Electrical Workers Urged to Share Experiences in Vital Electric Shock Survey

By

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

By

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

By

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

By

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

By

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

By

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

By

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.

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

By

Marine Hotel, Ballycastle, County Antrim

Escape to the beach this summer with Marine Hotel’s ‘Summer One Night Family Break’ offer starting from £199 midweek. This offer includes bed and full breakfast for two adults and up to two children, additional children £22.00. Explore Ballycastle Beach with complimentary buckets and spades for your little ones on arrival and discover the local area with Penny’s Summer Scavenger Hunt. Enjoy some family time playing board games in the lounge or explore the children’s play park just outside the front of the hotel. Offer available until the end of August. Visit www.marinehotelballycastle.com for more information.

 

The Valley Hotel, Fivemiletown, County Tyrone

Tick Cuilcagh off the bucket list and enjoy an overnight stay with The Valley Hotel before or after your climb, with bed and breakfast, bubbles and packed lunch. Starting from £129 for a double room, the offer includes an overnight stay, delicious full Irish breakfast in the morning, bottle of bubbly, packed lunch in picnic backpack and complimentary car parking for all guests. Offer available from Sunday to Thursday, until 30 September. Visit www.thevalleyhotel.com for more information.

 

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

 

For more information on what’s on or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com

SOMA FEST 2024 Returns To Castlewellan This Month

By

The well known SOMA Festival will be returning to Castlewellan, County Down later this month with a whole host of musical performances, exciting activities and holistic experiences.

Running from July 19-21, the ever-popular SOMA Festival will feature a variety of performances, offering audiences the chance to embrace the alternative festival vibe that can’t be found anywhere else.

The three-day event has been specially curated by the SOMA volunteer team to ensure that the best artists from across the island of Ireland and beyond will be in attendance.

Tíona McSherry, SOMA Festival Director, said she was delighted to develop another fantastic line-up for this year’s event along with the wider team.

She 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.

With a full line-up set to be released in due course there will be a number of festival hubs scattered around the town with SOMA on the Square, Little Gems and Mind, Body & Soul also making a return.

Tíona added: “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.”

SOMA Festival 2024 is set to offer a welcome space for everyone regardless of what they’re interested in, including everything from live music and family entertainment to nature walks and meditation sessions.

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

Orangefest Celebrations Set For July 12 At Belfast City Hall

By

Jonathan Walker, Ravenhill Road Volunteers LOL 580 and Leah Magill, Pride of the Raven Flute Band

A whole host of family fun activities is planned to take place at Belfast’s City Hall in conjunction with the annual parades to commemorate The Twelfth.

Created to complement the July 12 parades, Orangefest 2024 will take place from 10am-4pm at both Belfast City Hall and surrounding areas in Royal Avenue.

Established in 2007, Orangefest was created to enhance the well-known yearly parades with a variety of inclusive and entertaining activities. 

The 2024 festival boasts an impressive line-up from an international food market in the grounds of City Hall organised by Food NI and Taste of Ulster offering up a range of local and international cuisines as well as live cooking demonstrations.

Circusful street entertainers will be bringing their award-winning street theatre to the grounds of City Hall where stilt walkers, drumming workshop from community tribal drummers, drop in circus skills and circus shows provided free and suitable for all ages.

County Grand Master, Rt. Wor. Bro. Spencer Beattie said the organising committee are delighted “to be bringing together a variety of activities to encourage people to remain in the city centre throughout the morning.”

He said: “Our message this year is that Belfast is very much going to be open for business during the 12th July celebrations.

“Many retailers throughout the city centre have committed to remaining opening during the festivities from 1pm to 5pm and we want to encourage people to enjoy their time in the city centre responsibly and safely.”

As well as the programme of events in the grounds of City Hall there will also be a range of Belfast City Hall guided tours available throughout the morning allowing people to experience the city’s rich history.

Mr Beattie said he looks forward to welcoming people from all across the city to Orangefest this year: “It is our mission to enhance the well-known 12th of July celebrations by providing additional activities that are educational, entertaining, and accessible to all, fostering a sense of community and togetherness in Belfast.

“As we enjoy the spectacle of the 334th annual demonstration of the Battle of the Boyne, we are looking forward to a feast of activity at Belfast City Hall.

“We aspire to make the Belfast 12th a globally recognised event that not only highlights the cultural significance of the day but also promotes unity and economic growth. 

“Through our efforts, we aim to remove barriers, foster mutual respect, and create a positive and inclusive environment for all citizens and visitors.”

The events will also be complemented by a range of eye-catching street dressings and display banners, adding to the festive atmosphere by Image Zoo.

© Copyright What's On NI 2017. All Rights Reserved.