From the Heart of the Glens to Limavady, there’s no shortage of summer entertainment supported by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council this month.

In Cushendall, the Heart of the Glens Festival, one of the most successful community festivals in Northern Ireland, runs from August 5^th – 13^th. The nine day, family fun week features over 100 events. Visitors can look forward to country sports, the Lark in the Park fun day, Lurig Challenge run, ping pong ball race and the ever popular Waves of Tory. There’ll also be various workshops to take part in, including art, drama, music and dance. The festival theme night on Friday 11^th August is a sight to behold, as hundreds gather for live music and a dress-up party while soaking up the festival atmosphere on Mill Street.

On Saturday 12^th August, the Vintage Family Fun Day takes place, followed by a magnificent fireworks display in the evening. The ‘Grand Finale Street Party’ on Sunday 13th August features the famous ‘Waves of Tory’ along with a variety of traditional Irish music, song and dance, finishing with live music by.

In Limavady, the Stendhal Festival takes place from Friday 11^th August – Sunday 13^th. The multi-award winning music and arts festival, takes place in the stunning scenic surroundings of Ballymully Cottage Farm. Since its inception in 2011, the Festival has grown significantly over the years and celebrates all things creative including music, dance, theatre, comedy, poetry, traditional arts and sculpture to name a few.

Displaying both local and international talent, Stendhal is a family friendly festival and its programme seeks to introduce the arts to a new generation. The line-up this year includes Ash, The Magic Numbers, Sharon Shannon, Ciaran Lavery, Ulrich Schnauss + Nat Urazmetova, The Four of Us, Ryan McMullan, Lisa McHugh, Jealous of the Birds, Overhead, The Albatross, A Set of Stevie and much more. Further details available online at www.stendhalfestival.com.

With weekend camping tickets and free entry for children, Stendhal highlights the very best in local and international music, art, comedy, dance, theatre and more. Voted as Ireland’s Best Small Arts Festival since 2013, it offers visitors of all ages an entertaining grassroots festival.

The month comes to a close with the Auld Lammas Fair in Ballycastle which takes place on the Bank Holiday weekend Monday 28^th and Tuesday 29^th. Renowned as Ireland’s oldest fair, it has been held in the seaside town for hundreds of years and continues to attract thousands of people thanks to its truly unique atmosphere and visitor experience. This year’s Fair will be officially launched with a spectacular seafront fireworks display organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council on Sunday night (August 27^th). This new addition to the programme will provide a memorable opening to the much-loved event.

The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Joan Baird OBE said: “From the beginning to the end of the month, August has so much to offer visitors and locals alike. It’s fantastic to see such a variety of events taking place right across the Causeway Coast and Glens. I would like to take this opportunity to show my appreciation to all those who support our events throughout the summer, including visitors, volunteers, and local businesses for their donations and sponsorship.

For further information go to www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com or call 028 7034 4723.

A full programme of events is now available in local shops or keep up to date on the Causeway Coast and Glens Events Facebook.

The Aspects Irish Literature Festival has a long tradition of embracing writing in all its forms and bringing household names to Bangor.

Ards and North Down Borough Council is delighted to announce this year’s programme that once again celebrates the best of Irish writing and brings together a wealth of local literary talents and writers from further afield.

Aspects 2017 brings you a host of renowned authors including Colm Tóibín, Frank McGuinness, Peter Fallon, Carol Drinkwater, Kelly Creighton and many more.

Poetry lovers are in for a treat too with a whole host of poetry events on offer. From the annual poetry slam to readings from Michael Longley, Moyra Donaldson and Paul Madden and an event featuring Rachel McCrum.

With live music from Joshua Burnside and plenty for younger audiences with Gruffalo yoga and Myra Zepf’s children’s workshops, there really is something for everyone at this year’s Aspects.

Keep an eye out around the town for some fantastic exhibitions including Neil Shawcross’ Penguins book covers and Boom Studios will be hosting a Sketch Walk from Ward Park to Luke’s Point inspired by the words of local author Ian Sansom.

Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Robert Adair said, “Ards and North Down Borough Council are looking forward to welcoming everyone to join us in this celebration of the writing talent in the Borough and beyond. We hope readers and writers of all ages will be inspired by the Aspects programme.”

Speaking about the Festival, Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Arts Officer, Patricia Hamilton said; “We are excited to bring this diverse Aspects programme to Bangor. It showcases the immense writing talent from this area and throughout Ireland.”

The Festival takes place from 14-24 September at various locations around Bangor. For further information on the programme and to book tickets see aspectsfestival.com

Come and explore your creative side on Friday, 11 August when North Down Museum opens its doors for a very special art event – Arts Night At The Museum.

Now in its third year, Arts Night is back giving everyone the opportunity to get a taste of what it feels like to make art – visitors can expect everything from sketching to clay work or just sit back and listen to some music!

Every nook and cranny of the historic museum building will be filled with arts activity to experience, participate in or observe. Explore the museum in a unique and unexpected way, Arts Night is an event for the whole family.

Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Arts Officer, Patricia Hamilton, said: “We are delighted to be hosting Arts Night at the Museum once again. This is a fantastic event which allows people to experience and try out all kinds of art activities. Visitors of all ages will enjoy the range of activities on offer so we would encourage everyone to come along and join in the fun.”

People are invited to be the artist, whether guided by professional artists, or by taking part in art activities so you can explore your own creativity. While you’re there, don’t forget to browse the museum’s many current exhibitions.

Admission is free for this event and for all activities. The café will be open on the evening, and there will be some great music to add to the vibrant atmosphere.  The event runs from 6pm to 9pm.  Find information on www.northdownmuseum.com or 028 9127 1200

New Horizon

Date:  5^th – 11^th August

Time: 10am – 19:30

Venue: University of Ulster,Coleraine

Contact: office@newhorizon.org.uk   Tel: 028 2955 7157

New Horizon has been running a refreshing ministry week at the Ulster University in Coleraine every summer since 1989. This Includes bible teaching, youth programme and evening celebrations.  2017 Theme: Through the Power of His Spirit

 

Heart of the Glens Festival

Date:  5^th – 13^th August

Time: various, see website

Venue:  Cushendall

Contact: cushendall@nacn.org   Tel: 028 2177 1378   www.glensfestival.com

2017 is the 27th anniversary of Heart of the Glens Festival one of the most successful community festivals in Northern Ireland. The programme of events is as varied and entertaining as ever with something for all the family.

The festival will include fireworks on Saturday 12^th and throughout the week there will be the usual favourites including the Lurig Run, Vintage Family Fun Day, Workshops etc.

 

Ballycastle Junior Tennis Tournament

Date: 6^th – 12^th August

Time: various times daily

Venue: Mary Street Ballycastle

Contact: Carol.Nicholl@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk   Tel: 028 2076 3300

Ballycastle Tennis Courts are located on Mary Street comprising of 5 Grass Courts – the only grass courts in Northern Ireland and 6 floodlit polymeric courts.

 

Children’s Street Theatre

Date: 11^th August

Time: 13.30pm at Station Square, Portrush and 16.00pm at the Crescent, Portstewart

Venue: see above

Contact:   colerainevic@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk       Tel; 028 7034 4723

Part of the Council’s programme of free summer entertainment with Parky.

 

Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)

Date:  11^th August

Time: 14.00, pre-screening art workshop for 5-8yrs at 12.00 -13.30.

Venue: Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre, Limavady

Contact: information@rvacc.co.uk    Tel no: 028 7776 0650

This charming adaptation of Roald Dahl’s 1964 classic novel remains a favourite fixture in family homes across the world. The journey of Charlie Bucket from finding his golden ticket to his adventurous tour around Willy Wonka’s world famous chocolate factory is one of pure delight. Running time: 1 hour 40 mins

 

One Night Only – Rodd Hogg and Fiddler Adam

Date: 11^th August

Time: 21.00

Venue: Dark Hedges Estate- The Hedges Hotel, Stranocum

Contact: info@gracehillhouse.com   Tel: 028 2075 1209

Join Rodd Hogg and Fiddler Adam for an exceptional night of entertainment. We are delighted to bring together this local duo for one night only at the Hedges Hotel. Be amazed, be amused, be there.
Country DJ and late bar after the show until 01:30am

First release of tickets only £10 per head (excl. online booking fee)
Book at
https://events.glistrr.com/darkhedgesestate/e/7

 

Stendhal Festival

Date: 11^th & 12th August 2017

Time: See website and social media

Venue: Ballymully Cottage Farm, Limavady

Contact: press@stendhalfestival.com   Tel: 07834 163 108

Stendhal Festival of Art, a multi award winning event offers visitors of all ages an enriching artistic programme in a stunning scenic location with camping available. Tickets available at   www.Stendhalfestival.com

 

Ballycastle Food Tour

Date: 12^th August

Time: 10.00

Venue: meet at Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre at the Harbour.

Contact: northcoastwalking@gmail.com     Tel no: 028 2076 2024   Mob: 07718 276 612

A gem of a tour’ according to those who’ve once been on it. We wander around Ballycastle, noticing odd little nooks and corners, learning how important this place was and discovering that, through our food and creativity, it is now (according to the Sunday Times, no less!) the Best Place to Live in Northern Ireland. I agree with them completely – let me show why. Booking essential.

 

Causeway Market

Date: 12^th, 19^th and 26^th August

Time: 9.00-16.00

Venue: The Diamond, Coleraine

Contact: Market Manager Tel no: 07702910884

One of the largest outdoor Market in Northern Ireland with locally sourced produce from food to gifts and snacks

 

Damhead Miniature Railway

Date: 12^th August

Time: 12.00-17.00

Venue: 48 Damhead Road, Coleraine

Contact:  colerainevic@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk    Tel: (028) 2587 8237   Mob: (07703) 254 595

Damhead Miniature Railway, in the heart of the countryside between Coleraine and Ballymoney, is a great place to visit with the children. The small trains can be travelled on by both the kids and adults and the track covers one third of a mile. There are picnic facilities on site.

 

Little Red Riding Hood

Date: 12th August

Time: 12.00 and 14.00

Venue: Drumceatt Square, Limavady

Contact: information@rvacc.co.uk    Tel no: 028 7776 0650

A traditional marionette show with music and show effects to enchant young and old. Free outdoor event.

 

Coastal Foraging in Cushendall

Date: 13^th August

Time: 10.00

Venue: Cushendall Beach

Contact: Tel: 028 9046 3126

Join Ulster Wildlife for National Marine Week as Forage Ireland’s Dermot Hughes takes us on a coastal foraging walk in Cushendall. Find out what’s good to eat on our shore…and what isn’t. Booking is essential – Under 16s must be accompanied by responsible adult
Rathlin Sports Day

Date: 13^th August

Time: 13.30 -16.30

Venue: Rathlin Island

Contact: rdca@btconnect.com   Tel no: 0282076 0079   Mob no: 07850 327 456

A family fun day with bouncy castle, face painting and more.  Ferry is booking essential.

 

Pirate Day

Date: 13^th August

Time: 12.00-17.00 approx

Venue: Rosepark Farm, Ballymoney

Contact: rosepark_farm @hotmail.com    Tel no: 07961 124 136

Family fun day with pirate games and crafts in the party barn and live music by gift of the gab Fancy dress optional. Facepainting and BBQ available on the day (additional charges

 

Stand Up Paddleboard River Trail

Date: 14^th August 2017

Time: as booked

Venue: Swanns Bridge, River Roe, Limavady

Contact: info@longlinesurfschool.co.uk, Tel: 07738128507

Flow with Nature down the River Roe whilst learning the skills and techniques of this increasingly popular sport.

 

Ballycastle Senior Tennis Tournament

Date: 14^th-20^th August 2017

Time: various times daily

Venue:  Mary Street, Ballycastle

Contact: Carol.Nicholl@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Ballycastle Tennis Courts are located on Mary Street, comprising of 5 Grass Courts – the only grass courts in Northern Ireland and 6 floodlit polymeric courts Spectators travel from near and far to enjoy this unique event at the seafront in Ballycastle. These tournaments have entries from all over Europe and increasing every year.

 

The Little Yellow Bear

Date: 15^th August

Time: 12.00 -14.00

Venue: Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre, Limavady

Contact: information@rvacc.co.uk    Tel no: 028 7776 0650

A magical event for tots aged 3-6 years and their families about the realm of dreams. Children can also bring their Teddies and meet little yellow Bear.

 

Children’s Summer Street Theatre with Grant Goldie

Date: 16^th August 2017

Time:  13:30 – 16:00

Venue: Amphitheatre, Portrush & The Cresent  Porstewart

Taking place at two outdoor venues over the course of the afternoon, Grant Goldie brings his amazing one man show to Portrush and Portstewart. Come along and watch his feats of juggling and mesmerizing manipulation.

 

Children’ Street Theatre

Date:  18^th August

Time: 13.30pm Station Square, Portrush & 16.00pm at  The Crescent, Portstewart

Venue: Portrush & Portstewart

Contact:  colerainevic@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk   Tel: 0287034 4723

Come along and enjoy some free Street Entertainment this Summer in the Causeway Coast and Glens with the Raven Sisters. It is a high energy, non-stop cabaret of chaos, including hat manipulation, contemporary clowning and hula hooping.

 

Film: Finding Dory

Date: 18^th August

Time: 14.00 pre- screening art workshop for children aged 5-8 years at 12.00.

Venue: Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre, Limavady

Contact: information@rvacc.co.uk    Tel no: 028 7776 0650

A screening of this popular family favourite with Nemo & Marlin helping Dory find her parents.

 

The North West Pipe Band Competition, Portrush

Date: 18^th – 19^th August

Time: Commences 11.00 and at 18.00 street parade after competition

Venue: Recreation Grounds, Ramore Head, Portrush

Contact: info@rspbani.org    Tel no: 028 92 670445

Portrush will resound to the strains of hundreds of pipers on Saturday 19th August when the North West Pipe Band Championships commence at 11:00 hrs. Each year up to 50 pipe bands gather to compete against one another in what has become one of the most popular events of the summer in the seaside town of Portrush. Highland dancing competitions will be held on Friday 18th August at the same venue from 10:00 – 17:00 hrs.

 

Ballymoney & District Gardening Club 89th Annual Garden Show

Date: 19th August

Time: 13.00 – 16.30

Venue: St Patrick’s Parish Centre, Ballymoney

Contact: K.bacon14@btinternet.com   Tel no: 028 2766 6925

Ballymoney & District Gardening Club will hold their Annual Garden Show. This is a unique opportunity to visit and experience this much loved tradition, an event which all the family can thoroughly enjoy and be involved.

 

Party on the Pitch

Date: 18^th -19^th August

Time: Friday 17:00 – music from 18:00 – 23:00,   Saturday 14:00 – music from 15:00 – 23:00

Venue: Ballymoney RFC, 63 KIlraughts Road, Ballymoney

Contact: andy@partyonthepitch.ie  Tel no: 07900 601 700

After last year’s success, Party on the Pitch is back in Ballymoney. This year we have the fabulous Nathan Carter headlining a country night on Friday 18th August, and a big show special on Saturday 19th, featuring Showaddywaddy.  Booking Details: www.partyonthepitch.ie  Prices: one day £30, one day VIP £50 and weekend rates available.

 

Tom Thumb

Date: 19^th August

Time: 14.00

Venue: Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre, Limavady

Contact: information@rvacc.co.uk    Tel no: 028 7776 0650

The classic is told through puppetry, object theatre, storytelling and music.  Admission £5.00 (family tickets available).  There is a pre- show puppet workshop for children and families

 

Stop it Nurse

Date:  19^th August

Time: 20.00

Venue: Riverside Theatre, Coleraine

Contact: Riversidetheatre@org.uk Tel no: 028 70 123 123

Set in a Belfast hospital during the 60″s the Ward Sister rules the roost. We follow the fortunes and misfortunes of the patients in the male surgical ward. When Sammy, a Linfield supporter is admitted followed by Felix who supports Glentoran we can be sure mayhem follows. Add to the mix a giddy nurse, a domineering wife, a femme fatale and an all in wrestler then we have all the ingredients for a typical evening of pure Cree manic magic!

 

Portrush Summer Fireworks

Date: 19^th August

Time: 20.30 Band, 22.30 Fireworks

Venue: Ramore Head, Portrush

Contact: colerainevic@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk   Tel: 028 7034 4723

The Summer Fireworks Extravaganza takes place at Ramore Head, Portrush. The rocky headland, at the edge of the sea is a great location to view the firework display. It is a fantastic family event for visitors staying and exploring everything that the seaside resort has to offer. The evening will begin at 20:30 with live music from the band Curve. The fireworks start at around 22:30.

 

Bushmills Food Tour

Date: 18^th & 19^th

Time: 10.00

Venue: departing from Bushmills Visitor Information Centre

Contact: northcoastwalking@gmail.com   Tel: 028 2073 0390   Mob no: 007718 276 612

A food tour of Bushmills, learning about local culture, whilst tasting some of the best foods and produce in the North Of Ireland, served up by passionate owners and chefs. This town is a treasure trove of whiskey, salmon and potatoes.

 

Causeway coast Truck Fest 2017

Date: 20^th   August

Time: 10.00

Venue: The NW200 Pitts, Portstewart

Contact: info@causewaycoasttruckfest.com   Tel no: 028 20344723

Truck show and family fun day starting at 10am at the NW200 Pits Portstewart, followed by Truck Convoy of the NW200 circuit at 4pm. 300+ Show trucks, local food, trade and craft village, live entertainment for all to enjoy!

Grab a picnic and head to Ward Park Bandstand this Sunday 13^th August for an afternoon of folk-blues originals performed by Tony Villiers and The Villains.

Tony Villiers and The Villains are popular for their unique blend of folk-blues originals which comprise of vocalist plus guitarist Paul Meehan, percussionist Aidan McGillian and bassist Kevin Mahoney. With influences ranging from Bob Dylan, Leadbelly and Jimmy Reed to Lou Reed, Hank Williams and Woody Guthrie, you can enjoy an afternoon of top class live music as part of the Summer Music in the Park programme this August.

Grab your friends, family and a picnic blanket and head down to Ward Park to listen to great tunes on a Sunday afternoon between 3-5pm.

This is a FREE event.  Please note that Ward Park is an alcohol-free zone. All events are weather dependent and therefore subject to change. This year’s music programme is in association with Open House Festival.

Lookout in local press each week for details on each artist or for more information phone Bangor Visitor Information Centre on 028 9127 0069 or visit visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

 ‘One of the funniest shows you will see this year’

 

Wednesday 13 September: The Ardhowen, Enniskillen

Thursday 14 September & Friday 15 September: Millennium Forum, Derry

Saturday 16 September: Alley Theatre, Strabane

Tuesday 19 September – Saturday 23 September: Grand Opera House, Belfast

Tuesday 26 September: The Braid, Ballymena

Wednesday 27 September & Thursday 28 September: Market Place, Armagh

Friday 29 September: Strule Arts Centre, Omagh

Saturday 30 September: The Great Hall, Downshire, Downpatrick

Tuesday 3 October: The Old Courthouse, Antrim

Wednesday 4 October: Riverside Theatre, Coleraine

Thursday 5 October: The Burnavon, Cookstown

Friday 6 October: McNeill Theatre, Larne

Saturday 7 October: Island Hall, Lisburn

 

Three elderly cleaning ladies start up a telephone sex line.

 

When three cleaners, Olive, Gladys and Elsie, are threatened with redundancy they feel that their lives are coming to an end until a chance wrong number gives them a new business start-up idea; why not run a telephone sex line?

They’ve got motive, opportunity and a lifetime of experience – some more than others, mind you.

Provided Elsie can teach the other two a few new tricks there’s no reason why they can’t get rich quick providing they can keep their operation a secret from their bosses… and their husbands…and their children…and their grandchildren.

A searing indictment of ageism in the 21^st Century heavily disguised as a hysterical, laugh-out-loud, heart-warming comedy

Dirty Dusting premiered at the Customs House, South Shields in February 2003 and hasn’t stopped since. Two runs at Newcastle Theatre Royal were followed by tours of Scotland, England and Ireland, including a month-long run at the Gaiety Theatre, Dublin. It has returned to Scotland and Ireland on several occasions since, toured New Zealand and Australia and continues to tour the UK on an almost continual basis

Belfast foursome The Emerald Armada will be performing at the next concert in the series of The Lough Lively Sessions which is taking place at Portico, Portaferry on Friday 11 August.

 

The alt Irish folk group are hugely popular thanks to their infectious hook laden memories, stunning four-part harmonies and high-octane live performances.

The four brothers in arms find their heartbeat in an enchanting Bodhran drum and percussion set up with driving acoustics and punchy bass. Drawing inspiration from the sea, friendship and the small hours of the morning you can expect the boys to deliver a toe tapping set of songs from the heart.

Book now for an evening of superb entertainment in the beautiful surroundings of Portico.

Tickets cost £10 and are on sale now  at www.visitardsandnorthdown.com or www.porticoards.com. Show time is 7.30pm.

Still to come at the Lough Lively Sessions in Portico are; The 4 of Us, Saffyre and Rapparees. Running until October, the lively music events are supported by Ards and North Down Borough Council and The Arts Council of Northern Ireland.

One of the UK’s great storytellers, Ralph McTell, is set to play a one-off, intimate gig at Seamus Heaney HomePlace on Sunday 5 November.

Currently celebrating over 50 years on the road, Ralph is a prolific and gifted songwriter known for his virtuoso guitar style.  He made his debut in 1968 with the album ‘Eight Frames a Second’ and in 1974 the release of ‘Streets of London’ earned him an Ivor Novello Award. The song went to Number 2 on the UK Singles Chart in 1974 and has since been covered by more than 200 performers.

Speaking ahead of his latest trip to Northern Ireland, Ralph said:

“I am a huge admirer of Seamus Heaney and ever since I visited HomePlace last year I have hoped to perform a concert there.  I regard it as an honour and a privilege to have been invited.”

 

Tickets for Ralph McTell at Seamus Heaney HomePlace are £20 and are on sale now from www.seamusheaneyhome.com

After its success last year, Lumarina, the family friendly, fun filled, free event at Ballyronan Marina is back on Friday 18th and Saturday 19th August.

 

This annual spectacular illumination has gained a reputation for amazing entertainment, with the picturesque backdrop of the Lough providing a unique atmosphere at this family themed event.

On Friday 18 August, from 6pm – 10pm, Mid Ulster District Council will shine a light on the beauty of Lough Neagh, as the Marina provides the backdrop for an evening of music and entertainment.

Featuring fireworks, fire performers, a fun fair, children’s activities and food stalls, you can drink in the views from the Marina as dusk turns to night skies, to a live music soundtrack provided by Peach, a four piece band from Co. Antrim. Peach have performed with some of the most prestigious event promoters and acts in the country including Patrick Kielty and more recently playing with Chris DeBurgh and supporting the legendary Van Morrison!

The fun continues on the shores of Lough Neagh on Saturday afternoon (19th August) from 2pm – 6pm, with arts and crafts activities for the little ones, African drumming workshops, and magic shows.

Older children and the more adventurous among us with a head for heights can try their hands at the climbing wall and bungee trampoline, and much more!

Live music on Saturday afternoon is provided by The Bizz Band, the band everyone wants to dance to! From Moira, with a mixture of cover versions that range from Adele, Whitney Houston, The Scissor Sisters and Tom Jones to Journey, Garth Brooks, Lonestar, Jackie Wilson, you’re sure to be entertained!

Visit www.midulstercouncil.org/lumarina for further details.

Friday 4 – Thursday 10 August

 

Friday 4 August, Craft in the Square

Conway Square, Newtownards

11am – 6pm | Free

See Conway Square transformed into a tented village full of local Artists and Craftspeople to celebrate the start of the annual Creative Peninsula Open Studio event.

Info: 028 9182 6846, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Friday 4 August, Music in the Courtyard

North Down Museum, Bangor

12noon – 2pm | Free

Chill out in the ambiance of lunchtime music performances, every Friday in August.

Info:  028 9127 1200, northdownmuseum.com

 

Friday 4 – Sunday 13 August, Creative Peninsula

Various locations

Open Studios, Studio Coach Tours, Exhibitions, Workshops, Demonstrations and more, all taking place throughout the beautiful and picturesque Ards and North Down Borough. See website for full event programme.

Info: 028 9182 6846, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Saturday 5 August, Kid’s “Mini-beasts” Nature Trail

Killynether Wood, Newtownards

10.30am-12.30pm | £2.50 per child

Join this fascinating interactive nature trail led by Patrick Cregg from the Woodland Trust and bird expert Dot Blakely

Info: 028 9127 0069,  visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Saturday 5 August, Family Fun at Portaferry Visitor Information Centre

The Stables, Castle Street, Portaferry

2pm – 4pm  | Free

Bring the little ones along to Portaferry VIC for free family entertainment every Saturday in August.

Sat 5:  Science Workshop and Glitter Tattoos

Info: 028 9182 6846, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 August, Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages

Groomsport Harbour

2pm – 4pm | Free

Come along to Groomsport for free family fun every weekend from now until September.

Sat 5    Magic Show
Sun 6   CSI Workshop and Ulster-Scots Agency Entertainment

Cottages open 11am – 5pm

Info: 028 9127 0069, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Sunday 6 August, Summer Music in the Park

Ward Park, Bangor

3pm – 5pm | Free

Join us for live music every Sunday in August. This week, see The 19th Street Band deliver an exciting mix of red hot Americana, country and rock ‘n roll.

Info:  028 9127 0069, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Tuesday 8 August, Crafty Kids at North Down Museum

Castle Park Avenue, Bangor

10am – 12.30pm | £36

Treat the kids to a fun-filled week of Crafty fun for little hands. Early booking essential.

Info:  028 9127 1200,  visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Friday 11 – Thursday 17 August

 

Friday 11 August, Music in the Courtyard

North Down Museum, Bangor

12noon – 2pm | Free

Chill out in the ambiance of lunchtime music performances, every Friday in August

Info:  028 9127 1200, northdownmuseum.com

 

Friday 11 August, Fair weather Fridays

Conway Square, Newtownards

12.30 – 1.30pm | Free

With everything from music to circus performance and comedy, Conway Square will be the place to be in Ards on Fridays throughout August.

Info: 028 9181 0803, ardsarts.com

 

Saturday 12 August, Portavogie Seafood Festival

Portavogie Seafood Festival

12noon -5pm | Free

Come along for a superb family day out, including a cookery demo with celebrity chef Nick Nairn, Fish Market, maritime themed activities, a touch tank, Dizzylands Funfair and so much more!

Info: 028 9182 6846, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Saturday 12 August, Family Fun at Portaferry Visitor Information Centre

The Stables, Castle Street, Portaferry

2pm – 4pm  | Free

Bring the little ones along to Portaferry VIC for free family entertainment every Saturday in August.

Sat 12:  Doodlebugs Workshop

Info: 028 9182 6846, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Saturday 12 August, Strangford Lough Boat Trip

Portaferry    

2pm-4pm | £10 (ad), £5 (ch)

Take time away from the fast pace of everyday life and enjoy the magnificent scenery and fascinating wildlife of Strangford Lough

Info:  028 9182 6846, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Saturday 12 – Sunday 13 August, Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages

Groomsport Harbour

2pm – 4pm | Free

Come along to Groomsport for free family fun every weekend from now until September.

Sat 12    Bricks4kidz Lego Workshop and Children’s Crafts
Sun 13    ‘Tales of the Wild’ Animal Roadshow, Traditional Crafts and Ulster-Scots Agency Entertainment

Info: 028 9127 0069, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Sunday 13 August, Summer Music in the Park

Ward Park, Bangor

3pm – 5pm | Free

Join us for live music every Sunday in August. This week, see  Tony Villiers and The Villains play a unique blend of folk-blues originals, influenced by Jonny Cash, Bob Dylan and Woody Guthrie.

Info:  028 9127 0069, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Wednesday 16 August, Kids Nature Trail

Castle Park, Bangor    

10.30am-12.30pm | £2.50

Join this fascinating interactive nature trail, led by Patrick Cregg from the Woodland Trust and bird expert Dot Blakely.

Info: 028 9127 0069, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Wednesday 16 August, Bangor Castle Walled Garden Tour

Walled Garden, Bangor

6.30pm-8.30pm | Free (Booking Required)

This popular guided tour provides an insight into the garden’s history, its restoration and the vast array of plants, fruits and vegetables which are grown there.

Info: 028 9127 0069, visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

 Exhibitions

 

Portaferry Visitor Information Centre

The Stables, Castle Street, BT22 1NZ

T: 028 4272 9882

 

Saturday 5 – Sunday 27 August

Art in the Loft: ‘The Language of Pain’

An exhibition by the Martin family addressing the hidden side of pain

 

North Down Museum, Bangor

Castle Park Avenue, located by Bangor Castle (Town Hall), BT20 4BT

T: 028 9127 1200 | northdownmuseum.com

 

Until Sunday 20 August 

The Lay of the Land Exhibition

Bangor based artists draw on their experiences of living and working within the beautiful borough of Ards and North Down.

 

Wednesday 2 August – Sunday 3 September 

Creative Peninsula

A celebration of the exclusivity and quality of the artwork produced by local artists and craftspeople

 

Ards Crafts and Visitor Information Centre

31 Regent Street, Newtownards, BT23 4AD

T: 028 9182 6846

 

Saturday 5 – Saturday 26 August

Meet the Maker: ‘Natural Impressions’

A collaborative exhibition by Printmaker Michael Geddis and Ceramicist Andrew Cooke

 

Ards Arts Centre

Town Hall, Conway Square,  Newtownards, BT23 4NP

T: 028 9181 0803

 

Wednesday 2 – Thursday 31 August

Creative Peninsula

A showcase of the high concentration of artists and craft persons living and working in the Ards Peninsula