The exciting new summer workshop programme at The Market Place Theatre in Armagh during June comes to you from the artists at Create: Innovate: Armagh.

Jewellery Designer Mary Murphy, will lead the Silver Jewellery workshop on Saturday 10 June. She will take you step-by-step through the process of handcrafting your own bespoke Silver Pendant. You will create your piece out of silver sheet and wire using traditional hand tools, transferring your pattern, cutting out with a piercing saw, annealing, forming and soldering using a soldering torch. In addition to this you will learn some texturing and embellishing techniques before filing, emerying and polishing to bring your Silver Pendant to a high quality finish for you to hang on a silver chain provided. Suitable for beginners aged 16+ or those wishing to further their skills from previous silver jewellery workshops.

Pin Hole Photography on Saturday 17 June, is an experimental and vibrant workshop perfect for those aged 16+ with an interest in Photography. After a short introduction about pinhole photography you will make your own working pinhole camera from scratch using nothing but cardboard, tape and a piece of soda can! Once completed we’ll load it up with film and go out on a shoot. We will take care of the developing of the film and scan any successful images which you will receive by disk. No previous photography experience required.

Visit the website at www.marketplacearmagh.com for full details and bookings, or contact the Box Office on [028] 3752 1821. And to keep up-to-date with the latest news at the Market Place Theatre, you can follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/marketplacearmagh) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/mptarmagh) where you will find all the latest information, special offers and video previews.

Bangor Castle’s Walled Garden will be home to twenty-nine sculptures for the month of June when the annual ForM sculpture exhibition takes up residence in its beautiful surroundings.

The eclectic exhibition which was opened on Saturday 3 June will showcase works from an array of talented artists who exhibit nationally and internationally.

The sculptures, inspired by the garden, will give visitors a unique experience and the opportunity to see art in a different context.  A visit to Bangor Castle Walled Garden is a real escape and the sculptures enhance this experience even further.

Some of the works are of large scale and complement the setting whilst other subtler works will need to be sought out of the greenery. Come along and enjoy this exhibition with the whole family when art and nature collide in a unique garden experience.

Visitors to the launch were treated to a guided tour of the exhibition and got to meet the artists and learn about each piece and their inspiration behind it.

Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Arts Officer, Patricia Hamilton said; “The Form sculpture exhibition provides the opportunity for artists to challenge themselves to create work for a unique environment and be inspired by the stunning setting of Bangor Castle Walled Garden.

The exhibition, which is open to all, especially creates an excellent opportunity for our local artists, some of whom are starting out on their artistic careers, to exhibit alongside established artists.

Bangor Castle Walled Garden is a treasure in Bangor and I would encourage everyone to visit it during the month of June and experience the sculptures alongside the stunning landscaping.”

The exhibition will remain open until 25 June and is free to visit.  Some of the sculptures will be available to buy.  You may pick up a map and brochure in the coffee shop in the Garden. This year for the first time, visitors are invited to vote for their favourite sculpture for the ForM Competition and can cast their votes when they visit the exhibition.

Bangor Castle Walled Garden is open from 10am – 8pm Monday to Thursday, and 10am – 6pm at weekends and Bank Holidays.

SUMMER 2017 is set to be an epic year for sport in Northern Ireland.

We are playing host to a stellar line-up of international events, from the Women’s Rugby World Cup to the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open and UEFA European Women’s Under-19 Championship – among many more local events and tournaments.

So whether you’re a football, rugby or cycling fan, you’ll find plenty to get behind in this “Summer of Sport”.

John McGrillen, Tourism Northern Ireland Chief Executive, said: “This summer is packed full of sporting events that will make a real impact to the visitor economy across Northern Ireland.

“People from Northern Ireland have shown themselves to be hugely enthusiastic and supportive of local, national and international events. Local crowd support will be an important element in making these events a real success and helping us to attract more large-scale events to Northern Ireland in the future.

“From the Women’s Rugby World Cup to the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open and UEFA European Women’s Under-19 Championship – there’s a huge variety of sporting events to choose from and at the same time experience some of our fantastic accommodation, restaurants, pubs and attractions.”

DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has put together a list of some top sporting events taking place this year in Northern Ireland that you can be a part of, be that as a spectator or participant.

So why not get on your bike, tee off at a world-renowned golf course, or simply book your tickets to be a part of something amazing in this epic sporting year.

1. Gran Fondo
   3 – 4 June
   The Gran Fondo Giro d’Italia Northern Ireland weekend is fast becoming one of the must-ride sportives in the UK and Ireland. Sunday will see thousands of cyclists take on two routes through the stunning County Down landscape – the 58km Strangford race overlooking the island-dotted lough,  and the more gruelling 175km Mourne route – ascending some of Northern Ireland’s highest mountain peaks. The Giro d’Italia trophy, Trofeo Senza Fine, will be on display at the Giro Expo in Belfast for riders and fans to get their photos taken, and there’s a post-ride pasta party at Stormont Estate.

 

2. Causeway Coast Amateur Golf Tournament

5 – 9 June

The Causeway Coast Amateur Golf Tournament is in its 50th year and is the largest amateur golf tournament in Europe, held every summer on the glorious north coast. Played over the Valley; Royal Portrush, Ballycastle, Castlerock and Ballyliffin links, the tournament offers a unique challenge to amateurs with an official club handicap of 20 or less.

 

3. Belfast Parkland International Golf Tournament
   3 – 5 July
   A unique parkland tournament, Belfast Parkland brings together some of the most prestigious golf courses in the Belfast area. Take the opportunity to be part of history and play the inaugural tournament this summer featuring Malone Golf Club, Royal Belfast and Shandon Park. Registration is open until 30 June.

 

4. Dubai Duty Free Irish Open

6 – 9 July
The Dubai Duty Free Irish Open, hosted by the Rory Foundation, is returning once again to Northern Ireland this summer, with the Causeway Coastal Route providing a picturesque canvas for the July tournament at Portstewart Golf Club. Past winners Padraig Harrington and Shane Lowry will be joining host Rory McIlroy, and with more player announcements imminent, this year’s tournament is shaping up to be one of the best yet. Don’t miss out on seeing golfing’s elite this summer in Northern Ireland.

5. Foyle Cup
   17 July – 22 July
   The Foyle Cup is one of Ireland and indeed Europe’s premier youth tournaments and is widely recognised as a tournament that launches the careers of young players aspiring to sign professional contracts. It has grown into a six-day festival of football, catering for all ages, and allows spectators to watch up to three games every day.

   6. Super Cup NI
   23 – 28 July
   This summer Super Cup NI celebrates its 35^th anniversary as one of the world’s best youth football tournaments, with teams from across the world descending on Northern Ireland. Manchester United, six times Premier title winners, will contest the Junior competition, one of six English clubs involved.Past competitors in the tournament, formerly known as The Milk Cup, have included David Beckham, Gary Neville and Peter Crouch. Matches are played at various venues across the Causeway Coast area with the finals taking place at the Ballymena Showgrounds on Friday 28th July.

 

7. Ulster Grand Prix

6 – 12 August

Another exciting returning highlight in Northern Ireland’s road racing calendar is the MCE Ulster Grand Prix – the fastest road race in the world. The 2016 meeting was hailed as one of the most thrilling the sport has seen in recent years, with close racing between the world’s top road racers culminating in four wins for Tyco BMW racer Ian Hutchinson, who also broke the record for the fastest lap with a whopping 134.087mph on the final lap of the second superbike race. The 2017 MCE Ulster Grand Prix is expected to exhibit the best and brightest talent.
8. 2017 UEFA European Women’s Under-19 Championship
8 – 20 August
For the first time ever, the Irish Football Association is hosting the Women’s Under-19 Championship in Northern Ireland. Eight national teams, including host Northern Ireland, will participate in the prestigious 16-day tournament showcasing Northern Ireland at its best, including our football, our facilities, our culture, our history, our fans and our unconditional love of the game on a national scale. Get your tickets now and cheer on the girls in the first of two major women’s events taking place this year.

9. Women’s Rugby World Cup 2017
9 – 26 August
The 2017 Women’s Rugby World Cup will be the biggest ever – and it’s happening right here. Following pool stage matches in Dublin, the tournament will make its way to Belfast for play-off rounds at Kingspan Stadium and Queen’s University, before culminating in a grand finale on Saturday 26 August at the home of Ulster Rugby. WRWC 2017 promises to be a highlight of the sporting calendar in Ireland and is sure to inspire a new generation of female players across the island. Tickets cost from as little as £10 for children and £15 for adults. Can Ireland bring the trophy home?

10. Northern Ireland Open
10 – 13 August
Northern Ireland’s annual national professional tournament returns to Galgorm Castle, Ballymena as part of the European Challenge Tour’s international schedule.  The tournament regularly attracts strong players such as Michael Hoey, Peter Lawrie and Gareth Maybin to the course’s stunning fairways. But this is a golf tournament for all the family – it also features a kids’ fun area, food festival and live music. The tournament is free for spectators and tickets can be secured by registering online.

11. Ulster Rally
18 – 19 August
Running for over 40 years, the Ulster Rally is one of a select number of events included in the prestigious MSA British Rally and TROA Tarmac Rally Championships as well as the European Celtic Cup and the Northern Ireland Championship. This prestigious sporting event is returning once again to the Walled City of Derry~Londonderry and this year will feature an exciting set of revised stages including the introduction of the Re-Grouping halts in Strabane town centre, giving spectators the opportunity to get up close to the competitors.

12. Giant’s Causeway Coast Sportive, Co. Antrim
9 September
The Giant’s Causeway Coast Sportive is a unique road cycling event along the iconic Causeway Coast, offering an unforgettable cycling experience through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the island. Starting and finishing in Ballycastle, it attracts over 1,000 participants, winding through the magical Glens of Antrim with three routes to choose from. Entries are now open online. 

For more information on any of these upcoming sporting events in Northern Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com

*Information correct at time of print and subject to change.

Coleraine’s historic Market Yard will be transformed into a live entertainment venue when it plays host to the inaugural Rhythm of The Bann event.

 

The concert will be the highlight of the new one-day music and dance festival which will see a wealth of local and international artists performing in a range of venues in Coleraine on Saturday 24^th June.

Up and coming artists will play in cafes and bars throughout the day, there’ll be a festival stage at the rear of the Town Hall and impromptu performances in the town centre. Music will stem from the traditional genres of Ulster Scots, Irish Traditional, Folk and much more, built around the festival strapline ‘We’re bringing it all back home’.

The evening concert is hosted by well-known comedian Tim McGarry and Ulster Scots historian and broadcaster David Hume MBE who will bring an added element of light hearted cultural comedy and craic.

The event will open with a specially choreographed dance performance, ‘Rhythm of the Bann’, executed by the Dominic Graham School of Irish Dance and the Michelle Johnston School of Highland Dance. The spectacular display, which fuses together the two award winning Schools of Dance, will both thrill and enthral. The performance will be accompanied by award winning pipers and drummers and Spanish band Ballyrúa, who are travelling to Coleraine specifically to perform at the festival.

A spokesperson, for event organisers Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council said: “The wealth of talent coming together for our first ever Rhythm of the Bann makes it a must-see event. This is an exciting addition to our calendar, and we look forward to welcoming both local and international artists to Coleraine. The Market Yard is a great asset for the town, and we hope everyone enjoys seeing it come alive through music and dance.”

Headline act on the night is the Peatbog Faeries, all the way from the Isle of Skye. Hailed for their musical arrangement of traditional jigs and reels through jazz, hip hop, reggae and more, they have taken traditional Scottish music into the 21st century. The band have toured the world with their unique music and light show so be prepared for high octane Scots Celtic music as you’ve never heard it before!

Coleraine native Hannah McPhillimy is also on the bill – a multi-instrumentalist with beguiling vocal talent, she is sure to be another great attraction.

Tickets for the evening concert are priced at £10 for adults and £5 for 16 years and under. Doors open at 6pm at the Lime Market Street entrance, and the event is accessible by ticket only. They can be purchased online at www.eventbrite.co.uk (booking charge applies), or via Coleraine Visitor Information Centre by ringing 028 7034 4723. There is no charge for the entertainment taking place in town centre during the day.

Further details on the event are now available on www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.gov.uk.

 

 

Fashionistas take note!  The stunning Slieve Donard Resort and Spa will become a catwalk for lovers of fashion, make-up and style on Thursday 22^nd June.

The Summer Styling Showcase event, in association with Victoria Square, promises to solve all your summer fashion worries, says Helen McCune, Spa Manager at the Spa at Slieve Donard.

“Last year’s event was an overwhelming success so we are delighted to once again be working with Victoria Square. Katherin Farries, the fabulous personal stylist from Victoria Square, will be giving her expert tips on what to wear this season and what styles, colours and trends to follow for every type of occasion.  Beauty consultants from CID Cosmetics will also be on hand to provide their top tips on how to achieve the perfect summer looks.

“Not only that, but the event also includes summer cocktails and delicious canapés, a gorgeous goody bag and the chance to enter a wonderful prize draw in aid of Daisy Lodge”, concludes Helen.

Get your tickets whilst you can for this popular event by calling the Spa at Slieve Donard on 028 4372 6166 – tickets are priced at £15 and £10 for spa members.

Antrim is the place to be from Friday 16 until Sunday 18 June as the much anticipated, world-unique, StreetVelodrome will roll into Antrim for three days.

 

The roving pop-up style Velodrome will be based in Central Car Park (next to the Castle Mall) offering cyclists and non-cyclists of all ages a chance to get on their bike!

Sir Chris Hoy wannabes will be able to test their cycling skills on the StreetVelodrome track from 5.30pm – 7.30pm on Friday and 10am – 6pm on both Saturday and Sunday. Bikes, helmets, coaching and all equipment is provided free of charge on site, so anyone can come along and have a go. It is suitable for all ages and features pursuit-style races between two people at any one time.

The StreetVelodrome activity in Antrim will feature as part of a 30-minute television programme documenting the two-week tour of Ireland, which will include dates in Dublin and other parts of Northern Ireland.

The weekend will also feature family fun skills training, bike checks, cycling exhibitions and demonstrations from pros of the StreetVelodrome sport, so make sure you do not miss out! For more information visit www.streetvelodrome.com

Would your children like to get involved in Craft Month at Flowerfield Arts Centre?

Offering children the chance to take part in pottery, 3D printing, glass fusing and textiles, the crafts will be taught by qualified artists in five day workshops each week during July

Aimed at children aged 3 – 12 years old, the courses will develop creative ability in a fun environment.

Speaking about the activities on offer, the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Alderman Maura Hickey said: “This is a great way of introducing the very young to the world of crafts. The activities on offer will encourage creativity in a fun and enjoyable way in the beautiful setting of Flowerfield Arts Centre.”

Enrolment forms are now available from the Reception Desk at the Arts Centre. Places are limited so it is advised to book as soon as possible. The cost per child is £40 for 3 – 4 year olds and £45 for 5 – 12 year olds. Please note the Glass Fusion Class will cost £50 due to the price of materials.

Please call Flowerfield Arts Centre on 028 7083 1400 for more information.

The schedule of all activities on offer can be found by visiting our website at: https://www.causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk/news/july-is-childrens-craft-month-at-flowerfield-arts-centre

Friday 2 – Thursday 8 June

 

Saturday 3 June

Cultra Hillclimb

Ulster Folk and Transport Museum

10am – 5pm  | For prices see website

From classic rally cars to motorbikes, this annual celebration of Irish motorsport covers every era in an exuberant display of style, sound, smell and colour.  This is a Tourism Grant Aided event.

T: 028 9042 8428 | nmni.com/uftm

 

Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 June, Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages

Cockle Row Cottages, Groomsport Harbour

2pm – 4pm  | Free

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

Sat 3: CSI workshop and Children’s Crafts
Sun 4: Traditional Crafts and Glitter Tattoos

T:  028 9127 0069 | visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Wednesday 7 June

Bangor Castle Walled Garden Tour

6.30pm-8.30pm | Free

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.

T:  028 9127 0069 | visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Friday 9 – Thursday 15 June  

 

Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 June, Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages

Cockle Row Cottages, Groomsport Harbour

2pm – 4pm  | Free

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

Sat 10: Science Workshop and Face Painting
Sun 11: Crafts and Mr Hullabaloo Puppet Show

T:  028 9127 0069 | visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Saturday 10 June, Great Wars Coach Tour

Departs from North Down Museum, Bangor

9.30am – 1.30pm | Tickets £10

Join us on this half day coach tour and discover the area’s deep connections with the Great Wars of 1914-1918 and 1939-1945.

T:  028 9127 0069 | visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Tickets now on sale…

 

Walled Garden Theatre performances this summer:

 

Tuesday 18 and Wednesday 19 July

Theatre in the Walled Garden: Billionaire Boy

Bangor Castle Walled Garden

2pm and 6pm | Tickets £6

 

Thursday 20 July

Theatre in the Walled Garden: Northanger Abbey

Bangor Castle Walled Garden

7pm | Tickets £10

 

Friday 21 July

Theatre in the Walled Garden: Murder on the Terrace

Bangor Castle Walled Garden

7pm | Tickets £10

 

T: 028 9127 0069 | Book online (Fees apply) | visitardsandnorthdown.com

 

Exhibitions

 

Portaferry Visitor Information Centre

The Stables, Castle Street, BT22 1NZ

T: 028 4272 9882

 

Saturday 3 –  Sunday 25 June

Art in the Loft: Sea

Textile Artist Jenni Cheung presents a collection of mixed media artwork inspired by the sea.

 

North Down Museum, Bangor

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

T: 028 9127 1200 | northdownmuseum.com

 

Wednesday 31 May – Sunday 25 June

The Millennium Art and Craft Club

See paintings in all mediums from the club members.

 

Wednesday 7 June – Thursday 27 July

Fleadh Exhibition

Explore the history and culture of Irish Traditional Music and Dance in the local area.

Bangor Castle Walled Garden

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

T: 028 9127 1200

 

Saturday 3 –  Sunday 25 June

ForM Sculpture Exhibition 2017

Art and nature collide in a unique garden experience

 

Ards Crafts and Visitor Information Centre

31 Regent Street, Newtownards, BT23 4AD

T: 028 9182 6846

 

Saturday 3 –  Sunday 25 June

Portaferry Gala: The first 50 years

See how Portaferry Gala has developed and grown over the years.

 

Bullitt Hotel is bringing Banter to Belfast. Quite literally.

Banter is an ongoing series of public interviews, discussions and conversations, which has featured on the programmes of top festivals (including Electric Picnic and Other Voices), venues and spaces across Ireland, Britain, Europe and the United States. Since its launch in 2009, the Banter event series has welcomed a cast of thousands, covering topics from craft beer, football, nudge theory, Madonna, David Bowie and much more besides.

Now, a new monthly residency will take place in Belfast. For Banter’s first outing at Bullitt, the panel will explore the sound of the city, asking just what is the current state of Belfast’s musical nation?

The debut Banter at Bullitt event takes place on Wednesday 7^th June, promising compelling chat and lively discussions around NI’s top musical talent.

Banter host and producer, Irish Times journalist Jim Carroll will be joined by Sarah McBriar (director and creative producer of the AVA Festival), Jonny Carberry (resident DJ and music creator at Bullitt) and Stuart Bailie (music journalist and co-presenter of Across the Line) to discuss what the future sound of Belfast will be.

To book your place email events@bullitthotel.com or ring +44 (0)28 9590 0600, or visit www.bullitthotel.com for further details.

 

What: Banter at Bullitt. This month’s topic: Is there life beyond Van: The state of Belfast’s musical landscape.

Where: Baltic at Bullitt Hotel, 40a Church Lane, Belfast, BT1 4QN

When: Wednesday 7^th June, 6.30pm

Tickets: £5 which includes a Jameson Black Barrel cocktail on arrival. Contact events@bullitthotel.com to book your seat.

Banter will take place on the first Wednesday of every month at Bullitt. Next Up: The Robots are Taking Over Belfast; What will your job look like in 2027? On Wednesday July 5^th.

On Friday 16 June, at 7.30pm, The Ulster Orchestra will be performing at Bangor Abbey as part of its ‘On Your Doorstep’ concert series.

 

Now in its second year, this initiative, sees the Orchestra play in as diverse a range of venues as possible across Northern Ireland.

Musicians from the Orchestra’s wind section will be centre stage for the performance which is focused around French music perfect for a Midsummer evening of music.

For almost 50 years, the Ulster Orchestra has been at the forefront of musical life in Northern Ireland. Founded in 1966 and comprised of 63 full-time musicians, the orchestra forms the region’s only professional symphony orchestra and celebrates its 50^th anniversary in 2016/17.

Speaking about the event, Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Arts Officer, Patricia Hamilton said: “Once again we are delighted to have the Ulster Orchestra play at Bangor Abbey in what promises to be an entertaining evening of classical music in a beautiful venue. We hope everyone will come along and enjoy this wonderful event.”

Tickets for the concert cost £10 for adults and £6 for children and are currently on sale at www.ardsarts.com