step away from making new giant memories this spring.

County Antrim

What to do

  • From the newly refurbished Titanic Belfast to the Ulster Museum and the resplendent Antrim Castle Gardens, culture vultures will be spoilt for choice. The thrill-seekers among us can plunge into the Irish Sea for a snorkelling session with Eagle Divers NI or swing on a zip-line at Colin Glen Activity Centre.

Where to stay

  • Unwind in the pet friendly, four-bedroom country house at Ned’s Brae View. Nestled in a quiet village, this coastal style home offers an enclosed garden and driveway with a play area for children and outdoor seating. For something completely different, enjoy waking up to ocean views from your glamping pod at Further.Space at Glenarm Castle.

County Armagh

What to do

  • Lurgaboy Adventure Centre invites its bravest guests to take a leap of faith from 14m and climb Jacob’s Ladder. Walk in the footsteps of ancient warriors at Navan Centre & Fort, visit rare livestock at Tannaghmore Gardens and Animal Farm or seek out fairies, spells and music in Slieve Gullion Forest Park.

Where to stay

  • For an unforgettably unique experience in the Orchard County, why not rest your weary head at Tepee Valley Campsite on the outskirts of Markethill or embrace the old-world rustic charm of bespoke log cabin apartments at Greenvale Cabins in the heart of the Ring of Gullion.

 

 

County Down

What to do

  • See marine life from around the world at Exploris Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary, hone your survival skills at Finnebrogue Woods Bushcraft, learn the importance of our wetlands at WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, or walk with the alpacas at Ballyburren Outdoor Escapes.

Where to stay

  • Escape into nature with your loved ones as you surround yourselves with 200 acres of farmland at Kilwarlin Self Catering Cottages or cosy up in front of a wood burning fire at the foot of Slieve Gullion in the pet friendly Clonlum Cottages.

County Fermanagh

What to do

  • Enjoy canoeing, kayaking and stand up-paddle boarding with outdoor activity provider, Blue Green Yonder, soak up some local history at Headhunters Barber Shop and Railway Museum or delve into the deep and marvel at the waterfalls and lofty chambers that make up the Marble Arch Caves.

Where to stay

  • Make your break extra special when you stay at the charming, pet friendly lodges at Lusty Beg, unwind in the midst of the Sliabh Beagh mountain range at Hidden Gem Cottages or bring your touring caravan, or tent, to the highly-accessible Share Discovery Village Caravan Park.

County Londonderry

What to do

  • Learn all about the maiden city at the Tower Museum, grab a selfie in the Quinn household or sit in Sister Michael’s chair as part of the Derry Girls Experience. Ride four-man Dragon SUPs on the Foyle with Far and Wild or saddle up with an experienced guide at the City of Derry Equestrian Centre for a Slow Adventure on horseback through the Faughan Valley.

Where to stay

  • For an adventure they’ll never forget, check-in to the cosy glamping pods at Benone Getaways – just two minutes from the renowned blue flagged Benone Beach and offering stunning views of Binevenagh Mountain and the Hills of Donegal – these glamping pods provide the perfect base to enjoy some quality alone time with your loved ones.

County Tyrone

What to do

  • Explore the Sperrin Sculpture Trail and pose for photos with its three giants – Ceoldán, Darach and Nowanois. Experience what life at home was like for Ulster’s emigrants at the Ulster American Folk Park, take a journey through time and space at OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory and set hearts racing at Todd’s Leap Outdoor Activity Centre as you descend the ‘Big Yella Slide.’

Where to stay

  • The self-catering cottages at An Creagán provide the perfect opportunity for your family to recharge and make memories by the campfire. Alternatively, enjoy magical views and spectacular sunsets at Gortin Glen Glamping pods. Each of these wheelchair accessible pods come with a private hot tub and fire pit and are within minutes of the forest park.

To create your own spring break itinerary or find out more about any of these great value accommodation offerings and experiences visit https://discovernorthernireland.com

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