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Visitors can discover a treasure trove of free activities at this weekend’s Belfast Maritime Festival on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 September.

Taking place along the city’s Maritime Mile, with entertainment stretching across Queen’s Quay to HMS Caroline in the Titanic Quarter, the festival celebrates Belfast’s rich maritime heritage and spirit of innovation.

Come along from 11am each day to enjoy live music, street entertainers and activities for all ages. The main festival stage, compered by BBC presenter Gemma Bradley, is at Titanic Slipways, along with the ‘Science Street’ interactive area, a colourful Belfast Bazaar, featuring the very best local produce and crafts, and a picnic area.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy, said: “There’s so much to see and do at this weekend’s Belfast Maritime Festival, with a fantastic line-up of events to really bring our maritime and industrial heritage to life.

“Come on down to hear amazing live music, shop local at the Belfast Bazaar market, entertain the kids with free activities or even get involved yourself at ‘Science Street’.

“Walk, cycle or take the Glider or train to experience everything the festival has to offer, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the stunning ships which will make Belfast their home for the weekend.”

The Belfast Maritime Festival has been organised by Belfast City Council and is supported by Tourism NI, delivered in partnership with Maritime Belfast Trust, Belfast Harbour, Odyssey Trust, the Department for Communities and Titanic Quarter Ltd.

Aine Kearney, Director of Events at Tourism NI, said: “Tourism NI is delighted to support the return of the Belfast Maritime Festival, a much-needed post-pandemic boost to the wider tourism and hospitality industry with a projected economic benefit of circa £1.5 million.

“The event is a great opportunity to showcase this key Titanic and Maritime Belfast heritage destination and its wealth of visitor experiences. This immersive event will further awaken the giant spirit in our visitors, igniting their sense of discovery and demonstrating the warm welcome Northern Ireland offers to all.”

Activities at Belfast Maritime Festival include:

• Visiting ships and vessels docked at Queen’s Quay and Belfast Harbour Marina – hop on board Granuaile (Irish Lights), Gunilla, Leader, Brian Boru and La Malouine to chat to the crew and experience life on the high seas!
• Titanic Slipways hosts the festival’s first ‘Science Street’ – a chance for young and old to explore areas like marine biology, engineering and navigation through fun interactive activities, demonstrations and live shows.
• Duke Special, Joshua Burnside, Manukahunney, ROE and NI Opera will lead a stellar line-up of over 100 leading musicians from across NI. Hear Americana, trad, jazz, opera, bluegrass, classical and more on the main stage at Titanic Slipways, as well as outdoor venues across the Maritime Mile.
• The Kids’ Zone at Queen’s Quay will be packed full of activities for little explorers, including a sensory area, dance workshops, crafts, face painting, a pop-up aquarium and even a beach to build some sandcastles!
• The free Maritime Mile Through My Lens exhibition at Hamilton Dock, delivered by Belfast Maritime Trust and Belfast Exposed, showcases photographs taken by local communities to demonstrate what they love about living along the waterfront.
• Belfast Lough Sailability will have free participatory taster sessions for visitors, including those with a disability, to experience the fun of getting out on the water.
• Further along at Sailortown, bookable activities include an evening of music, poetry and film, maritime-themed bingo and a chance to explore the beautiful St Joseph’s Church as part of European Heritage Open Days.
• There are also free walking tours, demonstrations of traditional seafaring skills like rope making and boat building, as well as special Hydrobike sessions.

For more event information, visit belfastcity.gov.uk/maritime

British Association of Planetaria Event Kicks off Series of Four Conferences at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium

Leading astronomical research centre, Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, recently hosted the British Association of Planetaria (BAP) Conference for the third time since its inception at the venue in 1978. The September 1^st event was the first in a series of four conferences to be hosted by the organisation during September 2023.

Held on 1st and 2nd September, the annual BAP conference saw a group of planetarium professionals gather to knowledge share and learn about the latest developments in astronomy and science.

The event is followed by the AM CVn 5 conference, which is being held from 5^th to 8th Sept, the sdOB11 conference, which will be held from 11^th to 15th September and the ESOP 42 conference, which will run from 15^th to 19th September.

The fifth in a series of conferences on AM Canum Venaricorum stars, AM CVn 5 will see professional astronomers from across the globe gather to discuss one of the most exotic classes of star in the sky.

The third event, sdOB11, will be the eleventh in a series of conferences on Hot Subdwarfs and Related Objects. Hosted by Armagh Observatory and Planetarium’s Resident Astronomer, Simon Jeffrey, it will allow professional astronomers to discuss the latest research in the field.

Developed by non-profit organisation, the European Symposium on Occultation Projects (ESOP), the final conference, ESOP 42, will aim to foster interaction and collaboration between amateur astronomers and professionals.

It will be the 42nd ESOP conference and the first to be held on the island of Ireland.

Steven Gray, Secretary of the British Association of Planetaria, says, “It is a pleasure to bring the British Association of Planetaria conference back to Armagh for the third time since it kicked off here in 1978.

“Armagh Observatory and Planetarium delivers internationally recognised research in astronomy and related sciences and as the members association for planetaria across the UK and Ireland, we can’t think of a more fitting venue for this conference.”

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is sited in a heritage environment with a rich scientific history. The organisation delivers internationally recognised research in astronomy and related sciences, along with vibrant educational and outreach programmes for all ages.

Professor Michael Burton, Director at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, adds, “We are delighted to welcome the British Association of Planetaria Conference back to Armagh as it celebrates its 45th anniversary.

“We’re also proud to welcome the AM CVn 5 and sdOB11 conferences and to host the ESOP 42 conference here for the very first time.

“Established in 1790, Armagh Observatory is the oldest scientific institution in Northern Ireland and the longest continuously operating astronomical research institute in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

“We are a world leader in science communication and planetarium innovation and are passionate about sharing knowledge to inspire future generations. As such, it is a pleasure to host these important events.”

To find out more about Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, visit: https://www.armagh.space

Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder skates into Belfast this Winter

Take a trip down memory lane, as Disney On Ice returns with a magical show for the whole family to enjoy

The SSE Arena, Belfast: Friday 17 November to Sunday 19 November

Extra tickets go on sale THIS Friday via www.ticketmaster.ie 

Grab your mouse ears and get ready as Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder skates into Belfast’s SSE Arena, with the magic of Disney’s 100^th Anniversary closer than ever when Disney On Ice brings the celebration to you! Encanto joins the show for the very first time in the UK, inspiring families to make magical memories they will treasure forever.

The production will skate into The SSE Arena, Belfast from Friday 17 November to Sunday 19 November.

Tickets go on general sale Friday 15 September at www.disneyonice.co.uk & www.ticketmaster.ie

Relive magical Disney stories with all of your favourite characters in a family experience featuring classic Disney songs, world-class skating and incredible stunts. Mickey Mouse is joined by his friends on a journey to discover his favorite memory of all time. Families will be a part of the action and help the gang venture through Disney stories, sharing memorable moments from treasured tales. Journey to a vibrant town in the mountains of Colombia to meet Mirabel and her extraordinary family who live in a magical casita in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. Sail away with Moana as she displays courage to save her island on a high-seas adventure with the demigod, Maui.  Travel to the wintry world of Arendelle as royal sisters Anna and Elsa discover true love is the most powerful magic of all and experience the mysterious magic of Fantasia as a Sorcerer’s Apprentice makes brooms come to life. “Live Your Story” alongside Disney Princesses as they use perseverance, determination and hard work to inspire Mickey and children to share their favorite Disney memories.  Just keep swimming with Dory, Nemo, Marlin and new pal Hank from Disney• Pixar’s Finding Dory and celebrate true friendship with Buzz Lightyear, Woody and The Toy Story gang.

 

Belfast business and mindset event Momentum have announced eCommerce expert Ryan Clarke as the latest speaker to join the bill for their forthcoming Night At The Museum digital conference.

Ryan, who is the Head of Ecommerce at STATSports, will be dissecting what it really takes to grow in eCommerce in 2023.

His talk “CX Sells: Optimising your Customer’s Buying Journey in eCommerce” will break down the customer buying journey from creative to checkout. Ryan will also provide the audience with his model to acquire attention, before acquiring the customer. 

Momentum: A Night At The Museum, supported by Gekkoshot, will take place at the Ulster Museum on September 22, Ryan is the second of an all-star speaker lineup being revealed that includes leading names in hospitality, mindset, marketing, ecommerce, data and much more.

Speaking of his involvement with the event Ryan said: “I signed up to Momentum because it’s part of a small group of local events that have taken a really alternative approach to try and grow the industry. 

“Throughout my talk I’ll be using real life examples (good, bad and occasionally very ugly), of what STATSports growth has looked like across global marketing campaigns spanning over 100 countries. And a bit of insight into our ‘Will It Make the Boat Go Faster’ methodology for blocking out the noise for driving growth.

“What I like about Momentum is that it’s not a speaker lineup full of sponsors essentially doing sales pitches. Momentum have managed to pull together a bunch of individuals from across a wide range of areas who have built something great. 

“I’m buzzing to be able to get on stage with people I really admire, and since it’s in a museum that automatically makes the topics more important by association, right?!”

According to organisers Warren Giffin and Amée Spence, the event plans to bridge the gap between business needs and mindset support.

“We’re delighted to be bringing Momentum back for a second event, building upon the resounding success of our inaugural event back in January at The MAC” explained Warren, adding: “Last time we had fantastic speakers such as self-made entrepreneur and CEO of Bellamianta & Iconic Bronze, Linda Stinson, as well as passionate mental health advocate and Let’s Face It podcast host, Domhnall Nugent.

“This time we’re excited to get ready to announce an equally special lineup of industry experts who will give our attendees a night to remember.”

During Ryan’s talk on eCommerce hopes attendees will take away “tangible and tested methods for eCommerce that they can steal and apply to their own marketing strategy for 2024”.

Also announced to speak at Momentum is Sarah McBriar, founder and creative director of AVA, the UK’s leading audio visual arts festival and conference. She will be speaking on “How to stay one step ahead as a creative entrepreneur”.

Sarah said: “Momentum is what the creative business community needs… a fun and relaxed evening with experienced entrepreneurs sharing their knowledge through focused topics and a space to network.” 

Tickets for Momentum: A Night At The Museum on September 22, 6.30pm-late are now on sale from thisismomentum.co.uk  

Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Arts and Heritage Autumn Programme has just been released! The exciting schedule of music, events, exhibitions, classes and workshops, covers the September to December period and will be available online to explore and for bookings on Wednesday 30 August.

Highlights from the Autumn Programme include Aspects Festival which is happening from 27 September – 7 October in Bangor and presents another fantastic programme celebrating Irish writing. Renowned for showcasing well-known authors as well as local and emerging talent, the Festival offers an array events exploring memoir, politics, history and poetry as well as new writing, workshops, discussions and more.

The Enchanted House of Puppetry makes a welcome return to Ards Arts Centre on 29 and 30 October, where lots of friendly puppets will ensure everyone has a truly magical experience. Presented by Ards Puppet Festival, the event will feature shows by Banyan and Clydebuilt Theatre and the Garlic Theatre Company with Snug and Grub Catch a Bug and The Bag That Went Boo! Fun for all the family!

Ards Arts Centre is delighted to welcome back the Creative Peninsula Christmas Fayre for the first time since 2019. On Friday 1 and Saturday 2 December, visitors can enjoy a unique shopping experience as Creative Peninsula Artists and Makers showcase and sell their artwork. The perfect place to find that special Christmas gift.

For those who prefer a more hands on approach or would like to learn a new skill, Ards Arts Centre has a full programme of creative classes where you can try something new and create your own unique art and craft.

Music lovers can look forward to the return of the Music in the Chamber series of events at Bangor Castle and the popular Friday Night Live events at Ards Arts Centre.

North Down Museum have lots of intriguing exhibitions happening over the Autumn period, including a ‘Strangford Horse and Other Tales’ a collection of paintings by artist Xander which will be showing in the museum’s Long Gallery from 3 October to 19 November.

The Museum is also delighted to welcome back the Made in AND: Pop-Up Christmas Shop. From 22 November to 7 January, the Museum’s galleries will be filled with beautiful hand-made products from local artists and makers, available for visitors to browse and purchase.

Speaking about the Guide, Arts and Heritage Manager Emily Crawford said: “We have a jam-packed programme for you this autumn/winter with lots of live music, exhibitions, festival events and seasonal activity to get you into the festive spirit. If a hands-on approach is what you’re after we have a brand-new term of creative classes and workshops to encourage your creativity. We look forward to welcoming you to Ards Arts Centre and North Down Museum soon.”

View the full Autumn programme and book tickets at: www.andculture.org.uk

Printed copies of the Autumn Arts and Heritage guide are available from Ards Arts Centre and North Down Museum.

Newcastle has all the ingredients you need for a fantastic weekend at the Eats and Beats free food and music festival on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 September.

With two music stages, local and Northern Irish food producers, and an abundance of food vendors, it will be jam-packed with live music and a world of cuisine.

Festival goers can enjoy delicious fare and drinks at the Producers Pavilion (sponsored by Lexus Belfast) with over 20 local and Northern Irish artisan food producers to sample from and buy.

Music lovers can then dance their way around two music stages, which will offer free live performances on the Homegrown and World Stages over the two days.

There will be a wonderful line-up of cookery demonstrations dishing up a delicious serving of tasty treats over the festival weekend. Visitors can enjoy a delightful local menu selection from the likes of award-winning chef Paul Cunningham of Scopers and Mourne Larder fame.

Killeavy Castle Estate, Mourne Food Adventures and Castlescreen Farm will also be on hand to inspire us with their culinary creations. For those who enjoy a tipple or two the Cocktail Demo from Avoca Hotel will be right up your street. Or whet your appetite with some local craft beers, gin, and whiskey from the likes of Whitewater Brewery, Killowen Distillery and Two Stacks Irish Whiskey. And the Food Village has over 30 food vendors offering local and world cuisine, all supported by a sustainability teepee.

Visitors will be entertained by an incredible array of performances offering an eclectic mix of styles and genres that is sure to create a big festival vibe across the seaside town. Live music at the Homegrown stage in Donard Park starts each day from 11am — be sure to check the various artists set times at: https://www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/whats-on/giant-adventures/eats-and-beats-festival-newcastle

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Valerie Harte said, “Newry, Mourne and Down is becoming well known for its quality food and drink and it has long had a strong track record for producing talented and successful musicians. The Eats and Beats festival will be an excellent opportunity to sample our award-winning food, great drinks, chart-topping music, but above all else, a fantastic time with friends and family.”

Councillor Harte continued, “We are especially proud this year that the landscape underpinning our Giant Adventures is part of the recently designated Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Geopark. All roads lead to Newcastle on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 September as the Eats and Beats festival finishes off the Council’s summer events programme on a high.”

Jonathon Lavery, Sales Manager at Lexus Belfast, said, “Lexus Belfast is delighted to be sponsoring the Producers Pavilion at the 2023 Eats and Beats Festival. As a brand, we are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and striving towards a sustainable future. Our aim is to help design the future by delivering Lexus Electrified vehicles and we are glad to be partnering up with the Eats and Beats Festival, who have sustainability and supporting local businesses at the forefront of the event.”

On the Homegrown stage in Donard Park its two day line-up will be hosted by QRadio presenter, comedian and DJ Ryan Hand.  The festival weekend will see incredible music from the likes of The Answer, Ryan McMullan, Lemonade Shoelace, Ria Maguire, and Belfast’s very own Brian Kennedy who is sure to add to the festival atmosphere.

 

Anyone looking for something different will find it at the World Stage in Donard Park, hosted by Ripton Lindsay. Here you can lose yourself in the vibes of Basork – Balkan Alien Sound and the unmissable sounds of the Streetwise Circus Samba Band. The Reverend Doc & The Flying Squad and Mirenda Rosenberg will also take to the World Stage over the two-day event.

 

For visitors travelling to Newcastle, a Park and Ride will operate from the Northfield site on the A50 Castlewellan Road on both days.  Public toilets and Accessoloo will be located across the site.

Stay tuned to the Visit Mourne Social Media pages where the full festival line-up, carparking and other important festival information will be available throughout the weekend. Further information on where to stay, eat, and things to do during your stay can be found at visitmournemountains.co.uk.

The two largest Irish sculptures to ever come to the art market are currently on display at international art and sculpture fair, Art and Soul at the Culloden Estate & Spa.

Larger than Life, from Patrick O’Reilly’s bear series, stands at an impressive 4m and is the largest single bronze sculpture by an Irish artist.

It is joined by Wind and Sea by Paddy Campbell, which reaches 4.3m. The pieces have a combined value of almost £800,000 and weigh around 2 tonnes each.

Art and Soul, curated by Gormleys, is the largest ever sculpture exhibition to take place on the island of Ireland and runs until September 10.

The free event will feature a major outdoor exhibition of 80 large sculptures and installations set throughout 12 acres of landscaped grounds.

More than 280 works by international artists alongside a host of artists from Northern Ireland including Stephen Johnston, Jane Rainey, Stephen Forbes and Ian Cumberland and leading Irish sculptors Patrick O’Reilly, Ian Pollock, Bob Quinn, Sandra Bell, Eamonn Ceannt, John Fitzgerald, Anthony Scott and Orla De Brí, are on display.

It also includes exhibitions by renowned Irish artists Martin Mooney, Maser, Peter Monaghan, Gordon Harris and Stephen Forbes.

The hotel’s interior is displaying 100 artworks by some of the world’s best-known artists, including Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, Robert Indiana, Damien Hirst, Salvador Dali and Banksy.

“We are delighted to return this fair to the Culloden, where it first began,” said Oliver Gormley of Gormleys.

“It gives art lovers a unique opportunity to view these incredible works in the beautiful surroundings of the estate.”

All works will be for sale, with prices ranging from £1,000 to £425,000. Art and Soul 2023 will mark ten years of Gormleys events at the five-star Culloden.

“We have been hosting this internationally acclaimed event for over a decade, in partnership with Gormleys Fine Art, and are delighted to once again exhibit some of the most impressive pieces from world-renowned artists – as well as a host of local talent,” said Howard Hastings, chairman of Hastings Hotels.

“This edition of Art and Soul is a true exhibition of brilliance with works by celebrated artists.

Once again, we are supporting local artists across Northern Ireland too – and I’m proud to shine a light on the talent we have right on our doorstep, enabling them to share centre stage with some of the world’s most celebrated artists.”

To celebrate the event, the Culloden Estate and Spa is offering deals on breaks and dining, including an Art and Soul ‘Sip and See’ package from £390 per night for two, including accommodation, breakfast, champagne and canapés in the Bollinger champagne garden.

An afternoon tea among the artwork, Fancies with Fine Art, and an Art and Soul tasting menu in the Culloden’s fine dining restaurant Vespers are also offered by the five star estate.

During the event, there will be a programme of artists’ talks and daily guided tours.

Art and Soul is supported by Ards and North Down Borough Council and will be open to the public daily from 11am–7pm.

More information and accommodation offers can be found at www.cullodenestateandspa.com/art-and-soul