Leisure Centres across the Borough are Offering MORE this Summer!

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Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is excited to announce a refreshed and expanded summer leisure programme aimed at keeping children and young people active, healthy, and engaged throughout the school holidays.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, welcomed the announcement, “We’re proud to offer an inclusive and vibrant summer programme that promotes the health and wellbeing of our children, young people, and families. With extended leisure and fitness sessions across our centres, we’re supporting lifelong healthy habits and ensuring everyone can enjoy a fun, active summer come rain or shine!”

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Cllr Leah Kirkpatrick kicks off a summer of fun with Jessica and Charlie from Fairview Primary School. From summer schemes, family swims to kids’ and teen fitness, there’s something for everyone at their local Antrim and Newtownabbey Leisure Centre this summer!

Summer Schemes are now open for booking at leisure centres and community venues across the Borough. Designed for children aged five and over, the schemes offer a vibrant mix of sports, dance, games, arts and crafts – catering to a wide range of interests and abilities.

In response to growing demand, additional leisure swim sessions will be available at Valley Leisure Centre, Sixmile Leisure Centre, and Antrim Forum providing even more opportunities for fun, family-friendly activities.

To further support young people’s wellbeing, additional Junior Fitness Gym Sessions (12–15 years old) will be available Monday to Friday. All centres are also adding Teen Fitness Classes (13-15 years old) to their summer programmes.

Antrim Forum and Valley Leisure Centre will host Rookie Lifeguard Courses, while Swimming Crash Courses will be available at Antrim Forum and Sixmile Leisure Centre from July.

For golf enthusiasts, Junior Golf Memberships for under-18s are available at Allen Park and Ballyearl Arts and Leisure Centre, where the driving range also features Toptracer virtual golfing challenges.

These expanded programmes reflect the Council’s continued commitment to promoting the physical and mental wellbeing of young people through fun, inclusive, and age-appropriate activities.

For the latest updates and to book your place, visit: antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/leisure

Department For Communities Backs Return Of Orangefest Programme In Belfast

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Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has confirmed funding to support the reigniting of the cultural organisation Orangefest.

Belfast Orangefest, first established by the County Grand Lodge of Belfast in 2007, was originally designed to modernise the Twelfth of July celebrations to make them more accessible, inclusive, and relevant to contemporary Belfast. 

However, in recent years the committee at Orangefest have developed a wider strategy of activities which will see the Orangefest brand being used throughout the year for education, celebration and commemoration events.

“Belfast Orangefest…A New Beginning”, the project funded by the Department for Communities is supporting the organisation to identify funding streams, outreach opportunities and partnerships as well as provide critical funds for day to day infrastructure and operations.

The funding is just the beginning of a new three-year plan by Orangefest to create a year-round cultural engagement programme.

Minister Lyons said: “I am pleased to confirm funding of more than £40,000 from my department for the 2025 Orangefest. 

“Orange celebrations are one of the largest, long-standing events of their kind in Belfast, attracting tens of thousands of visitors from across the world. 

“This support will enable Orangefest to engage with other bodies to make this year’s Twelfth of July celebrations an even more inclusive and family friendly event.” 

This year, thanks to funding from Belfast City Council, Orangefest will deliver a programme of family entertainment at Belfast City Hall from 10am to 3.30pm.

The rejuvenation of Belfast Orangefest is led by a dedicated Board of Directors, who are working towards increasing city centre footfall, supporting tourism growth, developing a wider community engagement programme and strengthening inter-community relations.

Orangefest director Spencer Beattie said: “This new funding marks an important step forward for Belfast Orangefest. 

“It gives us the opportunity to work behind the scenes to secure the necessary funding and partnerships to not only to reinvigorate the Twelfth of July celebrations, but also to deliver a year-round programme that reflects the heritage, culture and diversity of our city. 

“We’re committed to building meaningful connections with communities right across Belfast and creating opportunities for learning, participation and shared celebration.”

A key aim of the Orangefest directors is to contribute to Belfast’s evolving cultural landscape by offering opportunities for regeneration, leadership, skills development and inclusive participation. 

This announcement of funding to support the growth and development of Orangefest reaffirms the organisation’s role in promoting understanding of the Orange tradition while opening doors for wider cultural exchange and collaboration across Belfast’s communities.

For more information go to belfastorangefest.com

Northern Ireland Author Patience Bradley Launches Debut Children’s Book

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Patience Bradley, Author

Princess Mary’s Journey to Find True Love tells the heartfelt true story of one dog’s journey to find her forever home

Author Patience Bradley has launched her debut children’s book, Princess Mary’s Journey to Find True Love.

The book tells the story of a small pedigree dog named Princess Mary, who embarks on an epic journey from Poland to Northern Ireland in search of her one true love. 

Told entirely from the perspective of the dog herself, the story captures the highs and lows of her travels, the friendships she makes along the way, and her unwavering belief that love is waiting for her at the end of the road.

Speaking at the launch event in Holywood library recently, Patience said: “I wrote this story with tears in my eyes and a smile on my face.

“When Princess Mary came into my life, she gave me something to focus on. She brought joy back into my home.”

The event was an emotional occasion for the author, who chose the date in memory of her late husband – Ivor, a great supporter of her work as an author. It was on his birthday that she officially shared Princess Mary’s story with the public.

Throughout the book, edited by Niamh Cooper and published by Excalibur Press, the little dog Princess Mary reflects on her travels through different homes and countries, meeting new dogs and people, facing fears, and learning about kindness, loyalty and self-worth. The character’s voice is filled with optimism and emotional insight, offering young readers a moving and empowering story of resilience and love.

Patience explained: “I wanted to write a story that had heart, something that children and adults alike could relate to. 

“This little dog has taught me more about courage and loyalty than I ever thought possible.”

Princess Mary’s Journey to Find True Love is a beautifully written and deeply personal tale that gives voice to the experience of a dog who knows she is destined for something special. The book also gently encourages children to reflect on what it means to belong, to face change bravely, and to believe in the power of love.

The launch included a reading from the book and a discussion about the journey that inspired it. Attendees heard how Princess Mary’s real-life travels across Europe were marked by separation, uncertainty, and ultimately, a joyful reunion that changed Patience’s life.

Speaking of the book publisher Tina Calder of Excalibur Press said: “Patience’s ability to get inside the mind of her little dogs is a sight to behold and you can hear this throughout the book where she gives the audience a unique insight into what it must be like for a dog to make the hard journey across Europe to their forever home.

“This is the third book we have published for Patience at Excalibur Press following on from her biography Where Do You Go To My Lovely and her self-help book The Housework Workout.

“I have no doubt this book will be just as popular as the others.

“Editor Niamh Cooper, a recent addition to the Excalibur Press team, did a fantastic job in editing the book, sourcing the imagery and preparing it for publication. She should be very proud of her first editor’s credit.”

The book is now available to purchase on Amazon and through the Excalibur Press website at excaliburpress.co.uk

Grease is the Word this Summer at the Grand Opera House!

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The Grand Opera House Trust’s hotly anticipated Summer Youth Production of Grease races onto the Theatre’s stage from Thursday 17 July 2025.

Sponsored for the first time by Aircoach, this electrifyin’ production features a cast of 78 talented young performers, aged 16 to 21, selected from over 390 who registered for auditions earlier this year.

The immensely talented young cast, from across Northern Ireland, will spend two weeks in intensive rehearsals, preparing to take centre stage for five unmissable performances on the iconic Grand Opera House stage from Thursday 17 to Saturday 19 July 2025.

Get ready to rock ‘n’ roll with the stars of tomorrow in 1959 at Rydell High. After a whirlwind summer romance, good girl Sandy and greaser Danny, along with The Burger Palace Boys and The Pink Ladies, navigate the ups and downs of love, friendship and the rollercoaster journey of teenage life.

Audiences will enjoy outstanding performances in a production accompanied by 20 musicians performing the phenomenal score with some of Grease’s greatest hits including Summer Nights, Hopelessly Devoted to You, You’re The One That I Want and Greased Lightnin’.

The fully staged production, led by a professional director, musical director, choreographer and the Grand Opera House technical team, offers the talented young cast a truly unmatched experience to shine both on and off stage. The Summer Youth Production also offers the opportunity for five young people to work behind-the-scenes as part of the youth technical crew, gaining valuable insight and behind-the-scenes experience.

Now in its 13th year, the Grand Opera House Trust’s Summer Youth Production has become a springboard for emerging talent with alumni of past productions such as Sunset Boulevard, Oliver! and Bugsy Malone, going on to become professional actors, dancers and theatrical creatives working in the UK and beyond.

Grand Opera House Chief Executive, Ian Wilson said: “The Summer Youth Production has grown to become one of the biggest projects of its kind in the UK and Ireland, giving young people the experience of a lifetime and unique opportunity to perform on Northern Ireland’s most iconic stage.

“At the heart of the Theatre is a commitment to developing artistic talent and inspiring the next generation of performers. Through the project, our young participants will develop important life skills such as teamwork, confidence building and communication skills; all of which our performers will take with them into their future careers.

“Together with our sponsors, Aircoach, we are delighted to welcome audiences of all ages to enjoy this feel-good favourite, brought to life with heart and flair by an exceptional cast. Judging by the demand for tickets this is the one that you want to see this Summer!”

Aircoach Commercial Manager, Celine Coleman said: “We are both honoured and excited to play a part in supporting and promoting the Arts particularly amongst our younger generation. The Summer Youth Production helps nurture and develop an interest in the Arts that will remain with them throughout adulthood. Aircoach is delighted to navigate that journey of inspiration with the Grand Opera House.”

Performances of Grease will take place on Thursday 17 July at 7pm, Friday 18 July at 2pm and 7pm, and Saturday 19 July at 2pm and 7pm. For tickets, visit goh.co.uk.

Grand opening of Northern Ireland’s newest padel centres

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Let’s Go Padel reveals ambitious plans for 100 new courts

The opening serve in a grand slam effort to make the sport of padel accessible for everyone in Northern Ireland takes place next weekend with the launch of new courts in Carryduff and Ballyclare.

Let’s Go Padel, the sister company of hugely popular adventure resort, Let’s Go Hydro, has ambitious plans to open 50 courts before Christmas with the ultimate aim of opening 100 courts across the country as soon as possible.

Combining elements of tennis and squash, padel is a racket sport typically played in doubles on an enclosed court about a third the size of a tennis court and surrounded by glass walls.

The first grand opening takes place at Let’s Go Hydro at Mealough Road, Carryduff on Friday, June 27 (5pm – 10pm), The complex has six doubles courts, two singles and two pickleball courts.

Open to the public, the family-friendly event will include free play sessions, kids coaching clinics, an exhibition match and a skills challenge with a BBQ and DJ helping to keep everyone entertained.

On Saturday, June 28 (11am – 4pm), Let’s Go Padel will launch its Ballyclare centre at Green Road with another packed programme similar to the Carryduff event and also open to the public. Ballyclare has two indoor and two outdoor courts.

The entrepreneur behind Let’s Go Padel, Pete Boyle, believes the potential for padel to take off in Northern Ireland is incredible.

He said: “Across the UK there were just 300 courts 18 months ago, by the end of the year there will likely be 2,000. In Europe, and around the world, the sport is hugely popular with 10,000 courts in Italy and another 10,000 in Spain, padel is without doubt the fastest growing sport on the planet.

“Local people are going on holidays and playing padel, but when they come home there are not enough courts to meet demand. Pending planning permission, we aim to open 50 courts before Christmas and are actively pursuing multiple sites to open another 50.

“We are initially aiming to open sites in Derry~Londonderry, Newry, Ballymena, and Newtownards while we hope to have people playing at courts in East Belfast by November.”

Despite the planned surge in court openings, Pete is convinced the demand for padel in Northern Ireland will mirror other parts of the world.

He said: “While there are elite elements to the game and people can play at a high level, primarily it is an inclusive sport which the whole family can play together.

“It is so easy to play and thoroughly enjoyable – once people begin to play we find that they really fall in love with the sport.

“At Let’s Go Padel we are committed to providing world class facilities and expert coaching where families, first-timers, experts and even corporate teams can come and feel a real sense of community.

“We currently operate 14 courts and they are currently all busy. Across Northern Ireland and between ourselves and other providers, we feel there is the potential for around 300 new courts. We really are just getting started.”

Tickets to the Carryduff and Ballyclare opening events are priced £5. To book your place visit Let’s Go Padel Grand Opening Events

Discover NI’s Ten Exciting Things to do This Week!

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Here are ten exciting things to do 23 – 29 June

 

  1. Newcastle Food & Drink Tour, Newcastle, County Down, 28 June. Join Mairead Sweeney, a local tour guide on the Newcastle Food & Drink Tour and explore cafes, restaurants, and bars. This three-hour walking tour (1.4miles in total distance) visits six venues with four food stops and two cocktail/mocktails along the way. This adventure will introduce you to the town’s people, history, and local flavours, through wonderful tasting experiences in the heart of the beautiful Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion area.
  2. Planetarium Sound Journey Under the Stars at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, Armagh, County Armagh, 27 June. Immerse yourself in a unique experience as you listen to soothing sounds while journeying under the stars and through the expansive cosmos – all from the comfort of Armagh Observatory and Planetarium’s digital dome theatre. Let the music transport you to another world as you gaze up at the night sky. It’s the perfect way to start the week ahead.
  3. Todds Leap Family Open Park Days, Ballygawley, County Tyrone, 29 June. Join the fun at Todd’s Leap Family Open Park Days. Experience over 15 amazing activities, from ziplining and blindfold driving to the Big Yella Slide and Clip ‘N’ Climb. From 11am, there’s fun for everyone.
  4. Taste Summer Ards and North Down, Newtownards, County Down, 26 June – 6 July. Authentic food and drink experiences, celebrating the first feast of summer over two weeks at unique venues by local producers. A series of free and ticketed events showcasing the very best of Ards and North Down’s food and drink, with the popular Comber Earlies Food Festival on Saturday 28 June.
  5. Open Ground Guided Experience at Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Bellaghy, County Londonderry, 25 June. Open Ground is a unique visitor experience centred on locations that shaped Seamus Heaney’s life and literature, including places from The Strand at Lough Beg to the Moyola River, which allows visitors the opportunity to discover the smells, sights and sounds that make his poetry so uniquely of this place.
  6. Guided Historical Tour of the Earl Bishop’s Estate at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, Castlerock, County Londonderry, 23 June. Join the National Trust and Hervey Heritage Group on a journey through time and history across one of the jewels of the Causeway Coast. Taking off from the Bishop’s Gate entrance of Downhill Demesne, this two-hour walk-and-talk will take you through the Earl Bishop Hervey’s estate, including his gardens and ‘castle’.
  7. The Archbishop’s Palace Tour, Armagh, County Armagh, 22 June – 31 August. This tour takes you on a visit to the Archbishop’s Palace in Armagh, telling the history and heritage of the building, viewing the art collection by local artist JB Valley as well as the servants’ tunnel and the Primates Chapel.
  8. Sundays on the Maritime Mile, Belfast, until 31 August. This summer, Belfast’s Waterfront comes to life every Sunday from June to August with free pop-up music and animation for all ages. Enjoy toe-tapping traditional music, jazz and DJ sessions, pop-up science demonstrations, mini-golf and more. Bring the family, meet friends, and enjoy Sundays on the Maritime Mile. Free event, no booking required.
  9. Golf Art Exhibition at The Bushmills Inn, Bushmills, County Antrim, until 31 July. Visit the exhibition by talented artist Kathryn Callaghan upstairs in ‘The Loft’ at the Bushmills Inn. Entry is free and the exhibition is open during hotel hours. Discover thirteen ‘poured’ golf course paintings plus ‘Master Swing’, a piece inspired by Rory McIlroy after his win at The Masters this year.
  10. Wine Geese Festival, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, until 28 June. Join in celebrating 300 years since Thomas Barton, one of the most famous Wine Geese, emigrated from Fermanagh to Bordeaux. This festival honours the Barton family’s rich connection to the Fermanagh Lakelands and will showcase the finest wine and food experiences the region has to offer.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Subject to availabilities with select dates.

 

Discover NI’s Offers of the Week!

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The Rabbit Hotel, Templepatrick, County Antrim

 

Sip into summer at the Rabbit Hotel where your ultimate summer escape is calling. From £180 per room, enjoy an overnight stay, a complimentary bottle of bubbles, access to The Spa from noon, a private Duo Clay Ritual for two and a dreamy breakfast the next morning. Available Sunday – Thursday throughout June, July and August 2025, excluding 14th – 20th July. Visit www.rabbithotel.com for more information.

 

The Harrison Chambers of Distinction, Belfast

 

Add a little sporting legend to your summer with a luxurious stay at The Harrison Chambers of Distinction. Starting from £350, your boutique golf experience begins with two nights in one of their beautifully designed Aristocrat or Show Stopper rooms. Follow in Rory McIlroy’s footsteps with guaranteed tee times at Holywood Golf Club and enjoy a private tour of the historic clubhouse where his story began. Each morning, wake to a freshly prepared breakfast. Visit https://www.chambersofdistinction.com for more information.

  

For more inspiration or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com.  

  

Offers are correct at the time of publication and are subject to availability and change without notice. Terms and Conditions apply to each offer and can be viewed on the individual provider’s websites. Tourism NI acts as a promoter of third-party offers and accepts no responsibility for any changes, withdrawals, or inaccuracies made by providers. 

 

Summer Film Screenings at The Market Place Theatre – Fun, Friendly, and Inclusive!

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The Market Place Theatre is delighted to announce two special film screenings this summer designed to welcome everyone to enjoy the magic of the movies in a relaxed and dog-friendly environment.

Relaxed Film Screening: A Bug’s Life
Saturday 19 July | 11am | Tickets: £5 / £3 (children)

Join us for a heartwarming adventure in A Bug’s Life, the beloved animated tale of Flik, a determined ant who recruits a troupe of circus bugs to save his colony from the intimidating grasshopper gang led by Hopper. This relaxed screening is perfect for individuals who benefit from a more comfortable, sensory-friendly environment — including those with autism spectrum conditions, learning difficulties, or sensory and communication needs. Of course, it’s open to all who want to enjoy the film in a calm, welcoming atmosphere.

Dog Friendly Film Screening: The Fox and The Hound
Friday 4 July | 11am | Tickets: £5 / £3 (children)
Bring your furry friends along to this special dog-friendly screening of The Fox and The Hound. Watch the touching story of unlikely friendship between Tod the fox and Copper the hound puppy unfold, right alongside your canine companions. Please note, dogs must remain on leads and owners are responsible for their pets’ comfort and cleanliness. We provide water bowls, blankets, and a relaxed setting for you and your dogs to enjoy the show together.

 

Book your tickets now and make the most of these unique cinema experiences at The Market Place Theatre this summer. Whether you’re seeking a sensory-friendly movie morning or a fun outing with your dog, these screenings promise joy and community spirit for all ages

Tickets can be booked online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre or through the Box Office on 03300 561 025.

Explore the magical world of the Dragonfly Festival at WWT Castle Espie this summer  

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This summer get ready to explore activities that celebrate the wonderful world of dragonflies at WWT Castle Espie, the charity for wetlands and wildlife, at the first Dragonfly Festival.

From 21 June to 22 September, festival goers are invited to let their imagination run wild, enjoy an immersive experience in wetland nature featuring a dazzling line-up of dragonfly-themed events and activities all summer long.

Everyone from young and young-at-heart can follow, zip, dart and flutter their way to a great adventure and enjoy expert-guided walks exploring the secret lives of dragonflies that dwell in one of the UK’s blue spaces or enjoy the spectacular wild outdoor adventure area. Go pond dipping and discover the wonderful world of minibeasts living below the surface or take part in dragonfly challenges and giant outdoor dragonfly-themed games.

Headliners at the first Dragonfly Festival at WWT Castle Espie include: craft your very own eco-friendly pet dragonfly, relax to the soothing sounds of local musicians Daniel Halleron and Mark Hamilton during the Sunday music sessions, and immerse yourself in a tranquil sound bath with Tessa Ann. Let imaginations soar with shimmering dragonfly crafts, stretch and flutter through a fun-filled mini beast yoga session, and don’t miss a magical encounter with Bella Butterfly who will be ready for photos, friendly chats and spreading her love of wildflowers and pollinators.

 

 

 

As part of an ongoing volunteer relationship WWT Castle Espie and Strides Day Opportunities Service (DOS), who provide opportunities and experiences for young adults with additional needs aged between 19-30yrs in Bangor, Ards and across North Down to develop their potential to work towards supported employment, worked together to provide colourful festival dressings which will be located around WWT Castle Espie for festivalgoers to enjoy as they participate in the Dragonfly Festival. Strides DOS person-centred approach empowers these adults to learn, develop socially and stay active physically.

Paul Stewart, Centre Manager at WWT Castle Espie, said:
“WWT Castle Espie is looking forward to our first Dragonfly Festival. WWT  Castle Espie is a fantastic place to see species such as damselflies and dragonflies, and we hope many will take this opportunity to enjoy the amazing array of activities we have on offer this summer. We are also delighted that the young adults from our volunteer partner Strides Day Opportunities Service were able to help us prepare for the festival and I am sure everyone will enjoy the spectacular and colourful contribution they have made to the Dragonfly festival.”

Strides Director, Robert McGowan added:
“We are delighted to have been involved in the design of the dressings used for the first Dragonfly Festival at WWT Castle Espie!  When the invite came from Education Officer John McCullough, everyone was very excited, and the planning began!  The group have loved the whole process; getting together to do some research online, chatting about all our ideas, sketching and then finally recreating it all on the festival dressings.  Well done everyone at Team Strides; you can all be very proud of your efforts!”

Participation in the WWT Dragonfly Festival at WWT Castle Espie is included with the price of admission and is free to WWT members. Festival visitors booking online in advance, can take advantage of a 10% reduction in ticket prices. There are also reduced-price tickets (£5 per adult or £3 per child) for anyone who is in receipt of Universal Credit and Pension Credit. These must be pre-booked up to one day before the visit day.  More information and a full what’s on calendar for the WWT Dragonfly Festival at Castle Espie visit Dragonfly Festival at Castle Espie Wetland Centre | Summer Events & Activities | WWT.

LQ BID TUNES INTO BELFAST’S CULTURAL BEAT WITH MAKE MUSIC DAY AND TRADFEST

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Public spaces to transform into a cultural stage for music and heritage

 
The Linen Quarter is turning up the volume this summer with the return of Make Music Day. Backed by LQ BID in partnership with Making Music NI – the membership organisation for leisure-time music groups – this major cultural event will celebrate the city’s diverse music scene and its vibrant future as a UNESCO City of Music.
Make Music Day will take place on Saturday 21st June with the BID, transforming the Linen Quarter into a live music stage with performances across three outdoor locations. From 12pm to 6pm, local and international musicians will bring rhythm and energy to public spaces, including Flaxx Outdoor Living Room on Brunswick Street, the Rory Gallagher Statue outside Ulster Hall, and Belfast Grand Central Station.
Performers will include Rebecca Hall Harp & Voice, Canadian singer-songwriter Natalie Haskins, and Fortwilliam Musical Society, among others, weaving a colourful musical experience for all to enjoy.
Stephen Maginn, Communications and Events Manager at LQ BID, said, “Music is woven into the fabric of the Linen Quarter, and hosting Make Music Day again reinforces our commitment to promoting culture and creativity in public spaces. We’re proud to partner with Making Music NI to deliver the Linen Quarter Belfast’s contribution to this global celebration of music, which will take place in 1000+ cities worldwide simultaneously – enhancing the everyday experience of workers, residents, and visitors through the universal language of music.”
In further commitment to cultural celebrations, the Linen Quarter will also host Belfast TradFest events for the first time, bringing a lively celebration of traditional music, dance, and culture throughout the month of July at Belfast Grand Central Station. Expect spontaneous céilís, bodhrán circles, and captivating performances from emerging and established artists, animating the new station – the gateway to the Linen Quarter and the city.
The festival’s Artistic Director, Dónal O’Connor, said, “Belfast TradFest is a celebration of the rich cultural traditions that shape our identity – through music, song, and dance that reflect the shared heritage of Ireland and Scotland. It’s about telling our stories, preserving our history, and connecting communities across generations. Since the festival began six years ago, we’ve seen an incredible rise in young people embracing traditional music. This year, we’re proud to partner with LQ BID to bring TradFest into the heart of the city and to iconic locations like Belfast Grand Central Station, inviting people to experience the energy and inclusivity of traditional arts in the heart of Belfast.”
Chris McCracken, Managing Director of LQ BID, added: “Bringing TradFest to the Linen Quarter is a major milestone. Alongside Make Music Day, it positions Belfast Grand Central Station as more than a transport hub – it becomes a cultural anchor for the city. These events not only animate the space but build momentum ahead of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026, which promises to be the biggest event Belfast has ever hosted. This is part of our wider vision to extend the city-wide festivals into the Linen Quarter and reimagine the district as a place where culture and connectivity thrive.”
In 2021, Belfast earned the prestigious designation of UNESCO City of Music – a recognition of its rich musical legacy and ongoing commitment to nurturing creativity across all genres. The return of Make Music Day and the addition of TradFest mark significant steps in that cultural journey.
To find out more about Make Music Day and TradFest events, visit linenquarter.org/events.

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