Month: March 2025

The Giant Adventures Series is back for 2025, bringing an exciting lineup of immersive tourism events to Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion.

Designed to captivate both visitors and locals, this trio of unforgettable experiences celebrates the region’s rich mythology, music, food and breathtaking landscapes. 

The 2025 series kicks off with Wake the Giant on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 June in Warrenpoint, before moving to Eats and Beats in Newcastle on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September, and concluding with the mystical Footsteps in the Forest in Slieve Gullion Forest Park from Monday 20 to Sunday 26 October.

Launching this year’s Giant Adventure festivals, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Pete Byrne said, “The Giant Adventures series is more than just a collection of events — it is a heartfelt celebration of our region’s rich heritage, breathtaking landscapes and the warmth of our vibrant communities. From the rugged beauty of the Mourne Mountains to the serene shores of Carlingford Lough, every experience is designed to captivate, inspire and create lasting memories.

“The Council remains committed to sustainable tourism and will ensure that each event is delivered in line with the Geopark Code of Practice — promoting responsible engagement with local communities, businesses and the environment while preserving the region’s unique character for generations to come.

“We invite everyone, from near and far to join us in embracing the magic, adventure and unforgettable moments that define Newry, Mourne and Down as a truly special place to explore, connect and celebrate together.”

From legendary giants to flavoursome feasts and enchanting forests, this year’s Giant Adventures promises a unique blend of spectacle, storytelling and sensory delights, set against some of Ireland’s most stunning natural backdrops.

The journey for 2025 begins with Wake the Giant on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 June in Warrenpoint. The legend of Fionn mac Cumhaill comes to life once again as the giant spirit of Warrenpoint awakens. This year, Fionn won’t stand alone — he will be joined by a spectacular Gathering of the Clans. Giants from near and far will come to celebrate heritage, culture and the power of storytelling, making this year’s festival an unforgettable display of myth, music and magic.

With family-friendly activities, green crafts, wellness experiences and a packed festival atmosphere, Wake the Giant is the perfect summer celebration in the heart of Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion.

Following this, the highly anticipated Eats and Beats festival returns to Newcastle, Co Down, on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September, promising an unmissable weekend of incredible flavours and unforgettable music.

This vibrant festival at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, will feature two dynamic stages showcasing an eclectic mix of local and international artists, providing the perfect soundtrack to a celebration of the region’s rich food culture. Visitors can savour the finest locally sourced food, experience live cookery demonstrations and indulge in a diverse selection of artisan produce. From the freshest coastal flavours to hearty mountain-inspired dishes, Eats and Beats is a feast for the senses, blending taste, sound and culture in one spectacular setting.

As the nights grow darker, the mystical woods of Slieve Gullion Forest Park will come alive with eerie encounters, spellbinding storytelling and otherworldly wonders.  Footsteps in the Forest returns to the Forest from Monday 20 to Sunday 26 October and is the perfect way to celebrate autumn magic in one of Ireland’s most mythical landscapes. This extended Halloween festival will immerse visitors in the ancient traditions of Samhain, blending legend, folklore and theatrical performances in a hauntingly beautiful setting.

With three unmissable events spread across the summer and autumn of 2025, now is the time to mark your calendar and start planning your Giant Adventure in Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion.

For event details or ideas of where to stay, eat and more things to do in Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion, visit: www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/giant-adventures

Roe Valley Arts Centre is delighted to present ‘Big Doodles and Wee Doodles’, a vibrant new exhibition by renowned artist John McMacken.

The energetic and colourful lyrical abstracts on display perfectly capture the artist’s boundless creativity and imagination, with the exhibition showcasing a striking collection of oil paintings, charcoal, and pen drawings.

To accompany the exhibition, John McMacken will also host a special ‘Doodle Party’ workshop for young artists aged 7-11 years on Saturday 5th April, from 11am to 12:30pm. This playful and engaging session encourages children to unleash their imagination through doodling, exploring art in a fun and interactive way.

John McMacken, who lived in Limavady for 25 years before studying Fine Art at Ulster University, has exhibited his work across Ireland. His expressive and dynamic pieces invite viewers to explore a world of movement, colour, and spontaneity.

The exhibition launches on Thursday 3rd April at 7pm, offering a fantastic opportunity to meet the artist and experience his work firsthand. The event is free, and all are welcome to attend.

For more information or to book a place at the workshop, visit www.roevalleyarts.com or call us on 028 7776 0650.

 

Gardening enthusiasts are in for a treat as Garden Show Ireland’s new ambassador, celebrated horticulturist and TV gardener David Domoney, takes centre stage at The Old Courthouse for an exclusive evening of gardening inspiration.

Taking place on Thursday 3 April at 7.30pm, this special event will feature a fascinating talk about David’s new book, Plants with Superpowers along with a sneak preview of Garden Show Ireland, which returns to Antrim Castle Gardens this June.

A TV name for over 20 years, David is best known for his appearances on popular shows like ITV’s Love Your Garden with Alan Titchmarsh and This Morning. With over 40 years’ experience in horticulture, he is the only Chartered Horticulturist presenter on British TV, a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Horticulture, and an award-winning garden designer. His creative flair has driven popular UK-wide gardening competitions such as Cultivation Street and Young Gardeners of the Year, inspiring countless green-fingered enthusiasts.

During the evening, David will share fascinating insights into the extraordinary capabilities of plants, from their healing properties to their positive impact on wellbeing. Audience members will also have a chance to meet David in person, ask questions and purchase signed copies of his new book.

As the ambassador for Garden Show Ireland 2025, David will bring exciting new elements to this year’s show, running from 13-15 June. Visitors can look forward to his Garden in Glass Exhibition and the Wheelbarrow Garden Challenge, featuring 40 miniature gardens created by local community groups. David will also deliver three expert talks per day at the show, covering topics from Plants with Superpowers to houseplant care, based on his other book, My House Plant Changed My Life.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Neil Kelly, said: “We are delighted to welcome David Domoney, a true gardening expert, to Antrim. His passion and knowledge are sure to inspire everyone who attends. An Evening with David Domoney is the perfect way to kick-start the countdown to Garden Show Ireland 2025, which promises to be a fantastic weekend for all the family.”

Tickets are just £13.50 (including booking fee) and are available now at theoldcourthousetheatre.com/DavidDomoney

For more information about Garden Show Ireland, visit gardenshowireland.com

 

Arts Care, Northern Ireland’s leading arts in health charity, is delighted to announce the launch of Skylarks, a vibrant new creative programme designed to bring joy, connection, and creative engagement to older adults, including those living with dementia, in residential and day care settings across Northern Ireland.

Supported by £8,500 from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland’s National Lottery Arts and Older People Programme, funded by the National Lottery and supported by the Public Health Agency, Skylarks builds on Arts Care’s long-standing success with its Clown Doctor service, adapting its unique creative approach to work with older people.

The programme features music, storytelling, gentle circus skills, dance, reminiscence, and creative play, all delivered by specially trained Skylarks artists, experienced performers who have adapted their costumes, characters and creative methods to suit this new audience.

Skylarks was initially piloted at Adelaide House in South Belfast through the Here and Now programme, supported by the Public Health Agency. Following the success of this pilot, the Arts and Older People funding is allowing Arts Care to expand Skylarks into a wider Northern Ireland pilot, bringing creative sessions to residential homes and day care settings across several geographic areas.

The Belfast Trust is also supporting the programme through its Older Active Connected Programme, with Skylarks sessions scheduled in residential homes throughout March, offering even more opportunities for older people to experience the uplifting power of creativity.

In residential and day care settings, older people, particularly those living with dementia,  often experience isolation and loneliness, which can significantly affect their emotional and physical wellbeing.

Barry Macaulay CEO of Arts Care said: “The greatest demand for our art facilitation services undoubtedly comes from Residential care facilities, whether it is visual art, dance/movement, or music. The addition of the Skylarks service to our portfolio is so exciting as it brings a range of these art forms together, and we are really looking forward to seeing the tangible benefits this project will bring to residents and staff in the care facilities”

Research shows that social isolation can be as harmful to health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. By providing creative activities that encourage self-expression and meaningful connection, Skylarks helps to alleviate these feelings and foster a sense of community and belonging.

The Skylarks programme is designed not just to entertain, but to support the holistic wellbeing of older people by nurturing emotional and psychological health alongside physical care needs.

Each session provides opportunities for storytelling, laughter, music, movement, and gentle interaction, all tailored to the individual and the group, creating joyful moments and positive memories for participants and staff alike.

Lizzie Devlin, Community Arts Development Officer, Arts Council of Northern Ireland, said: “Thanks to The National Lottery players and the Public Health Agency, we’re delighted to support Arts Care with this project. Research has proven that taking part in arts activities can raise self-esteem, confidence and motivation, as well as aid in relieving stress.  The National Lottery Arts and Older People Programme is committed to providing meaningful opportunities for older people to take part in arts activities, enriching their lives for the better.

“The arts have a vital role to play in helping our older people find their voice, bring people together and promote positive physical and mental health – funding from The National Lottery has been a game changer in helping us achieve that.”

Arts Care will continue to build on the early success of Skylarks, exploring further opportunities to embed creativity into care settings across Northern Ireland and ensuring older people, including those living with dementia, have access to engaging, artist-led activities that enhance their quality of life.

For more information about Skylarks and Arts Care’s work in health and social care settings, go to www.artscare.co.uk

If your organisation is interested in booking the Skylarks or simply want to find out more about the programme, please contact Julianne Skillen on 02890311122 or via julianne@artscare.co.uk.

Statement from the Connswater Creatives & Community Organisations

The abrupt decision to close Connswater Shopping Centre with just two weeks’ notice has left multiple community, arts, and charitable organisations facing immediate displacement and severe operational and financial challenges. 

The closure, set for Friday 21 March 2025, was announced without prior consultation or consideration for the impact on local organisations and service users, who are often generally vulnerable and/or with high needs.

The organisations affected, including Arts Care, Open Arts, Fighting Words NI, Strand Arts Centre, Platform Arts, Home-Start and the Men’s Shed have been integral in revitalising the centre as a community and creative hub, providing vital arts, education, mental health, and disability services. The sudden closure will result in disruptions to essential programmes, financial losses exceeding £200,000, and the loss of a safe, accessible space for local residents.

Failure to Consult and Lack of Transparency

The closure has come as a shock to tenants who had long-term investment plans based on assurances from Connswater Shopping Centre’s management. 

Despite organisations collectively investing in their units, and despite previous expectations that the centre would continue operating for at least another year, the closure was announced on 7 March 2025 with a demand for all tenants to vacate by 21 March 2025.

There has been no meaningful engagement from the receivers BDO or managing agents CBRE, to explore alternative solutions or to provide support for the organisations affected. Many of the tenants are charities, non-profits, and grassroots community organisations that do not have the financial reserves to relocate at short notice. 

This lack of communication and engagement has led to widespread disruption and uncertainty for organisations, staff, volunteers, and service users.

Severe Impact on Community and Arts Programmes

The closure of Connswater Shopping Centre will have far-reaching consequences for the local community, particularly for the elderly, disabled people, young people, and vulnerable groups who regularly use the space.

• Arts and Disability Services – Open Arts, which provides creative opportunities for disabled people, will lose the home of the only full Javanese gamelan orchestra in Northern Ireland, a uniquely accessible music resource that has benefited thousands of participants over three decades.
• Arts and Community Wellbeing – Arts Care will lose its gallery, dance studio, music space, and ceramic kiln, disrupting creative wellbeing programmes that have benefited people of all ages, including older residents and those with mental health challenges. The space has been a key hub for exhibitions, arts therapy, and movement-based projects, providing a vital social and creative outlet for the community. With £30,000 invested in refurbishments, the closure presents significant financial and logistical challenges. The sudden eviction jeopardises the continuity of creative health initiatives in East Belfast, impacting service users, artists, and local community groups.
• Creative and Educational Programmes – Fighting Words NI has supported thousands of children and young people in developing their writing skills. The loss of a dedicated creative space will make it significantly harder to run workshops, especially for neurodiverse and disabled children who rely on tailored environments.
• Film and Performing Arts – Strand Arts Centre has been using Connswater as a temporary home while its main cinema undergoes refurbishment. The loss of this space will halt dementia-friendly screenings, youth film workshops, and historical talks that have engaged hundreds of people weekly.
• Studio and Exhibition Space – Platform Arts, a hub for contemporary artists, will lose its studio spaces, forcing artists out with no immediate relocation options. The loss of dedicated workspaces for artists could result in financial instability and lost income.
• Community Social Services – Home-Start, Men’s Shed and other community organisations have used Connswater as a safe, welcoming space for families, mental health support groups, and elderly residents. Without an alternative location, many of these essential services will be significantly disrupted or forced to close entirely.

Financial and Logistical Crisis

The financial repercussions of this closure are extensive. Many organisations invested heavily in refurbishments, including improvements to accessibility, heating, and lighting, with the expectation that they would be able to use the space for the foreseeable future. 

We believe there is likely to have been more than £200,000 spent collectively across organisations on improving their units, and now that investment is being wasted with no recourse for compensation.

The cost of relocation, moving equipment, finding new venues, and re-establishing programmes is beyond the financial capabilities of many tenants. The short timeframe has made it nearly impossible to secure new premises that meet the needs of the displaced organisations. 

This situation is particularly damaging for groups that work with disabled individuals, older people, and those with additional needs, as suitable spaces that meet accessibility standards are in short supply.

Signed:

Barry Macauley, CEO, Arts Care

Eileen Branagh, CEO, Open Arts

Mimi Turtle, CEO, Strand Arts Centre

Hilary Copeland, Director, Fighting Words NI

Platform Arts

Home Start

John Lavery, Secretary, Men’s Shed

Larne social enterprise Access Employment Limited (AEL) has announced the launch of their new website creategifts.co.uk to expand their range of personalised and customised gifts.

Since its establishment two years ago, Create Gifts has focused on supplying bulk merchandise, corporate gifts, and awards to businesses. 

The launch of its personalised gifts range marks a significant expansion, offering engraved and full-colour personalisation options across a variety of products.

Jackie Reid, Head of Business at Create Gifts, said: “Create Gifts is a Social Enterprise of AEL. For the last two years we have concentrated predominantly on bulk merchandise, corporate gifts and awards to businesses, but now we are delighted to announce that we have extended our product range and are launching our personalised gifts range.

“Here at Create Gifts, we believe that a personalised gift shows a deeper level of thoughtfulness and care, as it is specifically tailored to a person’s interests and memories. 

“This makes the gift more unique and meaningful, and demonstrates that the giver took the time to create something special for them. Our personalised gifts selection includes engraved and full-colour personalisation, perfect for everyone and for every occasion.”

The expanded product range includes personalised items such as pink sparkly thermal water bottles, Northern Ireland slang mugs, personalised photo slates, and a variety of Mother’s Day gifts, including customised egg boards, ‘10 Reasons Why I Love Mum’ hearts, and Mother’s Day mugs.

Beyond its product offering, Create Gifts is committed to making a positive social impact by providing work experience and training opportunities to individuals with additional needs, learning disabilities, health conditions, and social disadvantage.

Laura Steele, CEO of AEL, said the new website is just another way AEL is delivering on its mission to offer opportunities for vulnerable or disadvantaged individuals.

She explained: “This is a very exciting time for all of us, and especially for our trainees. But Create Gifts is more than just a gift store! Here at AEL, our businesses, like Create Gifts, provide work experience and training to individuals with additional needs, learning disabilities, health conditions and social disadvantage. 

“When you make a purchase at Create Gifts, you are gifting with a purpose, and helping us to help others.”

AEL, Northern Ireland’s first social enterprise, was founded in 1998 to provide meaningful employment and training opportunities for individuals facing barriers to work. It operates a range of commercial ventures, reinvesting 100% of profits into sustaining and expanding these initiatives.

By purchasing from Create Gifts, customers are not only receiving high-quality, customised gifts but also directly supporting employment and training opportunities for individuals who may otherwise struggle to access the workforce.

For more information go to creategifts.co.uk