The Ulster Youth Orchestra is regarded as one of the jewels in the crown of the local arts scene, with a reputation for excellence in all its performances. Established in 1993, the Ulster Youth Orchestra continues to flourish as the premier showcase youth orchestra in Northern Ireland.

Following rigorous competitive auditions, 94 talented young musicians have been selected to attend the annual summer course in preparation for two public concerts in Derry-Londonderry and Belfast.  The young players will be coached by a team of highly experienced professional tutors during the intensive 10-day residential course at Greenmount Agricultural College, Antrim.

This year’s programme begins with the exuberant Overture to Colas Breugnon by Kabalevsky.  A riotous and accessible opener to set the mood!   Prokofiev picks up the dramatic baton as the audience are treated to a selection of movements from arguably one of the best loved ballets, Romeo and Juliet.  To close the concert, Bartók’s folk-inspired Concerto for Orchestra gives every section of the orchestra a chance to shine and dazzle in this eternally popular work.

Paula Klein, UYO General Manager, says:

“The excitement is palpable as the young people prepare this summer’s fantastic repertoire and we make our last-minute arrangements ahead of UYO 2024.  Many of this year’s members will be here for the first time which adds an exciting edge to the course as we uncover new talent.  We look forward to welcoming everyone, to working hard, having fun and to producing high quality, sparkling performances!”

The Ulster Youth Orchestra is grateful for the substantial funding it receives from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland to support its work.

Ciaran Scullion, Head of Music and Opera, Arts Council of Northern Ireland, added,

“The Arts Council of Northern Ireland is proud to be principal funder of the Ulster Youth Orchestra, the foremost youth music provider in the training, development, and showcasing of our finest young, classical musicians in Northern Ireland.  Funding from The National Lottery is a game changer in enabling this important organisation to create the next generation of classical musicians in the region, and I would encourage everyone to go along to the performances at the Guildhall and Ulster Hall, which promise to be two evenings of tremendous music.”

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Thirty years of partnership between Belfast and Nashville is being celebrated with a sister cities cultural fusion festival of food and music this month

This month, Belfast and Nashville are commemorating 30 years of a sister city partnership with a vibrant festival of culture, food and music. Established in 1994, the partnership between the two cities has grown into a remarkable fusion of traditions, creating a unique bridge connecting their shared heritage.

To mark the sister cities milestone, Nashville 2 Belfast will showcase the flavours and sounds of Nashville in Belfast next weekend. The exchange of culinary practices between Belfast and Nashville has enabled chefs from both cities to showcase their talents, deepening the appreciation of each other’s culinary traditions. This weekend festival of events is set to tantalise the taste buds while fostering deeper cultural connections. The bond between Belfast and Nashville is further strengthened through music, a universal language that resonates into the very soul of both cities. Belfast’s rich musical heritage, spanning traditional folk to contemporary rock, finds a kindred spirit in Nashville, the world’s capital of country music.

Nashville 2 Belfast celebrations commence with a civic reception hosted by Belfast’s Lord Mayor recognising the enduring transatlantic bond.

On Friday 23 August a Nashville-style gala dinner and cabaret in The Culloden Estate and Spa will encourage guests to discover the rhythm of Nashville and the charm of Belfast as they come together in a fusion of flavours and sounds. Guests will enjoy authentic Southern dishes while being serenaded by Ginger Newman, Jill Andrews and The Nashville Tenors.

On Saturday 24 August at St Comgall’s in Belfast a day of family friendly activities begins with a musical workshop led by singer songwriter Jill Andrews, aimed at children keen to hone their musical talents. Throughout the day the world-renowned pop-up Monell’s Restaurant, direct from Nashville, will serve up a menu including Southern-style fried chicken and more, from breakfast through to dinner. Monell’s will also serve brunch on Sunday 25 August at St Comgall’s.

McConnell’s Distillery at Crumlin Road Gaol will be the setting for an intimate gig with Jill Andrews on Saturday evening. Guests will be treated to a welcome beverage and Nashville-style dessert before being entertained by Jill and her friends.

Nashville 2 Belfast is spearheaded by restaurateur and entrepreneur Michael King, whose passion for cultural exchange has been instrumental in fostering this sister city relationship. Speaking ahead of the festival, Michael said: “I’m extremely proud to be celebrating the 30^th anniversary of the sister city bond between Nashville and Belfast. By bringing together chefs, artists and cultural ambassadors, we’re honouring our rich heritage and laying the foundation for future cross-Atlantic collaborations. This celebration is a testament to the power of international friendship and co-operation.”

For more information and to purchase tickets to the various Nashville 2 Belfast events on 23 and 24 August, please visit www.nashvilleto.com

The 5th instalment of the annual Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition will take place on September 12, boasting the biggest gathering of its kind in Northern Ireland.

The Titanic Exhibition Centre will host the event, bringing Belfast into the industry spotlight by offering a space for UK & Ireland’s manufacturing leaders to network.

Centred around recent technological developments and innovative approaches to research in the field, the day-long feat is open to both established and new professionals in the sector.

Several manufacturers of varying scales from Northern Ireland and beyond will be in attendance, providing their insights and experience to other event goers. 

Managing Director, Colin Murphy, from organisers Premier Publishing & Events, said the conference and exhibition will serve as a platform for relevant manufacturing giants to discuss the country’s supply chain and pressing issues that the industry is currently facing. 

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

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

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

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

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

Delegates from across different manufacturing sectors, such as food, pharmaceutical, medical, chemical, electronics and engineering, can be expected to speak on their experience, enabling everyone in attendance to understand potentially unseen sides of the market.

Dedicated exhibition areas will also allow professionals and businesses alike to meet with key technology providers.

Throughout the day the event will cover topical themes such as Procurement, Lean Manufacturing, Control & Automation, Supply Chain Optimisation, Information Technology Logistics, Energy Management, Facilities Management Sustainability, Project Management, Health & Safety Warehouse Management, Materials Handling & Robotics.

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

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

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

Organised by Linen Quarter Business Improvement District (LQ BID) Bankmore Square will once again play host to a range of free events and employee experiences over the course of the summer – so bring your lunch outside! Expect outdoor concerts, yoga sessions, petting zoo, pickleball, circus acts and free ice cream!

Music on Mondays

Every Monday until September 2: 12.30pm-2.00pm

What better way to start the week then with an Al Fresco lunch and some music? Every Monday throughout the programme LQ BID will have a range of music to enjoy. Next up is Rock Choir, taking place Monday 19 August, 12.00pm – 1:00pm.

Pickleball

Wednesday 14^th August: 12.00pm – 2:00pm

As the fastest growing sport in America, Pickleball combines elements of Tennis, Badminton and Ping Pong. Coach Phil Wilson will be on hand to demonstrate and organise some fun games.

Bankmore KickAss Bootcamp

Thursday 15^th August:  5.00pm – 5.45pm

Join Gary Milligan from Kickass Bootcamp – Winner of Fitness Class of the Year 2022- for a kickass exercise session designed to support, motivate and set the foundation for future fitness efforts.

Spinning Yarns Walking Tour

Sunday 18^th August: 10.30am – 12.30pm

Developed in partnership with Creative Tours Belfast, Spinning Yarns Walking Tour will dive into the history of the Linen Quarter weaving together stories of its people and bringing to life a legacy spanning over 250 years. *A limited number of free tickets for each tour will be available to employees of Linen Quarter-based organisations. For non-members, tickets are priced at £16.

Donkey Petting Day

Wednesday 21st August: 12.00pm – 2:00pm

This unique and family friendly event will feature a visit from Kinedale Donkeys who will be setting up a temporary pen in the centre of Bankmore Square. Come along to meet, pet and feed some of their donkeys!

Yoga in the Park

Tuesday 27th:12.30pm – 1.15pm

Get your zen on with outdoor yoga in the park next to the serene wildflower meadow. Hosted by Eimear from Tula Yoga, this class is an ideal opportunity to take a well-deserved break. Yoga mats will be provided.

Family Petting Zoo

Wednesday September 4^th: 12.00pm – 2:00pm

Stop by the family petting zoo on September 4th to check out the snakes, hedgehogs, rabbits, and creepy crawlies!

Events are open to all members of the public, however some are weather dependent. Check out @LinenQuarter on social media for the latest updates and view the full list of events and updates at linenquarter.org/event/bankmore-square-summer-event-series/

The Woodland Trust Northern Ireland is hosting a public art exhibition by Rob Hilken in three of its sites in August and September.

Visual Artist Rob will install the ‘High Alert’ series in some of the conservation charity’s sites across Northern Ireland. The art exhibition will also be launched as part of the Golden Thread Gallery’s reopening in Belfast on Saturday 10 August.

‘High Alert!’ is raising awareness of the Woodland Trust’s core aims to create new native woodland, protect existing trees, and restore ancient woodland. And the sites chosen for Rob’s exhibition fittingly demonstrate how the Woodland Trust is doing just that across Northern Ireland. Additionally, the installation will highlight the health benefits of getting out into nature and Rob is combining his love of woodlands and art with this public exhibition.

Communications, Engagement and Volunteer Manager for the Woodland Trust Northern Ireland Lynsey Nixon added: “We’re delighted that Rob has chosen to bring his public art into the Woodland Trust woods. We hope that the installation will bring something fresh to our regular visitors and attract new curious visitors to our woods, which are free for everyone to enjoy.”

Artist Rob Hilken commented: “I have been a member of the Woodland Trust for 18 years as I respect their core values, and I wanted to bring public awareness to their work across Northern Ireland. Trees and woods have so many benefits for people, nature and climate. I hope my installation will merge audiences of art and nature, bringing them from the gallery to the woods, and vice versa, and shine a light on the wonderful work of this conservation charity.”

Estate Manager for the Woodland Trust Northern Ireland Dave Scott said: “Northern Ireland is the least wooded region in the UK and Ireland and in Europe with less than 9% tree cover. Northern Ireland also ranks as the 12^th worst area for biodiversity loss in a survey of 240 countries. The urgency for the work of the Woodland Trust in Northern Ireland has never been greater so we must plant more trees, protect our existing trees and woods and restore our precious ancient woodland.”

You can visit Rob’s installation at the following woodland sites over three weekends in August and September:

Glas-na-Bradan Wood 16 – 18 August: Find ‘High Alert’ installation at the feature salmon ford, and along the trail to the top of the hill.

Glas-na-Bradan Wood is a perfect example of a new native 57hectare woodland, made up of almost 150,000 native trees planted by hand by the local community. The native trees are a mix of oak, scots pine, rowan, birch and alder.

The Faughan Valley Woodlands – 29 August – 2 September: Search for Rob’s ‘High Alert’ installation at Oaks Wood and at the amphitheatre at Brackfield Wood.

The Woodland Trust has been protecting pockets of ancient woodland in the Faughan Valley since for almost 25 years. In August 2023, the conservation charity realised its vision of reconnecting these fragile fragments into the Faughan Valley Woodlands creating corridors for wildlife and greater access to the public.

Mourne Park – 13 – 15 September: Look for Rob’s ‘High Alert’ installation along the Whitewater River.

The Woodland Trust Northern Ireland looks after 188 hectares of Mourne Park, including 73 hectares of precious ancient woodland. The conservation charity is in the process of restoring the ancient woodland by removing invasive species such as rhododendron, to allow the trees to naturally flourish and realised its vision of creating public access in August 2022.

Causeway Coast and Glens has once again been highlighted for its outstanding beaches in the 16th edition of the Times and Sunday Times Best UK Beaches guide.

The guide which only includes beaches where the water quality is rated excellent, awarded Ballycastle the winning spot for Northern Ireland, while White Park Bay and Benone were also shortlisted alongside Murlough in County Down.

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Ciarán McQuillan said: “I am delighted that 3 of our beaches have featured on the Best UK beaches guide.

“Our Destination team has just launched their new summer guide and our beaches are just one of many draws for visitors to the Borough. The guide also covers the best places to picnic and for those who love the beach, seaside restaurants are also highlighted.

“With so many of us holidaying at home I’d encourage you to plan your next break by visiting Council’s dedicated site visit.causewaycoastandglens.com where there is a wealth of information to help you plan your next trip.”

Staying with the seaside theme, the summer guide also covers the many and varied water-based activities that visitors to the Borough can book, from surfing to sea safaris and coasteering.

Kerrie McGonigle Destination Manager said: “We know that here in the Borough our fantastic scenery and award-winning beaches are a real draw for visitors.

“For our summer campaign we’ve worked closely with local tourism providers to showcase what they offer, so whether it’s a wellness experience, horse riding on the beach or sunset cocktails – Causeway Coast and Glens has plenty to offer.”

For more information on how to plan your summer break in Causeway Coast and Glens visit: https://www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com/summer

– The acclaimed celebration of Belfast’s food and drink venues is in its fifth year –

– The concept is expected to increase footfall and help consumers discover NI’s food heritage –

Belfast Restaurant Week, led by Belfast City’s three Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) – Belfast One, Destination CQ, and Linen Quarter BID, has announced it will return for 2024 from the 7th to the 13th October. Food establishments across the city are being encouraged to register to participate in the acclaimed event, now in its fifth year. Whilst in previous years, the event’s format has focused on value, this year the celebration has evolved to allow hospitality venues to host creative experiences from food pairings to tasting menus to demonstrations and masterclasses.

In 2023 Belfast Restaurant Week had remarkable success with 49 restaurants taking part, leading to an estimated £190K additional spend across the city centre. As Damian Corr, Manager at Destination CQ BID, explains, this year’s fresh concept hopes to address the challenges faced by the hospitality industry by unlocking more opportunity for venues to get involved.

He said, “Belfast Restaurant Week is a highlight of our food and drink calendar, with thousands of foodies supporting the celebration year-on-year and taking a greater bite out of what they know to be the local food scene. The event is a celebration that is all about exploring and discovering Belfast’s rich culinary scene. This year, we’ve enhanced the programme to ensure participating venues can include unique and experience-driven events. Our hospitality industry has shown incredible resilience over the past few years – signalling the quality of our offering and highlighting how important the culinary experience is to Belfast as a destination. We look forward to collaborating with hospitality businesses once again this year to ensure this event continues to be a success.”

Over the coming months offers and experiences available will be listed on the Belfast Restaurant Week website.

Stephen Haller, Director and Owner of Home Restaurant Belfast said, “Moving beyond solely an offer-led experience to include unique events and experiences gives businesses the chance to really connect with our customers in new and exciting ways. Last year, the set menu we introduced for Restaurant Week was such a hit that we decided to keep it going even after the event had finished, and we’re eager to see what innovations we can bring this time around.

“The restaurant industry can be challenging, with rising costs and staffing shortages, so anything that brings a buzz and gets people excited to dine out is something we wholeheartedly support. We’re looking forward to contributing to a vibrant atmosphere in Belfast and making this year’s Restaurant Week the best one yet. We can’t wait to see everyone come out and enjoy what we’ve got planned!”

Last month Belfast’s three city BIDs appointed Michael Stewart as the city centre’s first Night Czar. A crucial element of the role is to support hospitality businesses to enhance the night-time economy.

Damien continues, “Belfast is an exceptional performer when it comes to food and drink. It’s home to some of the world’s best talent and Northern Ireland food produce is acclaimed for its quality. Restaurant Week is a platform that makes sense – it showcases the flair and creativity of our establishments and offers consumers a compelling reason to get out and enjoy the food scene. I commend the BIDs for their continued efforts in creating a landmark event that brings the industry together whilst also opening up opportunity to drive footfall.”

For more information on Belfast Restaurant Week and upcoming offers visit belfastrestaurantweek.org. Hospitality businesses interested in participating should contact Lesley@theeventor.com

Hastings Hotels is inviting guests to enjoy a summer staycation in August and visit some of the fabulous landmarks, attractions and tourism attractions on our doorstep.

Natural Wonders

Northern Ireland has lots of natural wonders that can make you gasp in sheer appreciation of their beauty and are an absolute must-see. The Giant’s Causeway is a true national icon, with the columns of rock reaching out into the wild Atlantic Ocean. The mystical atmosphere of Causeway stirred our ancestors to believe in a magical otherworld of giants and flying chunks of rock, and it is every bit as inspirational today.

Perched on the tip of the famous Causeway Coastal Route, Ballygally Castle is the ideal base to explore this beautiful part of Northern Ireland. The stunning 17^th century castle offers a range of delightful dining options and is home to one of the famous Game of Thrones doors made from fallen trees of the iconic Dark Hedges. If you’re brave enough, take a trip to the Ghost Room to see if you can spot Ballygally Castle’s friendly ghost, Lady Isabella Shaw.

Ballygally Castle is giving guests the chance to discover Ireland’s historic beauty this summer with the new Glenarm Castle Package from only £180 per room, per night. Enjoy an overnight stay, Full Irish Breakfast and exclusive access to Glenarm Castle’s stunning grounds.

Culinary Experiences

Calling all foodies… From traditional tastes such as Ulster fry and the Comber Potato, to food from Northern Ireland’s waters, there’s a lot of heritage and delicious recipes ready to be shared. There are lots of tasty food tours to avail of including Toast The Coast – a celebration of local Northern Ireland food on the Antrim Coast Road & Glens. Enjoy local people, stories and the stunning coastal scenery.

Stay at the 5-star Grand Central Hotel, home to Ireland’s tallest cocktail bar, the Observatory and a delectable range of dining options including the Grand Café and the Seahorse Restaurant with a stunningly innovative eight-course Tasting Menu and a new 4-course table d’Hote menu of intricate delicacies.

Treat yourself to the ‘The Taste of Grand Central’ package and enjoy an overnight stay, eight-courses of intricate delicacy with the new seasonal Tasting Menu and breakfast the following morning from £380* based on two people sharing.  

Northern Ireland on Screen 

In recent years, Northern Ireland has become a popular location for smash-hit films and TV series. Home of Derry Girls, Derry-Londonderry plays a starring role in the show with the historic 400-year-old city walls, Bogside area and iconic landmarks such as The Guildhall and city’s churches all used as a backdrop.

The Everglades Hotel is perfectly located to visit the filming locations from the hit show and visitors can Be a Derry Girl from £180* per room (based on two people sharing) and enjoy luxurious overnight accommodation with breakfast and the hotel’s famous themed Derry Girls Afternoon Tea with cocktail and a selection of tasty treats including sandwiches, freshly baked scones & breads and pastry assortment with a Derry Girls twist – sausage roll baps, fresh cream horns, cone of chips.

Guests will also have the chance to get their picture taken with the hotel’s famous resident, Michelle the Derry Girls duck!

For further information or to book a summer staycation with Hastings Hotels go to www.hastingshotels.com or call 028 9047 1066.

*Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability.