Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Christmas Switch on Events will take place across the Borough from Friday 19 November until Saturday 4 December. This year’s theme is ‘A Superhero Christmas’ and with the help of Mr. Hullabaloo and friends, we will all learn that to be a true superhero doesn`t require us to fly or to wear a special costume.

Our special Christmas Show hosted by Cool FMs Stuart Robinson, will celebrate Key workers and will include School Choirs, Traditional Music Groups, Bands and other local artistes along with an exciting pantomime performance by Children’s Magical Storyteller Mr Hullabaloo and Friends who will teach us that ‘A true hero isn`t measured by the power of his strength but by the strength of his heart’.

This FREE family fun event will also feature a Christmas Market, Street Entertainment, Son et lumiere show and a short programme of Christmas Readings, Carols and Music.

A Super finale will see a number of our Favourite Superhero’s lending their magic power as they help the Mayor and Santa Claus Light up our towns for Christmas.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Councillor Billy Webb said: “I am delighted that we can celebrate Christmas once more as a community, coming together to celebrate this special time of year. This year’s Superhero theme is the perfect opportunity to pay tribute and give thanks to all the heroes that live around us each day.”

We hope you can join us for A Superhero Christmas, an evening of festive fun with lots of prizes to be won!!

For details of all switch on events please visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/christmasswitchon

Our Christmas switch on events will also be available to watch live, online, keep an eye on our social media and website for further details.

Screenings of a heartfelt drama filmed and set in Northern Ireland are set to take place in Limavady and Portstewart.

The opportunity to watch ‘Nowhere Special’ is part of the Film Hub NI Collective programme which aims to bring local films to local places.

Tickets are available now for the screenings which will take place in Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre on Thursday 11th November at 7pm and Flowerfield Arts Centre on Thursday 9th December at 7pm.

Nowhere Special, written and directed by award winning Italian filmmaker Uberto Pasolini, stars James Norton as a single father and it introduces young actor Daniel Lamont from Ballymena as Michael, his son.

The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Richard Holmes, said: “We are delighted that Film Hub NI is bringing ‘Nowhere Special’ to both of our Arts Centres during November and December, offering film fans in the Borough a chance to enjoy this special film on a cinema screen here.

“It’s a great endorsement for these fantastic local facilities – if you’ve never been before then please consider booking a ticket for a big screen experience with a difference.”

Sara Gunn-Smith, Marketing and Audiences Officer for Film Hub NI says: “Film Hub NI is delighted to be able to bring this original and beautiful film to 11 venues across Northern Ireland for audiences to enjoy.  With so many brilliant community cinemas signed up for the tour, it is evident that the appetite for independent film is alive and well and that film lovers cannot wait to return to the cinema. Audiences can look forward to seeing the film, along with some special guests that will join us on a few dates.”

Uberto Pasolini, Director, Nowhere Special said: “Filming Nowhere Special in Northern Ireland was one of the highlights of my 35 years of filmmaking. The quality of the crew, the brilliance of the Northern Irish actors, the welcome we received everywhere during our shoot, and of course the amazing talents of Daniel and James enabled us to achieve what on paper appeared impossible, an honest yet moving portrait of a very special relationship, a love story between a young father and his very small boy growing through the most difficult circumstances. It is with great pride that we share our journey with your audiences.”

FHNI is part of the BFI Film Audience Network, a UK wide project to ensure that the greatest choice of film is available to diverse audiences across Northern Ireland. The initiative is supported through National Lottery funding, distributed by the British Film Institute.

Tickets cost £5 and are available to purchase from the Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre Box Office on 028 7776 0650 or Flowerfield Arts Centre Box Office on 028 7083 1400.

To book online for Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/nowhere-special-film-screening-tickets-193581987937

To book online for Flowerfield Arts Centre visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/film-screening-nowhere-special-tickets-195016257877

Full COVID-19 Guidelines for the Film Screening at Roe Valley Arts and Cultural  Centre can be found here: https://www.roevalleyarts.com/events/film-nowhere-special

Flowerfield COVID guidance is available here: https://www.flowerfield.org/assets/documents/Covid-safety-at-Flowerfield-Arts-Centre.docx

For further information about the Film Hub NI Collective Tour of Nowhere Special visit: https://www.filmhubni.org/now-showing-tags/collective/

With over 1 million people expected to visit the Belfast Christmas Market this year, operators Market Place Europe are working hard to ensure a safe visit is had by all.

During the weekends when the market is expected to be busy, visitors will need to supply evidence of vaccination, or take a lateral flow test before being granted access. In addition, footfall will be closely monitored and when nearing capacity, a queuing system will be put in place. There will be a number of hand sanitising stations throughout the market and visitors will be encouraged to wear masks and make payments using cards instead of cash where possible. 

With work due to begin on 7 November (pausing for the services of Remembrance), local construction team MR Services will transform City Hall grounds into the award-winning annual Market. For almost two weeks they will be hammering, securing structures, and building chalets to create the Christmas Village in time for the opening of the Market on Saturday 20 November at 12noon.

The Belfast Christmas Market will be supporting two of the Lord Mayor’s charities this year one of which is Positive Life, the only charity in Northern Ireland dedicated to supporting people living with and affected by HIV.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Kate Nicholl said: “The arrival of the Christmas Market at City Hall is always eagerly anticipated and especially this year, given last season’s absence. Having the market in the heart of the city provides an invaluable boost to the city’s retail and tourism offering, and I have no doubt it will be hugely popular with visitors as always. I’m also really pleased that once again the market will be raising awareness of local charities and their services, as well as hopefully raising some much-needed funds to support their vital work.”

The Belfast Christmas Market attracts visitors from across Europe and has become a significant contributor to the local economy. 1,261,666 visitors came to the market in 2019. The overall gross economic impact of the 2019 market was a staggering £75.7m, demonstrating the citywide benefit of such a large and well organised event.

Allan Hartwell, Managing Director of Market Place (operators of the Belfast Christmas Market) said: “We’re delighted that once again the sights and sounds of the Belfast Christmas Market will form a focal point for the city centre during the festive season and given our focus on the safety of visitors, we would encourage people to visit during the week to avoid busy times.”

This year the food court at the Market with bench style seating makes a welcome return, as does the vintage Helter Skelter, offering stunning views right across the market, and the much-loved carousel.

Support for local food and craft has increased with a number of St George’s Market traders joining in the festive fun. Some local favourites will also be returning including Pappas Minerals and Tapitas, Rossi’s Ice Cream and the incredible social enterprise Outside In who will be donning their tinsel and Santa hats to help the homeless. 

As well as even more local flavour, the Market still offers something a little bit different with 32 nationalities from all over the world bringing all sorts of unusual foods and gift ideas: crêpes from France, Dutch pancakes, Belgian chocolates, an exotic selection of ostrich, wild boar and crocodile burgers, giant bratwurst from the iconic Schwenkegrill, Spanish paella and sweets from Italy. Visitors can also treat themselves to the well known Hug in a Mug of Gluhwein from the prize winning Kochem vineyard located in the Mosel Valley, Germany, or end the day in one of the bars serving local and continental drinks to get even more into the Christmas spirit.

For those who need a momentary escape from festive over stimulation and the hustle and bustle of the market, a Quiet Room has been created. Visitors can request use of this calm space by visiting the Manager’s office.

Market traders will once again be receiving awareness training about the JAM ‘Just A Minute’ Card, a social innovation from NOW Group that offers a discreet way for users to tell people that sometimes they need a little extra time and patience. The JAM Card is available in the Quiet Room at the Market as a credit card sized card and the app can also be downloaded for smartphones.

There are a limited number of spaces available for traders selling high quality goods, and there is a particular interest in those selling vegan and vegetarian festive food. If you are able to trade for the duration of the market, simply visit www.marketplaceurope.co.uk, click on the ‘Traders area’ button on the top right of the page where you can sign up as an interested Trader. Prices vary according to product and pitch size; once an application is approved traders will be advised on costs.

Traders are always keen to employ local staff, if you are interested in joining the team and working at the Christmas Market please drop an email to info@mpel.co.uk

There is so much on offer throughout the city this year and the Christmas Market is just one of several events launching as part of the Christmas festivities. Christmas enchanted evenings run from 6.30pm to 9pm on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 November. Throughout the ‘Once Upon a Time’ themed season, visitors can enjoy a dazzling array of street performance, light projections, music, dance and window animation and from 27 November there will be magical pop-up entertainment every Saturday and Sunday across the city from 1pm-5pm.

To keep track of Christmas Market news, and the ever-important weather updates, follow the official Facebook page at Belfast Continental Christmas Market and keep an eye out for our TikTok channel launching this year!

Belfast Christmas Market will be at the City Hall from 12noon on Saturday 20 November until 6pm on 23 December. 

Opening hours are: 

Monday – Wednesday 10am – 8pm 

Thursday – Saturday 10am – 10pm

Sunday 12noon – 6pm

The Causeway Coast and Glens is Northern Ireland’s first accredited Slow Food destination, Taste Causeway, the collaborative network of local food and drink businesses was awarded the accolade by the global Slow Food Movement following a rigorous assessment process. 

To launch and celebrate this prestigious award Taste Causeway are running a six month programme of events, dining experiences, tours and special menus.

The global organisation dedicated to nurturing good, clean and fair food is coming to Northern Ireland from next month as iconic venues along the Causeway Coast come together to launch Slow Food Causeway by Taste Causeway.

Gary Quate, Food and Drink Experience Development Officer from Tourism NI said: “The launch of Slow Food Causeway presents a unique opportunity for visitors to embrace the exceptional food and drink offer of the Causeway Coast and Glens.

“With an outstanding array of fresh local ingredients, passionate producers, award winning chefs and dynamic distillers and brewers, Slow Food Causeway will provide visitors with an exciting programme of unique foodie experiences amidst the stunning backdrop of the region. 

“Tourism Northern Ireland are delighted to support the programme and the Slow Food accreditation is indicative of the quality of experience that visitors can expect. The enticing calendar of immersive foodie experiences offers something for everyone and is a celebration of the quality, innovation and creativity of our industry” he added.

Kicking off on November 5 to end March 2022, the programme will showcase the Slow Food ethos dedicated to supporting local artisan producers as well as spreading awareness of local food traditions and culture. 

Highlights include unique dining experience collaborations with the National Trust at the stunning Mussenden Temple and iconic Causeway Visitor Centre, a three day Slow Food and Drink Festival in March 2022 and a packed schedule of supper clubs, special menus, workshops and cookery classes, food tours involving over 60 local food and drink businesses.    

Sharon Scott from Taste Causeway who are delivering Slow Food Causeway with funding from Tourism NI in partnership with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council said: “Taste Causeway is  one of only a handful of accredited Slow Food destinations in Ireland to be awarded the accolade by the global Slow Food Movement. 

“Slow Food was initially founded by a group of activists in Italy during the 1980s with the aim of defending regional traditions, good food, gastronomic pleasure and a slow pace of life but has since grown into a global movement involving millions of people, in over 150 countries that links the pleasure of food with a commitment to the community and the environment.  We at Taste Causeway are proud to become part of this global food movement.”

Slow Food Northern Ireland is headed by chef Paula McIntyre MBE said she’s delighted to be part of the launch of Slow Food Causeway.

“Having worked closely with the producers, chefs and growing number of food tourism businesses and food retailers involved in Taste Causeway for many years now, their ethics and attention to great provenance is the perfect fit for the international Slow Food movement” said Paula, adding: “The varied, exciting programme of launch events is testament to the drive, tenacity  and imagination of these local businesses, who are only just recovering from the devastating impact of the Covid pandemic and will be a must for genuine food lovers across the island of Ireland.

“There are plenty of accommodation options available to make a fantastic short winter and early Spring break.”

The Slow Food campaign aims to reinvigorate people’s interest in the food they eat, where it comes from and how our food choices affect the world around us. 

Chairman of Slow Food UK Shane Holland said: “We are delighted to award Slow Food Destination accreditation to Slow Food Causeway, in an area with such outstanding produce, and where consumers are looking for genuinely good local food.  

“With the support of Taste Causeway, we are delighted to see a network of local food and drink businesses from right across the local supply chain, collaborating and working together to deliver the aim and ethos of Slow Food across all parts of the destination.”

“We protect our logo fiercely, as it is recognised across the world as a quality marque endorsing Good, Clean and Fair food.  Wherever you see this iconic, internationally recognised logo displayed, you will be certain to find great local food which sustains the local economy, is produced to the highest standards, is of the place and respects the local environment.”

For more information about Slow Food Causeway go to tastecauseway.com/slow-food-causeway or follow the hashtags #SlowFoodCauseway and #TasteCauseway  

Gallery 545 is thrilled to present an exhibition double bill in Malone Road, Belfast. Two exciting exhibitions will run in two different locations on the Malone Road featuring over twenty accomplished artists based in Northern Ireland, showcasing a curated selection of affordable original artworks. The gallery is delighted to welcome visitors to its premises at Blick Studios or the neighbouring Harrison Hotel.

‘Gallery 545 Group Exhibition’

13 November – 5 December. Opening on Saturday 13 Nov, 1.30-5.30pm

Open on Thu, Fri, Sat 10.30am-5.30pm & Sun 1-5.30pm

Blick Studios, 51 Malone Road, Belfast BT9 6RY

and

‘Gallery 545 at the Harrison: Artists on the Rise Pop-up’

5 November – 5 December. Opening on Friday 5 Nov, 4-8pm

Open on Thu, Fri, Sat 10.30am-5.30pm & Sun 1-5.30pm

Harrison Chambers of Distinction, 45 Malone Road, Belfast BT9 6RX

Online www.gallery545.com 

The Group Exhibition at Blick Studios is an annual show organised by Gallery 545 bringing together emerging and established artists who have encountered recognition in Northern Ireland and further afield. A diverse art selection will be on display encompassing stunning paintings, exquisite works on paper, unique sculptures, and beautiful mixed media pieces. Among the artworks will be atmospheric landscapes, intriguing scenes, fascinating figures, and delicate or bold abstract compositions.

This show features artists represented by Gallery 545: Lisa Ballard, Ronan Bowes, Majella Clancy, Alacoque Davey, Ray Duncan, Craig Donald, Karl Hagan, Eamonn Higgins, Trina Hobson, Ashely B Holmes, Janet Keith, Rachel Lawell, Louise Lennon, Aimee Melaugh, Sandra Maze, Rosie McGurran, Noel Murphy, Latisha Reihill, Joel Simon, Katherine St Angelo, Charlie Scott, Jennifer Trouton and Anushiya Sundaralingam.

Artists on the Rise involves Gallery 545 joining forces with the Harrison Chambers of Distinction to organise a unique art pop-up dedicated to up-and-coming talents across Northern Ireland, featuring Ronan Bowes, Karl Hagan, Janet Keith, Rachel Lawell, Joel Simon and Katherine St Angelo.

These six incredibly talented painters will exhibit their distinctive artworks within a relaxing interior setting – vibrant gestural abstract paintings, intense emotive landscapes, portraits of charismatic women and captivating semi-figurative works.

Visitors coming to see both shows will have the opportunity to explore and discover new artists and artworks and celebrate the wealth of talent in the region; with many unique and affordable artworks on display they could easily find the perfect piece for their home or office.

All artworks can be purchased in person at Gallery 545 at Blick Studios or online at www.gallery545.com. The gallery will accept the Spend Local prepaid card for in person payments. 

Visiting the exhibitions – There will be measures in place because of Covid-19 to keep visitors safe. The number of those allowed in the spaces will be limited to 12 people at Blick Studios and 8-10 people at the Harrison. 

A familiar face in Belfast’s hospitality scene is set to a return to its Cathedral Quarter home next month.

The eclectic restaurant, Made In Belfast, will open its doors once again in the historic Cathedral Quarter on November 4, with owner Emma Bricknell keen to get back serving up fresh, hearty food for the people across the city.

“I’m excited about being open again. This venue was the busiest restaurant we had and it’s in the coolest of areas so yeah I’m really looking forward to it.” she said.

The Talbot Street location which opened in 2010 was one of three venues that the Made In Belfast chain had with venues at the iconic City Hall and Hill Street but due to ongoing structural issues and the impact of Covid-19, Emma had to make the decision to streamline her business and halt any expansions to the restaurant chain.

“That’s the nature of the game, nothing lasts forever. You work hard and do other things as the food movement moves on.” she explained.

Recently the Blondtreprenuer Ltd owner closed Prawnagraphic, a Californian inspired seafood restaurant in Hill Street which served locally sourced fish and cocktails closed its doors due to an ongoing sewage problem in the area. 

After a rocky 18 months, Emma believes now is the perfect time to focus her efforts on Made In Belfast and embark on a new journey with the restaurant chain.

“We’ve been closed for a long time so opening now feels like the right thing to do and I think being in one venue streamlines the staff and any issues that I’ve faced previously in other locations”. 

Made In Belfast has gone back to its roots and will serve up high quality gastro Modern European cuisine in a chilled environment, making it the perfect venue for after work drinks or a family get together. 

Opening from Thursday to Sunday from 12pm to late, the latest menu will have tasty options for everyone from those who are gluten free to vegan. 

Emma reassured her customers that Made In Belfast has kept up their commitment to working with local suppliers to provide great food for the people that make Belfast. 

“We’ve got a great team in the kitchen involved with a similar kind of menu as before and we are working with locally sourced products. We were never about fancy food, just a good proper feed.”

For anyone who wants to book a table, Made In Belfast operates a strict online booking only system.

To keep up to date with the latest information, follow Made In Belfast on Facebook and Instagram or to book your table go to mibni.co.uk. 

A new platform for businesses in the property sector is set to launch at the end of this year. 

Northern Ireland’s first online resource of its kind, the NI Property Hub, will help bring business together under one roof to showcase the products and services they supply to the property sector.

Founders Heather Macartney and Natasha McGurk have merged their years of experience working within the property sector to fill a gap in the market that will provide local businesses with the tools they need to help secure their future and widen their audience all across Northern Ireland. 

“There is little help or financial support available to help grow your business and maximise its potential so we hope that the Hub will provide an affordable platform where business owners can do just that” Heather explained.

The property market has faced a lot of hurdles since the 2008 recession and with the most recent impact of Covid, Heather and Natasha are keen to reassure business owners that The Hub will be a robust source of help, information and advice that will become the go-to place in Northern Ireland.  

“It’s so important to us as business owners ourselves that we help the Northern Irish market to be a sustainable environment in this sector” said Heather.

The Hub is aimed at businesses all over Northern Ireland who provide excellent service and products to their customers and be more than just a business directory.

“Our comprehensive property platform will cover everything a property owner, landlord or business might need in just one stop.

“We are looking for anyone who has  innovative ideas and products coming on to the market to register and advertise their products and services on the Hub through video content, blogs and podcasts.”

Content will be targeted at a range of audiences such as first time buyers, home owners, landlords and investors who can visit the Hub for tips on a range of topics such as interior design, links to trades and services or advice on mortgages and insurance. 

By registering on the Hub, business owners can choose from a variety of listings depending on their budget. 

The Hub will be advertised widely across social media, press and radio advertising to help get businesses found by prospective clients and partners. 

For more information, visit the NI Property Hub on Facebook or contact 028 9600 9621

Big Top Show Runs From December 17, 2021 – January 3, 2022

Award winning circus company Tumble Circus will return to Belfast’s Writers’ Square this Christmas.

Despite a difficult 18 months due to the Covid-19 pandemic the team at Tumble Circus are back with their spectacular Winter Circus show.

Now in its fifth year, the organisers at Winter Circus said fans can expect this year’s show “to return louder and prouder than ever before”.

Tina Segner of Tumble Circus said: “We are delighted to be back and we’ve got an amazing show lined up this year in our fully heated Tumble Circus big top tent.

“Running from December 17 right the way through to January 3 this is a show that has something for everyone.

“Tumble Circus combines circus skills with comedy, theatre and social commentary to make people laugh, react, and act.”

The Tumble Circus Winter Circus show is an all human performance with everything from comedy, fun, hilarity and professional circus performance to amazing aerial skills.

“The Winter Circus shows will be spectacular with an inspiring modern soundtrack” said Ken Fanning of Tumble Circus, adding: “visitors to the big top can expect modern, high skilled acts, including acrobats, aerialists and jugglers in this one hour of hammer smashing Belfast inspired circus. 

“From international circus artists to well-known comedy characters both young and old audiences will be able to enjoy the show whilst expecting big laughs and some mighty craic.”

Tickets are limited this year so it’s advised to book early to experience world-class acrobats, aerialists, jugglers and the unique humour that has made Tumble Circus an international award-winning modern circus company.

Gilly Campbell, Head of Community Arts and Education, Arts Council of Northern Ireland said: “Tumble Circus never fails to delight and enchant all who experience their amazing, world-class circus skills.  

“It’s simply thrilling to see them return this December, back to doing what they do best, and presenting the captivating Winter Circus right in the heart of Belfast’s city centre.  

“Thanks to The National Lottery players, the Arts Council of Northern Ireland is proud to support Tumble Circus and I would encourage all to go along and enjoy everything this award-winning company has to offer.”   

Winter Circus is supported by the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Belfast City Council, Tourism Northern Ireland and Destination CQ BID

Tickets are £9-£14 + booking fee and available from wegottickets.com/JossersBigTop, or for more information go to tumblecircus.com. Family tickets are also available and group bookings (10+) can be booked by emailing bookings@tumblecircus.com.

Tumble Circus presents the Winter Circus – dates

17 December 2021 to 03 January 2022

Friday 17^th Dec           6pm (preview)                  

Saturday 18^th Dec       2pm & 5pm        

Sunday 19^th Dec          2pm & 5pm       

Tuesday 21^st Dec         5pm (Relaxed show)

Wednesday 22^nd Dec    6pm                 

Thursday 23^rd Dec       3pm & 6pm      

Friday 24^th Dec           2pm                             

Sunday 26^th Dec          3pm 

Monday 27^th Dec        2pm  & 5pm           

Tuesday 28^th Dec.      2pm & 5pm

Wednesday 29^th Dec   2pm & 5pm 

Thursday 30^th Dec       2pm & 5pm 

Friday 31^st Dec            2pm & 5pm 

Saturday 1^st Jan           2pm & 5pm 

Sunday 2^nd Dec           2pm & 5pm 

Monday 3^rd Jan           2pm & 5pm     

Prices

Preview all tickets £9*

Full Price £14*

Children (12 and under): £9*

Family of four: £40*

Relaxed show: £9*

*excluding booking fee

Children 2 and under go free

Antrim and Newtownabbey Council is proud to announce an exciting range of inclusive activities over the next few months.

During Halloween and Christmas, events have been carefully tailored to suit children and adults with specific needs to ensure they can fully enjoy all the activities being offered.         

Screams and Tricks at V36 will have an Inclusive Sunday Session on  Sunday 24^th  October, 2-4pm, where lights and noise levels of the funfair are adapted for children and adults with specific needs. There will be the following inclusive aspects; accessible car parking, reduced capacity, sensory activities and play, quiet room and an AccessoLoo (Mobile changing places facility) will be in situ.

On Sunday 31^st October, Spooked Out will run from 6pm-8pm with fireworks taking place at 8pm. Accessible car parking will be available and there will be a viewing point at the stage for those who have a physical, sensory disability and those from the Deaf Community. There will be sign Language provision on stage to sign the show, a quiet room along with an AccessoLoo (Mobile changing places facility) will be in situ.

On Wednesday 1^st & 8^th December an Evening of Inclusive Enchantment returns to Antrim Castle Gardens from 4pm – 9:30pm. This is a relaxed event for children and adults with specific needs including those who are sensitive to noise, lights and crowds. Attractions and rides will be slowed down, music levels lowered and strobe lighting not in use.

There will also be accessible car parking, reduced capacity, sensory and quiet rooms, AccessoLoo (mobile changing places facility) in situ, and an event layout map.

Theatre of The Mill is excited to be back!  Join the magical fun filled adventure with Mr Hullaballo’s Snow White. The show will host a relaxed performance on Sat 11^th December  which will be sensitive to audience members who may benefit from a more relaxed environment including those with autism or sensory and learning disabilities. Saturday 18^th December will host a signed performance which is adapted for those who are deaf or hearing impaired.

Caroline Curran returns this year writing and staring in the hilarious ‘Jingle All the Hairspray, a Christmas Hairytale’.  This show is for adults only, and will host a relaxed performance Thursday 23th December and signed performance Wednesday 22^nd December.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Billy Webb said “It is great to see so many upcoming events over the next few months that children and adults with specific needs can enjoy.  Ensuring that all events hosted by the Council are inclusive is important, and something that we will continually try to progress so that everyone can attend.”

For more information on our inclusive events contact:

Ellen Boyd, Accessibility and Customer Services Officer

Email ellen.boyd@antrimnewtownabbey.gov.uk or by telephone on 02894463113

or for how to book, please contact www.antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/events

Tourism Events Grant Scheme Open for Applications! 

Calling all event organisers – Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Tourism Events Grant Scheme is now open for applications with grants of up to £10,000 available! 

Applications are being invited from organisations wishing to run a tourism event in Ards and North Down between April 2022 and March 2023. The event must have the potential to deliver economic benefits to the Borough. 

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Mark Brooks, said: 

“The Tourism Events Grant Scheme has supported a range of fantastic events in the past such as the Portaferry Gala, Music in the Park and Ireland’s Strongest Man Competition. It is designed to boost tourism across Ards and North Down and will encourage organisers to bring more events to our beautiful Borough, helping to increase footfall while also providing a boost to our local economy.” 

Applications opened on Thursday 21 October 2021 and will close at midday on Friday 12 November 2021.

A virtual ‘How to Apply’ workshop will run on Wednesday 27 October via Zoom. To register interest, email TourismGrants@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk.

For more information about the Grant Scheme, including application forms and guidance notes, visit ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk/tourism-grants.