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It's the tenth year of the Annual Lurgan Park Fun Run in aid of Southern Area Hospice and organisers are hoping that this year will be the best yet. The event has raised over £67,000 since launching in 2014. Over the years the event has got great support from experienced runners, beginners and walkers.
The event is being held on Sunday 3 March 2024 and you can book your slot at www.eventbrite.co.uk
Southern Area Hospice provides their service across the entire Southern Health Board area, including Lurgan, Newry & Mourne, Craigavon, Banbridge, Portadown, Armagh and Dungannon. With an annual fundraising target of over £3 million, SAHS need to raise over £250 every single hour to help people affected by terminal illness in Southern Board Area.
This year’s entry fee is £20 for adults and £10 for under 16s. Each participant gets a running number, bespoke medal, gift and goody bag. Sponsor cards are also available from the Hospice.
For any further information contact their Facebook page.
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Celebrations honouring the extraordinary life of St. Brigid of Faughart are poised to captivate audiences across the border counties as the eagerly awaited Brigid 1500: ‘Louth Birthplace of Brigid’ festival commences January 26, 2024.
Organised by Louth County Council, the festival serves as a tribute to one of Ireland’s most revered saints, offering a diverse array of events and initiatives that shed light on her legacy.
Scheduled to run from January 26 to February 5, 2024, the festival promises an immersive experience, paying homage to the life, contributions, and cultural influence of this iconic Irish saint. Born in the 5th century in Faughart, near Dundalk, Co. Louth, St. Brigid went on to found a monastery in Co. Kildare.
Kicking off the festivities is the Brigid 1500 Arts Exhibition, hosted in the former Houstons building at 4-5 Clanbrassil St. Starting on January 26 and concluding on February 5, this exhibition offers a portrayal of St. Brigid’s life through vibrant art pieces created by acclaimed artists Susan Farrelly, Una Curley, Claire McAteer, and Etaoin O’Reilly, led by Grainne Murphy. These art pieces, a fusion of various mediums, aim to capture the remarkable life story of one of Ireland’s best-known saints, featuring original pieces from the ‘Artist in the Community’ project over the past 12 months. The exhibition will also showcase the remarkable St. Brigid’s Cloak, created by students at St. Brigid’s School, Ard Easmuinn, and toured around libraries throughout the summer.
The ‘St. Brigid of Ireland’ Museum Exhibition at the County Museum, Dundalk, will be a stunning showcase honoring the life and accomplishments of one of our most revered saints. The exhibition explores her connections to both Pagan and Christian traditions and runs from January 26 to February 29.
Moving beyond the art realm, the commemorative events include Northern Lights – Brigid 1500, a multisensory light performance in Dundalk Town Centre. This unprecedented lighting display, choreographed to music, intertwines historical, cultural, and spiritual elements with state-of-the-art technology. Three exclusive shows will take place each evening in Dundalk town centre at 6pm, 6.30pm and 7pm running from Wednesday 31st January to Monday 5th February. Thereafter the celebrations will continue as the installation will be illuminated from 5pm – 10pm daily (without audio) until the end of the month.
A newly devised Brigid: Lady of Light theatrical performance at An Táin Arts Centre on February 1 and 2 promises an immersive experience, recounting St. Brigid’s compelling story from birth in Faughart to her legacy in Kildare. Commissioned by the Council, this piece features local musicians, dancers, and singers, along with the Setanta Choir, promising a wonderful evening of music and song to celebrate our female icon.
Throughout January, various Brigid Workshops will engage communities across Dundalk, Drogheda, and Ardee. Led by local artists and coordinated by Louth Library Service in conjunction with Louth County Council Arts Office, all workshops will be free of charge. Additionally, a series of Talks & Lectures on January 27, led by Dr. Mary Condren and Women’s Spirit Ireland, will delve into insightful topics surrounding the saint’s life and influence. This day-long event will feature renowned speakers and performers, including Nóirín Ní Ríain, Ruth Marshall, and Colette Allen.
The commemoration also encompasses captivating events such as Candlelit Tales’ performance at the historic Oriel Centre Dundalk Gaol on February 3, a Brigid Trail, and the Brigid of Faughart Festival, offering a diverse range of activities and experiences from January 31 to February 5, 2024.
Moya Hodgers, Louth County Council Arts Officer, expressed excitement, stating, “We are very excited to welcome visitors to Louth to join us in celebrating the enduring legacy of Brigid of Faughart. We invite visitors from far and wide to immerse themselves in the enchanting story of Ireland’s beloved saint, and we have a fantastic program of events across the county for all the family to enjoy.”
Joan Martin, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, remarked, “The Brigid1500 celebrations are especially significant for County Louth, which as the birthplace of Brigid, is where her incredible legacy began. Louth County Council is delighted to lead this exciting festival of events and initiatives, showcasing Louth’s vibrant cultural heritage while commemorating the life and lasting impact of Brigid.”
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Newry Museum are hosting two talks over the next month. The first one later this month is based on the Sekules family and their escape from Vienna at the start of World War II. The second one is in February and Céline Traynor and Bronagh McAtasney will talk about growing up in Canal Street in Newry.
To book either event for more information please email Declan.Carroll@nmandd.org
‘The Sekules Family and the Kilkeel Knitting Mills’
Esther Bloch, daughter of Edith Sekules, will discuss how her family escaped from Vienna on the outbreak of the Second World War, spent time in detention camps in Russia before settling in Northern Ireland in the late 1940s and setting up the Kilkeel Knitting Mills in 1950.
The talk will be complemented by a short film - ‘Fragility of Freedom - Walter Sekules Remembers’ in which the memories Walter Sekules, who died in 2023, are contrasted with those of Eva Fahidi, a Holocaust survivor, who also died last year, and lost ten members of her family within an hour of arrival at Auschwitz.
Date: Friday 19th January 2024
Time: 2.30 pm
Coast: £2.50 per person
‘Remembering Our Canal Street’: Jewellery and Tales with Céline Traynor and Bronagh McAtasney
To complement the Museum's current temporary exhibition, ‘Newry Artists Past and Present’ Céline and Bronagh will host informal, conversational talk about Canal Street in Newry.
They will reminisce about their time growing up there as teenagers. Céline will speak about how the area inspired her pieces for the exhibition, from memories and touching on the techniques used. Bronagh will talk about the people, the businesses, happenings and mentioning her diary from that time and place.
Audience participation with their own memories would be very welcome.
Date: Saturday 10 February
Time: 2.00 pm
Coast: £2.50 per person
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A Forum is being held in Dundalk this weekend to give people an opportunity to discuss key issues impacting their community, and to work collectively to find practical solutions to address important areas of peace and wellbeing.
It forms part of a new civic movement to give citizens a voice on key issues. Recommendations developed through the Civic Initiative will be delivered to the Irish and British governments as well as the Northern Ireland Assembly.
The Cross-border People’s Forum for a citizen-led review of Belfast/Good Friday Agreement Rights is part of an 18-month citizen-led review of key socioeconomic rights and commitments under the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement including housing, healthcare, education, political institutions, human rights, poverty, rural access, and culture across Northern Ireland and border counties with a view to finding pathways forward.
Forums have already been held in Newry, Armagh and Derry and the Dundalk event takes place this Saturday January 27 at 9.30am at the Wellington Hall, St. Mary's Road, Dundalk, A91 XH21. Residents in Newry, Dundalk, Drogheda, and surrounding areas are encouraged to attend.
Les Allamby, the former Chief Commissioner of the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission, and the Independent Chair of the Civic Initiative said, “The Civic Initiative is an ambitious project that brings together a wide-range of civic society organisations to create a much-needed space for deliberative dialogue on key issues. This is an expansive and inclusive space for people across Northern Ireland and border counties to have voice on issues impacting their lives, and importantly, to look for practical solutions that recognise the circumstances facing communities.”
The Civic Initiative project has four key stages;
You can register at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk The Initiative provides financial support towards travel costs. The forum is a three-hour facilitated deliberative dialogue, refreshments are provided.
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Burns Night, this Thursday 25 January celebrates the birth of Scottish poet Robert Burns whose sister Agnes Galt is buried in Saint Nicholas' Church, Dundalk.
This year is the 264th anniversary of his birth and events have been organised locally both on Thursday and in the days around it.
Haggis with Neeps and Tatties
Rices Hotel in Poyntzpass is hosting a four course Burns Night traditional meal on Thursday 25. On the menu will be Cock a Leekie Soup, Haggis with Neeps and Tatties, Cranachan and Shortbread to finish. A piper will pipe in the Haggis and there'll be poems and song, hot totties and of course a singalong to Burns' most famous creation Auld Lang Sang. It's £25.95 per person and to book call them on 028 38318893.
The Downshire Arms are also hosting a Burns Night event on Wednesday 24 although the event is already sold out.
Burns Night Celebration
Bessbrook Crimson Arrow Pipe Band are hosting a Burns Night Celebration at Bessbrook Orange Hall on Friday 26 January. There will be a full night's entertainment with food and craic all lined up for everyone.
It includes Piping in the Haggis, a 3 course meal and Traditional Toasts, Music and Song. Tickets fat £30 can be obtained from band members.
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Newry is getting ready for the annual St Patrick's Day festival. This year it falls on Sunday 17 March and it promises to be the perfect blend of tradition, culture, and free family-friendly activities, ensuring a memorable experience for locals and tourists alike. As well as the annual parade there will be no shortage of activities for young and old on Hill Street. The very popular Festival Family Village returns to McClelland Park and for St Patrick's Night The Mersey Beatles take to the stage of the Town Hall.
Looking forward to this year’s festival, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Valerie Harte said, “This a significant time for Newry, Mourne and Down due to our unique connection to Saint Patrick. Our traditional St Patrick’s Day festivals in Newry and Downpatrick are an opportunity for us to celebrate our heritage. Our colourful, cross-community parades and our host of themed activities are programmed to inspire visitors and foster civic pride. Celebrate your day with us in the home of St Patrick and enjoy the fantastic array of entertainment and family friendly activities.”
Hill Street Entertainment
In Newry, a hive of entertainment from 12noon until 4pm is planned for Margaret Square, Marcus Square, and Hill Street. A Ceilidh marquee in Margaret Square will be a hot spot for experienced and novice dancers to kick up their heels. In the heart of the City, live performance stages in Marcus Square and Hill Street will showcase a diverse range of upbeat performances including traditional Irish tunes and contemporary acts. There will also be plenty for the little ones to do such as face painting, crafts and clay modelling.
The Parade
This year’s parade promises to be a visual feast showcasing the diversity and unity of the community. Master of ceremonies, Rozlyn Sheridan will lead the procession from The Quays Shopping Centre at 1pm, which will follow the traditional route along Buttercrane Quay, Merchants Quay and Sugar Island, finishing in Kildare Street. Rozlyn will also be joined by the famous Beat Carnival as well as community groups, local schools and organisations in a swirling display of colour and high energy performances all to celebrate Ireland’s patron saint.
Festival Village
Perfect for young families, the Festival Family Village will return to McClelland Park with free activities including St Pats crazy golf, a kid’s outdoor disco, puppet shows and much more. Newry and Mourne Museum renowned for its excellent family friendly activities, will once again create a festival hub with live traditional music and children’s workshops. Museum sessions are free of charge, but numbers are limited to 10 children, therefore pre-booking of places is advisable. For those wanting to take the celebrations into the evening, grab your tickets for The Mersey Beatles who are returning to Newry Town Hall to perform the classic, ‘Hard Day’s Night` to mark the 60th anniversary of the fab four. Tickets are available from Eventbrite or from the following link: www.ticketsource.co.uk
Downpatrick
Celebrations in Downpatrick will also kick off from 12noon and run until 4pm. Traditional music, workshops, concerts and family activities will create a real carnival atmosphere in the all-new St Patrick’s Festival Village in Saint Patrick’s Square. Here you will find the Ceilidh Marquee staging traditional live music throughout the day, an Artisan Producers Market, which is part of the Make It Local initiative, and a range of funfair rides, arts and crafts activities and many pop-up music performances to enhance the festival vibe.
Down County Museum and Down Arts Centre will also have a range of specially curated activities for young people throughout the day, and as part of the St Patrick’s weekend celebrations, Down Arts Centre has a host of entertainment offerings, including the legendary Irish singer/songwriter, Andy Irvine and Northern Irish Comedy sensation, Paddy Raff.
Leaving the Downshire Estate at 1.30pm, a cavalcade of floats, sports groups and community groups, compered by local entertainer, Connor Martin, will weave its way along Edward Street, John Street, Irish Street and Market Street before finishing at Rathkeltair car park.
In the evening, a new temporary light installation will be open from 6pm. Funded by the Department for Communities, this free attraction features a sound and light installation in four various locations around Downpatrick including The Saint Patrick Centre, the Arts Centre, the Cathedral, the Grove. The ‘Downpatrick - Trail of Light’, opens each evening between 15– 27 March from 6pm-10pm.
Come join in the fun on Sunday March 17 and celebrate St Patrick’s Day in style. For full programme details, visit www.visitmournemountains.co.uk
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Newry and Mourne Museum will host their rescheduled informal talk about Canal Street in Newry on Saturday 16 March at 2pm. The talk will complement its temporary exhibition, ‘Newry Artists Past and Present’, which is currently running until April 2024.
Newry locals, Céline Traynor and Bronagh McAtasney, who both grew up on Canal Street, will lead this conversational style event, ‘Remembering Our Canal Street’, reminiscing about their time growing up there as teenagers.
The event will provide a personal and social aspect of growing up and being young in a thriving, eclectic, important street in Newry in the latter part of the last century.
Jewellery artist, Céline, whose jewellery can be seen in the exhibition, will speak about how the area inspired her pieces and will touch on the techniques used.
Bronagh will talk about the people, the businesses, happenings and memories from her diary from that time and place and audience participation with their own memories is very welcome.
The exhibition, ‘Newry Artists Past and Present’, celebrates the works of talented artists who hail from Newry or who have found inspiration in the local area.
This exhibition features a collection of fine and applied art, including sculptures, dating from the late 19th century up until the present, and offers a unique opportunity to explore artworks from the Museum collection that are not typically on display.
To come and hear their story admission costs only £2.50 per person.
Book by emailing: Declan.Carroll@nmandd.org
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Newry Show Society’s 2024 ‘Big Breakfast’ morning will take place in Jerrettspass Village Hall on Saturday 23 March.
Breakfast will be served between * 9.00am and noon on the day. All proceeds from the event will go towards the hosting of Newry Show 2024.
Society chairman Brian Lockhart commented “The food will be delicious and everyone will be welcome on the day. The breakfast is a firm favourite with individuals and family groups from the Newry area and beyond.
“Everyone involved with the society is a volunteer. And the annual success of the Big Breakfast is absolute testimony to their total commitment to Newry Show.”
All voluntary donations received on the day of the Big Breakfast will go towards the running of this year’s show. The event takes place on lands located at 12 to18 Derrywilligan Road, Bessbrook. The all important diary date is: Saturday, 29th June.
Newry Agricultural Society held its first show in 1869 and has been providing an annual agricultural event ever since.
Brian continued “Newry Show 2023 was a tremendous success. The combination of an excellent site, perfect weather and a host of top quality attractions combined to attract record crowds to the event.
“One of the stand-out features of last year was the fact that so many families came along on the day.”
He added “Newry Agricultural Show plays an important role in profiling the farming and food industries that contribute so much to our catchment area.
“We want to build on all of this for the future.”
“We are indebted to the support provided by the Cartmill family in providing us with a very suitable location.”
Brian is also conscious of the tremendous support received from sponsors and commercial exhibitors in 2023. And, again, the show society wants to build on this in 2024.
This year’s Newry Show will feature a comprehensive range of cattle, sheep horse/pony, goat, pig, dog home industries and other classes, all projecting the farming and rural way-of-life in the Newry area.
The Show Chairman concluded “All relevant schedules and entry forms will be available on the society’s web site.”
“The upcoming Saturday Breakfast is just one of a series number of fundraising events over the coming weeks. These include a pre-show quiz evening.
Full information of these events will be available on the Newry Show website.
*Correction: 9am breakfast starts
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Ireland’s patron saint would be proud to find that his festival in Newry will boast a special family focus this year.
For the first time ever, Iúr Cinn Fleadh has teamed up with Meadow and Armagh Road Community Association to present a new all-age afternoon and evening programme at Whitegates Centre from 3pm-9pm on St Patrick’s Day. And it’s all free.
The Sunday spectacular will feature a vast range of performances from art to music, rap to trad, Irish to Indian dance, from flutes to a full ceilidh. Everyone is invited to come along and watch – but also to get ready to take part.
‘This started life as a conversation between Iúr Cinn Fleadh and Meadow/Armagh Road Community Association,’ said event co-ordinator Brian Fitzpatrick.
‘We all shared concern about the lack of family-friendly events – not centred around alcohol – from about 4pm onwards on 17th March.
‘That conversation led to the idea of creating an event that could be built around the use of Whitegates Community Centre – but not in competition with other established St Patrick’s Day events.’
Organisers aimed to bring in local artists along with other different ethnic arts groups. ‘The event is free so people can just come to be part of the audience,’ said Brian, ‘but certain events are geared towards audience participation. So come along and join in!’
Whitegates Community Centre can be found on Killeavy Road, Newry BT35 6EP, just off the Armagh Road.
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