The sun has been shining, the temperatures have soared and there are still a few weeks left before the kids’ return to school. There is still tons of time to make giant memories and ensure your little ones have a summer to remember.

In Northern Ireland you’re only one small step from a great-value giant adventure and Discover Northern Ireland has complied the following list of great value, family-friendly, fun to enjoy before the school’s go back.

Todds Leap Activity Centre, Ballygawley, County Tyrone

In County Tyrone, days out and short breaks are all about spending quality time outdoors and at Todds Leap, you can be sure unforgettable memories will be forged as your adrenaline levels rise. With over 20 action packed activities to enjoy, experience momentary weightlessness as you swing from a trembling height over a cliff edge, scream as you reach speeds of 40mph as you hurtle down the 150m long Tayto ‘BigYella’ slide and strengthen your family bond as you take turns driving a Land Rover Defender blindfolded while the rest of your family help you navigate the off-road obstacle course.

And, with great places to rest your head nearby like Corick House Hotel & Spa or Blessingbourne Country Estate, stay longer and explore more experiences like the Ulster American Folk Park, Gortin Glens Forest Park (meet Darach the friendly Giant who is part of the Sperrin Sculpture Trail) and An Creagán.

 

Slieve Gullion Forest Park, Killeavy, County Armagh

Slieve Gullion Forest Park offers walking trails, a scenic drive, adventure play park, Fionn’s Giant Adventure story trail and a courtyard with coffee shop. Rising some 576m above the surrounding countryside, the mountain itself lies at the centre of the Ring of Gullion.

Extend your stay in this beautiful part of the world and recharge at Killeavy Castle Estate or Armagh City Hotel. While in County Armagh, explore the place for space at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium or step back in time with real-life warriors at Navan Centre & Fort.

 

Let’s Go Hydro Resort & Spa, Carryduff, County Down

What better way to spend a long hot summer’s day, than at an inflatable floating obstacle course? Perfect fun for the whole family, Let’s Go Hydro also features an activity lagoon, luxury spa, cable park and a floating paddle court at the onsite Let’s Go Padel.

You can even stay overnight in one of the resort’s 50 glamping pods, including a Boat House, floating lake pod and river house. Another great family-friendly option nearby is La Mon Hotel, where kids will love splashing in the pool.

Make lasting memories in County Down with tons of activities to fill up your summer days like the ‘Disney Winnie the Pooh Hunny Hunt’ at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens or head out to enjoy Summer of Play 2025 at National Trust properties like Mount Stewart, Castle Ward and Rowallane Garden.

 

Curry’s Fun Park, Portrush, County Antrim

As Northern Ireland’s largest indoor fun park, Curry’s is famous for its family friendly attractions including The Cyclone, the ghost train and carousel. Fun is the name of the game whether your young ones are screaming with excitement on the Caterpillar, the Helter Skelter or the Aqua Valley.

With an array of places to stay like Lodge Hotel or Marine Hotel Ballycastle, glamping sites and B&Bs on the Causeway Coast you can turn the perfect day into a truly unforgettable weekend as you head for attractions including the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge and Portstewart Strand, the UK’s Best Beach, according to The Times and The Sunday Times.

 

Oakfire Adventures, Derry~Londonderry

Thrillseekers of all ages are sure to find their fix at Oakfire Adventures. The centre’s Zip Trekking experience takes brave adventurers on a thrilling tour of Faughan Valley’s woodland, water and cliffs while it’s Tree Trek Adventure, designed with the family in mind, invites you to unleash your inner wildness in their premier high ropes course.

Extend your break with a stay at the Maldron Hotel Derry or City Hotel Derry and grab a Visit Derry Visitor Pass to gain access to ten handpicked attractions that allows you to see the best the city has to offer for one great price.

 

Share Discovery Village, Lisnaskea, County Fermanagh

For family thrills in Fermanagh, look no further than the Share Discovery Village. Take to the water in a canoe, hop aboard a banana boat, feel the breeze on your hair as you windsurf and make a splash as you traverse the rockslide and wiggle bridge at Wibit Water Park.

Keep the fun going all weekend with a short drive to Enniskillen where you can slow down and soak up summer. Your next adventure awaits you Erne Water Taxi’s Island Discovery Tour as you discover breathtaking panoramic views of Lough Erne and its shoreline. Stay longer at the family-friendly Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel and Lodges, with a swimming pool, Killy Kids Outdoor Park, Padel tennis court and views for miles.

 

W5, Belfast

This award-winning science and discovery centre invites you to explore eight zones packed with 250 exhibits. This summer, step into a world where dinosaurs roam again, with their Dinosaurs Survive experience, or explore the world of Oona, Baba and friends at the Puffin Rock Summer on until 31 August.

 

If you want to make a weekend of it in Belfast, stay at any of the city’s incredible hotels including Crowne Plaza Belfast, AC Hotel, Belfast or Stormont Hotel. You can also hunt the Gruffalo at Colin Glen, experience the award-winning visitor experience Titanic Belfast or come face to face with real life dinosaurs at the Ulster Museum.

 

Book now for great value summer offers at discovernorthernireland.com

 

 

 

 

📅 Saturday 6 September
📍 Portavogie Harbour
🕛 12noon – 5pm
🎟️ Free to attend (charges apply for stalls & some attractions)

 

Tide and Turf returns to Portavogie Harbour on Saturday 6 September for a vibrant celebration of the region’s finest local food and drink.

This free family-friendly event shines a spotlight on the rich produce of the area—from the freshest seafood landed at the harbour to quality meats from nearby farms.

Enjoy chef demos, including a special appearance from celebrity chef Anna Haugh, and savour the very best of our seasonal tide and turf delights.

🌟 Highlights include:

• Artisan market and bar
• Live cookery demos
• Children’s entertainment
• Live music throughout the day

Find out more –  https://bit.ly/TideANDTurfActivities

🚌 **Free Pre-Bookable Event Shuttle Buses**

From Bangor via Donaghadee, Millisle, Ballywalter and Ballyhalbert, from Newtownards via Greyabbey and Kircubbin, and from Portaferry to Portavogie via Cloughey.

Book now👉 https://bit.ly/PlanYourTripTideANDTurf

This event is supported by DAERA’s Northern Ireland Regional Food Programme.

 

#VisitAND #TasteANDEnjoy #TasteAutumn #TasteSummer #BelfastPlus #OurFoodPowerOfGood

The 19th annual Belfast Mela Festival — the largest celebration of cultural diversity across the island of Ireland — as officially launched today by the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly and the Minister for the Economy, Dr Caoimhe Archibald, MLA.

Guests were treated to vibrant live performances by Kenyan-born musician Njambi as well as an exclusive preview of a special cross-cultural collaboration between the South Asian Dance Academy (SADA) and Irish Entertainment Group, during a colourful launch event at Tetto Belfast, attended by more than 100 supporters and friends of the festival.

Following a record-breaking year in 2024 that welcomed nearly 60,000 visitors, this year’s nine-day cultural spectacular returns with an even more exciting line-up of global music, dance, theatre, wellbeing, food, art, and immersive experiences.

The festival kicks off on Saturday 16 August at 12.30pm as the much-loved Mela Carnival lights up the streets of Belfast for its fourth consecutive year. Expect an explosion of colour, rhythm and joy as hundreds of artists and community participants in traditional dress parade from Writer’s Square to City Hall, accompanied by world beats, dazzling floats and infectious energy.

Once the carnival reaches City Hall, the celebration continues with a free Mini Mela from 1pm to 4pm, hosted by U105’s Carolyn Stewart and UTV’s Paul Reilly, featuring live performances, workshops, and family-friendly fun.

A centrepiece of the Mela Carnival is ‘When Worlds Collide’, a moving outdoor theatre production taking place at 2pm and 3pm on the City Hall lawns . This poignant tale follows two young girls – one from the mangroves of the Sundarbans, the other from Belfast’s rivers – who unite through themes of climate crisis, ancestral heritage and digital activism. It blends storytelling, original music and dance into a stirring call for environmental action created and performed by young people from across the city and beyond.

And for the first time, organisers are bringing the magic of Mela to the Cathedral Quarter, supported by CQ BID as St Anne’s Square, Commercial Court (Hill Street), and Cotton Court come alive with high-octane performances from Dhol drummers, Chinese Lion and Dragon dancers, Bollywood and Mexican dancers and the electrifying SPARK drummers from 1.30pm to 3.30pm.

On Wednesday 20 August at 7pm, firm festival favourite, the Silk Road Supper Club will make a return to Holohan’s Pantry for a journey to Tunisia. Led by Carthago Head Chef Sabeh Cyndi, this five course feast invites guests to gather around the table for a rich and soulful dining experience inspired by Tunisia’s diverse culinary landscape.

A further exciting addition to this year’s programme is the Mela International Residency Programme with an exchange between renowned artists from India and Northern Ireland supported by the Arts Council of NI and the Prabha Khaitan Foundation in Calcutta. The Lyric Theatre will host, Tāla, a dynamic performance on Friday 22 August at 7pm featuring acclaimed Kathak dancer Shinjini Kumar alongside percussionist Rishiraj Kulkarni. Supported by residency and masterclasses, this work merges classical South Asian dance with local artistry under the vision of choreographers Lauren Martin from SADA and Ciaran Connolly from Irish Entertainment Group, offering an exchange of movement, rhythm and cultural insight.

The Ulster Museum will host, Shared Words, Shared Worlds, a collaborative storytelling experience on Friday 22 August at 2pm bringing together writers from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, including award winning Indian poet Dr. Sanjukta Das Gupta and local writer Alicia McCauley. Through shared narratives, participants explore identity, community and the many worlds within our words—revealing the transformative power of language and connection.

And of course, the festival’s grand finale, Mela Day, returns to Botanic Gardens on Sunday 24 August from 12 noon to 6pm—an unforgettable party in the park where tens of thousands will flock to enjoy the global sights, sounds, tastes and traditions that truly capture the spirit of Belfast’s vibrant multicultural community.

Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Tracy Kelly said: “I can’t wait to see our city filled with the wonderfully

vibrant colours, sights, sounds and tastes of Belfast Mela again this year. Belfast City Council is proud to support this beautiful festival programme. It’s set to bring a whole lot of magic and fun to the city for nine days – not least as the Mela Carnival winds its way through the city centre and Mela Day transforms Botanic Gardens. I’d like to thank Nisha Tandon, ArtsEkta, and all the team who curate and make Mela possible – reminding us how exploring and celebrating diverse cultural traditions can add greater interest, meaning and joy to our everyday lives.”

 

Economy Minister, Dr Caoimhe Archibald, MLA said: “The Belfast Mela is a powerful example of the importance of investing in cultural tourism.  Mela showcases and celebrates our diversity to our community and to our visitors, while also driving economic benefit, supporting local businesses, and the north’s reputation as a vibrant, inclusive place to live, work, study and visit.  Supported by Tourism NI, and expected to welcome 60,000 people, Belfast Mela has firmly established itself as an exciting, cultural and creative celebration for all to enjoy.”

Nisha Tandon, OBE, Founder of Belfast Mela and Director of ArtsEkta said: “As we approach the 19th Belfast Mela, we’re proud to unveil our most ambitious programme yet—a vibrant celebration of the many cultures that now call Belfast home. Mela continues to flourish as a shared space of creativity, connection and belonging. This year, we look forward to welcoming even more visitors from across the island of Ireland and beyond to experience the magic of Mela—a powerful showcase of diversity, unity, and the transformative power of the arts.”

Liam Hannaway, Chair, Arts Council of Northern Ireland, said: “The Arts Council of Northern Ireland is proud to support ArtsEkta and the Belfast Mela Festival, thanks to funding raised for good causes by National Lottery players.  This year, we are particularly pleased to join with the Prabha Khaitan Foundation and ArtsEkta to announce a new element of programming to the festival, of music, literature and dance, through the Mela Residency Programme. With something to suit all tastes and ages, I would encourage everyone to go along and enjoy this spectacular and vibrant festival this August.”

 

Allstate NI once again sponsors Mela’s Wellbeing events, with activities to suit all ages including a tranquil retreat with soothing sounds at the Tropical Ravine, Qi-Gong sessions, yoga, meditation, massages and much more.

Kokila Nagaraj, Chair, Ethnicity Employee Support Group ‘Unity’, Allstate NI said: “Belfast Mela is more than a festival, it’s a living celebration of unity, belonging and the beautiful richness of our shared cultures. Allstate is proud to support Mela’s Wellbeing Programme, which nurtures both mind and body through the powerful intersection of heritage, healing and community. As we come together to celebrate what makes each of us unique, Mela reminds us that the sense of belonging we share is something we build together.”

Tzvetelina Bogoina, Chairperson of Cathedral Quarter BID said: “Bringing the Mini Mela to Cathedral Quarter is a fantastic way to showcase the energy and vibrancy that makes this area so special. It supports our key goals of creating a cleaner, greener, and safer environment, while driving footfall and supporting the incredible range of businesses based here. Events like this breathe life into our streets and squares, bringing culture, colour, and community together, and helping us promote Cathedral Quarter as Belfast’s most dynamic destination for culture, hospitality, and business.”

Mela Carnival is free with no tickets required. Mela Day tickets cost £12 adults, £9 concession (children aged between 5 – 15 and over 60s) £24 family (2 adults and 2 children under 16) Children under 5 go free. Tickets for Mela Day must be booked in advance. Booking and tickets for other events vary. Full information on all events and booking information is available online at www.belfastmela.org.uk

The Belfast Mela is principally funded by Belfast City Council, The Executive Office, The Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Tourism NI, Community Relations Council and the Paul Hamlyn Foundation.

Mela’s Wellbeing sponsor is Allstate NI, media partners are UTV and U105 and this year’s Cathedral Quarter Mini Mela is supported by CQ Bid.

Friends of Belfast Mela include Advice NI; Aflac; A&L Goodbody; Allstate NI; BBC Northern Ireland and BBC Embrace; Belfast Harbour; Belfast Vaults; Citi; CO3; Co-Ownership; CQ Bid; Danske Bank; Department of Finance & NICS; Equality Commission for Northern Ireland; EventSec; FinTrU; Grant Thornton; Hastings Hotels; Liberty IT; Phoenix Energy; Northern Ireland Housing Executive; Pinsent Masons; PSNI; PwC; Tony Clarke & Co; Translink and  Ulster University.

Follow ArtsEkta’s social media for updates on this year’s Belfast Mela Festival: www.facebook.com/artsekta1 and Instagram and Twitter @ArtsEkta using #BelfastMela

750 miles, 32 counties, 12 cyclists and 6 days to raise thousands for charity

Earlier this year, the close-knit community of Poyntzpass lost one of its most beloved members. Brian Magennis – devoted husband, loving father, cherished son and brother, loyal friend, and respected businessman – passed away on January 16th after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Diagnosed in 2020, Brian faced his illness with the strength, grace, and grit that defined every part of his life. He initially overcame the disease, but when it returned, he met it once more with quiet determination. In his final weeks, he was cared for by Evora Hospice (formerly known as the Southern Area Hospice), whose compassion brought comfort not only to Brian, but to everyone who loved him.

Now, his family and friends are preparing to honour his memory in a way that is as bold and heartfelt as the man himself.

“Dad was the definition of a fighter,” said Daniel Magennis (20), who will be among the 12 cyclists taking part. “He faced everything with bravery and dignity. When the illness came back, he fought to stay with us for as long as he could. When he passed, we knew we wanted to do something in his name – something that would carry his spirit forward.”

In tribute to Brian, Daniel, his uncle’s Ciaran and Marty, and a close group of family members and friends will embark on the Bike for Brian challenge: a 750-mile journey through all 32 counties of Ireland, completed in just 6 days, starting August 17th. Over the course of the ride, the team will climb a combined elevation of more than 30,000 feet – higher than Mount Everest – making the challenge not just a test of endurance, but a true tribute to Brian’s strength and spirit.

While Daniel takes to the road, his younger brother Ben (18) is playing a crucial role behind the scenes, travelling in the logistics van and supporting the team every step of the way. Alongside his cousin Isabel, Ben is also leading the fundraiser’s social media efforts, keeping supporters updated and engaged.

“We miss him every day,” Ben said. “But we carry him with us. This is our way of saying thank you – to the hospice that looked after him with such care, and to Dad, for the life and love he gave us.”

Brian’s family were by his side when he passed, just weeks after sharing one final Christmas and New Year together.

“We all held his hand that morning,” Ben recalls. “It was one of the hardest moments of our lives – but also a privilege. He gave us everything. The least we can do now is give something back in his name.”

Daniel added: “I still expect to see him sometimes – his head just visible through the window from his favourite chair as I drive up to the house. The loss is deep. But through this challenge, we are channelling our grief into something positive. We hope to raise vital funds for the hospice and honour one of the best men we’ve ever known.”

Brian’s wife, Margaret, will be there every step of the way, cheering on her family throughout their journey across the country in Brian’s memory.

“Brian was more than a brother-in-law – he was a great friend,” said Marty Johnston, one of the main organisers of Bike for Brian. “He had a quiet wisdom and a great sense of humour that we all leaned on. This cycle isn’t just about covering miles – it’s about honouring a man who meant the world to us and giving something back to the hospice that gave us so much when we needed it most.”

You can support their journey and help raise funds for Evora Hospice by donating here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/bikeforbrian.

Armagh’s much-anticipated Food and Cider Weekend – which celebrates the region’s PGI-status Armagh Bramley Apples, world-class craft cider, and award-winning hospitality – is returning from September 4 to 7. Known as the Orchard County, Armagh’s produce, people and places will take centre stage once again, with a line-up of new experiences and returning favourites.

With a varied programme of events, the weekend has established itself as one of the most anticipated food and drink festivals in Northern Ireland. Last year’s festival attracted over 9,000 visitors from across Ireland, Great Britain, and beyond, drawing a broad mix of food lovers and cider aficionados – from couples and groups of friends to families seeking a great day out.

This year’s highlights include an intimate supper club at Crannagael House featuring a locally sourced menu from 4 Vicars, paired with MacIvors cider and guided by renowned cider expert Gabe Cook. Over at Long Meadow Cider, the ‘Sip Off at The Bramley Barn’ adds a playful twist with each course paired with both a craft cider and a premium spirit where guests are invited to vote for their favourite. Meanwhile, the Culinary Crawl, adds a sense of discovery as guests explore Armagh’s historic streets, tasting their way from stop to stop through food, cider, and local storytelling.

Gill Robb, Tourism Events and Animation Manager at Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, said, “We are proud to bring our Food and Cider Weekend back this year – a weekend that has quickly evolved into a cornerstone of our region’s cultural and culinary calendar. This year’s programme is one of our most exciting yet. We’ve curated over forty events – from woodland suppers under the stars and expert-led tastings to apple-picking tours and innovative sustainable dining experiences.

“With craft cider-making that’s second to none, the festival celebrates Armagh’s growing reputation as one of Ireland’s most exciting food and drink destinations, driven by the exceptional local talent, passion, and produce that define this food heartland.”

Other experiences include a variety of family-friendly activities such as the Sushi Cookery Class, Apple Donut Making Workshop, The Big Apple Family Fun Day, and the ever-popular Tayto Tours. The programme also features a diverse mix of events for those looking for something different, including the Apple & Oak Spirits Masterclass, Tipsy Tapas, a DJ & Pizza Party, and an authentic Mexican Banquet.

Home to generations of cider-making families, the region continues to lead the way in craft cider production on the island of Ireland.

Catherine McKeever from Long Meadow Cider said, “Armagh’s reputation as the “Orchard County” is deeply rooted in family tradition and sustainable practices. For our family, this weekend is a celebration of our great produce, our land, and the generations that came before us. We’ve been growing apples here since 1968, and we’re proud to share that story with visitors. As part of Armagh Food and Cider weekend, events like our Apple Picking Tour and Orchard Lunch give people a chance to see how we work and where the apples are grown.”

The weekend also highlights Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon’s Food Heartland – a model for regional food development, connecting businesses from field to fork and shaping the future of food in the borough.

As part of the weekend, Mervyn Steenson, Head Chef at Groucho’s on the Square and a long-standing champion for food and drink in the Food Heartland, will host “Small Plate Tasting with Craft Ciders & Beers” – a five-course tasting menu paired with award-winning brews from McCracken’s Brewery & Distillery and handcrafted ciders from Armagh Cider Company.

He said, “As a chef, there’s nothing more rewarding than cooking with ingredients grown just a few miles away. Armagh is fast becoming a leading ‘farm-to-fork’ destination, thanks to the strength of our artisan networks and independent producers. Armagh Food and Cider Weekend is a fantastic opportunity to bring all of that together – to connect with food lovers and showcase the creativity, collaboration and craftsmanship that define the Food Heartland.”

Alongside the ticketed events, Saturday 6 September will also feature a range of free, family-friendly experiences. In Armagh City Centre, the Artisan Street Market will showcase top local producers, live music, and entertainment. Banbridge’s Sundown Food Market at Solitude Park is set to offer street food, homegrown drinks, and live music in a relaxed, festival-style setting while Cider in the City returns to Shambles Yard, inviting visitors to meet the makers, sample local ciders, and enjoy artisan food and a full bar.

For more information visit visitarmagh.com/foodandcider.

Enjoy eclectic events in Northern Ireland across the month-long programme from Craft NI and Design & Crafts Council

 

August Craft Month, a month-long celebration of local craft across the island of Ireland, launches with a host of exciting events taking place throughout Northern Ireland.

This year August Craft Month returns with a packed programme of over 300 events from more than 800 makers across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland including workshops, exhibitions, open studios and festivals to allow audiences to immerse themselves in local craft.

With 26 craft disciplines represented there is something for everyone, of all ages, and all levels of expertise to experience, support, make, see and buy stand-out local craft.

August Craft Month celebrates craft traditions that are hundreds of years old, and the fresh, modern ways people across the island still use and share them today.

The packed programme of events allows everyone to immerse themselves in creative craft celebrations on their doorstep and hit the road on a craft inspired adventure or staycation. Led by Craft NI and Design & Crafts Council Ireland (DCCI), August Craft Month is also continuing its long-term collaboration with Cork Craft & Design.

Local makers such as Eleanor Wheeler, Steven Ryan and Joel M Smyth will all be involved in the celebrations and events, to name a few.

The programme provides unmissable opportunities to experience, participate in, support, buy and learn about the local stand-out craft sector. Below you will find just a few of the exciting events on offer in NI:

Belfast

Friday Night Pottery

Location: Unit 10E Owen O’Cork Mill, 288 Beersbridge Road, Belfast BT5 5DX

Price: £45 per person (includes welcome drink, snack, and all materials)

Date & Time: 29^th August 6pm-9pm

Whether you’ve always wanted to try ceramics, have some experience and want to dive back in, or simply fancy a different kind of night out, this is for you! It’s all about having fun in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. No experience needed – just bring your imagination! You’ll create and paint your piece, and we’ll handle the firing and glazing. Your pottery will be ready to collect a few weeks later.

Event Strictly 16+. Advanced booking required at https://www.belfastceramicsstudio.com/service-page/friday-night-pottery-august?referral=service_list_widget

 

Belfast Potters Market

Location: 2 Royal Avenue, Belfast

Price: Free

Date & Time: Saturday 9^th August 10am-5pm

The summer Belfast Potter’s Market will take place on Saturday 9th August from 10am – 5pm.

Up to 40 of Ireland’s top potters and sculptors will be gathered together to exhibit and of course sell their beautiful pottery!

On the day there will also be FREE pottery classes for visitors to enjoy and get their hands dirty!

 

Antrim

‘Singing Threads: Songs and Stories of Ulster’s Mill Life’

Location: R SPACE GALLERY, 32 Castle Street, Lisburn BT27 4XE

Price: Free

Date & Time: 11am Saturday 16^th August – 5pm Friday 19^th September

Eimear Magee – ‘Singing Threads: Songs and Stories of Ulster’s Mill Life’

‘Singing Threads: Songs and Stories of Ulster’s Mill Life’ features textile artist and  musician Eimear Magee. This exhibition presents a new iteration of her graduate collection, an innovative body of work that combines contemporary textile art, traditional music and storytelling to honour the resilience of mill workers, transforming their lived experiences into rich, emotive art. Through this work, the artist creates a “living archive” that not only revisits and revives tradition,  but invites reflection on community strength and cultural continuity. All Ages welcomed!

Exhibition opening – Sat 16 August, 2-4pm

Open – Tue-Sat 11am-5pm

Making It on Rathlin: Crafting an Island Experience

Location: Richard Branson Activity Centre, Rathlin Island, Ballycastle, Co Antrim, BT54 6RT

Price:

Per person sharing a double room at The Manor House: £190.00

Per person booking a single room at The Manor House: £206.00

Please note that participants must book their own ferry ticket

Date & Time: 7^th August 11:30am-1:30pm

Join us for a unique Rathin overnight experience including a night at the Manor House and a wool workshop with Belfast School of Art Researchers Alison Gault and Anna Duffy. Also included is a photography workshop with Johnny Mithell and a chance to visit the West Lighthouse, the Boathouse Museum, the Breakwater Studio and Rathlin Cooperative with the opportunity for a boat tour of the cliffs on the island. The arts and crafts on Rathlin have long formed part of our traditional island culture, building upon the necessity of self-sufficiency it makes the connection with our native flora and fauna found across the rugged landscape.

Armagh

Kids Clay and Play Workshop

Location: Ciera Campbell Ceramics, 5-7 William Street, Portadown, Co. Armagh, BT62 3NX

Price: £15

Date & Time: Saturday 16th August 2-3:30pm

Come join us for an afternoon of creative fun with clay. With an array of stamps, cutters and rolling pins, your little ones can let their imaginations run wild. All pieces can be taken away on the same day and dried and painted at home.

 

Meadows Flowers Feltmaking Workshop

Location: 5-7 William Street, Portadown, Co. Armagh, BT62 3NX

Price: £30

Date & Time: Saturday 23rd August 10am -1pm

Working with an array of Merino wools and specialist fibres, Textile Artist, Andrea Hayes will guide you through creating a Meadow flower themed artwork using wet felting and needle felting techniques.

The Workshop is suitable for participants aged 16+

 

Tyrone

Humans, Being

Location:  Strule Arts Centre, Townhall Square, Omagh, Co. Tyrone, BT781BL

Price: Free

Date & Time: 29^th August at 6pm

An exhibition of figurative sculpture, focusing on the joys, the sorrows the challenges and the triumphs we meet during our life cycle. The exhibition will be open to all and will run for the month of August. For all ages.

 

Make Your Own Sculpture with Anna McGurn

Location: 1 Townhall Square, Townhall Square, Omagh, Co. Tyrone, BT78 1B

Price: £40

Date & Time: 23^rd August 10am-1pm

In this workshop you will learn the basics of how to sculpt with clay with Fermanagh native Anna McGurn. You will be guided through the different stages of the making process to create your own sculptural piece. No experience necessary. All materials provided. 18+ event.

 

Derry-Londonderry

Meet the Maker Day

Location: Derry Designer Makers shop. 16 Shipquay Street, Derry~Londonderry

Price: Free

Date & Time: 17th August 10am-5pm

Valerie Taylor creates a range of hand-woven and hand-crafted bags and purses. She uses the finest Donegal yarns in her hand-woven ranges and pre-woven collections. Valerie’s beautifully crafted pieces are a sustainable product – with everyday practicality. All products are designed, sourced, and handmade by Valerie in the Northwest of Ireland.

We will have various members of the collective demonstrating their craft throughout the day also. These will include, Batik fabric painting, hand embroidery, Oil on Canvas painting, card making, paper quilling, and jewellery making.

 

Adam Frew Ceramics: Open Studio with guest maker, blacksmith Ian Moran

Location: 21 Cullycapple Park, Aghadowey, Derry~Londonderry, BT51 4AS

Price: Free

Date & Time: Saturday 2nd August from 11am – 3pm

Aghadowey based potter Adam Frew will be hosting his annual Summer Open Studio with a twist this year!  Alongside Adam’s wide range of painterly porcelain pots for sale (firsts and plenty of seconds) will be master blacksmith Ian Moran’s finely crafted metal works. Suitable for Adults +16.

 

Down

Silversmithing Beginners class / Stacking rings

Location: Holywood

Price: £100 plus materials

Date & Time: 8^th August – 29^th August

Discover the timeless art of silversmithing in our exclusive small-group class, limited to just 4 students per class. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, this hands-on experience offers personalized guidance in a relaxed, creative studio environment.

You’ll learn essential techniques such as sawing, shaping, soldering, and polishing silver to create your own unique jewellery pieces. With expert instruction and plenty of individual attention, you’ll leave with both new skills and beautiful handcrafted items to cherish.

Join Angela in this 4-week course, in her Holywood studio, to learn a range of techniques and make some beautiful jewellery to take home in a relaxing and fun environment.

All tools for workshops are provided in the course fee. Materials are extra. The minimum age for a workshop participant is 18 years.

 

Liza’s Studio Open Day

Location: Portaferry

Price: Free

Date & Time: August 29th, 30th, 31st 1:00pm – 7:00pm

Elizabeth has been working as an artist and sculptor for several decades. Her figurative work is often inspired by ancient myths and explores what it means to be human.

The importance of form and line to Elizabeth Jorn is evident in her bronze sculptures and in her ceramic pieces; curvaceous pots, vases and vessels that reflect the hues and textures of County Down landscapes.

Ceramics, bronzes, paper pulp sculptures and other 2D works on display and for sale.

 

For the full island-wide programme and to get involved and show your support for your local craft sector visit www.augustcraftmonth.org.

Share your own craft adventures by tagging @augustcraftmonth25 and use the hashtags #augustcraftmonth2025 #makeseebuy