The historic Portico of Ards in Portaferry is set to come alive with vibrant music, arts and cultural events as the much-anticipated Feel Good Festival, 1 – 31 March 2025, prepares to awaken your senses and welcome in Spring with five weekends of sumptuous sounds.

Celebrating energy and renewal, the festival offers an exciting range of performances and activities designed to uplift, inspire and bring people together.

0The festival gathers a diverse mix of artists, performers and visitors, fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates community, creativity and the joy of coming together. From choral, classical, folk, electronic, organ, rock and pop music as well as comedy, the Feel Good Festival, against the backdrop of Portico’s stunning architecture, will immerse attendees in a celebration of the senses.

The Feel Good Festival programme features: Nordic choral sensation Sjaella; New York’s finest chamber ensemble The Calidore String Quartet; Motown magic from the 60s and 70s with The Iconettes; Come on and Sing, Get Happy! workshop with Una McCann; DJ Reductio presents The Mashup Dance Event; organ recital with Peter Stevens from Westminster Cathedral; new and acclaimed local (NI) pop/rock band The Breeze; Sound Bath Journey with Tessa Ann; comedy with Paddy McDonnell: Dagger and 50 Years of Hits with Foster & Allen.

The Feel Good Festival is supported by Ards and North Down Borough Council and the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.

Feel Good Festival Director, Dr Verity Peet commented:
 “Join us this March as we celebrate the spirit of renewal, creativity, and connection. Let Portico awaken your senses for a joyful experience as we welcome the return of Spring, and prepare for a time of renewal and growth. This year’s Feel Good Festival is all about engaging the senses and creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere. Whatever your tastes, we think we’ve got something for everyone.”

Ciaran Scullion, Head of Music and Opera, Arts Council of Northern Ireland said:
“We know that music and the arts bring people and communities closer together and we congratulate Portico on curating this terrific Feel Good Festival which will bring joy and creativity into the heart of Portaferry.  The festival celebrates and shines a light on local talent by providing a vital performance platform and the Arts Council is delighted to support Portico, thanks to game-changing funding from The National Lottery.  We wish everyone involved every success.”

Wendy Smith, Tourism Manager for Ards and North Down Borough Council, added:
“Ards and North Down Borough Council are delighted to support such a vibrant and imaginative programme set in such wonderful surroundings. I would encourage everyone to get their tickets early for the Feel Good Festival!”

For further information on booking festival tickets and accommodation offers visit www.porticoards.com.  Follow Portico of Ards on Facebook and Instagram @porticoportaferry #FeelGoodFestival2025.

The 4 Corners Festival is returning in 2025 for its 13th year, with a packed lineup of inspiring and thought-provoking talks, discussions, and workshops that promise to engage and challenge attendees. With the theme Home? as its focus, the festival runs from 31 January to 9 February across Belfast, offering a diverse programme designed to spark meaningful conversations.

From exploring the theology of homelessness to uncovering the history of Belfast’s streets, this year’s festival will push the boundaries of dialogue, reflection, and understanding. 

Here are six thought-provoking talks taking place during the festival in 2025.

1. Caring for Our Earthly Home

Sunday 2 February 2025 at 7PM
Jennymount Methodist Church, 222 North Queen Street

Dr Lorna Gold, Chair of the Laudato Si’ Movement, delves into our shared responsibility to care for the Earth in this compelling event. Drawing on her book Climate Generation – Awakening to Our Children’s Future, Dr Gold explores how faith and action can address the threats of climate change. 

Attendees will be challenged and inspired to consider how connections between humanity and the planet can create a more sustainable future. The event also features a musical performance by Cork songwriter Clare Sands, whose innovative style reimagines traditional music.

2. Naming Belfast: Learning About Street Names in the Four Corners of Belfast

Monday 3 February 2025 at 7:30PM
The Duncairn, Duncairn Avenue

Take a journey through Belfast’s history with Dr Paul Tempan, Fr Martin Magill, Linda Ervine, and singer-songwriter Brian Houston. This enlightening discussion uncovers the stories behind the city’s street names, exploring how layers of conquest, empire, and cultural shifts have shaped its identity. 

Expect a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Belfast’s heritage, brought to life through music, conversation, and fascinating insights.

3. Home in a Time of Homelessness

Tuesday 4 February 2025 at 7:30PM
St Comgall’s, Divis Street

Homelessness takes many forms, and this powerful talk by Siobhán Garrigan, Loyola Professor of Theology at Trinity College Dublin, challenges modern theology’s understanding of ‘home’. Siobhán explores the intersection of theology, consumerism, and nationalism, presenting a revolutionary idea of home as ‘participating instead of possessing.’ 

The event features music by Caroline Orr, Norman McKinley, and Peter Greer, creating an atmosphere of reflection and hope.

4. Can We Bring Reconciliation Home?

Thursday 6 February 2025 at 7:30 PM
St Mary’s College, 191 Falls Road

How far has Northern Ireland progressed on the road to reconciliation? This panel discussion, hosted by Will Leitch, brings together speakers including Davy Adams, Nicola Brady, Monica McWilliams, and Spike Murray to examine the challenges and opportunities for peacebuilding. 

The event also features a dramatic performance based on Psalm 85, offering a creative prelude to a vital and timely conversation.

5. In Conversation About Home with Anthony Toner and Andrea Montgomery

Friday 7 February 2025 at 7:30 PM
Fitzroy Presbyterian Church, 77 University Street

Join songwriter Anthony Toner and playwright Andrea Montgomery for a captivating conversation about how the concept of home shapes their creative work. Anthony reflects on his Coleraine childhood and East Belfast roots through his music, while Andrea shares stories from her global career, spanning four continents. 

Hosted by Steve Stockman, this event offers a unique blend of music, art, and storytelling.

6. I’ll Call You Home

Sunday 9 February 2025 at 7PM
St Colmcille’s Church, 191a Upper Newtownards Road

The festival’s closing event features a reflection on the creativity and community fostered by the Peacemakers project. Rev. Neil Craigan will bring together the themes of the festival, culminating in a stirring performance of I’ll Be Your Home by Dana Masters. 

The evening concludes with Andrew Masters leading attendees out of the festival, inspired to make Belfast a home for all.

All events at the 4 Corners Festival are free, but booking is essential. For full programme details and to secure your place, visit 4cornersfestival.com.

Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre is thrilled to once again partner with the Steinbeck Festival for its 7th year, offering an exciting and diverse programme that celebrates and explores the legacy of John Steinbeck.

From music and spoken word to theatre, storytelling, and art, this year’s festival promises to bring his timeless works to life in fresh and engaging ways.

The festival, celebrating John Steinbeck’s notable connection to Limavady, begins with one of Northern Ireland’s finest interviewers, Mark Carruthers, in conversation with award-winning journalist and author Fergal Keane on Friday 7th February. Tickets cost £12 for what is sure to be an insightful and poignant event.

The following evening, Saturday 8th February, come along and dance the night away as the Limavady Big Band play some stomping tunes as well as sharing American classics, a brilliant night out!

Following the success of the 2024 event, this year’s programme will once again spotlight an evening with local storytellers and poets. A celebration of the area’s creative talent, the event will feature heartfelt performances, including debut readings from emerging voices.

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Ciarán McQuillan said: “I am delighted to see the Steinbeck Festival return to Limavady again this year, with an exciting programme of events for adults, children and young people.

“The festival offers a fantastic opportunity to explore Steinbeck’s literature and local links, while showcasing our excellent arts facilities to the community.”

Commenting on this year’s festival Committee Member Harry Coates added: “The Festival Committee is thrilled with the exceptional quality and the variety of events in this year’s programme.

“Preparations are in full swing to make this the best festival yet, and the enthusiastic early bookings from the public reflect their excitement. We’re confident that February will bring another fantastic celebration of all things Steinbeck in Limavady.’

In a remarkable coup for the festival, Muireann Bradley, who captivated audiences on Later… with Jools Holland, will perform on Saturday 15th February. This intimate performance, part of her Irish tour, promises an unforgettable evening of raw talent and soulful melodies.

The festival concludes on Friday 28th February, with Voices from a Far Field – an enchanting evening of music, stories, and poetry performed in English, Irish, and Ulster Scots. This event is free to attend, but advance booking is essential.

The vibrant programme continues with the Steinbeck Book Cover Exhibition from 22 Feb and the Dustbowl Photography Competition, showcasing 20 striking entries on the theme “Leaving.”

The Arts Centre galleries are open throughout the Festival as follows:

• Monday: 9:30am – 5pm
• Tuesday: 9:30am – 5pm
• Wednesday: 9:30am – 5pm and 7pm – 9pm
• Thursday: 9:30am – 5pm and 7pm – 9pm
• Friday: 9:30am – 5pm
• Saturday: 10am – 1pm

For further information visit and to book tickets visit  www.roevalleyarts.com or call us on 028 7776 0650

The 4 Corners Festival is back for its 13th year, bringing an eclectic programme of events to Belfast from 31 January to 9 February 2025. 

With this year’s theme of Home?, the festival promises to inspire thought, connection, and community through a diverse range of art, music, discussion, and faith-based events.

Among the highlights of the festival are a series of captivating music performances and collaborations that explore the idea of home from a range of creative perspectives. 

Here are 7 incredible music acts set to appear at this year’s festival:

1. Canticle Sacred Music Society Choir – Morning Service

Sunday 2 February 2025 at 9:30AM
Church of St John the Evangelist, 444 Falls Rd, Belfast BT12 6EN

The Canticle Sacred Music Society Choir, the choir of the Catholic Chaplaincy at Queen’s University Belfast will set a reflective tone for the annual Morning Service broadcast on BBC Radio Ulster. Known for their dedication to sacred music, the choir’s harmonies will enrich this special service. 

Speaker Lorna Gold will share insights into our responsibilities toward the Earth, while the choir’s performance will underscore the service’s themes of care, unity, and faith.

2. Clare Sands – Caring for Our Earthly Home

Sunday 2 February 2025 at 7:00PM
Jennymount Methodist Church, 222 North Queen Street, BT15 3DH

Clare Sands, an innovative Cork-based songwriter, brings her groundbreaking style to the Caring for Our Earthly Home event. Known for blending and blurring genres, Clare reimagines traditional music with her self-titled debut album, which challenges conventions in music, language, and subject matter.

Her performance will add a creative dimension to this event, which features Dr Lorna Gold discussing the intersection of faith, environmental stewardship, and collective responsibility.

3. Brian Houston – Naming Belfast: Learning About Street Names in the Four Corners of Belfast

Monday 3 February 2025 7:30PM
The Duncairn, Duncairn Avenue, BT14 6BP

Belfast-born singer-songwriter Brian Houston brings his musical talents to Naming Belfast, an event exploring the city’s history through its street names. Known for his dynamic performances and heartfelt lyrics, Brian will weave music into the storytelling, adding a rich, emotive layer to this fascinating journey through Belfast’s past.

Alongside Dr Paul Tempan, Fr Martin Magill, and Linda Ervine, Brian will help uncover the hidden stories and cultural significance behind the city’s streets, inviting attendees to reflect on how history shapes our sense of home.

4. Caroline Orr, Norman McKinley, and Peter Greer – Home in a Time of Homelessness

Tuesday 4 February 2025 at 7:30PM
St Comgall’s, Divis Street, BT12 4AQ

Festival regulars Caroline Orr, Norman McKinley, and Peter Greer return to provide the musical backdrop for Home in a Time of Homelessness. The event explores the pervasive challenges of homelessness through the lens of theology, led by Siobhán Garrigan, Professor of Theology at Trinity College Dublin.

Their music promises to deepen the reflective and thought-provoking atmosphere of the evening.

5. Anthony Toner – In Conversation About Home with Anthony Toner and Andrea Montgomery

Friday 7 February 2025 at 7:30PM
Fitzroy Presbyterian Church, 77 University Street, BT7 1HL

Celebrated songwriter Anthony Toner, best known for his poignant storytelling and evocative lyrics, joins the festival for the annual In Conversation event. Anthony, whose album Six Inches of Water chronicles life in East Belfast, will share his thoughts on the theme of home alongside his partner, Andrea Montgomery. 

The evening will feature music, art, and discussion, offering a glimpse into how home shapes creativity and identity.

6. Iain Archer – 30th Anniversary Homecoming Concert

Saturday 8 February 2025 at 3:00PM & 7:30PM
Lyric Theatre (Naughton Studio), 55 Ridgeway Street, BT9 5FB

Two-time Ivor Novello award winner Iain Archer returns to Belfast for a rare solo performance marking 30 years since his first headline show at the Lyric Theatre. Known for his songwriting collaborations with James Bay, Snow Patrol, and Liam Gallagher, Iain will take audiences on a journey through his extensive catalogue of work. 

With unallocated seating and high demand, attendees are encouraged to book early for this unmissable homecoming concert.

7. Dana Masters – I’ll Call You Home

Sunday 9 February 2025 at 7:00PM
St Colmcille’s Church, 191a Upper Newtownards Road, BT4 3JB

The festival closes with a performance of Dana Masters’ poignant song I’ll Be Your Home, which embodies the essence of the 2025 theme. The event will reflect on the festival’s highlights, featuring a talk by Rev. Neil Craigan and a presentation of the Peacemakers project. 

Dana’s soulful voice will leave audiences inspired as they are encouraged to reflect on the meaning of home and belonging.

All events at the 4 Corners Festival are free, but booking is essential. For full programme details and to secure your place, visit 4cornersfestival.com.

Authentic flavour-packed menu prepared by passionate chefs

A new restaurant has opened in Derry/Londonderry following the expansion of a well-known local takeaway.

Moksh, which has created 8 new jobs in the city, has launched its new restaurant on the city’s Spencer Road where beautiful Indian meals are prepared by their top rated chefs.

The new restaurant builds on Moksh’s already renowned flavour packed takeaway service and has created eight new jobs.

It is owned by businessmen Umesh Aggarwal, Pushpender Thakur and Sushil Malik.

Co-owner, Umesh Aggarwal, said the restaurant stands out for its commitment to authentic Indian cuisine, emphasising fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

“We invested in the whole building,” he said. “Refurbishing the interior and exterior with Moksh colours to create a calming ambiance.

“We hired additional well-trained staff to help create a happy and friendly environment where people can come to relax and enjoy authentic Indian food and drink.” 

Mr Aggarwal said the ambiance of the restaurant is designed to reflect Indian culture. Bringing people together to provide a memorable dining experience. Additionally, Moksh prioritises sustainability and local sourcing.

“We have a diverse menu that includes regional specialities, vegetarian and vegan options in unique fusion dishes.

“We offer a wide range of different authentic Indian Starters, Curries, Biryani’s, Kebabs, Naan, Rice, Vegetarian curries & Chef’s Specialities as well as Soft and Alcoholic Beverages.”

Since opening in 2023 in its previous Culmore premises in 2023, the move to Spencer Street earlier this year enabled Moksh to develop the high standard restaurant.

Fellow co-owner Pushpender Thakur said customers will be able to choose from rich and creamy curries, sizzling kebabs, fragrant biryani, or the tantalizing goodness of Indian street food.

“Our diverse menu offers a delectable selection of dishes that cater to every palate, from mild to fiery, vegetarian to meat-lover, and everything in between, said Mr Thakur. 

“Our chefs are passionate about crafting each dish with the finest ingredients and traditional Indian spices to ensure an unforgettable dining experience.

“And, don’t miss our Chef’s Specials, where our culinary experts showcase their creativity with innovative, one-of-a-kind creations that will surprise and delight your taste buds.”

Partner in the business Sushil Malik said the team were looking forward to extending the Moksh Indian Restaurant welcome to all lovers of great food.

He added: “Whether you’re planning a cosy night or hosting a gathering of friends and family, Moksh Indian Restaurant is your go-to destination for delicious Indian food that never compromises on quality or authenticity.

Join us on a flavourful journey through India’s culinary treasures. Taste the Moksh difference today.”

Moksh Indian Restaurant is at 162 Spencer Rd, Derry/Londonderry, BT47 6AH.

A striking photography exhibition exploring environmental responsibility is set to open as part of the 2025 4 Corners Festival.

The Our Common Home Exhibition will launch at 2 Royal Avenue, Belfast, at 4pm on Friday January 31, marking the beginning of its week-long run.

The 4 Corners Festival, now in its 13th year, runs from January 31 to February 9 with a mission to inspire connection and reflection across Belfast’s communities. 

This year’s theme is HOME?, offering another year of diverse range of events including art, music, drama, and faith-inspired activities aimed at encouraging attendees to explore new corners of the city and forge meaningful connections. 

Speaking of the exhibition, director of Westcourt Centre, Cormac McArt said: “The idea for the exhibition this year came around because 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of the publication of Laudato Si, which was Pope Francis’s encyclical about environmental responsibility and care for the earth. 

“The exhibition will be produced by Westcourt camera club, a local camera club of around 20 members who will create a series of images that reflect environmental responsibility on our own doorstep. It’s no longer a case of hearing about climate and environmental issues in other parts of the world – we’re now seeing very real concerns on our own doorstep

“We think of things like Lough Neagh, Belfast Lough and how we can reduce the carbon footprint locally, and how each of us, with our daily actions and routines, can take more responsibility in terms of the environment.”

Our Common Home Exhibition commemorates the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si – On Care For Our Common Home. The encyclical, addressed to all people, advocates for environmental responsibility and a global dialogue on creating a sustainable future. 

Co-founders Steve Stockman and Father Martin Magill said the festival is a celebration of diversity and belonging, with this year’s events rooted in the concept of home as both a physical and emotional space.

Speaking of the exhibition Martin said: “This is now the third year we have worked with Westcourt Camera club.  We’ve gone back to them again this year because they take time to understand the theme we choose for the festival.  In the previous two years, I’ve been moved by the photographs which the club have curated, indeed photographs and the accompanying text are powerful and compelling”.

The wider 4 Corners Festival will encompass a wide variety of talks, discussions, practical workshops and more, spreading the word of local and global contextual issues across its ten day run. 

Aimed at broadening perspectives and helping people to think about bigger issues, such as homelessness, the care of our common home, the earth, transport and accessibility within our home city, these heavy integral topics are interwoven together with lighthearted festivities like music, poetry, drama and the visual arts.

The event’s schedule of activities will also challenge attendees to step beyond the physical and psychological ‘corners’ of Belfast, discovering new parts of their city, fresh perspectives and meaningful connections.

4 Corners Festival is supported by The Executive Office’s Central Good Relations Fund, The Department of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation Fund and Belfast City Council Good Relations Fund, St Anne’s Cathedral Sitout and Linen Quarter BID.

For more information about the festival and to keep up to date with programme updates go to 4cornersfestival.com