Month: July 2024

SOMA FEST 2024 Creates Peaceful Mind, Body & Soul Space In Castlewellan

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This year’s SOMA Festival is set to return to Castlewellan, County Down for three days of excellent entertainment, spanning everything from music performances to spiritual gatherings.

From July 19-21, attendees can experience a plethora of different activities outside of the typical gigs on offer, including the Mind, Body & Soul event that is set to run across all three event days.

Held at The Lodge Business and Cultural Centre, Castlewellan, any SOMA festival goers can avail of the blissful opportunities found inside.

A variety of different events will take place each day, with collated workshops being separated into set spaces to ensure everyone gets the most from their interests.

The Healing Arts space is the go-to spot for physical tranquillity in The Lodge, boasting movement and breathing classes that promise to calm anyone.

The tent offers more well-known practices such as Yoga Nidra, Vinyasa Yoga, Tai Chi and Breathwork as well as unusual activities, including a serene Cacao and Sound Bath, spiritual martial art Qi Gong, holistic-centred Somatics and more.

Mind, Body & Soul coordinator Kathryn Shaw said, “Soma Mind Body & Soul is a space to move, breathe, connect, explore and express. It is an event that provides all involved many different routes to better physical, mental and emotional health. My hope is that we all come away connected as a more resilient community with tools to live life fully.”

Alternatively, anyone hoping for a more hands-on experience can step inside the Mythic Crafts room, where they can revel in learning a new craft.

Not only does the enticing list include activities such as willow weaving, printmaking, copper smithing and a herbal workshop, but all completed creations can be taken home as a cherished memory of the alternative weekend.

The Holistic Hall offers another crafty vibe, with the in-house fair promoting small, independently-owned businesses selling everything from sweet-smelling candles to aesthetically pleasing artwork.

As well as meeting the faces behind the handmade goods, SOMA Festival visitors can also take advantage of the taster Reiki, reflexology and massage sessions.

Finally, the Serenity Tent provides visitors with a relaxation space to meet friends for a chat or just sit alone to rejuvenate and enter into a state of mindfulness.

SOMA Festival Director, Tíona McSherry, spoke of the behind-the-scenes team who have worked hard to provide such a varied event line-up, saying: “It takes a dedicated group of people to attempt to pull any festival off, not to mention doing it for the love alone. 

“A big thank you to all of our funders and sponsors, in particular Whitewater Brewing Co. and Newry, Mourne & Down District Council, and the wonderful volunteers who help make the SOMA Festival a reality.”

The SOMA Festival runs between 19th-21st July and full details including tickets can be found at www.linktr.ee/thesomafestival 

Belfast to Host Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition This Autumn

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Manufacturing industry leaders from across the UK and Ireland are set to arrive in Belfast for the biggest event of its kind in Northern Ireland.

The Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition, in its 5th year, will be taking place at the Titanic Exhibition Centre on September 12.

The event will feature over a hundred trade stands as well as incorporating a comprehensive conference programme featuring free workshops and keynote speakers.

Exhibitors will range from business services through to innovative companies displaying the latest technological solutions for the industry.

Managing Director, Colin Murphy from organisers Premier Publishing & Events said the event will serve as a forum for manufacturers and operators involved throughout the associated supply chains from across Northern Ireland to gather to discuss pressing issues facing their industry.

He added: “Generating annual sales of about £20 billion, manufacturing is crucial to Northern Ireland’s economic development. 

“Manufacturers directly employ 80,000 people while supporting further employment throughout the wider supply chain in every region of Northern Ireland. 

“The manufacturing sector accounts for 13.4% of Northern Ireland’s economic output, significantly higher than the UK figure of 9.8%. 

“Not just that but Northern Ireland’s manufacturers also generate almost half of the country’s external sales and more than half of export sales.

“The Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition will encompass the full manufacturing spectrum across the country, including the food and drink, biopharma, medtech, healthcare, engineering, transport, technology, building products, fabrics, polymers, packaging and renewables sectors.”

Throughout the day the event will cover topical themes such as Manufacturing; Supply Chain & Logistics; Sustainability; Lean Productivity & Continuous Improvement; Automation & Robotics; Procurement; 3D Printing; Hi-tech Manufacturing & Precision Engineering; IoT & Industry 4.0; and Lean Productivity & Continuous Improvement.

Colin added: “The Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition will provide an ideal location for businesses to meet with Government agencies and supporting associations, and gain free advice from experts on how to improve operational performance. 

“The Event will also provide networking zones to connect buyers and suppliers. Indeed, the layout of the Conference & Exhibition is intended to maximise the opportunity for visitors to network and make new contacts.”

Registration for the 2024 Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition on September 12 at Titanic Exhibition Centre in Belfast is free. Tickets are available from www.northernirelandmanufacturing.co.uk/register 

SOMA FEST 2024 Brings A Celebration of Irish Folk Music To County Down

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SOMA Festival will return to Castlewellan, County Down this month for three days of excellent musical performances from artists right across the whole of Ireland. This year’s festival celebrates the rich heritage of Irish folk music and the vibrant local culture.

Spanning from July 19-21, some of the biggest names in folk music will headline the 2024 instalment of the ever-popular festival.

Kicking off the weekend, Eoghan Ó Ceannabháin will play the King’s Inn on Friday 19 July (doors 7.30pm), supported by the Ciara McCrickard Trio. This event is in partnership with Glór Uachtar Tíre. 

The Dublin-native is one of the best known vocalists and multi-instrumentalists from the Irish capital, performing in both English and Gaeilge and taking inspiration from the sean-nós tradition. 

Also playing to audiences on July 19 is Belfast-based tradtronica group Huartan, consisting of Stiofán Ó Luachráin, Catriona Ní Ghribín and Múlú.

Taking to St Malachy’s GAC stage, with doors at 9pm, the award-winning trio promise an evening of electronic beats combined with traditional Irish music that is unlike anything heard before.

Supported by DJ Dalba, this high-adrenaline event will have everyone jumping and dancing the whole night.

Headlining SOMA Festival 2024 is Saturday’s musical feat John Spillane, who returns to Castlewellan from his native Cork for another captivating concert.

Well-known for his iconic tunes such as All The Ways You Wander and The Dunnes Store Girl, the mesmerising show will see John switch between his love of music and poetry as well as some Irish humour thrown in there for good merit.

Joined on stage by the exceptionally talented Soma House Band, John will be supported on stage by Graham Henderson (keys), John McSherry (pipes/low whistle), Emma King (percussion/drums), Seán Ó Meara (guitar), and Tola Custy (fiddle).

Ending on a bang, King’s Inn is set to play host to both Grooveline and Lonesome George as well as support act Le Chéile from 8pm on Sunday 21 July.

Six-piece funk group Grooveline boast a unique sound, mixing jazz, hip-hop, trad and more together in one cohesive arrangement that is infectiously energetic.

Lonesome George will also take to the stage, with songwriting duo Joe Campbell-McArdle and Myles McCormack being joined by Finatan Mulholland, Dermot Moynagh and Catriona Ní Ghribín on a variety of instruments.

Delving into a range of hard-hitting lyrics sung in both English and Irish, the interwoven genres remain rooted in Irish tradition and are sure to provide an ambient event for all in attendance.

There will also be a session trail over the weekend that is open to musicians of all abilities. 

Speaking of the line-up, SOMA Festival Director, Tíona McSherry, said: “Our team has come up with another stellar programme for festival goers to enjoy this year. 

“We’re so excited for the incredible acts we have coming to perform. We hope Castlewellan is as buzzing for it as we are.” 

With funding from Newry, Mourne & Down District Council, Foras na Gaeilge, and sponsors and partners Whitewater Brewing Co., Glór Uachtar Tíre, Excalibur Press, Dolmes Climate Action Network, and Cumann Phobail Garbhdhoire, SOMA Festival 2024 tickets are already available and can be purchased for individual events or as a weekend access pass to all concerts.

The SOMA Festival runs between 19th-21st July and full details including tickets can be found at www.linktr.ee/thesomafestival 

Electrical Workers Urged to Share Experiences in Vital Electric Shock Survey

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Northern Ireland charity, Electrical Training Trust (ETT) is calling on all electrical workers and electrical apprentices to participate in a vital survey aimed at understanding the frequency, consequences, and reporting practices relating to electric shocks in the workplace. 

Electric shocks can lead to severe and life-changing injuries or fatalities. In 2013, the Health and Safety Executive released a publication highlighting that over 1,000 electric shocks or electric burns are reported each year, with around 30 being fatal. Many go unreported.

The ETT provides training, advice, and support services to the electrical industry. Speaking of the survey CEO Charlotte Bamber, said: “By collecting data from workers in the industry, we aim to gain insights into the prevalence of electric shocks and reporting behaviours, which is crucial to develop effective prevention and safety measures.

“By participating in this survey, electrical workers from across Northern Ireland are helping to shine a light on electric shock incidents that often go unreported and will be contributing to creating a safer industry for everyone.”

The survey is part of the wider Save Our Sparks campaign, an initiative inspired by Michael’s Story, a 26-year-old qualified and experienced electrician, who was electrocuted and tragically died. 

His death could have been prevented had his employer ensured safe working practices were being carried out, including safe isolation. 

Dr. Bryan Monson, deputy chief executive of the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI), has lent his support to the initiative.

He said: “The electric shock survey as part of the Save Our Sparks NI campaign is an essential step towards enhancing workplace safety in the electrical industry. 

“Accurate data on electric shocks will enable industry to more effectively address safety concerns and implement strategies that protect workers’ health and lives.”

Individuals can complete the NI Electric Shock Survey at https://forms.office.com/e/nz8P3vw4vM

For more information about the survey or the Save Our Sparks campaign go to ett-ni.org 

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 15 – 21 July

 

  1. Belfast Pride, Belfast, 19 – 28 July. Belfast Pride hosts over 150 events across 10 days. The wide-ranging programme includes the Belfast Pride Family Fun Day on 20th July, as well as a full schedule of workshops, panels, quizzes and more. The festivities culminate in a colourful display of support and solidarity during the Pride Parade and afterparty on 27th July, with music from one of Northern Ireland’s biggest Abba tribute bands The Bjorn Identity, and a crowd-pleasing performance guaranteed by former UTV presenter Julian Simmons with his Ibiza Dance Show.
  2. Belfast Whiskey Week, various locations across Belfast, 19 – 27 July. Belfast Whiskey Week celebrates whiskey and Belfast’s deep-rooted history and connection in the production of whiskey spanning centuries, as well as providing experiences for all levels of whiskey drinkers, and even those who don’t. For nine days between the 19th and 27th of July Belfast Whiskey Week presents 100 events that allow you to come and experience whiskey, great food, live music, walking tours and more.
  3. UEFA Under-19 European Championship 2024, Belfast, 15 – 28 July. Don’t miss the future stars of international football right on your doorstep. The UEFA Under-19 European Men’s Championship is coming to Northern Ireland this summer. Holders Italy will face Norway in the first match of the 2024 UEFA Men’s European Under-19 Championship finals.
  4. Summer Seisiún 2024, Omagh, County Tyrone, 16, 23, 30 July and 6, 13, 20 August. One of the longest running summer shows of its kind, Seisiún attracts increasing numbers of visitors from overseas and nearer home with a show that captivates its audiences and welcomes participation. The evening begins with authentic Irish traditional music, song, dance and storytelling before light refreshments are served and the second part of the evening’s entertainment unfolds. Guests are invited to join the Comhaltas Seisiún experience, taking to the floor as they wish, with a step, tune, song or story.
  5. Armagh Summer in the City, Armagh, County Armagh, 20 July – 7 September. Summer in the City returns to Armagh with crafts, football, pom-pom cheerleading, cooking for kiddies, dance for older kiddies, science, magic, music and lots more. All activities are free and will take place around the Market Square, McCrum’s Court and outside the Market Place Theatre.
  6. Echoes of Summer at Marble Arch Caves, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 21 July. This event offers guests a unique experience with local Caritas Chamber Choir performing a selection of classical to contemporary music in the show cave. As you walk, accompanied by your guide, summer song echoes through the 340-million-year-old rock formations, carried beyond the chambers and along the rivers of the show cave. And, after you’ve worked up an appetite, why not enjoy a delicious outdoor BBQ feast, rustled up in partnership with Tully Mill Restaurant.
  7. Hillsborough Castle and Gardens LGBTQ+ Tour, Royal Hillsborough, County Down 19, 21, 26 July and 2, 4 August. The Royal Residence at Hillsborough Castle is inviting people to attend LGBTQ+ tours led by an expert guide on 19th, 21st, 26th July and 2nd and 4th August. The tours will shed light on everything from royal relationships and scandals to activism and shifting societal attitudes. The tour will fuel interesting discussions while also providing a look at the Castle’s beautiful collection of artefacts and paintings.
  8. Teddy Bear’s Picnic at WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, Comber, County Down, 15 – 28 July 2024. Join Castle Espie for a delightful Teddy Bear’s Picnic when you go down to the woods today. Bring along your teddy bear or toy companion, a picnic blanket and your favourite treats and enjoy an afternoon of nature-themed adventures. Gather around for story time, rhymes and games galore. Call the centre to reserve your place on 02891 874146.
  9. The Spirit of the Bann, Coleraine, County Londonderry, 21 July. Causeway Coast Foodie Tours’ ‘Spirit of the Bann’ river whiskey tasting experience is an ideal and unique opportunity to slowly savour distinctive colours and flavours, enjoy a warm glow and celebrate the beautiful blend of natural & man-made wonders our stunning Causeway Coast has to offer.
  10. Wild & Fired BBQ School Beer & BBQ with Kate O’Driscoll, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 20 July. You’re invited to join an unforgettable culinary adventure at LO & SLO’s Wild & Fired BBQ School. This hands-on experience includes a bonus bespoke tour of the enchanting private estate and gardens of Brook Hall. Their BBQ experts help you get stuck-in, learn to make your own fire and cook a delicious wood-fired meal in the historic walled garden in Brook Hall estate.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Keep a look out for additional dates of the above events throughout the year.

VISITORS TO GET A NEW TASTE OF TITANIC BELFAST WITH AUGUST AFTER HOURS EXPERIENCES

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TITANIC Belfast is giving guests the opportunity to visit After Hours with the launch of two unique experiences on Thursday and Friday evenings throughout August.

The world-leading visitor attraction has partnered with local drinks experience, The Spirit Circle to introduce Titanic by the Glass which takes guests on an immersive journey through the galleries of Titanic Belfast with brand new incredible audio-visual installations telling stories of Belfast, its people, its past and its drinks.

Press Eye – Belfast – Northern Ireland –
VISITORS TO GET A NEW TASTE OF TITANIC BELFAST WITH AUGUST AFTER HOURS EXPERIENCESÉ Phil Ervine, Founding Director of Taste & Tour NI, ÔDockerÕ Mark Claney, Visitor Experience Crew and Eimear Kearney, Associate Commercial Director of Titanic Belfast are pictured as the world-leading visitor attraction announces the launch of two unique experiences on Thursday and Friday evenings throughout August. For further information or to book, go to www.titanicbelfast.com
Photo by Darren Kidd / Press Eye.

Throughout the 90-minute experience each Thursday evening, visitors will enjoy four cocktails which have been expertly created by skilled mixologists by combining tastes, innovative ideas and historical information to reflect the particular story that is being told.

The second After Hours offering to be launched is Titanic Experience By Night, giving guests the opportunity to enjoy a guided highlights tour of the Titanic Experience each Friday evening after it has closed to the public. Led by one of the expert guides, the tour will be animated with living history characters who will bring the story to life making the guests feel more immersed than ever in the Titanic Story. The tour continues into the new Dockers and Dolls: The Art of Terry Bradley exhibition which will be transformed into a relaxed bar, serving a variety of drinks, sharing platters and live entertainment, where all visitors can choose a complimentary cocktail mixed by our partners at The Spirit Circle.

Eimear Kearney, Associate Commercial Director of Titanic Belfast said: “We are excited to launch two unique After Hours experiences, both of which are new additions to Titanic Belfast’s summer offering. Titanic by the Glass and Titanic Experience By Night will give people the opportunity to see the galleries in a new light while enjoying the very best of local hospitality from our own visitor experience crew and The Spirit Circle.

And with summer being one of our busiest times of the year, both with domestic and international visitors, we hope that these fabulous unique experiences will encourage new and returning visitors to the Titanic Quarter and the Maritime Mile After Hours throughout August.”

Phil Ervine, Founding Director of Taste & Tour NI added: “The Spirit Circle is delighted to be able to partner with Northern Ireland’s leading tourist attraction to create these unique experiences.  As part of this, we have developed four new cocktails with the aim of bringing scent and taste into the telling of the Titanic Story. We can’t wait for people to avail of this one-of-a-kind immersive experience and be able to enjoy Titanic Belfast After Hours this August.”

Tickets are priced at £45 per person for Titanic by the Glass (non-alcoholic options available) and £30 per person for Titanic Experience by Night. For further information or to book, go to www.titanicbelfast.com

 

Castlewellan’s SOMA FEST 2024 Line-Up Revealed

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The full lineup of performances and attractions of this year’s instalment of the ever-popular SOMA Festival has been unveiled for July 19-21.

With less than two weeks to go, ticket holders will be thrilled to explore the variety of musical performances, family entertainment, craft stalls and more on offer.

The Soma Festival opening celebration will take place at The Lodge Business and Cultural Centre, Castlewellan, on Friday 19th July at 6.30pm. Ancient Whispers: The Fairy Gathering / Cruinniú na Sídhe is a family event combining story, song and music, and attendees are warmly encouraged to dress in costume relating to the elements (fire, water, earth, air and spirit) for the occasion. 

Headlining the three-day festival on Saturday July 20 is John Spillane, one of the biggest names in folk music across the world, who will be joined by the Soma House Band for a night of brilliant song in St. Malachy’s GAC.

The Cork-native is known for his gorgeous songs such as All The Ways You Wander and The Dunnes Store Girl, and will be supported on stage by Graham Henderson (keys), John McSherry (pipes/low whistle), Emma King (percussion/drums), Seán Ó Meara (guitar), and Tola Custy (fiddle). Talented young singer/songwriter Cathleen Garland is set to support. 

Kicking off the SOMA Festival on Friday, July 19, is award-winning Dublin performer Eoghan Ó Ceannabháin, whose powerful voice and lyrics are set to captivate in the King’s Inn.   

Supporting act on the night comes from Castlewellan’s own Ciara McCrickard Trio. This event is in partnership with Glór Uachtar Tíre.

SOMA Festival Director, Tíona McSherry, praised the behind-the-scenes organisers for curating this year’s brilliant line-up, saying: “Our team has come up with another stellar programme for festival goers to enjoy this year. 

“We’re so excited for the incredible acts we have coming to perform. We hope Castlewellan is as buzzing for it as we are.”

Other musical stars set for SOMA Festival 2024 include tradtronica group Huartan and closing-act funk band GrooveLine with Belfast-based folk outfit Lonesome George.

As well as four fantastic concerts, there will be a session trail taking in many pubs of the town. Attendees can also take advantage of the plethora of different hubs open on varying dates between July 19-21.

The Mind, Body & Soul space is open on both Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 in The Lodge Business & Cultural Centre, hosting a dedicated health and wellness area as well as housing a craft fair where local small businesses can display their creations.

Alternatively, Soma in the Square boasts live music, children’s activities, the Whitewater Brewing Co. Bar and delicious food on July 20 and 21 for fun that the whole family can enjoy.

For free-spirited visitors, the Little Gems series on offer across the long weekend features award-winning author Michael Magee reading from his terrific debut novel, a panel discussion on Irish language films (featuring Colm Bairéad, writer/director of Oscar nominated film An Cáilín Ciúin), serene nature walks throughout the County Down countryside and much more.

SOMA Festival 2024 received funding from Newry, Mourne & Down District Council, Foras na Gaeilge, and sponsors and partners Whitewater Brewing Co., Glór Uachtar Tíre, Excalibur Press, Dolmes Climate Action Network, and Cumann Phobail Garbhdhoire, and tickets are already available for purchase as either individual event passes or weekend access to all concerts.

The SOMA Festival runs between 19th-21st July and full details including tickets can be found at www.linktr.ee/thesomafestival 

Deadline For Applications Extended For NI Social Enterprise Awards 2024

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The deadline for entries to the 2024 Social Enterprise Northern Ireland Awards has been extended until midnight on Wednesday, July 31. This extension gives social enterprises the opportunity to submit their entries for one of the 16 prestigious awards.

These awards are not just about recognition but come with significant benefits. They allow organisations to reward their teams, enhance credibility, increase brand exposure and trust within their peer network, and seize PR and marketing opportunities. Winning can open doors to new business and boost sales, all while showcasing the sector’s excellence.

The Northern Ireland Social Enterprise Awards, in partnership with Go Succeed highlight the talented individuals, teams and organisations who are making a real difference, changing lives, building inclusive communities, and making a positive impact in society, all while making a profit through their respective business. 

Winners will be announced at a gala award ceremony on Friday, November 8, hosted by radio presenter and Social Enterprise Northern Ireland ambassador Cate Conway.

The 2024 Award Categories cover a broad spectrum, including Best New Start Up, Best Use of Social Media, Community Wealth Building, Consumer Facing Social Enterprise, Cooperative, Council, Credit Union (with categories for both assets up to £25 million and over £25 million), Emerging Leader, Leader of the Year, Outstanding Team Award, Product Based Social Enterprise (new), Rural Social Enterprise of the Year, Social Enterprise of the Year (both for turnovers up to £500k and over £500k), Social Impact Award, Social Value Partnership, and Young Person. There are also specific Private & Public Sector Categories such as the Social Value Partnership Award and Council of the Year.

Speaking about the extension announcement, Colin Jess, Chief Executive of Social Enterprise Northern Ireland said: “We are pleased to see so many local organisations submitting their online applications, highlighting significant business achievements, positive social impact and economic contributions all within the last 12 months. We have extended the deadline to give people more time to submit their application. We look forward to receiving yours before the deadline.”

Cathy Keenan, Go Succeed Programme Lead, said: “This year, Go Succeed is delighted to partner with SENI as the main sponsor of the Northern Ireland Social Enterprise Awards. Working to help social enterprises of all shapes and sizes, in every council area in Northern Ireland, to accelerate their growth journey, we see first-hand the incredible organisations that make up this vibrant sector.

We want to celebrate those achievements with you and with the extended deadline, there’s now even more time to make your submission, and let us do just that.”

To enter the 2024 Awards, visit https://socialenterpriseni.awardsplatform.com/

7 HILLS BLUES FEST RETURNS TO ARMAGH CITY

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The unmissable weekend featuring over 40 free gigs across 16 venues

The long running 7 Hills Blues Fest makes a welcome return to Armagh City this Summer.  The unmissable weekend featuring over 40 free gigs across 16 venues, is a musical celebration of blues and roots music. The festival takes place from Friday 2 – Sunday 4 August 2024.

The festival attracts a wide range of local and international blues artists and bands. This year’s lineup includes award winning Cork based Two Time Polka, along with the legendary Rob Strong, who is known as Ireland’s Godfather of Soul and is celebrating 60 years on the road, Fan’s Favourite the Pat McManus band and the critically acclaimed Ben Reel.

Welcoming the event Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Councillor , Councillor Sarah Duffy expressed her enthusiasm:

“Come celebrate music and culture with us! We look forward to welcoming you to Armagh for the 7 Hills Blues Fest. A packed weekend of world class blues, rhythm and roots music in a variety of unbeatable venues across the city. There is something to suit everyone, whether visiting the city to shop, eat, drink or to see the sights, those bluesy tones won’t be far away. Hosting such events is an opportunity to showcase what our city has to offer, attracting visitors from far and near, boosting footfall and benefiting our local traders.”   

Newcomers include 16-year-old Guitar Sensation Zac Mac, from Lurgan, who is a singer songwriter tipped to be a rockstar in the making.  Dublin Based Mr Castle’s Blues Band and the high energy Blues Confidential.  Local acts performing this year include Courtnay Giffin, The 4 Shuck Men and The Dirt.

The weekend is one the major annual events organised by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, and attracts hundreds of visitors, local and from further afield.

As well as over 40 free gigs, the packed weekend features some fantastic family friendly entertainment in Market Street. Kick starting the festival on Friday 2 August, at lunchtime a selection of musicians will take to the bandstand. The family fun continues on Saturday with MD Rafferty Music School Live Lounge, free street entertainment, face painting, balloon modelling, music entertainment and much more, it’s an afternoon not to be missed.

The 7 Hills Blues Fest programme is now available to view and download at visitarmagh.com/7hills

Armoy Road Races Set to Welcome Over 10,000 Visitors During Race Week

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Event Brings ‘Significant Boost’ to Local Economy Says Hotel Owner

ATTRACTING some of the biggest names in road racing, over 10,000 fans from across the world are expected to descend upon Armoy during Race Week, which is culminating in the iconic Armoy Road Races and the Bayview Hotel Race of Legends, taking place in the County Antrim village from Friday 26th – Saturday 27th July.

Over 10,000 fans are expected to descend upon Armoy during Race Week which is culminating in the Armoy Road Races and Bayview Hotel Race of Legends, taking place on Friday 26th and Saturday 27th July. Pictured are, members of the Armoy Motorcycle Road Racing Club, road racers, Dominic Herbertson, Ryan Whitehall, Jeremy McWilliams and Neil Kernohan, Trevor Kane, owner of the Bayview Hotel, Portballintrae and Councillor Ciarán McQuillan, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.

Alongside drawing a huge number of visitors, this year’s event will see some of the most prestigious names in road racing taking on the circuit including Davey Todd, Jamie Coward, Derek Shiels, Michael Sweeney and Mike Browne. Competing at the Isle of Man TT a few weeks ago, Dominic Herbertson, Paul Jordan and Sam West will also be taking part in the Armoy Road Races this year.

According to William Munnis, Chairman of the Armoy Motorcycle Road Racing Club and Clerk of Course, the event has grown in popularity since its inception in 2009.

“We’re so proud that the Armoy Road Races has grown over the last 15 years to become one of the ‘must attend’ events in the Irish road racing calendar,” he said.

“The event commonly hosts thousands of fans from across Europe and the rest of the world including Australia and the United States of America and we hope that it will be the same this year, especially with the calibre of riders that will be taking part.”

Meanwhile, Trevor Kane, title sponsor of the Race of Legends and owner of the Bayview Hotel, in Portballintrae, says that the event provides a “significant boost” for businesses and local tourism in the area.

“Events like the Armoy Road Races are vital as they contribute a huge amount to the local economy,” he said.  

“The Races not only showcase Northern Ireland’s rich road racing history and its picturesque landscape, but it also provides an essential economic uplift for the area as it draws many thousands of visitors year on year.

“Our staff at the Bayview Hotel are busy preparing to welcome our global visitors in just a few weeks’ time and I have no doubt that they’ll enjoy an action-packed weekend of racing.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported the Bayview over the years and continue to do so. It is vital that everyone continues to support the races in whatever way they can even by buying the programme package. The Club and its members who give of their time freely must be commended, so it’s only fair that we do our bit too and as local businesses and fans we must continue to support this fantastic sport and these exceptionally well run road races!”

Meanwhile, Councillor Ciarán McQuillan, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council added: “Over the last 15 years, the Armoy Road Races has grown to become an event not to be missed and on behalf of Council, we’re very proud to continue to support this much-loved event.

“From hotels and restaurants to local retailers and transportation, this event helps boost the economy, while also attracting visitors to the Borough and showcasing what we have to offer. 

“The North Coast is synonymous with road racing and has produced some of the world’s greatest riders and we are delighted to see this continue.

“On behalf of the Borough, I hope that all those who travel from near and far to attend the Armoy Road Races, have a safe and enjoyable weekend, while also experiencing the world-class hospitality Causeway Coast and Glens is famous for.”

Part funded by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, the Armoy Road Races are set to take place on Friday 26th and Saturday 27th July, culminating with the prestigious Bayview Hotel Race of Legends.

Programme packages are currently on sale via the website, that includes a vehicle parking pass and a limited-edition event lanyard which enables spectators to enter specific vantage points around the circuit.

Race Week is also taking place from Sunday 21st July until Saturday 27th July with various events scheduled including a ride out and barbecue, a classic car display and a classic bike display.

For more information on Armoy Road Races and Race Week, visit: www.amrrc.com or search for ‘AMRRC’ on Facebook or follow on X @ArmoyRoadRaces.

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