26 JULY – 10 AUGUST

Until 27 July, Exhibition: Brian Desmond Hurst

North Down Museum, Bangor

This exhibition explores the life and work of Northern Ireland’s most prolific director through a variety of fascinating images, objects and stories.

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

Wednesday 30 July – 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

Saturday 26 July, Kids Castle Park Nature Trail

Meeting point: North Down Museum, Bangor

Free. 10.30am. Join this interactive nature trail led by a guide from the Woodland Trust and a well-known local bird expert. Learn about the habitat and bird life that exist in Castle Park grounds. Pre-booking essential. Call to book.

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

Saturday 26 July, ‘Pipes in the Park’ featuring Red Hot Chilli Pipers

Bangor Town Hall

Free event, 12noon-6pm.

The Red Hot Chilli Pipers will be playing from 4pm – 6pm. The event is free and non-ticketed. From 12 noon, other activities will be taking place around Castle Park and The Town Hall too, including Ulster Scots dancing, music and demonstrations and a children’s entertainment area which will guarantee to make the event a great family day out. In conjunction with the Ulster Scots Agency.

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

Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 July, Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages

Groomsport Harbour

Free entertainment, 2pm-4pm.

Sat 26: Magician, Face Painting

Sun 27: 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 27 July, 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: Hoppers & Stompers ‘Downshire Jazz All Stars’ old time Dixie Jazz

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

Saturday 2 August, Coach Tour: ‘Our links with the Great Wars’

Meeting point: Ards TIC/North Down Museum, Bangor

9.30am (Ards) or 10am (Bangor), £10. In this year of the commemoration of the First World War, this tour focuses on our links with the two Great Wars, visiting sites in North Down and Ards.

Pre-booking essential. Call to book.

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

Saturday 2 August, Reflections of the First World War

North Down Museum, Bangor

12 noon – 4.30pm. Free. WW1 re-enactments, exhibition tours and music for the whole family.

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

Saturday 2 August, ‘Lights Out’ Workshop

North Down Museum, Bangor

2pm – 3pm. Cost £1. Create your own candle holder for the Candlelit Vigil taking place at 10.45pm on Monday 4 August.

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

Saturday 2 & Sunday 3 August, Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages

Groomsport Harbour

Free entertainment, 2pm-4pm.

Sat 2: Casey’s Creatures, Balloon Modelling

Sun 3: Ark Open Farm, 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 3 August, Drumhead Service and Veterans Parade

Meeting Point: Bangor Castle (Town Hall)

2.30pm. Following a short drumhead service, the parade will proceed down Main Street, along Bridge Street, High Street, to the Royal British Legion Hall on Hamilton Road.

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

Sunday 3 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: Commemorating WWI: Remembrance Picnic, music by Templemore Brass Band

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

Monday 4 August, Walking Tour: Step Back in Time, Bangor

Meeting point: North Down Museum, Bangor

2.30pm, £3. Gain an insight into the history and life of the Ward family who built Bangor Castle (Bangor Town Hall).

Pre-booking essential. Call to book.

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

Monday 4 August, Interdenominational Remembrance Church Service

Hamilton Road Presbyterian Church, Bangor

10pm. Extracts, readings and praise in remembrance of the centenary of the beginning of WW1.

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

Monday 4 August, ‘Lights Out’ Candlelit Vigil

Cenotaph in Ward Park, Bangor

10.45pm. Take this opportunity to reflect and to remember this momentous date. Lights are being turned out across the UK and Europe to commemorate WW1. Bangor will take part in this commemoration at Ward Park War Memorial

where all lights will be switched off and candles extinguished whilst a one minute silence is observed.

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

Monday 4 – 7 August, Rosebowl Soccer Tournament

Bangor Sportsplex

Grant Aided Event.

Info: www.cypni.net

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

UPCOMING SUMMER EVENTS…

Throughout August, Bangor Open House Festival

Various locations

Visit www.openhousefestival.com for more info.

New guided tours, a free hop-on/hop-off bus tourist service and visitor discounts in Armagh!

School may be out, but Armagh is definitely ‘in’ as THE place for tourists to visit this summer.

Three new tours have been created to complement Armagh’s existing award-winning attractions, plus a new discount booklet unveiled this week means that visitors to the City and the surrounding areas will get even more value for money.

As part of a hectic programme of summer events and activities, from 24th July until 12th September, locals and tourists alike will get the chance to avail of two guided tours taking place on Thursdays to Sundays. As the Ecclesiastical Capital of Ireland, there are many fascinating sites to be found in Armagh. For those who want to explore everything the City has to offer, a Guided City Walking Tour is a must. On the tour you will hear anecdotes about the area and unearth some of the City’s hidden gems along the way. Visitors can also have an exclusive look in and around one of Armagh’s finest buildings with Guided Palace Demesne Tours also taking place.

From 1^st August, Armagh’s famous Gaol will also be opening its doors each Friday and Saturday to offer everyone a trip back in time through the landmark building’s history.

Visitors can now also get even more value for money with a specially-produced ArmaghPass visitor discount booklet offering the best deals on over 40 attractions, restaurants and shops in the area – and with three of Armagh’s attractions recently winning major awards, this summer looks set to be one of the busiest ever.

Emain Macha – Navan Centre & Fort was recently crowned NI4kids Small Visitor Attraction of the Year, as voted for by the public, while Loughgall Country Park  scooped top prize in the prestigious Netmums Outdoor Play Awards. Armagh’s Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre recently achieved The Government Standard Charter Mark for Customer Service Excellence, underlining the city and district’s reputation as a customer focused and must-visit destination.

This summer visitors to the City can avail of a free hop-on/hop-off bus service which will run from 9am-5pm on Wednesdays to Saturdays; the service will call at over ten of Armagh’s key attractions and hidden gems, helping tourists make the most of their visit to the City.

Lord Mayor of Armagh Cathy Rafferty says there’s never been a better time to visit:

“With the Brian Ború Festival and Giro d’Italia in Armagh, 2014 has already been an incredible year for the City and we’re looking forward to welcoming more visitors than ever before to the area this summer to enjoy what’s on offer.

“There are already so many great things to see and do in Armagh – now our visitors have even more choice for planning a day out here, and we can’t wait to show off our historical heritage with the new tours that have been created.”

“Our world-class facilities are now even more accessible with the production of the Armagh Visitor Discount Booklet, which can be used at 42 restaurants, shops and attractions to get a great deal,” she added.

Guided Tours of Armagh City and The Palace Demesne cost £3.00 and can be booked online at www.armagh.co.uk/guidedtours or by calling Armagh Visitor Information Centre on +44 [0] 28 3752 1800. Guided Tours of Armagh Gaol can be booked online at www.armaghgaol.com or by calling +44 [0] 28 9035 7527. For more information on all that’s on offer in Armagh City & District this summer visit www.armagh.co.uk for more information.

A team of 5 brave volunteers are rising above their fear of heights to be airlifted 140ft into the air for Cancer Fund for Children.

The plucky volunteers, all from Henderson Group, will take part in the Cherry Picker Challenge at the City Hall on August 1 to raise money for the leading local children’s cancer charity.

Henderson Wholesale Ltd along with their stores, EUROSPAR and ViVOXTRA, have been supporting Cancer Fund for Children since May 2011 and have raised over £320k.

Martin Agnew, Joint Managing Director of the Henderson Group, who will be participating in the fundraiser said, “I’m delighted to be taking on the Cherry Picker Challenge to raise funds for such a worthwhile local charity.  Corporate Social Responsibility is high on our agenda, so what better way to show this than taking on a personal challenge to raise vital funds for local children and families affected by cancer.”

Cancer Fund for Children corporate fundraiser, Sorcha Chipperfield, said: “The money raised through the partnership with Henderson Wholesale has helped us provide practical, emotional and financial support for local families affected by cancer. We are delighted that they are aiming to raise a further £5000 through the Cherry Picker Challenge by asking their friends and family to sponsor them so they can be brought back down to the ground. It promises to be a really fun event and I look forward to seeing the participants complete the challenge and get safely back to ground level!”

The event has gained even more support from local radio presenter, Citybeat’s Stephen Clements, who is also taking on the challenge and will endure one scary half hour at the top of the cherry picker to raise extra funds. Stephen reckons his listeners would rather scare the wits out of him so they will have to text to donate to keep him up there.

He said:  “I’m giving listeners the opportunity to bring me down a peg by putting me through a nail-biting half hour at the top of the cherry picker – over 100ft in the air. They’ll need to text to donate to keep me up there.  Otherwise it’ll be an easy ride for me!”

To donate to the team or Stephen Clements, please text ‘PICK14 £3’ to 70070.  Your £3 donation will help to support children, teenagers and young people living with cancer in Northern Ireland.  All terms and conditions on www.justgiving.com/justtextgiving

To find out more about the partnership, or how you can support Cancer Fund for Children, please visit www.cancerfundforchildren.com or call 028 9080 5599.

Jazz fans are in for a treat this Sunday, 27 July, when Tony Martin’s Downshire Jazz Allstars take to The Bandstand at Ward Park to entertain the crowds at the Summer Sundays Event.

Tony Martin’s Downshire Jazz Allstars are a band with a big party atmosphere, they ain’t called the Hoppers and Stompers for nothing as they play a range of hard hitting New Orleans songs from the old days with a vibrancy that is seldom heard among the older bands that stride the jazz world. These guys hold energy as the key…always smiling, always laughing, always playing foot tapping tunes from the Royal Garden Blues to Sugarfoot Stomp, Swingin’ the Blues and Jada Jada Jing Jing Jing.

The group, led by drummer Tony Martin, are lively to say the least with a huge following and includes musicians who come from all the popular local jazz bands of the past twenty years such as the Apex Jazz Band and the Rodney Foster Jazz Band.

Try not to move your feet, we dare you!

There will also be a market at the event featuring local traders – another great reason to come to Ward Park.

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

The Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland over the next week (July 28- August 3).

• Happy Days Enniskillen International Beckett Festival, Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh July 31- August 10. Say ‘HAPPY DAYS’ to the world’s largest annual multi-arts celebration of Irish Nobel Prize writer, Samuel Beckett, who attended Portora Royal School in the island town. The Festival opening event will showcase the great play ‘EN ATTENDANT GODOT’ (Waiting for Godot), sure to be a beautiful and moving performance.

• Coastal Life, Exploris Aquarium, Portaferry Co Down until July 31. Experience a mix of exhibitions and demonstrations at Northern Ireland’s public Aquarium and seal sanctuary where the wonders of the Irish Sea are presented through an enjoyable and interactive experience.

• Dale Farm Milk Cup, Co Londonderry and Co Antrim July 27-August 1. Enjoy the thrill of the Northern Ireland Milk Cup. The event, taking place at venues throughout the North Coast has attracted teams from almost 60 countries around the world including the USA and Africa. Former Westlife singer Nicky Byrne will open the event on the 27th, returning to a competition he played in on no less than three occasions.

• Wildlife Summer Camp, Navan Centre & Fort, Co Armagh July 28 – August 1. Excite the kids this summer with a fun packed activity days which will give your little explorers aged 6-11 the opportunity to make new friends and appreciate the great outdoors!

• Feile an Phobail, Belfast, Co Antrim July 31 – August 10. The star-studded Feile an Phobail will give you the chance to enjoy a range of music including Laidback Luke, Boyzone and Soul II Soul.  Comedy comes from Jason Manford with many other events making up a creative and community focussed programme.

• Ulster Rugby Family Fun Day, Kingspan Stadium, Belfast, Co Antrim August 1. This action packed fun day will include many interactive activities including skills sessions, a climbing wall, face painting and dance classes. A photo-booth will be set up for the opportunity to meet the players, get your picture taken and to get autographs. There will be a BBQ and the Food Village will be open for food and soft drinks throughout the afternoon.

• Stand Up Paddleboard River Trail, Swanns Bridge, Co Londonderry August 2. Try something unique, chilled out and fun this summer.  Stand Up Paddleboarding is an ancient form of surfing (with a paddle) with a Hawaiian heritage. Emerging as a popular and competitive global sport.

• The John Hewitt International Summer School, Market Place Theatre, Co Armagh July 28 – August 1. A feast of arts and literature, the 27th John Hewitt International Summer School will bring together high profile writers, artists, performers, speakers and critics.

• Downhill Kite Festival 2014, Downhill, Co Londonderry August 3. This high-flying spectacle will offer fun for all of the family as a kaleidoscope of kites of all sizes fly over the stunning coastal estate. There will be kite performers, kite making, educational activities and a display from the Wild Geese parachute team. To add to the festive atmosphere there will be a kids’ area, bouncy castles, Segways, exhibitors, food stalls and much more…

• Omagh Festival, Strule Arts Centre, Omagh, Co Tyrone August 1-3. Omagh’s first Community Festival promises to be a fun time for the whole family with a wide variety of activities to suit all ages including a kids magic show, circus skills, Vintage Tea Dance, Raft Race and Duck Derby in Strule River, comedy and more.

Down

The Capri Club NI Annual Display 2014 takes place this Saturday 27th July at the Transport Museum Cultra.  Come along and enjoy the display of vintage, classic, modified, American and special interest Ford cars hosted by the Capri Club of Northern Ireland in the grounds of the Transport Museum, Cultra, Co.Down.  All Fords are welcome to the display.

Tyrone

The Ulster Fleadh, which kicked off on Sunday 20th July continues all week until this Sunday 27th.  Competitions, Concerts, Festivals, Sessions and Dancing all go to make the spectacular event that is the Ulster Fleadh which takes place this year in the village of Dromore, County Tyrone.  For further details visit www.ulsterfleadh.com

Fermanagh

Maguiresbridge Festival fun weekend kicks off on Friday 25th July at 6.00pm with a childrens disco, fun and games in the large marquee on the Village commons. Funday is 26th July from 1pm with all the usual attractions, bouncy castles, Bungee jumping, BBQ, Punch and Judy and magic show, face painting, pet show, craft stalls, Tug 0 war, Highland and Irish dancing, Traditional Irish music and singing along with the unveiling of the Belle of the Bridge, with a live outside broadcast from Q101 Radio, and more.

Derry

Try something new this Summer, come along to Moyola Park Golf Club, Castledawson for the first FREE Ladies Golf Taster Session of the year on Wednesday 23^rd July.  Learn the basics of golf with their professional, meet new people and develop new skills all while having fun! Sessions are open to beginners and non-members and all equipment is provided.  Sessions take place at Moyola Park Golf Club, Wed 23rd July, 1.00pm – 3.00pm and at Tobermore Golf Centre, Wed 23rd July, 7.00pm – 9.00pm.

Armagh

Loughgall FC will host their annual Family Funday this Saturday including bouncy castle, BBQ, balloon artist, face painting, penalty kick competition, cross bar challenge and keepy uppy challenge. All Kids events are free  and will be followed by Loughgall v Dungannon Swifts match. Starts at 11.30am with match KO at 3.00pm.

Antrim

Visit historic Armoy close to the breath taking Glens of Antrim, charming Ballycastle and the world famous Giant’s Causeway and experience the region’s Armoy Road Race. The three mile circuit harks back to the 1970’s and the days of the legendary Armoy Armada – Joey Dunlop, Mervyn Robinson, Frank Kennedy and Jim Dunlop, but has been brought bang up to date by organisers: The Armoy Motorcycle Road Racing Club. A thrilling experience for all! Bike week runs from 20^th to 26^th July. See www.amrrc.com.

Belfast

The world-famous Portrush Flyer returns this year with four trains on summer Sundays from Belfast Central to the north coast destination. This will be a traditional summer day excursion by steam train with up to 5 hours at the seaside. Plenty of time to dip your toes!  Steam trains will leave Belfast Central station at 10am on Sundays 27th July, 10th & 31st August, 14th September. Arrival back into Belfast Central will be at 7:10pm.  Tickets are only available in advance from Belfast Welcome Centre and cost £22 Adult and £15 Child.

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.com

This August North Down Borough Council will be holding a series of events to commemorate the Centenary of the outbreak of World War 1.

The events, which will mirror the National Commemoration Programme will give people the opportunity to reflect and remember this momentous date.

On Saturday, 2 August, from 12 noon – 4.30pm, North Down Museum will be holding a “Reflections of The First World War” event which will include WW1 re-enactments, live music and tours of the “World War, Local People” exhibition which will be running from 30 July to 12 October. This special exhibition will include stories from local people personally affected by WW1.  On August 2, there will also be opportunities to create your own candle holder for The Candle Light Vigil at the ‘Lights Out Workshop,’ taking place from 2pm – 3pm also at North Down Museum.

On the following day, Sunday, 3 August, a Drumhead Service and Commemorative Parade will take place. Following the Drumhead Service, at 2.30pm at The Town Hall, over 600 veterans, serving officers and bands will proceed down Main Street, along Bridge Street, up High Street and finish at The British Legion Hall on Hamilton Road. The Parade will be followed by a Remembrance Picnic in Ward Park from 3pm-5pm, with music in The Bandstand featuring The Templemore Brass Band. This free event is in place of the regular Summer Sundays event.

An Interdenominational Remembrance Church Service will be held at Hamilton Road Presbyterian on Monday, 4 August which will include extracts, readings and praise in remembrance of the Centenary of WW1. Following the church service, a ‘Light’s Out’ Candlit Vigil will take place at the War Memorial in Ward Park.  All lights and candles will be extinguished whilst a one minute silence is observed at 11pm to coincide with lights being turned out across the UK and Europe to mark the outbreak of WW1.  Everyone is welcome to these services to commemorate every service man and woman who died during WW1.

‘Lights Out’ takes inspiration from the famous words of wartime Foreign Secretary Sir Edward Grey, who remarked on August 3, 1914: “the lamps are going out all over Europe; we shall not see them lit again in our life-time.”

Growing, thriving and legacy building – these were just some of the key messages at the launch of East Belfast’s 3^rd annual summer festival, Thursday 17^th July.

The EastSide Arts Festival, delivered by East Belfast Partnership with  support from  Department of Culture Arts and Leisure and Arts Council for Northern Ireland will run 21^st – 25^th August  across East Belfast locations, and will showcase a varied arts programme with something for everyone across the east of the city and beyond.

With the closure of Orangefield High School the festival programme will feature and celebrate some of the powerful, creative talent to emerge from the school. It will also feature as a location for some of the festival events. Earlier this year, ex-Orangefield boys’ pupil and legendary East Belfast singer Van Morrison announced two gigs (22 and 23 August) with one specifically for ex-pupils and staff.  With an overwhelming response from ex-staff and pupils Mr Morrison has announced a third (24^th August) performance with tickets available Saturday 19^th July from 1-3pm.

EastSide Arts Festival is delighted to showcase and celebrate many of the ex-Orangefield pupils and staff through performance, visual art, lectures, walking tours, film and music.  These include the playwright Marie Jones, writer Brian Keenan, Thin Lizzy musician Eric Bell, poet Gerald Dawe and actor Sam McCready. It will also celebrate the contribution of late playwright Stewart Parker, pioneering first headmaster of the school the late John Malone and the late David Ervine. The programme also features a range of East Belfast talent including, singer Kaz Hawkins, novelist Glenn Patterson, actor Dan Gordon, the late writer and broadcaster Sam Hanna Bell, and much more.

A whole range of free events will be staged in Orangefield Park in association with Connswater Community Greenway and will include circus acts, music and a cross-community art installation called ‘Wish Project’ which will bring wishes alive through a ‘wishing garden.’ Continuing on the cross community theme the festival will also feature a performance, in partnership with West Belfast Festival Feile An Phobail at The Strand Arts Centre, of RMS Titanic – An Evening with Donal Lunny, Anthony Cronin, and guests.

Maurice Kinead, CEO of East Belfast Partnership, said:

“We are delighted to announce details of the EastSide Arts Festival, 21^st – 25^th August.  This is the 3^rd annual festival we have delivered and we believe, yet again, that we have created a programme that will reach out to everyone in the East Belfast Community and beyond.  With the closure of Orangefield School we felt it was important to celebrate its legacy and showcase the huge talent that emerged from the school. We are immensely proud that some of the successful, creative and high profile past pupils are returning to mark this momentous occasion with us.  I would like to thank our key sponsors, DCAL and Arts Council for Northern Ireland, who along with our commercial sponsors, have made this festival possible. We hope to welcome as many people from the east of the city and beyond during the festival and hope that they leave with a sense that the arts is growing and thriving here.”

Roísín McDonough, Chief Executive, Arts Council of Northern Ireland said:

“The Arts Council is delighted to support the EastSide Arts Festival.  Across this great city the arts have been a marvellous tool for building identity and developing community, transforming and sharing the space in which we live, in new and inspirational ways. I welcome this year’s varied programme of arts events – there is something for everyone, from young to old and everyone in between. There are also a number of free events which we hope will allow everyone in the east of the city to access and participate in the arts.  The EastSide Arts Festival will play a pivotal role in the life of East Belfast this year and in years to come and I encourage everyone to get involved.”

The festival will be staged in a number of east Belfast locations including Orangefield High School, The Strand Arts Centre, Park Avenue Hotel, Orangefield Park and Shorts  Recreation Club. The official charity for the festival is Barnardos.

For full details of the festival programme and for ticket information visit www.eastsidearts.net

19 JULY – 3 AUGUST

Until 27 July, Exhibition: Brian Desmond Hurst

North Down Museum, Bangor

This exhibition explores the life and work of Northern Ireland’s most prolific director through a variety of fascinating images, objects and stories.

Free admission.

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

Saturday 19 July, Tour: ‘Nautical Past’ Short Sea Cruise on Belfast Lough

Meeting point: The Jetty, Pickie Funpark in Bangor

2pm, tickets £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. Learn about the surrounding coastline and the variety of wildlife inhabiting it. Pre-booking essential. Call to book. Limited availability.

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

Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 July, Wood at the Walled Garden

Bangor Castle Walled Garden, Castle Park

Free. 11am-4pm.

Bring the family along and enjoy an afternoon of free events. There will be demonstrations from the Irish Woodturners Guild and local sculptor Owen Crawford.  You can put your knowledge to the test with the Woodlands Trust display board or take the opportunity to have a stroll around the award winning gardens.

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

Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 July, Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages

Groomsport Harbour

Free entertainment, 2pm-4pm.

Sat 19: Clown Activities

Sun 20: Party Animals NI, 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 20 July, 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: Amanda Jameson Band and Chelsea Chambers performing pop music and favourite covers.

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

Sunday 20 July, Walking Tour: Helen’s Bay in 2 World Wars

Meeting point: Helen’s Bay

2.30pm, tickets £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 26 July, Kids Nature Trail

Meeting point: North Down Museum, Castle Park, Bangor

Free. 10.30am. Join this interactive nature trail led by a guide from the Woodland Trust and a well-known local bird expert. Learn about the habitat and bird life that exist in Castle Park grounds. Pre-booking essential. Call to book.

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

Saturday 26 July, ‘Pipes in the Park’ featuring Red Hot Chilli Pipers

Bangor Town Hall

Free event, 12noon-6pm.

The Red Hot Chilli Pipers will be playing from 4pm – 6pm. The event is free and non-ticketed. From 12 noon, other activities will be taking place around Castle Park and The Town Hall too, including Ulster Scots dancing, music and demonstrations and a children’s entertainment area which will guarantee to make the event a great family day out. In conjunction with the Ulster Scots Agency.

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

Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 July, Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages

Groomsport Harbour

Free entertainment, 2pm-4pm.

Sat 26: Magician, Face Painting

Sun 27: 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 27 July, 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: Hoppers & Stompers ‘Downshire Jazz All Stars’ old time Dixie Jazz

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

Saturday 2 August, Coach Tour: ‘Our links with the Great Wars’- North Down & Ards

Meeting Point: Coach Collection at Ards Visitor Information Centre or North Down Museum

£10. 9.30am/10am respectively.

In this year of commemoration of the First World War, this tour focuses on our links with the two Great Wars. The tour will visit sites in both North Down & Ards including North Down Museum, the coastal defence battery of Grey Point Fort and the Somme Centre.

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

Saturday 2 & Sunday 3 August, Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages

Groomsport Harbour

Free entertainment, 2pm-4pm.

Sat 2: ‘Casey’s Creatures’, Balloon Modelling

Sun 3: Ark Open Farm, 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 3 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: Remembrance Picnic, music from the Templemore Band – Commemorating the 100^th anniversary of the beginning of WWI.

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

BANGOR OPEN HOUSE FESTIVAL, Throughout August

Info: www.openhousefestival.com

Top Racers set for Armoy Road Races

SINCE its first meeting in 2009, Armoy Road Races has grown from strength to strength. This year, according the Armoy Motorcycle Road Racing Club there has been record entries with some late entries having to be turned away.

Entries include 11 times TT winner Michael Dunlop, Guy Martin, who has just retained his Southern 100 Manx Solo Championship Crown and fellow Tyco Suzuki racer, William Dunlop. The RiverRidge Recycling ‘Race of the Legends’ will also see Danny Webb, Connor Behan, Keith Amor, Michael Sweeney, Derek Sheils, Derek McGee, Davy Morgan and Dan Kneen. A recent addition to the entry list has been up and coming rider James Cowton. These top riders will ensure that racing will be at its best at Armoy Road Races 2014.

Bill Kennedy, Clerk of the Course of Armoy Road Races, said, “We’ve just started to build the course at Armoy this week. It takes a little time but with such a fantastic record of top racers having entered, we are certainly up for some great racing come Friday 25^th July and Saturday 26^th July at Armoy.

“We’ve a new race on the Friday night, a 600cc Supersport race sponsored by Parker Car Transport but in addition to the Roadside Garages Kia Super Twin race they’ll be many waiting for the SGS International Open Race and the last but by no means least the RiverRidge Recycling ‘Race of the Legends’, where I’ve no doubt there will be a battle between those top racers.

“The recent news that there will be a one hour highlights programme on Channel 4 on 9th of August of the races has been widely welcomed universally. The Club is delighted that many across the UK and Ireland will not only see this beautiful part of the country but see some fantastic racing in the heartland of the Armoy Armada, the birth place of road racing in Co Antrim.

“With this news alongside the superb entry list anticipation is building for the popular road race where we are all set to see scintillating road racing action.”

Armoy Road Races are sponsored by RiverRidge Recycling, the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and Moyle District Council’s Tourism Events Fund.

Bike Week 2014 is from 20^th – 26^th July. For more information on the RiverRidge Recycling’s ‘Race of the Legends’ visit www.amrrc.com or search for ‘AMRRC’ on Facebook and join the official fan page and you can also follow us on twitter at @ArmoyRoadRaces.

Please support the Armoy Road Races by buying a programme. They are available from the AMRRC office and the Petrol Station in Armoy from the Saturday 19^th July 2014 and cost £10.00.