Council’s Events Team is preparing to make a splash as the Rathlin Sound Festival returns to the Causeway Coast from Friday 23^rd May to Sunday 1^st June 2025.

The annual 10-day festival celebrates the people, culture and heritage of Ballycastle and Rathlin Island.

In collaboration with Rathlin Development and Community Association, Council is bringing you this hugely popular celebration of the Rathlin Sound – the body of water connecting Rathlin Island to the Ballycastle mainland.

With a programme packed full of activities on the land and in the sea, there’s sure to be something for everyone.

Visitors can look forward to a diverse programme of live music performances, wild cookery demonstrations, ‘have a go’ activities, crafts, talks, falconry and artisans from the Naturally North Coast and Glens Market.

Highlights of the exciting children’s programme include maritime themed crafts, colourful kite display, have a go activities and sand sculpting on Ballycastle Beach.

For the adults, there’s insights into traditional boat making, talks, live music, ‘have a go’ paddleboarding and wild cookery demonstrations whilst for the children there’s falconry, have a go circus skills and have a go kayaking.

The festival starts on Friday 23^rd May with the Blessing of the Boats, a poignant reflection of the ocean and a blessing to ensure a safe boating season.

In anticipation of the festival, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Ciarán McQuillan, said: “I am delighted to see the Rathlin Sound Festival return for 2025, celebrating Ballycastle and Rathlin Island’s shared nautical heritage.

“It is fantastic showcase of the area’s unrivalled tourism offering and it brings a unique vibrancy which is enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year.

“The festival has long been one of the highlights of our events calendar, and I am looking forward to seeing many of the talented artisan crafters, food producers and musicians and that we have in the Causeway Coast and Glens.”

“I would also encourage visitors to the festival to explore our wider Council area and enjoy some of the fantastic places and spaces we have to offer.”

The full programme is available on the website by visiting www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com/whats-on/rathlin-sound-festival for the latest updates, or contact Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre on 028 2076 2024.

Please note, details are subject to change due to tides and weather conditions, so visitors are advised to follow the Festival’s Facebook. (@RathlinSoundFestival) and Twitter (@RathlinSoundMF) channels for the most up-to-date announcements.

With Glenn Irwin, the winner of the last eleven Superbike races in a row at the Briggs Equipment North West 200, sitting out this year’s meeting, the three premier class races at Ireland’s biggest road race are more wide open than ever as the sun is set to shine on the north coast all week.

Local favourite Michael Dunlop said he wants to be a winner again around the 8.9 mile Triangle course after notching up a maiden victory on his new M1000RR BMW at the recent Cookstown 100. The local favourite, who hasn’t won a race at Portrush since 2016, has made a major machinery change for 2025, switching from a Yamaha R6 to a Ducati V2 Panigale in the Supersport class and opting for BMW power in the Superbike and Superstock classes. The Ballymoney man will debut a superbike-spec version of the M1000RR when qualifying for the three day event begins on Wednesday morning.

With the weather forecast set for a fine, dry week the action will be hot and furious as Dunlop faces stern opposition in his victory quest. Alastair Seeley, the north coast event’s most successful rider, will be one of his biggest challengers as he returns to the NW200 fray following a 2024 sabbatical when he was unable to secure suitable machinery.

The 45 year old will be mounted on a SMS/ Nicholl Oils Racing M1000RR BMW in the Superbike and Superstock classes this year plus a CD Racing by MSS Performance ZXR 636 Kawasaki in the Supersport races. The all-time record holder at Ireland’s biggest road race will be chasing a landmark 30^th victory at the seaside event where he won his first race in 2008.

‘Sometimes a year’s wait can be worth it because it makes you even hungrier to put on a good show.’ the Carrickfergus rider says.

‘I will be leaving nothing on the table now that we have bikes that are good enough to do the job.’

Honda Racing’s Dean Harrison has stood on the NW200 podium five times over the last two seasons but has not been able to break his victory famine around the high speed course. The Bradford man will line up in the Superbike, Superstock and Supersport classes this year with seven chances to make his breakthrough.

‘I suppose not winning at the North West has been down to my lack of commitment on the coast road on the last lap.’ the Yorkshireman says.

‘I need to be more aggressive, to get myself into the right place at the right time because you can be part of a big train slipstreaming on the straights and you can go from first to sixth on that last lap.’

8TEN Racing duo, Peter Hickman and Davey Todd, will also be chasing their first North West 200 Superbike victory. The duo will face an uphill battle however as they race against time to prepare their new Superbike and Superstock-spec M1000RR BMWs for the high speed encounter at Portrush.

Todd enjoyed a hat-trick of wins in the Supersport and Superstock races at last year’s event and Hickman scored a double in the Supertwin races aboard a Swan Yamaha. In the smaller capacity classes Todd will campaign a CBR600RR Honda in Milenco Padgett’s colours this year while Hickman will be aboard a Supersport-spec Triumph and a R7 Yamaha in the ‘Twins class. But with the clock running down to the start of the road racing season, neither rider has enjoyed much testing or race laps on their new for 2025 mounts which is far from ideal preparation ahead of the NW200 speed fest.

Former North West winner Ian Hutchinson will line-up alongside Cork’s Mike Browne on another pair of BMWs in Michael Laverty’s newly formed team. Described as the busiest man in bike racing, the former British Supersport champion from Toomebridge, who is now a MotoGP TV pundit, looks set to be juggling a lot of plates at Portrush.

Former NW200 outright lap record holder and double British Superbike champion, Josh Brookes, is another leading name who will be trying to get his name on a NW200 Superbike trophy for the first time. Brookes will have a Jackson Racing Honda at his disposal in the premier class events this year.

‘I like the course, it’s pretty easy to figure out and where the important bits are, but what I like the most is the mass start.’ Brookes says.

‘That, for me, is what makes the NW200 both exciting and

rewarding. I’ve been on the podium a few times and I’ve set lap records, but I want to win one and get that particular box ticked. It’s a thorn in my side that I haven’t won one. I like racing bikes and I like racing at the NW200, but I want to win as well so that’s my focus for coming back in 2025.’

Each race is packed with talent and a host of riders who could make their mark on the 2025 NW200.

Richard Cooper has become something of a Triangle course specialist since making his North West debut in 2019.

The 42 year old added a maiden win in the Fraser Homes Supersport race on Alastair Russell’s R6 at last year’s NW200 to his four previous Supertwin victories at the north coast event with Ryan Farquhar’s KMR team and he is staying put with the same teams for 2025.

Jamie Coward will return to the north coast  with his KTS Racing squad after a three year break. Previously a podium finisher at Portrush, Coward will have his sights set on a similar result at least in the Supersport and Supertwin classes in particular.

Manxman Conor Cummins will be hoping to impress as he makes his NW200 debut with the RK Racing/Burrows squad team on BMW and Ducati machinery and Finland’s Erno Kostamo is always one to watch in the big bike events.

Two men who have well and truly served earned their NW200 stripes are veterans John McGuinness and Michael Rutter. Rutter will be aiming for his 100^th race start this year having competed in 97 races since making his debut in 1992. Only Alastair Seeley and 15 times winner, Robert Dunlop, have been more successful at the North West 200 than the Englishman who will ride a BMW in the Superbike races and a R7 Yamaha in the Twins class this week.

Honda Racing’s McGuinness, who made his debut two years after Rutter, will be hoping for a similar result to last year when he received the loudest cheer of the day as he climbed on to the rostrum after finishing third in the CP Hire Superstock race.

Schedule

The action is set to begin on Wednesday morning with roads closing between 9am and 3pm for Newcomer’s practice and qualifying.

Final qualifying resumes on Thursday between 9am and 3pm before roads close again at 4.45pm and the racing begins with the Milwaukee Superbike event at 5.30pm, the Fraser Homes Supersport race at 6.30pm and the Amici Ristorante Superstock clash at 7.15pm. All three races will be run over four laps with roads scheduled to re-open by 9pm

On Saturday the roads are scheduled to close at 9am and the action set to begin at 10am with the Maxwell Freight Services Supertwin race (4 laps) followed by the Briggs Equipment Superbike race, the Tides Restaurant Supersport race and the CP Hire Superstock race, all run over 6 laps.

The 4 lap JM Paterson Supertwin race over is the penultimate event with the 6 lap Merrow Hotel and Spa Superbike race bringing the curtain down on the high speed festival on Saturday evening with roads scheduled to re-open by 7pm at the latest.

The sights, smells, and sounds of Market Place’s Spring Continental Market are set to return to the Belfast City Hall gardens from the 22 – 26 May.

Traders will be showcasing an array of tantalising flavours from across the globe and unique handcrafted gifts, during the five-day event. 

This year’s market is hosting over 70 stalls, offering food enthusiasts, families, and everyday explorers the very best international cuisine, artisanal products, and handmade goods. In addition, the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF) Young Traders Market will form part of the Spring Continental Market on the 24th, 25th and 26th May, giving twenty-five young, local entrepreneurs the chance to showcase their products to thousands of visitors.

Visitors to the market can enjoy exquisite flavours from France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland, and further afield. Firm foodie favourites include exotic meat burgers and loaded dirty fries. The Dutch pancake stall will be serving mouth-watering delicious bite-size pancakes with lashings of butter and sugar, an extravagance native to their homeland. Sip on refreshing beers or chilled soft drinks from Lavery’s beer tent or the Continental Bar, perfect for relaxing, soaking up the spring sunshine, and enjoying a bit of people-watching.

In addition to the delicious food and drink offerings, the market will also feature a range of artisan products and handcrafted goods such as luxury soaps and fragrances,  vibrant flowers and garden accessories, beautifully crafted pottery from Tunisia and original paintings and prints.

Market Place Manager, Andy Pidgen said:

“We are delighted to be returning to Belfast, the city that has become our second home and is without doubt one of the friendliest cities we visit. The energy, enthusiasm, and warm welcome from both locals and visitors make it a true highlight in our events calendar. We are also thrilled to be supporting young traders in Northern Ireland through our partnership with the NMTF. It’s a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on the next generation of entrepreneurs, giving them a platform to showcase their creativity, talent, and passion.’’

There is lots happening across the city over the month of May, including the return of the highly anticipated Twilight Market on Monday 20th and Tuesday 21st May from 4 – 10pm. Taking place in the iconic St George’s Market, the event will shine a spotlight on some of Northern Ireland’s finest local traders and artisans, offering local produce, live music, great food, and community spirit.

 

The Spring Continental Market at City Hall runs from Thursday 22 – Monday 26 May and will be open from:

Thursday – Saturday 10am – 9pm

Sunday 12noon – 6pm

Monday 10am – 6pm

 

Gathering Stitches, a two-day festival of yarn, textiles and sustainable fashion which brings together local and small businesses showcasing textile artists and craft supplies, supported by Ards and North Down Borough Council, will take place on Saturday 17^th and Sunday 18^th May at WWT Castle Espie Comber.

Across the two days festival-goers can enjoy a marketplace of vendors with high quality unique goods, craft workshops including brioche knitting, flower pounding (Tataki-zome), embroidery and weaving, as well as a panel discussion on Saturday 17^th May highlighting how creativity, community, and conscious choices can shape a better future. Each day between 10am – 11am, is designated as a sensory friendly time for festival-goers who require a calmer, less crowded environment.

Entry to Gathering Stitches includes standard admission to WWT Castle Espie, allowing festival-goers to enjoy both the immersive natural beauty of the wetlands and the vibrant creativity of the event in one visit.

Gathering Stitches organised by Ards based social enterprise Inspiring Yarns, was formed through a shared passion for yarn.  As well as supporting small independent businesses, all proceeds from their events go directly to support their work to improve mental health and social isolation.  The festival marks an ongoing collaboration with WWT Castle Espie, helping to connect people with community and nature with a focus on supporting mental health and well-being.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, said:
“Ards and North Down Borough Council is pleased to support the inaugural Gathering Stitches festival. Held within the beautiful grounds of WWT Castle Espie, this tranquil location provides the perfect backdrop for a festival that will showcase local textile businesses and local people with a focus on sustainable practices. I am sure it will be a fabulous event with something for everyone to enjoy.”

 

Claire Anketell organiser of Gathering Stitches, from Inspiring Yarns, said:
“We are so grateful for the support from Ards and North Down Borough Council, and very excited for the opportunity to host our first Gathering Stiches festival. It’s been something we’ve planned for some time, being able to support and showcase people working in textiles is something we’re very passionate about. Also, with our ongoing collaborative work with WWT Castle Espie, we are delighted we can showcase such an amazing place which highlights the beauty of the area, and the importance of wetlands and wildlife – especially for mental health and well-being.”

 

Centre Manager at WWT Castle Espie, Paul Stewart added:
“We’re thrilled to be working with Inspiring Yarns to bring the Gathering Stitches two-day festival to WWT Castle Espie. This event speaks to the heart of what we do — connecting people with nature in meaningful ways. Whether you’re passionate about sustainable living, love supporting local makers, or simply looking for a weekend of inspiration in a beautiful setting, Gathering Stitches Festival promises something for everyone.”

For further details and ticket prices visit www.gatheringstitches.co.uk  for any further queries e:mail hello@gatheringstitches.co.uk. Follow Gathering Stitches on Facebook: gatheringstitchesfestival and Instagram @gathering_stitches_festival.

Visit Armagh is on the hunt for an adventure-seeking family in a new ‘Family Explorer’ competition set to showcase the very best of family-friendly attractions and experiences across the Armagh, Banbridge, and Craigavon region.

Just in time for summer, families with children aged 16 and under are invited to apply by sharing in 100 words or less why they should be chosen. Applications can be submitted online at visitarmagh.com/familyexplorer, with the competition closing on May 18.

As the destination’s official Family Explorer, the selected family will kick off their journey with a stay at Tepee Valley – a one-of-a-kind glamping experience set in the heart of the Orchard County’s countryside. The adventure continues with VIP access to standout attractions, including the Armagh Planetarium and Observatory – the only facility of its kind on the island of Ireland – and an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Tayto Castle in Tandragee, home of the iconic crisps.

Throughout 2025, they will be invited to attend a vibrant calendar of festivals and events. From the Georgian Festival, where Armagh’s 18th century charm comes to life with family-friendly events and festive markets, to the Food and Cider Festival celebrating the area’s rich harvest and its famed PGI-certified Armagh Bramley apple and the return of the Wickerman event in August, a dramatic Lughnasa celebration featuring music and crafts.

This latest initiative reflects the region’s commitment to families seeking memorable, high-quality experiences.

Sara McGeary, Tourism Manager at Armagh, Banbridge, and Craigavon Borough Council, said, “As a region, we’ve made it a priority to invest in experiences that speak directly to families – not just as visitors, but as a core part of our tourism proposition. This competition is just one example of how we’re bringing that to life, offering a chance to experience the very best of what Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon has to offer. We’re continuing to evolve our attractions and activities to reflect what modern families are looking for. In fact, we’ve just launched a range of new experiences designed to cement Armagh’s status as a must-visit destination for families to connect, explore, and make memories together. Our aim is simple: to create meaningful, accessible experiences that don’t have to come with a hefty price tag.”

The region’s newest offerings give families the chance to explore the heritage of the area including the ancient art of road bowling in Armagh City to Dan Winter’s Cottage, where children and adults alike can learn about traditional weaving in one of Ireland’s oldest thatched homes. Young adventurers can enjoy a brand-new activity sheet filled with fun and educational content, while families can embrace the local food scene and the outdoors with orchard tours, outdoor cooking experiences, adventure play trails in Gosford Forest Park and Moo Valley Artisan Gelato’s farm-to-table tastings.

Lord Mayor, Councillor Sarah Duffy, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, said, “Summer is one of the most exciting times to visit our borough – the energy, the colour, and the sense of welcome are second to none. We see families returning year after year because they know they’ll find something special here. Whether that’s stepping behind the scenes at the Game of Thrones Studio Tour, delving into ancient myths at Navan Centre & Fort, or indulging in some retail therapy at The Boulevard, we truly believe this is the best place on the island for a family escape – and during the summer months, there’s simply no better time to experience it.”

Families are invited to visit visitarmagh.com/familyexplorer and to submit an entry. T&Cs apply.

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Museums Services is thrilled to announce the official opening of the Joey 25 Exhibition, a tribute to motorcycling legend Joey Dunlop, at Ballymoney Museum.

This free exhibition opens to the public from Tuesday 6^th May 2025 and commemorates 25 years since the passing of one of Northern Ireland’s greatest sporting icons, and forms part of the Joey 25 celebration taking place in his home town this May.

Joey Dunlop, born in Ballymoney in 1952, was revered as the “King of the Roads” and his extraordinary career boasted 26 Isle of Man TT wins, five Formula One World Championships, 13 North West 200 victories, and 24 Ulster Grand Prix triumphs.

Beyond his racing prowess, Joey was honoured with an MBE in 1986 and an OBE in 1996 for his humanitarian work with children in Eastern Europe. The Joey 25 Exhibition celebrates his enduring legacy as a local hero and global ambassador for motorcycling.

The exhibition showcases a unique collection of artifacts and memorabilia, many on loan from the Dunlop family archives and others loaned specifically for this display.

Highlights include rare photographs, racing leathers, trophies, and personal items that chronicle Joey’s remarkable journey.

Of particular note is the racing leathers Joey wore during the 1981 Isle of Man TT, where riders wore all black as a protest. The exhibition also features the very gloves Joey wore when he lost the tip of his left-hand ring finger in a crash during the 1998 Tandragee 100 race meeting.

Visitors will be able to explore restored and original racing bikes, alongside interactive displays and video tributes that capture his courage, humility, and passion for the sport.

The official launch was attended by Joey’s wife, Linda Dunlop, and many of the Dunlop family, who joined Councillor Ciarán McQuillan, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, to open the exhibition which will run daily Monday – Saturday 9am-5pm from Tuesday 6^th May – Saturday 30^th August 2025 (excluding bank holidays).

“We are deeply honoured to host this exhibition in Joey’s hometown,” said Councillor Ciarán McQuillan.

“Joey Dunlop was not just a sporting legend but a beloved figure who put Ballymoney on the world stage. This exhibition is a heartfelt tribute to his achievements and the profound impact he continues to have on our community and beyond.”

The Joey 25 Exhibition is part of a series of events commemorating the 25th anniversary of Joey’s passing and Jamie Austin, Councils Museum Officer said: “Thank you to Linda and the Dunlop family for sharing their cherished items with us for this iconic exhibition.

“I would also like to thank William McComb and Ian Waddell who have loaned bikes that Joey rode for the exhibition, in addition to Clifford Stewart who has also kindly loaned bikes to the museum which will be showcased as part of a display on the history of motorbike racing.

“The Museums team is very much looking forward to showing members of the public this exhibition and the legacy that Joey has left for us all.”

On May 24, 2025, the Joey 25 Celebration will feature over 25 motorcycling legends, including World Superbike Champions Carl Fogarty and Jonathan Rea, riding Joey’s iconic bikes in a closed-road parade through Ballymoney’s town centre.

“Joey’s memory lives on through the love and support of his fans and our community,” said Linda Dunlop.

“This Joey 25 exhibition is a beautiful way to honour his life, and we’re grateful to Ballymoney Museum staff and the Council for making it happen.”