Category: Featured Event

25@25 Entrepreneurial Programme at Babson College

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Participants from Ulster University’s pioneering 25@25 Leaders Programme have landed in Boston, USA for a week-long residential at the renowned Babson College, the programme’s only portion that takes place in the United States. The purpose of the residential is to develop the participants’ entrepreneurial skills, learning how to apply them effectively in any organisational setting.

The week-long, immersive trip marks a significant milestone in the long-standing partnership between Ulster University and Babson College. The 25@25 Leaders Programme, rooted in Babson’s renowned Entrepreneurial Thought & Action ® methodology, is designed to empower participants to drive positive change and innovation in various sectors, which are crucial to the future of Northern Ireland.

25@25 Leader programme participants at Babson College, Boston.

University Provost at Ulster University, Cathy Gormley-Heenan, said: “This visit to Babson College is a unique opportunity for our 25@25 participants to immerse themselves in a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation. We are excited to see how this experience will further equip them to become impactful leaders and change makers in Northern Ireland.

Ulster University and Babson College have a long-standing relationship dating back to 2006, with numerous collaborative initiatives and programmes aimed at advancing entrepreneurship education and fostering entrepreneurial leadership and innovation. Babson College President, Stephen Spinelli Jr., who has played a pivotal role in the development of this partnership and continues to champion entrepreneurial education globally, said: “I am glad that our two communities have a shared history of advancing entrepreneurship education, and I look forward to many continued years of collaboration.”

During the visit to Babson College, participants will explore concepts such as creating economic, social, and environmental value, developing a growth-oriented leadership style, and fostering collaborative work environments where innovation thrives.

25@25 participant, Nuala McAdams, manager in EY Northern Ireland’s Government & Infrastructure Advisory team from Derry, said: “We are all so excited, we’ve had an amazing day 1 on this incredible campus with its inspiring entrepreneurship course team.

“This week at Babson College is a brilliant opportunity to reflect on what we’ve done so far, where we want to be and what our passions are – this week and this course will give us the tools to go on to make a difference in each of our sectors.”

Nuala McAdams at Babson College, Boston.

Killeavy Castle Estate named Sustainable Medium Business of the Year

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Killeavy Castle Estate has been named Sustainable Medium Business of the Year at the PwC Business Post Sustainable Business Awards 2024 which took place at the Intercontinental Hotel, Dublin on 21 March. The awards celebrate individuals and organisations across the island of Ireland that demonstrate leadership, innovation, investment and ingenuity in the areas of Environment, Social and Governance (ESG).

This award win is testament to Killeavy Castle Estate’s outstanding contributions to sustainability in the hospitality sector.

Nestled midst the slopes of Slieve Gullion, Killeavy Castle Estate has pioneered the integration of hospitality and sustainability across its 365-acre estate since its inception. The estate’s dedication to eco-friendly practices since it opened its doors in 2019 has consistently led the way in green tourism, illustrating its commitment to sustainable operations.

The estate’s sustainable achievements include a comprehensive zero-waste food program, a strict no single-use plastic policy, and extensive recycling initiatives, as well as investing in sustainable energy solutions throughout the hotel. Furthermore, Killeavy Castle Estate has embarked on an ambitious €1.5 million landscape restoration project in the surrounding Slieve Gullion area, demonstrating a profound commitment to environmental preservation and is on track to achieve its ambitious goal of reaching carbon neutrality by the end of 2024.

Owners Mick and Robin Boyle have been instrumental in driving the estate’s sustainability ethos. Their passion for conserving the area’s natural beauty and biodiversity, combined with a sustainable approach to estate management, has ensured that sustainability is woven into the fabric of everything the estate undertakes.

Accepting the award, Matthew Hynds, General Manager of Killeavy Castle Estate, said:

“We are immensely proud to receive this recognition for our efforts in sustainability. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the team here at the estate, and the visionary leadership of Mick and Robin Boyle. 

“At Killeavy Castle Estate, we believe that sustainability is not just an initiative but a way of life. We are committed to continuing our journey towards a greener future, inspiring others in the hospitality industry to follow suit.”

 

For more information about Killeavy Castle Estate and its sustainability initiatives, please visit www.killeavycastle.com.

Pictured receiving the award for Sustainable Medium Business of the Year at the PwC Business Post Sustainable Business Awards L-R: Cristian Fierastrau, Operations Manager, Killeavy Castle Estate; Lorcan Allen, Business Editor, Business Post; Matthew Hynds, General Manager, Killeavy Castle Estate and Fidelma Boyce, Assurance Partner, PwC.

Maurna Crozier Memorial Bursary 2024

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The Friends of the F.E. McWilliam Gallery & Studio invite professional visual artists born in, or resident in Northern Ireland, to apply for a two-week residency at the Tyrone Guthrie Centre at Annaghmakerrig, Co. Monaghan. The Bursary covers two weeks’ full board accommodation in the Big House, use of a studio and £200 expenses.

The bursary was established in memory of Dr Maurna Crozier (1942 – 2015) who was a founding member of the Friends of the F.E. McWilliam Gallery, a member of the F.E. McWilliam programming committee and a board member of the Tyrone Guthrie Centre. Maurna had a lifelong commitment to enlarging cultural life in Northern Ireland. She served on the boards and committees of many of Northern Ireland’s major cultural institutions, including: the Arts Council of Northern Ireland; National Museums NI; Northern Ireland Museums Council; the Linen Hall Library; the Historic Monuments Council and; the Crescents Arts Centre.

The bursary is open to professional artists in all visual arts disciplines. There is no age limit.

Interested artists should submit a proposal detailing in less than 1000 words, a specific project for which they require the bursary and residency at Annaghmakerrig. Please also include an up-to-date CV and 5 images of recent work. Applications will be accepted by email or by post before the deadline of midnight Friday 12th April 2024.

For more information, visit: https://visitarmagh.com/places-to-explore/f-e-mcwilliam-gallery/friends-of-the-f-e-mcwilliam/maurna-crozier-bursary/

F.E. McWilliam Gallery & Studio in Banbridge.
Tyrone Guthrie Centre in Monaghan.

Spring Fest 2024

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Organised by Belfast City Council, Spring Fest is returning to Malone House and Barnett Demesne of Saturday 27th April and Sunday 28th April, from 1.30pm to 5.30pm on both days.

Take a walk around the Spring Flower Show and view hundreds of prize blooms on display. Enjoy live music and entertainment and a range of crafts and food stalls. There’ll be spring wreath-making, sunflower seed planting and foraging workshops to take part in.

Families can also bring their little ones to see the farmyard animals, enjoy a fairground or safari train ride, as well as face-painting, a climbing wall and more.

Launching the event at Barnett Demesne, Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy, said: “Spring Fest is always a wonderful outdoor family event in our parks to mark the season of spring – bringing thousands of people, of all ages, through the gates.

“I’m delighted it will be returning here in just a month’s time and hope everyone can get along to enjoy what’s on offer over the two days – and the best thing is that it’s a free event!”

There will be no parking on site during the event, but a free park and ride service will operate from nearby Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park. The first bus to leave Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park is at 1pm and the last bus to leave Barnett Demesne is at 5.45pm.

You can also take the Translink service bus from Donegall Square East in the city centre every 10 minutes on Saturday (Metro Bus 8A or 8B) and on Sunday every 30 minutes (Metro 8A).

Dogs will not be permitted into the event area, with the exception of assistance dogs.

For more information on the event, visit www.belfastcity.gov.uk/events

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy, is joined by Maria Martin and Abbie Tinnelly to launch this year’s Spring Fest event.

 

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy, is joined by Maria Martin and Abbie Tinnelly to launch this year’s Spring Fest event.

Ulster Tatler Interiors Lifetime Recognition Awards 2024

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Four distinguished individuals were recognised at the annual Ulster Tatler Interiors Lifetime Recognition Awards in association with Hafele Ireland.

The awards took place in the Ulster Reform Club on Thursday 14th March. Now in their fifth year, the awards were established to acknowledge the contribution made by key individuals in the architectural and interior design sectors in Northern Ireland. The awards were hosted by fashionista and Cool FM presenter Rebecca McKinney.

Norman Wilson, founder of furniture retailer CFC Interiors, was awarded a Lifetime Recognition Award for his contribution to the furniture industry at the gala dinner. Norman was born in Kilinall in Caledon and has been in the furniture business for nearly 50 years. As well as CFC Interiors the company also incorporates beds.ie and Killymoon.

North Belfast native Martin Hare, from architectural practice McAdam Design, was awarded for his contribution to architecture. Martin has worked on many award-winning projects including Belfast Boys’ Model School, Templemore Baths and Bangor Aurora Aquatics and Leisure Complex.

Cookstown born Ronnie McCulloch, from kitchen design practice

Daniel George Kitchens, was awarded for his contribution to the kitchen industry. Daniel George Kitchens is based on the Ruskey Road in Cookstown.

Co. Down born Evelyn Mehaffey, from interior design studio Stylish Living, was awarded for her contribution to interior design. Stylish Living is based on Lady Wallace Lane in Lisburn.

For full coverage, see our upcoming April issue.

Rebecca McKinney, Mick Smith, Hafele and Norman Wilson, CFC Interiors pictured at the Ulster Tatler Interiors Lifetime Recognition Awards 2024 which took place at the Ulster Reform Club.
Rebecca McKinney, Martin Hare, McAdam Design and Joseph Cryan, Hafele pictured at the Ulster Tatler Interiors Lifetime Recognition Awards 2024 which took place at the Ulster Reform Club.
Rebecca McKinney, Mick Smith, Hafele and Evelyn Mehaffey, Stylish Living pictured at the Ulster Tatler Interiors Lifetime Recognition Awards 2024 which took place at the Ulster Reform Club..
Rebecca McKinney, Ronnie McCulloch, Daniel George Kitchens and Joseph Cryan, Hafele pictured at the Ulster Tatler Interiors Lifetime Recognition Awards 2024 which took place at the Ulster Reform Club.

Down Royal Racecourse Launches New Family Fixture With Fibrus

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Down Royal announces full fibre broadband provider Fibrus as headline sponsor of debut family race meeting.

Racegoers of all ages across Northern Ireland are being encouraged to attend Down Royal’s brand new Fibrus Family Race Day taking place on Sunday 14th April.

This partnership will see Fibrus secure title naming rights to this year’s new race meeting bringing the total number of fixtures at Down Royal in 2024 to fourteen.

With something for everyone, families will be able to enjoy a day of exciting National Hunt racing, combined with fantastic kids’ entertainment including bouncy castles, face painters, balloon modellers, a petting farm and so much more.

A first-time sponsor at Down Royal, Fibrus is an award-winning company, first established in Northern Ireland, and is on a mission to bring fibrefast Full Fibre Broadband to rural homes and businesses across NI and the UK.

Commenting on the sponsorship, Dominic Kearns, CEO at Fibrus, said: “Fibrus is delighted to be sponsoring the inaugural Fibrus Family Race Day at Down Royal. As well as being our introduction to the world of horse racing, this is a brand-new fixture for Down Royal and we’re thrilled to be a part of such an exciting partnership.

“We’re looking forward to seeing families come together and enjoy a day of excitement, laughter and cherished memories all while watching some fantastic horse racing.”

Kathryn Holland, commercial manager at Down Royal, added: “We’re excited to inspire the next generation of horse-racing fans by encouraging people of all ages to attend out new family fixture. This is part of our wider strategy to safeguard the future of horse-racing in Northern Ireland.

“We want to showcase the vibrant atmosphere of our racecourse to all, therefore, with general admission, children under 14 can attend for free with a ticket-holding adult, offering great value for money.”

For more information, visit downroyal.com/tickets.

Down Royal has announced full fibre broadband provider Fibrus as headline sponsor of its new family fixture taking place on Sunday 14th April 2024. Pictured is Kathryn Holland, Commercial Manager at Down Royal with Dominic Kearns, CEO at Fibrus.

NI Primary Schools Invited to Embrace ESB Science Blast

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ESB Science Blast, delivered by the RDS, has opened applications for its 2024 event due to be held at the ICC in Belfast on Tuesday 4th June. The event is a free, all-Ireland, and non-competitive educational programme for primary schools, that involves the whole class investigating the science behind simple questions, such as ‘Is Weetabix a better glue than Pritt Stick?’ Classes then showcase their work at one of the three national events. Each class will be paired with a STEM expert to assess their investigation and share positive feedback.

The STEM-focused education programme for primary school children encourages critical thinking and collaboration in a fun environment. Primary school teachers of Key Stage 2 class pupils are invited to submit their applications before the deadline, Friday 12th April.

Recent research, conducted by the RDS, has found that over 98% of primary school teachers who participated in the 2023 event said it ‘increased students’ confidence and knowledge in STEM’, while 96% said that taking part ‘enhanced the science and maths curriculum in the classroom.’

Speaking at the launch, Niamh De Loughry, Deputy Chief Executive of the RDS Foundation, said: “In developing ESB Science Blast, we wanted an event that would be informative, inclusive and, above all, provide a really fun and engaging learning experience. Feedback from the schools involved over the last number of years shows that ESB Science Blast is delivering where it matters most, in the classroom, so I would encourage as many primary schools as possible from across Northern Ireland to register for this year’s event and really embrace the STEM challenge.”

Paddy Hayes, Chief Executive of ESB, added: “ESB Science Blast encourages the positive exploration of science, technology and engineering in primary schools and ESB is proud to work with the RDS on this unique initiative. I look forward to seeing the energy, the excitement, and the celebration of curiosity during ESB Science Blast, Belfast at the ICC in June.”

Conor Irving, P6 teacher from St Theresa’s Primary School, said: “We are really looking forward to participating in this year’s ESB Science Blast event. Being able to enjoy STEM subjects in such a fun and engaging way really helps our students appreciate how science and technology underpins so much of our daily lives.”

Firefighters Paul Murphy, Niamh McFaul and Martin Harris from Springfield Road Fire Station (Belfast) joined the P6 pupils to help work on their chosen project…Is Weetabix a better glue than Pritt Stick?

RBAI Retain the Schools’ Cup

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The Royal Belfast Academical Institution (RBAI) have beaten Ballymena Academy 21-14 to retain the Schools’ Cup title for the second year in a row. Held at Kingspan Stadium in Belfast on Monday 18th March, tries from James Kerr, Adam Boyd and Ross Dillon earned the RBAI their win, making this their 35th victory in the annual competition, just two wins behind Methodist College’s record of 37 wins.

To see more of the event, check out our upcoming April issue.

Sandra Marks, Gerry Marks, Charlotte Teggart, Catherine Teggart and Peter Marks.
Katie and Sam McLean.
Jamie and Alan Bristow.
Jayne, Isaac and Stephen Knox.
Ballymena Academy supporters from the Morrow family.
Inchmarlo mums Ciara Maitland and Sharon Nelson with RBAI supporters.
RBAI supporters.
Ballymena Academy supporters.
Schools’ Cup Rugby Final.
Schools’ Cup Rugby Final.
RBAI supporters Eryn and Karyn Corry and Olivia Annett.

Belfast Lord Mayor Meets Young Entrepreneurs

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Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Ryan Murphy has met with six early-stage entrepreneurs from the Good Friday generation taking part in a Young Enterprise NI (YENI) USA Connect mission to Boston and New York this week, funded by United States of America Embassy in the UK.

For over thirty years, Young Enterprise has developed young people’s entrepreneurial skills and ambition to support the entrepreneurial thinkers, leaders and founders of the next generation.

The Lord Mayor said: “It was a pleasure to meet these Young Enterprise Fellows before they embark on their trade mission to our Sister City Boston, and New York. They represent a brand-new generation of entrepreneurs here, who grew up in a more peaceful society, and are committed to building an inclusive, entrepreneurial economy here.

The delegation comprises:

Leon Gibson, board member of Friends of Young Enterprise Northern Ireland, a 501(c) organisation that supports Young Enterprise’s work through US links. From 18-21 years of age, Leon built several nightlife businesses, which continue to run and host over fifty-thousand attendees annually. Leon has since completed a business degree at Queen’s University Belfast and has been investing in deep-tech start-ups through the Creator Fund.

Dr Pragya Sharma, founder of Gran Lab, began her journey in Delhi, India, specialising in Biochemistry and Medicine. With a Doctorate focused on novel drug targets, she now leads Gran Lab in developing steroid-free dermatological solutions for adult psoriasis and paediatric eczema. Pragya is now in the process of bringing this to market and building a biotech export and has been supported through Belfast City Council’s business programmes.

Jordan Graham, founder of Sugar Snap, is a YENI board member and Ambit programme participant. Name-checked during the Presidential speech in Belfast to mark 25 years of the Good Friday Agreement, Jordan’s business is a food sector-specific marketing agency which provides strategy, design and content creation for successful local food eateries and larger clients.

Eva-Jayne Doherty is a community builder in the Irish start-up ecosystem. A committed supporter of entrepreneurs across the island, she has headed up national tech accelerators, pioneered programmes to inspire the emerging generation of entrepreneurs with Young Enterprise NI, and nurtured a community of founders to create scalable, investable businesses. Amongst her fractional support for start-ups, Eva-Jayne is currently working with the AwakenHub, a community of women founders in Ireland, and Regionally Ventures, a national investment service providing capital for regional growth.

Peter Gileece, founder of Vikela Armour, has developed a novel method of layering composite materials using a unique 3-D printing process to produce lighter, stronger and more personalised body armour/protective solutions and has already started taking orders from customers.

Maebh Reynolds, founder of GoPluggable, allows owners of home electric vehicle chargers to rent out their chargers to improve accessibility, affordability, and convenience for customers.

Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Ryan Murphy has met with six early-stage entrepreneurs from the Good Friday generation taking part in a Young Enterprise NI (YENI) USA Connect mission to Boston and New York this week, funded by United States of America Embassy in the UK.

High Society Brings Style and Vibrancy Back to the High Street

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Independent barbers, High Society Cut Club, launched their business on the ground floor of 29 Gresham Street today, Thursday 14th March, with the support of a Belfast City Council Vacant to Vibrant capital grant, bringing the property back into use after twenty years of vacancy.

Clíodhna Nic Bhranair, Chair of Belfast City Council’s City Growth and Regeneration Committee, said: “It’s fantastic to see our Vacant to Vibrant capital grant scheme supporting small businesses, independent retailers, social enterprises, and cultural and voluntary organisations to transform vacant spaces.

“The Smithfield area is going to be absolutely transformed in the lead up to our landmark visitor experience, Belfast Stories, opening just across the way in 2029. These local businesses and organisations are providing employment, helping to deliver an authentic Belfast experience, and fostering a greater sense of pride in the city.”

Independent barber ‘High Society Cut Club’ owners Joao (Johnny) Jesus and Hannah McShane with dog Phoebe, are joined by Councillor Clíodhna Nic Bhranair, Chair of Belfast City Council’s City Growth and Regeneration Committee, and Ashley Stewart, Partner (NI), Bywater, on their first day of business on the ground floor of 29 Gresham Street, Thursday 14th March.

High Society Cut Club owner, Hannah McShane, said: “We’re thrilled to open our traditional barber shop in a part of the city that encapsulates Belfast’s rich culture and artistic heritage. This move to the city centre wouldn’t have been possible for us without support from property owners, Bywater, and Belfast City Council – we can’t wait to see what the future holds for us as city-centre living continues to grow.”

The opening of High Society Cut Club is part of their ongoing commitment to responsibly bring this historic part of the city back to life by supporting independent retail businesses across their portfolio of properties in the area.

Next year, High Society Cut Club plan to repurpose the first floor of the property to develop a training academy, offering a beginners’ training programme, creating additional employment opportunities and pathways to employment.

Vacant to Vibrant is a key project in Belfast City Council’s Future City Centre Programme, which opened in July 2022, and aims to incentivise both property owners and potential occupiers to bring vacant Belfast city centre spaces back into use, while supporting the city centre’s revitalisation and ensuring sustainable rates of growth.

The council are also providing a matchmaking service through a partnership approach with commercial agent Frazer Kidd, linking businesses with potential units, with the opportunity to access capital funding through the scheme.

For more information, go to www.belfastcity.gov.uk/vacanttovibrant or email vacanttovibrant@belfastcity.gov.uk

Bangor RNLI Celebrate 200 Years at Westminster Abbey

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Last week, some of the volunteers from Bangor RNLI travelled to Westminster Abbey to attend a service in celebration of their 200th anniversary.

The RNLI, the charity that Saves Lives at Sea, has been saving lives for just over 200 years. At the celebration, founder, Sir William Hilary, was remembered for having the vision for a lifeboat service around the UK and Ireland, with crews ready to risk their own lives to save others in peril, which the RNLI continue to fulfil.

They also commemorated the RNLI’s remarkable lifesaving history, the achievements, and the commitment of all those who have been involved with the charity over the past two centuries.

The service was conducted by The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle KVCO MBE, Dean of Westminster, and attended by His Royal Highness, the Duke of Kent, President of the RNLI. Also in attendance were Mark Dowie, Chief Executive, RNLI and Paddy McLoughlin, Trustee, RNLI.

During the service, the congregation of over 1,700 people gave thanks for the lifesaving work carried out since the charity was founded and those who have been lost were remembered along with those who were saved. One of the readings was a poem written and read by Eleanor Hooker, Helm, Lough Derg, RNLI entitled ‘Float to Live’. Martin Stephen, a survivor, read an extract from Sir William Hillary’s ‘Appeal to the Nation’.

For more information on the RNLI, visit: rnli.org.

Bangor RNLI crew members Glen McMahon, Tom Bell, Bryan Lawther and John Bell.
Bangor RNLI crew members and family. Christine and Glen McMahon, Lisa and Tom Bell, Bryan and Edie Lawther, and John and Caroline Bell.
Bangor RNLI crew members John Bell, Glen McMahon, Chris Beale, Bryan Lawther and Tom Bell.
Bangor RNLI crew and family enjoying lunch in the House of Commons with local MP Stephen Farry.
Hanna and Naomi Beale with father, Chris Beale.

Family Events for St. Patrick’s Day

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St. Patrick’s Day in Northern Ireland isn’t just a holiday; it’s a cultural extravaganza filled with rich traditions, lively festivities, and historical significance. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the spirit of the occasion or a visitor eager to experience the unique charm of Northern Ireland, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a curated list of the best activities to make the most out of this spirited celebration.

St. Patrick’s Day Music Weekend: Kick off the festivities with three days of concerts, céilís, and Irish dancing. Bagpipes and highland dancers will take centre stage, adding a touch of tradition to the vibrant atmosphere. The craic begins on March 15th, setting the tone for an unforgettable weekend.

Annual Parade: Join the sea of colour as the annual parade winds its way through the streets of Belfast on March 17th. Starting from Belfast City Hall at 1:30pm, the parade features dance troupes, community groups, and musicians, showcasing a multi-cultural celebration of people, place, and planet.


Festival Village: Head to Cathedral Gardens, beside St. Anne’s Cathedral to experience a festival village like no other. Enjoy céilí workshops, family-friendly activities, and immerse yourself in the lively ambiance of St. Patrick’s Day.Ticketed Performances: Treat yourself to ticketed performances featuring renowned artists like Anúna and Frankie Gavin and Dé Dannan. From vocal groups to fiddle players, these performances promise to captivate audiences with their mesmerising talent.

Free Events for Families: Make it a day to remember with free events at Number 2 Royal Avenue. From art workshops to dance performances, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy on March 17th.

St. George’s Market: Don’t miss the lunch-time performances by musicians from Ards Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann on March 16th and 17th. Experience the lively atmosphere of one of Belfast’s most iconic markets as you soak in the sounds of traditional Irish music.

Trad Trail: Embark on a week-long Trad Trail from March 10th, showcasing free music performances in bars, restaurants, hotels, and visitor attractions across the city. Immerse yourself in the sounds of traditional Irish music as you explore Belfast’s vibrant cultural scene.

Ulster Folk Museum: Enjoy a traditional St. Patrick’s Day at Ulster Folk Museum on 17th and 18th March with activities including listening to traditional music, watching Irish dancers, craft stations with live demonstrations, and even the opportunity to taste traditional food and drink with a special themed menu in the Tearoom for the occasion.

Down Arts Centre: If you’re interested in the Arts, head to Down Arts Centre on 17th March where crafts for the whole family will be held throughout the day, including children’s crafts, Dramability will be holding a live performance, mono printing demonstrations will be on offer and circus entertainment will entertain the crowds.

Festivities in Newry: Newry’s St. Patrick’s Day parade will embark on its journey from the Quays Shopping Centre at 1pm, with local schools, organisations and the community coming together to celebrate the occasion. Finishing in Kildare Street, the celebrations will continue to thrive in the centre of town, as well as McClelland Park and Newry and Mourne Museum at Bagenal’s Castle, where family-friendly activities will be ongoing throughout the day.

Whether you’re dancing to traditional tunes or exploring the city’s historic landmarks, embrace the magic of this special day and create memories that will last a lifetime.