Coleraine Borough Council brings fireworks, fun and rock ‘n’ roll to Ramore Head, Portrush on Saturday 16^thAugust with an outdoor ‘Summer Entertainment Evening’.

The evening will star Northern Ireland’s only 1950s and 1960s rock n roll band, ‘The Soda Popz’. For further details on the event contact Coleraine Tourist Information Centre on 02870344723 or email info@northcoastni.com. For the latest updates visitwww.northcoastni.com.

Coleraine Borough Council brings rock ‘n’ roll to Ramore Head, Portrush on Saturday 16^th August with an outdoor ‘Summer Entertainment Evening’. The evening will star Northern Ireland’s only 1950s and 1960s rock n roll band, ‘The Soda Popz’!

The seven piece live band which features some of Northern Ireland’s top musicians and vocalists. These will include local singer Michelle Baird who will take to the stage at 8-30pm for a two hour performance, ahead of the annual August fireworks extravaganza which will begin at 10.30pm.

Soda Popz performance includes a unique action packed, fully costumed ‘Jukebox Jive’ show. The show will pay a memorable tribute to some of the best-loved hits from the 1950’s and 1960’s, as well as giving some modern tunes a rock ‘n’ roll twist.

Mayor of Coleraine, Councillor George Duddy said, “This is a great event and will certainly be a trip down memory lane, inspired by the 1950s and 60s. An era in which show bands and dance halls were widely popular.

“We know our very own Arcadia Ballroom in Portrush was so popular at that time, it drew dancers from across Northern Ireland and is known for hosting some of the country’s most celebrated show bands.

“With the Soda Popz performance and the fireworks extravaganza lighting the skies over Ramore Head, Portrush, this free evening of family entertainment is one of the highlights in the summer seasons calendar.”

Coleraine Borough Council’s Events Officer, Christine McKee commented, “The Soda Popz are a sensational seven piece live band who will wow the crowd with the songs of Chuck Berry, Johnny Cash, Elvis, The Drifters, Connie Francis and many more, so this two hour spectacular is guaranteed to get you dancing!

“A range of children’s entertainment will also be available to keep the little rock ‘n’ rollers happy during their visit. So fellas…slick your hair back, ladies…put on your best red lippy and make your way down to Ramore Head, Portrush on Saturday 16^th August for a rock and roll night to remember!”

Lead vocalist of the Soda Popz, Michelle Baird is a regular performer in Coleraine and a former member of Portrush Music Society and University of Ulster, Coleraine. She has also performed at many prestigious events throughout the UK and Ireland as a soloist and as part of The Leading Ladies vocal harmony quartet.

Speaking about the event, Michelle commented, “I am very excited to be back in the Coleraine Borough doing something completely different in the form of rock ‘n’ roll! Being raised in a home where this type of music was always playing, I couldn’t help but develop a real love for this fabulous era. The music, the fashion and the stories of the dance halls were fascinating’’.

For further details on the event contact Coleraine Tourist Information Centre on 02870344723 or emailinfo@northcoastni.com. For the latest updates visit www.northcoastni.com. or www.colerainebc.gov.uk.

What do you do with an Armagh Bramley Apple?  Bake a tart or stew it up as a sauce for roast pork?

Perhaps you’d like to try something a little more exotic – maybe make an Armagh Bramley Apple Mousse, use it in a savoury dish like pan-seared rump of lamb with Armagh Bramley Apple and Mint Salsa, or perhaps impress your dinner guests with Sweet Armagh Bramley Apple Spring Rolls!

If that’s whet your appetite to see and try such dishes for yourself, then put this date in your diary – Saturday 6^th September 2014 – when the inaugural Armagh Bramley Apple Festival takes place at the Shambles Market Yard in Armagh City from 10am until 6pm.

Being organised as part of Armagh City & District Council’s Armagh Bramley Development Programme, which is funded through the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 (NIRDP) and administered through Southern Organisation for Action in Rural Areas (SOAR), the Festival is set to showcase Armagh Bramley Apples in their rightful place at the heart of the County’s historic tradition of culinary apple production and as an iconic Northern Irish food product that we should all take more pride in and celebrate for its unique characteristics.

The European Union has already given Armagh Bramley Apples such recognition, having awarded them Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status. That places Armagh Bramley Apples in the same league as the likes of Jamón de Serón, Feta Cheese, Cornish Pasties, Edam Cheese, Jambon de Bayonne, Arbroath Smokies and Melton Mowbray Pork Pies, to name but a select few, though not forgetting Lough Neagh Eels and Comber Early Potatoes!

Basically, what the PGI Quality Mark means is that no other bramley apple has quite the same attributes as one from the Diocese of Armagh, thanks to the distinctive climate and environmental conditions of the region in which they are grown and the way they are nurtured. Our Armagh Bramley Apples are a bit bigger than most, have a flatter top and bottom, are solid green in colour with a reddish blush, are more robust for a longer shelf-life, and, perhaps most importantly as a culinary apple, they have a delectable tangy flavour and maintain that taste and their texture when cooked. Now, is that not worth celebrating?

And celebration is what the Armagh Bramley Apple Festival is all about! At this free-to-attend event you can discover more about what makes Armagh Bramley Apples so special direct from the growers who produce them; learn about their history in the area, which can be traced back to the days of Saint Patrick when he is credited with planting an apple tree at the ancient settlement of Ceangoba, east of the City; watch local chefs on the Flogas demonstration kitchens create mouth-watering dishes from the new Armagh Bramley Cookbook, which will be launched at the Festival; check out the exciting and refreshing hand-crafted Armagh Bramley Apple juices and ciders that are being produced right here on your doorstep; and see what else they can be used for from other local artisan food companies – ever tried Balsamic Vinegar infused with Armagh Bramley Apple or Armagh Bramley Apple Ice Cream?

But that’s not all, while Armagh Bramley Apples are at the ‘core’ of the Festival, there will be plenty of fun and entertainment for the kids, while the adults can stock up their fridges and pantries from a select line-up of local artisan food producers – or maybe even grab a carry-out lunch as you’ve never had it before from an artisan street food vendor!

And you too could be a star of the show – the Armagh Bramley Apple Festival is calling for entries into the Best Armagh Bramley Apple Tart Competition. Open only to non-professional cooks, members of the public are invited to get baking and bring along their Armagh Bramley Apple Tart on the day for blind tasting by a panel of judges. And the prize for the winner? A box of new season Armagh Bramley Apples of course!

Local food producers interested in applying to exhibit at the Armagh Bramley Apple Festival or if anyone wants to find out more about entering the Best Armagh Bramley Apple Tart Competition should contact Kathy Jensen on 028 3833 2572 or Rhonda McDowell on 07578 334082 or email armaghbramleyapple@gmail.com.

Belfast Big Swing Band gets ready to jazz things up at the EastSide Arts Festival, 21-25^th August, as they prepare for their forthcoming gig at the Festival on Saturday 23^rd August at Shorts Sports and Recreation Club, Holywood Road.  Jazz and swing music from World War I and II will transport guests to another era who are also encouraged to come dressed in vintage style for the evening. For further information and ticket details visit www.eastsidearts.net.

Keep up to date with East Side Arts on facebookat www.facebook.com/EastsideArtsBel and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/EastSideArtsBel

Following the success of its first outing earlier this year, TOTAL STITCH FEST:

THE ALTERNATIVE CRAFT SHOW will be returning to the Ramada Plaza Belfast this September in a big celebration of all that is handmade and unique in Northern Ireland, and it is the perfect opportunity to get a head start on Christmas shopping while supporting local designers and the Irish handmade movement at the same time.

Brought to you by the creative folks at Frock Around The Clock, TOTAL STITCH FEST brings together a community of designer-makers who lovingly cultivate a burgeoning handmade and DIY culture, and will feature a curated marketplace of around 60 crafters and artisans from all over Ireland who combine new and traditional craft techniques to produce fresh, innovative work not found at mainstream craft shows, as well as sellers of quality and unique craft supplies. There will also be various mini craft demonstrations running throughout the day, some of which will be interactive giving visitors the opportunity to ‘make and take’ a small something away with them. It is the perfect opportunity to meet the makers in person, and talk about their handmade goods and creative processes.

The craft marketplace will include suppliers of quality craft materials such as Abacus Beads, The Textile Studio, I of The Needle, Dye Candy, Windmill Fabrics and A Fine Fish Yarns as well as many designer and artisan stalls selling a wide variety of high quality, unique handmade products including clothing and fashion accessories, homewares, home décor & soft furnishings, art & photography, jewellery, gifts, toys, artisan foods, baby and children goods, and much more! Exhibitors will include Art of Memories, specialising in beautiful artwork and gifts which capture memories, Crafts by Inga, creator of colourful handmade felt and wearable art, Shannon McShane Jewellery, selling one-off conceptual jewellery designs in sterling silver inspired by the coast, Kate and Daisy, creators of beautifully designed handcrafted children’s clothing, B-Louise, specialising in crocheted fashion accessories and homewares, Colour and Cloth, with handmade designs in scarves and cushions created from naturally hand-dyed textiles, The Floral Suitcase, showcasing beautiful handcrafted quilts and cushions, Softash Wood Crafts, specialising in various crafts made from locally sourced hardwoods, and Koko Designs, architects of handpainted silk lampshades, scarves, notebooks and bags.

Creative Director Becky Moore says ‘our commitment is to showcase the best and brightest in indie craft and design so TOTAL STITCH FEST is aimed at shoppers who seek unique, niche and handmade products in opposition to mass produced items. All handcrafted products available at the Alternative Craft Show will have been made by Irish crafters, designers and artisans and with the growing interest in buying local we hope to encourage socially-minded consumers to boost the local economy by purchasing unique gifts handcrafted in their own community and by connecting with the people who made them. The event on 7^th September is the perfect opportunity for visitors to make a head start on Christmas shopping, and with so much variety and quality under one roof it will be possible to find something fantastic for everyone on your gift list while supporting local business and the Irish handmade movement at the same time.’

As a nation who lament the loss of our manufacturing heritage, you know it makes sense – forget mass produced and head to TOTAL STITCH FEST for the best in local and Irish handmade products for you, your family and your home!

TOTAL STITCH FEST: THE ALTERNATIVE CRAFT SHOW will take place from 12-5pm on Sunday 7^th September 2014 at Ramada Plaza, 117 Milltown Road, Shaws Bridge, Belfast BT8 7XP.  Admission costs only £3. More information on the event and the exhibitor list can be found at frockaroundtheclock.com and facebook.com/frockaroundtheclockvintagefairs.

Summer Sundays continue in Ward Park this Sunday, August 10^th as flamenco guitar act Los Dramatacos take to The Bandstand for an afternoon’s entertainment.

The group comprising of Paddy Anderson and Victor Heriquez were formed in 2011 and play and sing songs and instrumental pieces in a variety of styles from the Spanish speaking world – Spain, Cuba, Mexico, Chile and Argentina.

There will also be a market at the event featuring a variety of traders specialising in recycling products, including Art21 Education Bus, Redburn Community, Unicycle, East Belfast Mission, British Heart Foundation and Cloth Nappy Library NI.

So if you fancy kicking back in a deckchair to some Spanish sounds, get down to Ward Park this Sunday afternoon.

This FREE event runs from 3pm – 5pm and don’t forget your picnic!

Keep an eye out in local press each week for details on each artist or for more information phone our Visitor Information Centre on 028 9127 0069 or visit: www.northdowntourism.com

Come and enjoy our colour festival by throwing brightly coloured powder with your friends whilst listening to a line-up of some of the freshest new DJ’s, as well as a number of internationally acclaimed DJ’s specialising in electronic and dance music!

Secure your ticket to the HOLI ONE Colour Festival in Belfast on Saturday 16^th August HERE or by visiting tickets.holione.com/Belfast

HOLI ONE Colour Festival hits UK cities this summer with a 16 city UK Tour. Inspired by the original Holi in India but not related, the HOLI ONE Colour Festival travels around the world bringing people together to experience music, dance, performance art and visual stimulation, all in all, just a general fun time.

HOLI ONE Colour Festival promises an unforgettable experience to cities all around the world. The festival’s iconic moment is the first count down, when crowds gather together to throw the brightly coloured powder in the same moment. The powder throws are visually stunning and beautiful to watch as crowds get immersed in a rainbow of colours and the air is filled with clouds of bright powder, creating an atmosphere which is electric, to say the least.

HOLI ONE Colour Festival 2014 will host a line-up of some of the freshest new DJ’s in the country, as well as a number of internationally acclaimed DJ’s specialising in electronic, dance and chart music.
To be part of the amazing experience and vibrant energy please visit www.holione.com

Add us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/belfastholione

Or follow us on Twitter @HOLIONEWorld

The Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland over the next week (August 11 – August 17).

• Belsonic, Custom House Square, Belfast, August 15 – 22. Example and Jess Glynne are the first of an electrifying line up playing at this year’s Belsonic festival kicking off Friday 15 August. Biffy Clyro, Twin Atlantic, Kodaline and Chic follow throughout the week at what is tipped to be one of the most exciting events of the summer.

• Ulster Grand Prix, Dundrod Circuit, Lisburn, Co Antrim, August 13 – 16. Enjoy the world’s fastest road race right here in Northern Ireland with many of the top road racers from across the globe scheduled to attend.

• 24^th Anniversary Family Fun Day at Ark Open Farm Bangor Road, Newtownards, Co Down, August 11. Come and join in on the fun filled Ark Open Farm celebration. Now open to the public for 24 years, The Ark has plenty of events planned including a bouncy castle, inflatable assault course and face painting with a delicious BBQ served all day.

• Twilight Tour, Belfast Zoological Gardens, Belfast, August 16. Ever wondered what the animals get up to after closing time? Well come along and find out at this special VIP twilight tour of the zoo. The night will begin with a barbeque dinner, followed by a guided tour.

• Victorian Weekend, The Argory, Co Armagh, August 16 -17. Become a Victorian this weekend by enjoying afternoon tea, traditional games and get dressed up in customary clothing at the stunning Argory. The Argory is known for its sweeping vistas and eclectic interior of the 1820’s riverside estate.

• Dinner Cruise on Upper and Lower Lough Erne, Killyhevlin Hotel Jetty, Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh, August 16.  Start your Saturday evening off with a relaxing 90 minute cruise of Upper and Lower Lough Erne. Why not enjoy a chilled glass of wine, or a hot drink, listen to some music or the live commentary about the history of Enniskillen Town, the flora and fauna of Lough Erne, and much more.

• Celebration of Cultures, An Creagán, Creggan, Co Tyrone, August 12.  Have fun when a kaleidoscope of colours, sounds, sights and fun at An Creagán on Tuesday 12 August.  With an African Drum Circle, Thai Sand Arts, Henna Tattooist, African face painter, Brazilian crafts and much more to entertain the whole family.

• River Discover Day, Riverwatch Aquarium, Co Londonderry, August 15. Enjoy an afternoon discovering the spectacular Faughan and Foyle wildlife and try your hand at willow craft, fishing, falconry and much more at the local aquarium visitor centre.

• Landscape Painting & Photography Workshops, Castle Archdale Country Park, Co Fermanagh, August 16. Explore your inner artist with the help of free tuition at Castle Archdale Courtyard where you can paint some stunning scenes and snap a memorable picture. Lessons available include painting and photography.

• Sundays at Carrickfergus Castle, Carrickfergus Castle, Carrickfergus, Co Antrim, August 17. History is made fun at Carrickfergus Castle with music, crafts, historic characters including the castle’s blacksmith and carpenter and also the Barber-Surgeon.

Down

The Festival of Flight 2014 will once again launch a full programme of thrilling events in Newcastle from Friday 8th to Sunday 10th August with the airshow taking place on Saturday.  The airshow is the centre piece of the Festival where the crowds watch in awe as the sky over Dundrum Bay is filled with the roar of engines. There will also be a programme of amazing displays throughout the afternoon with the Aviation Village open from 10am. Be sure to come early and book your space!

Tyrone

Omagh District Council is hosting the Royal Scottish Pipe Band NI Branch Ulster Championships this Saturday 9^th August at the Tyrone Farming Society Show Grounds.  This family event will see the very best pipers, drummers and drum majors compete for the coveted titles.  The RPSBANI organises and delivers all Championship Pipe Band and Drum Major Contests in Northern Ireland and the Ulster Solo Piping and Drumming Championships.

Fermanagh

Fermanagh District Council in partnership with the Department, Culture, Arts and Leisure have organised free angling sessions for girls and ladies specifically on Saturday 9 August 2014.  Three time slots are available; 10am-12noon, 12noon-2pm and 2pm-4pm.  Registration is essential with spaces allocated on a first come, first served basis.  Information regarding registration can be obtained from www.fermanagh.gov.uk/summerangling.

Derry

Stendhal Festival of Art returns even bigger in its fourth year, now, as Winners of the Best Small Festival in Ireland as voted for by the public.  Headlined this year by music legends The Undertones on Friday 8th August and Scottish indie rockers, Frightened Rabbit on Saturday 9th August, once again Stendhal brings over 50+ acts to please all musical tastes.  *Building on their Comedy dimension this year’s headliner is the incomparable Arthur Smith.  *With an eclectic mix of visual and performance arts, comedy, film, music and a packed kids programme, Stendhal’s ethos is to inspire old and young alike through affordable access to the arts.

Armagh

The 7 Hills Blues Fest is back for the 4th year to turn Armagh blue! From Chicago Rhythm, to Funk Style this festival will see blues fans flock to Armagh City from Thursday 7th – Sunday 10th August 2014.  Relax and listen some blues classics and discover new talent, with this year’s  festival hosting over 50 free gigs plus the return of some old fringe events and some exciting new ones.  A weekend of Blistering Summer Blues not too be missed!

Antrim

Enjoy a tour of Kilcoan Gardens, Islandmagee this Saturday then relax in the barn for afternoon Cream Tea followed by a demonstration of how to arrange a hand tied bouquet, using flowers from the garden. The bouquet will then be raffled for someone to take home!

Belfast

The 10^th Anniversary Festival of Speed & Family Fun Day takes place this Saturday 9^th August at Mercedes-Benz Truck & Van (NI) Mallusk Road Belfast, with guest Eugene Laverty & Voltcom Crescent Suzuki World Superbike team. Other attractions include Room 2 Race Simulators, Bouncy Castle, Bouncy Slide, Wipeout Sweeper, Postman Pat, Truck display, Ice-Cream van and BBQ, Mercedes-Benz AMG vehicle display, Rally cars and more…

For more details on these and other events across Northern Ireland, news and competitions see www.whatsonni.com, follow us @whatsonni and like us at fb.com/www.whatsonni. Add your  events FREE OF CHARGE at www.whatsonni.

5 AUGUST – 24 AUGUST

Until Sunday 12 October, Exhibition: ‘World War, Local People’
North Down Museum, Bangor

This exhibition explores the impact of WW1 on the people of North Down featuring many fascinating original objects and images.

Free admission. Open: Tues-Sat 10am – 4.30pm, Sun 12 noon – 4.30pm. Closed Mondays except July, August & Bank Holidays.

Info: North Down Museum, (028) 9127 1200, museum@northdown.gov.uk, northdownmuseum.com

Monday 4 – Thursday 7 August, Rosebowl Soccer Tournament

Bangor Aurora Aquatic and Leisure Centre

Grant Aided Event.

Info: www.cypni.net

Thursday 7 August, Speed Art at Project 24

Project24, Bangor Seafront

6pm-9pm. Free. A selection of artists will be demonstrating their vast variety of skills and techniques in a range of mediums. Project 24’s artists will not be the only artists at the event as Blaze FX who specialise in graffiti art will be on hand to bring some energy and cutting edge designs to the site plus The Really Rubbish Orchestra will perform their unique sounds using old garbage. Info: Cultural Services Marketing Officer, Paula Quinn. T: 028 9127 8032, paula.quinn@northdown.gov.uk

Saturday 9 August, Walking Tour: Helen’s Bay in Two World Wars

Meeting point: Helen’s Bay

10.30am, £3. This fascinating tour of two of North Down’s hidden gems is conducted by expert local historians and guides. Visit St John’s Church then proceed on foot to Grey Point Fort via the Bayburn Trail display. Pre-booking essential. Call to book. Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, tic@northdown.gov.uk, northdowntourism.com

Saturday 9 & Sunday 10 August, Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages

Groomsport Harbour
Free entertainment, 2pm-4pm.
Sat 9: Science Show

Sun 10: Archery, Children’s Crafts & Ulster-Scots Agency Entertainment.

Cottages open to the public 11am-5pm. Free admission
Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, tic@northdown.gov.uk, northdowntourism.com

Sunday 10 August, Summer Sundays: Live music at the Bandstand

Ward Park, Bangor

Free live music every Sunday, 3-5pm. The 2014 programme promises a fantastic line up of eclectic music that everyone is sure to enjoy.

This week’s act: Los Dramáticos, Salsa and South American music

Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, tic@northdown.gov.uk, northdowntourism.com

Thursday 14 August, Bangor Abbey Graveyard Tour

Meeting point: Bangor Abbey

7pm, £3. Discover some of the graveyards most famous graves and memorials, including a memorial to John Simpson, surgeon on the Titanic. Pre-booking essential. Call to book. Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, tic@northdown.gov.uk, northdowntourism.com

Saturday 16 August, ‘Nautical Past’ Short Sea Cruise Belfast Lough

Meeting point: The Jetty, Pickie Funpark in Bangor

2pm, £10. Discover the rich nautical history of the lough including Bangor’s role in D Day, WWII, ‘The Battle of the Copeland’s’, the first naval battle in the U.S. Civil War and of course the Titanic. Pre-booking essential. Call to book. Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, tic@northdown.gov.uk, northdowntourism.com

Saturday 16 August, Eddie Skelly Swim

Groomsport, 4pm

Grant Aided Event.

Info: facebook.com/eddieskelly.memorialswim

Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 August, Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages

Groomsport Harbour
Free entertainment, 2pm-4pm.
Sat 16: Magician, Face Painting

Sun 17: Circus Skills, Balloon Modelling & Ulster-Scots Agency Entertainment.

Cottages open to the public 11am-5pm. Free admission
Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, tic@northdown.gov.uk, northdowntourism.com

Sunday 17 August, Summer Sundays: Live music at the Bandstand

Ward Park, Bangor

Free live music every Sunday, 3-5pm. The 2014 programme promises a fantastic line up of eclectic music that everyone is sure to enjoy.

This week’s act: Dana Masters Band, performing Motown, Soul, Jazz and Rock ‘n Roll

Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, tic@northdown.gov.uk, northdowntourism.com

Monday 18 – Saturday 23 August, Clandeboye Festival

Clandeboye Estate, Bangor

Grant Aided Event.

This will be the 12th Festival at Clandeboye and as usual there will be a range of talent to learn from the best artistic talent the world has to offer, this year from USA, Chile, England, France and Finland.

Info: camerata-ireland.com/clandeboye

Wednesday 20 August, Kids Nature Trail in Castle Park, Bangor

Meeting point: North Down Museum, Bangor

10.30am, free. Join this interactive nature trail led by Patrick Cregg from the Woodland Trust and well-known bird expert Dot Blakely, where you will learn all about the natural habitat and bird life that exist in the grounds of Castle Park.

Pre-booking essential. Call to book. Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, tic@northdown.gov.uk, northdowntourism.com

Saturday 23 & Sunday 24 August, Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages

Groomsport Harbour
Free entertainment, 2pm-4pm.
Sat 23: Party Animals NI, Glitter Tattoos

Sun 24: Jumping Clay Workshop, Children’s Crafts & Ulster-Scots Agency Entertainment.

Cottages open to the public 11am-5pm. Free admission
Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, tic@northdown.gov.uk, northdowntourism.com

Sunday 24 August, Summer Sundays: Live music at the Bandstand

Ward Park, Bangor

Free live music every Sunday, 3-5pm. The 2014 programme promises a fantastic line up of eclectic music that everyone is sure to enjoy.

This week’s act: Avalon String Quarter

Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, tic@northdown.gov.uk, northdowntourism.com

Throughout August, Bangor Open House Festival

Various locations

Visit openhousefestival.com for more info.

Organisers of Northern Ireland’s leading lifestyle and alternative music festival Sunflowerfest are gearing up for this year’s three-day event, set to take place 22nd to 25th August on Tubby’s Farm in Hillsborough.

Now in its 5th year, Sunflowerfest has quickly built a reputation for delivering an eclectic, family-friendly event and this year’s festival, scheduled to take place from 22nd to 25th August, promises to be bigger and better than ever.

Attracting international artists as well as local talent and emerging acts from Northern Ireland is a coup for the quirky festival, but organiser Michael Magowan says there’s much more to Sunflowerfest than just music.

World class musicians from NI and beyond

London electronica group The Orb and Co. Down natives The Answer will headline the fifth annual Sunflowerfest alongside Lisburn natives Mojo Fury, who will perform on the closing night. In addition to these outstanding headline acts to celebrate Sunflowerfest’s 5th year, over 80 other acts from diverse musical backgrounds and genres are also scheduled to take to the festival’s five stages this year.

Speaking on the range of musicians scheduled to perform this year, music organiser Phil McCarroll said, “We are delighted to welcome back Sunflowerfest veterans including Amanda St John, Pocket Billiards, Randal Stephen Hall and The Bonnevilles, while we also welcome newcomers like King Kong Company, Loris, Go Swim, Fox E & The Good Hands, and also acts from further afield including Arkham Dispatch from Canada and the all-girl act Akabane Vulgars on Strong Bypass, who will join the festival all the way from Japan.”

The lineup also features a highly-anticipated performance by Holywood’s Matthew Malcolm, winner of 2014’s BuskFest in Newry. Matthew was chosen by a panel of judges on 23rd June and has been awarded a place on the main stage at this year’s festival.

Happy Campers

Staying true to the family-friendly ethos of the festival, Sunflowerfest offers diverse campgrounds for guests staying as families or individuals. For families looking for a laid-back weekend in nature, Sunflowerfest’s family campsites include activities all weekend including dancing, face painting, kids yoga, rock and roll football and even a gyroscope.

Whether you prefer a traditional pop-up tent or a kitted-out campervan, Sunflowerfest offers suitable campsites for all guests including family camping, a general singles camp site, quiet singles campsite, and even glamping options, where guests can sleep in a bell tent which sleeps two to four people.

Get in on Sunflowerfest’s ‘Bliss’

Sunflowerfest guests can take a break from the action by retreating to the serene Lighthouse Bliss area which is this year run by Siobhan Brogues, founder of The Lighthouse Centre. From yoga and meditation classes to reiki, Indian head massage and sound spa, the Lighthouse Bliss area is a one-stop shop for physical and emotional well-being and alternative therapies for the whole family.

This year’s event will also include a world record attempt at the largest group laughter yoga session on Sunday 22nd June. Guests can join in on a memorable experience of setting a world record and connecting with hundreds of Sunflowerfest guests through this unique event.

Traders set to make hay while the sun shines

Following the success of last year’s event, which showcased exquisite food, drink, arts and crafts and featured unusual delights like vegan treats and chilli chai, ice creams with names like buzzy bee and superman and funky clothing, vintage and holistic art and craft stalls, organisers are delighted to offer guests a wide range of quirky artisan goods and delights again this year.

A Strong supporter of local independent merchants and artisans, Vanessa Magowan, Sunflowerfest, said, “We are absolutely delighted with the interest in trading at the festival this summer. We have worked hard to build up the reputation of the festival, not just as one for music, but also as a lifestyle weekend that allows people to escape from the hustle and bustle of life and soak up and sample the best of Northern Ireland’s amazing artists, food producers and craftsmen and women.”

Fun for the Whole Family

Families looking for a weekend to remember will enjoy the biggest programme of FREE kids’ activities to feature at any event in Northern Ireland. The Kidz Zone at Sunflowerfest gives creative kids a chance to try their hands at everything from stilt walking to sculpture, clay modelling as well as a wide range of interactive activities including puppetry and painting.

The Enchanted Glade of Mystery and Surprises will also feature a programme of family shows within a wonderland of make-believe. Activities include drama and storytelling, and visitors young and old can roll up for Bucky’s Circus to learn circus skills including stilt walking and juggling.

The Eden Project will also appear at the festival, helping kids create bunting to decorate festival grounds, and A Big Lunch will feature as part of this year’s festival. Arts and crafts workshops led by Kids Art World will allow children to design and take away their own beautiful windsock and use recycled materials to make a wildlife stone.

For more information on the weekend’s lineup of musicians and events for the whole family or to purchase tickets visit www.sunflowerfest.co.uk.

Sunflowerfest kindly acknowledges the assistance of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and Lisburn City Council in the production of this year’s event and welcomes SOS Bus NI as its official charity partner.