Citywide - Spring/Summer 2025 by citywidelccc

LISBURN & CASTLEREAGH CITY COUNCIL : RESIDENTS' MAGAZINE

Mayor’s Welcome

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Spring is in the air, and I am pleased to welcome you to the latest edition of CityWide, which highlights some of the fantastic events and initiatives taking place across Lisburn and Castlereagh.

Our spring to summer calendar is packed with events for families and children to enjoy. From outdoor movie days to tea dances, there will be plenty of opportunities to join in the fun. I also look forward to the return of the muchanticipated Mayor’s Carnival Parade and Family Fun Day, which always brings a wonderful atmosphere to our city and I hope to see many of you there enjoying the festivities!

Sustainability has been a key theme throughout my year in office, and I am proud of the steps we have taken to protect our environment. In this edition, you will find details of our Sustainability Strategy and Climate Action Plan consultation, food waste reduction initiatives, and a special feature busting common recycling myths. These are just some of the ways we are working towards a greener future, and I encourage you all to get involved in shaping our city’s environmental plans.

As my term as Mayor comes to an end, I’ve been reflecting on what a privilege

it has been to serve this wonderful community. Over the past year, I have had the honour of meeting so many dedicated individuals, businesses, and community groups who make Lisburn and Castlereagh such a fantastic place to live and work. I am incredibly grateful for all the support I have received and for the opportunity to represent our council area.

I hope you enjoy this edition of CityWide and that you take full advantage of all the exciting events happening this season.

Wishing you all a joyful Easter and a fantastic summer ahead.

Council contact details

Bin/recycling enquiries

Tel: 028 9244 7300 (option 1)

Email: opservices.reception@ lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Email: recycling@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Births, Deaths and Marriages

Tel: 028 9244 7263

Email: bdm.registration@lisburncastlereagh. gov.uk

Building Control

Tel: 028 9244 730 0 (option 5)

Email: building.control@lisburncastlereagh. gov.uk

Cemetery Administration

Tel: 028 9244 7300 (option 4)

Email: cemetery.office@lisburncastlereagh. gov.uk

Environmental Health (dog licences, food control, noise, dog fouling)

Tel: 028 9244 7397

Email: ehealth@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Planning enquiries

Tel: 028 9244 7300 (option 6)

Email: planning@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

The Right Worshipful the Mayor, Councillor Kurtis Dickson

The Mayor’s Carnival Parade and Family Fun Day

Mark your calendars for Saturday 10th May 2025 when the Mayor's Carnival Parade and Family Fun Day, celebrating 'Wonders of Nature', takes to the streets! This whirl of colour, creativity and festive beats will delight audiences of all ages and bring the community together in a joyful celebration – all while raising awareness for Emerge Counselling Services.

At 1.00pm, the carnival parade will begin at ISLAND Arts Centre, transforming the city centre into a lively spectacle. Expect fantastical floats, energetic samba

rhythms and a kaleidoscope of colour as street entertainers, local schools and community groups dressed as butterflies, bees and sunflowers parade through the streets.

The festivities continue in Wallace Park's Carnival Village from 12 noon to 5.00pm. Enjoy live shows from exciting stage acts Abba-sensations and Taylor Made NI, a dedicated Kids’ Zone, not to mention the vast array of delicious food and treats for all to enjoy.

A trail worth walking!

As part of the Mayor’s Carnival Parade and Family Fun Day at Wallace Park, we’re creating a sustainability trail to engage and inspire visitors with practical, eco-friendly advice. From waste reduction to sustainable living, our trail will encourage everyone to make a positive impact on the planet.

We’ll also be hosting an eco-treasure hunt on the day so keep your eyes peeled for hidden environmentally friendly tips scattered along the trail. You could be one of 10 lucky winners to take home an eco-goodie bag filled with lots of sustainable prizes!

Councillor Kurtis Dickson, Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, said: “As someone who is passionate about environmental issues, I’m encouraging everyone to check out our Sustainability Trail and learn how small changes can make a big difference to our planet. I’m excited about the sustainability slant to this year’s family fun day and hope you all get involved. It’s going to be a fantastic experience!”

Be skin aware this summer

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Northern Ireland and every day at least 11 people are diagnosed. Despite our moderate climate, your exposure to UV rays may be higher than you realise.

Consultant Dermatologist, Collette McCourt, from Belfast Health & Social Care Trust comments: "As a doctor, I come across people every day who just don’t know what signs to look for when it comes to skin cancer, and unfortunately, that lack of awareness can lead to late diagnoses.

“Skin cancer rates are continuing to rise in Northern Ireland, and while many cases can be successfully treated if caught early, it can also be fatal. That’s why it’s so important to #BeSkinAware and check your skin regularly—ideally once a month.

“Look out for any patches of skin that have started to change and check for anything that is inflamed, growing, bleeding, crusting, red around the edges, particularly itchy or painful, or changing

Collette McCourt, Consultant Dermatologist, Belfast Health & Social Care Trust

in any way. If something doesn’t look right, don’t ignore it - get it checked by a professional. A few minutes of selfchecking could truly save your life."

If you’re concerned about a mole, use the ABCDE mole check guide. If you notice any changes on your skin that don’t heal in two to three weeks, tell your GP as soon as possible.

If you’re concerned about skin cancer, call Cancer Focus NI’s Nurseline on 0800 783 3339 (Mon, Wed and Fri from 9.00am to 1.00pm).

For more information go to: www.careinthesun.org/ skin-cancer/check-your-skin

Sun safety hamper giveaway!

We've partnered with Cancer Focus NI, supported by the Public Health Agency, to give you a chance to win a hamper packed with sunscreen, UV bracelets, UV watchstraps, sunglasses and more to keep you and your family sun safe this summer!

All you have to do is email your name, address and contact number with subject line 'Sun safety' to: citywide@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk or post to:

Freepost RTST-LJKZ-JRXY, Corporate Communications, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Civic Centre, Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn BT27 4RL

Winners will be chosen at random. The closing date for entries is 6th June 2025.

ABCDE mole check guide

Asymmetry

The shape of one half is different to the other.

Border

Irregular blurring of border or ragged edge.

Colour

Two or more colours: different shades of brown, or the presence of black, red or blue alongside the mole’s normal colour.

Diameter

Any change in size

Expert

If in doubt get it checked out by your GP.

Skin cancer can kill, but if detected early, most skin cancers can be successfully treated. Seek the advice of your GP if you have any concerns.

A cracking day out this Easter at the LeisurePlex!

Are you looking for an adventure this Easter that the whole family can enjoy? Make a splash and head over to Lagan Valley LeisurePlex for the ultimate day out.

Book a leisure pool slide session and take on some of the longest and fastest water slides in town. Enjoy a journey down the lazy river or swim under waterfalls. What’s more, children aged eight and

under can splash around Aqualand play area, complete with mini slides, water shooting bicycles and lots more!

Child admission policy applies. For session times and details on how to book please visit: www.theleisureplex.com

Online booking opens seven days in advance of the date you wish to book at 7.00am.

Hop over to the Ice Bowl!

Treat your little bunnies to an eggciting day out this Easter at Dundonald International Ice Bowl. With ice skating, tenpin bowling and Indiana Land all under one roof, it’s the perfect venue for the whole family!

On Easter Monday and Tuesday, come along to the afternoon session and enjoy themed characters, face painting, DJ entertainment and prize giveaways.

Skate hire is included as part of your admission and we have skating aids to help children take their first steps on the ice, while the bowling centre gives the option of ball ramps and bumpers to help everyone achieve a strike!

Ready, set, go!

Children aged 11 years and under (height restriction applies) can hop over to the Indiana Land jungle playworld. Little explorers can scamper through hidden tunnels, swing over daring rope bridges and free-fall down the giant vertical slide for a mini Easter adventure.

For session times and details on how to book go to www.theicebowl.com

Commemorate VE Day 80 in Lisburn

Thursday, 8th May 2025

Join us as we commemorate 80 years since Victory in Europe with a day of special events:

9.00am

TOWN CRIER PROCLAMATION AND FLAG RAISING CEREMONY Lagan Valley Island

On your marks for the Vitality Membership Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run on Wednesday 18th June.

Starting at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, the event is a must-do for everyone from seasoned runners to novices.

This year, an exciting new route has been introduced which takes in the Eikon Centre and Maze Long Kesh site. The ‘Flat and Fast’ course is a fantastic choice for runners searching for a new challenge or striving to achieve a personal best.

For those who just want to run for fun, the 3K Fun Run is the perfect choice. Schools and youth groups are encouraged to get involved too! All events are inclusive and open to wheelchair and handcycle participants.

This year runners can choose to plant a tree rather than receive a race t-shirt, helping participants make a lasting contribution to the environment.

For more information and to register, go to www.lisburnhalfmarathon.com

The Town Crier will deliver the official VE Day 80 Proclamation.

The Mayor and Deputy Lord Lieutenant will raise the unique VE Day 80 flag in remembrance

2.00pm to 4.00pm

VE DAY THEMED TEA DANCE Market Square

Enjoy a lively afternoon of 1940s music and dancing – everyone welcome 6:30pm to 9:30pm BEACON LIGHTING CEREMONY Castle Gardens

Join us for a special parade, beating retreat, and beacon lighting at 9:30pm in unity with the national program.

Let’s honour the past and celebrate peace together.

For more information go to: www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/ve-day-80

Runners from Carryduff Running Club are joined by The Mayor, Councillor Kurtis Dickson and Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of Communities and Wellbeing Committee to launch registrations for the 2025 Vitality Membership Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run.

SERC students serve up delicious ways to cut waste

We’re excited to be working with talented catering students from South Eastern Regional College (SERC) to create a fantastic recipe book filled with tasty, affordable meals designed to help you reduce food waste and save money.

We anticipate the recipe book will be published later this year, so keep an eye on our socials for updates. In the meantime, here’s a little taste of what’s to come — enjoy!

Chocolate Tiffin Squares

RECIPE

Transform your leftover Easter egg chocolate into these quick and easy treats! Ingredients

• 150g butter or margarine cubed, plus extra for the tray

• 3 tbsp caster sugar

• 3 tbsp golden syrup

• 6 tsp cocoa powder

• 225g digestive biscuits or similar (crushed)

• 100g cherries or raisins (chopped if large)

• 220g chocolate

Method

Grease and line a 15-20cm baking tray with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to make it easier to lift the treats out later.

In a large saucepan, melt the butter or margarine, sugar, syrup, and cocoa. Stir in the crushed biscuits and cherries or raisins until they are well mixed.

Pour the mixture into the prepared tray and press down

firmly, then smooth the top with the back of a spoon.

Microwave the chocolate in short 20 second bursts, stirring frequently, until melted.

Pour the melted chocolate over the mixture in the tin, spreading it evenly with a spatula or spoon.

Place the tray into the fridge to chill for at least 2 hours, or until the topping is set.

Once set, use the parchment paper to lift the traybake out of the tin. Cut into squares and serve.

Easter collection arrangements and Household Recycling Centre opening times

The following arrangements are in place over the spring holiday periods.

Bin collections (landfill, mixed dry recycling and brown bins) Household Recycling Centres

Friday 18th April as normal

Monday 21st April on Saturday 19th April

Tuesday 22nd April on Saturday 26th April

Monday 5th May as normal

Monday 26th May as normal

Kerbie and wheelie box collections

Date Will be collected

Friday 18th April as normal

Monday 21st April on Saturday 19th April

Tuesday 22nd April as normal

Monday 5th May as normal

Monday 26th May as normal

All other collections will take place as normal. Please leave bins out for 6.00am and boxes out for 7.00am on collection day.

Friday 18th April 9.00am to 3.00pm*

Saturday 19th April 9.00am to 5.00pm

Monday 21st April CLOSED

Tuesday 22nd April CLOSED

Monday 5th May 9.00am to 3.00pm*

Monday 26th May 9.00am to 3.00pm*

*Last entry is 10 mins before closing time. Household Recycling Centres do not open on Sundays.

For further information on holiday arrangements or to check for waste collection disruptions go to: www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/binformation

Help shape a greener future for Lisburn and Castlereagh

The Council has declared a climate emergency and is developing a Sustainability Strategy and Climate Action Plan to protect the environment and build a more sustainable future.

The draft plan outlines key actions to reduce waste, cut pollution and reduce the effects of climate change in the short, medium, and long-term. To ensure the plan reflects local priorities, we’re asking for feedback from residents, businesses and community groups.

Get involved!

The consultation is open until Tuesday 29th April 2025 and we urge you to:

• review the plan and share your feedback;

• attend a drop-in event to learn more and have your say (details on our website and social media); and

• request documents in other formats if needed by emailing: sustainability@ lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/sustainability Together we can create a greener, healthier Lisburn and Castlereagh.

Recycling myths

saves natural resources, reduces waste, saves energy and cuts down on harmful greenhouse gas emissions.

In 2023/24, 40,000 tonnes of waste was recycled, saving £4m and preventing 11,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. Your efforts really do count!

Myth: Everything put in the recycling bin ends up in landfill

Fact: Recyclables collected from your home are sorted, baled, and sent to reprocessors to be turned into new products.

Myth: All recycling is shipped abroad

Fact: Many materials are recycled in the UK and Europe, creating jobs and supporting the economy.

However, some materials need to be processed elsewhere if facilities aren’t available here.

Myth: Recycling uses more energy than it saves

Fact: Recycling saves energy - a lot of it!

For example, recycling aluminium cans uses 95% less energy than making them from raw materials.

Myth: It doesn’t matter if I put the wrong things in my recycling bin - it all gets sorted anyway

Fact: Unsuitable items contaminate the recycling and can cause an entire load to be rejected and sent for disposal.

Double-check what goes in your bin to keep recycling working properly!

Gemma Richardson, Sustainability Manager and Councillor Pat Catney, Chair of the Environment and Sustainability Committee in Wallace Park.

Bikes, boards and Bells Lane Park

Building on the success of the BMX track at Bells Lane Park, the only national standard BMX track in Northern Ireland, further improvements are planned for the year ahead.

In partnership with Lisburn BMX Club, we’re exploring ways to enhance the track’s starter gate, with proposals to upgrade the start hill to five metres which is typically used in amateur UCI sanctioned BMX races.

George Gordon, Chairman of Lisburn BMX Club, said: "We welcome the proposal to upgrade our start hill to five metres, which will allow our riders to train at the appropriate level of difficulty. We’re all very excited about this fantastic opportunity and also welcome the integration of a skate park into the existing landscape."

Once the design is finalised, it is expected this new facility should be open by summer 2026 and will bring a fun, aesthetically pleasing space suitable for all wheel sports.

Get set for summer!

If you’re looking for fun activities to keep the kids busy over the summer, then check out our Summer in the City 2025 programme.

Our summer schemes are open to children aged five and over and include a fun mix of coached activities, games, arts and crafts, bouncy castles and more.

Sports specific camps are also running for golf, basketball, Gaelic football and even ice skating to encourage children to try out a new activity.

Our popular swim camps will also return to Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, running over five consecutive days to help children learn or progress over summer.

However, if sports aren’t their thing, why not spark your child’s creativity at ISLAND Arts Centre? ISLAND Children’s Arts Festival of Bright Ideas runs from

Monday 28th July to Friday 15th August, with hands-on workshops, interactive sessions and inspiring activities, it’s the perfect chance for your child to explore new skills, express themselves and fuel their imagination! £90 per week with discounts available, book now at ISLANDArtsCentre.com

You can enrol for summer schemes, sports courses and swim camps from Monday 2nd June at: www.theleisureplex.com/summer

Councillor Kurtis Dickson, Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council and Cara McCrory, Director of Finance and Corporate Services join young Noah, Sam and Lilly to promote the upcoming improvement works in Bells Lane Park, Lisburn.

A popular place to call home

Lisburn and Castlereagh remains one of the most desirable places to live in Northern Ireland. According to the latest Quarterly House Price Index by Ulster University, our Council area experienced a 4.2% increase in average house prices in the third quarter of 2024.

This reflects the strong demand for housing locally, making it even more important to ensure there is enough land available for future development.

Each year, the Council publishes a Housing Land Availability Report, which monitors the number of new homes built and ensures we have sufficient land to meet future housing needs. In the last reporting year, over 400 new homes were completed, with more currently under construction. While this is slightly lower than the number of homes built in 2022, various global factors have contributed to the slowdown, including the rising costs of raw materials, inflation pressures due to macro-economic factors and the general rise in interest rates.

Despite these challenges, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council remains committed to maintaining a strong supply of land for housing. This is set out in the Plan Strategy 2032, which ensures there is enough space to support sustainable development and meet future demand.

With house prices on the rise, proper and timely planning decisions are more important than ever. By enabling a steady supply of new homes, we are helping to support local people, attract investment, and maintain Lisburn and Castlereagh as a great place to live, work, and grow.

Shape your Council’s future!

Your voice matters! Every year, the Council sets key improvement objectives to enhance our services and better support our community. Now, we need your input to ensure we’re focusing on what truly matters to you.

Over the past few years, we’ve successfully delivered a range of improvement projects, and we want to build on that progress in 2025/26. Our priorities for the years ahead will focus on making our services more efficient, accessible, and impactful for the lives of our residents.

A ‘Grand’ opportunity for community groups!

An exciting funding opportunity is coming for community groups looking to make a difference in their local area!

Grand Choice is a funding scheme that allows local communities to vote on projects that will benefit their area.

The next round of funding will take place in early autumn 2025 for the Downshire East DEA. This includes Ravarnet, Dromara, Hillhall, Drumbo, and Ballymacbrennan.

Community groups in these areas will have the opportunity to apply for up to £1,000 to bring local projects to life.

One successful past project was the creation of a sensory garden at Downshire Primary School in Hillsborough. The school transformed an unused patch of land between its

entrance and Hillsborough Village Centre into a vibrant sensory garden. Using reclaimed sleepers and a variety of sensory plants, the project provided a space for pupils to engage with nature, while developing essential skills through cultivating and nurturing the garden.

Since its completion, the sensory garden has been a tremendous success, benefiting pupils and also the wider community. It offers a space for connection with nature, while supporting physical fitness, mood, health, and cognitive development.

If your community has a project idea that could make a difference, don’t miss the chance to apply for Grand Choice funding this autumn!

Keep an eye on our social media channels for more details.

Have your say!

We want to hear from you! Your feedback will help shape the projects and initiatives that will directly benefit our community.

Review our improvement objectives

Visit www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/ performance to see what’s planned for 2025/26.

Join a focus group

We’ll host sessions in April 2025 to gather your insights. Keep an eye on our social media for details.

Take our online survey

Share your thoughts through our online survey before Friday 9th May: www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/ performancesurvey

Stay connected with us on social media for updates and opportunities to get involved. Together, we can shape a better future for our community!

If you have any queries, please email performance@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Alderman Paul Porter, Chair of the Governance and Audit Committee reviewing our Performance Improvement Plan at Lagan Valley Island.

Alderman Martin Gregg, Chair of the Planning Committee visiting Barronsgrange Housing Development in Carryduff.

Council apprentice champions Career Pathways Scheme

Last year, we welcomed eight new apprentices as part of the Career Pathways Apprenticeship Programme, bringing our total number of apprentices to 19.

Now in its fourth year, the apprenticeship programme provides opportunities for anyone interested in upskilling, reskilling, changing their career path or trying something new.

The programme also offers participants the opportunity to work in a diverse,

dynamic and multifaceted organisation, with opportunities in sports and leisure, tourism, marketing, events, parks and amenities, facilities, greenkeeping, horticulture, IT and communities.

In partnership with South Eastern Regional College (SERC), Belfast Met and the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), the Council offers Level 2, Level 3 and Higher Level paid apprenticeships across the organisation, allowing successful applicants to ‘earn while they learn’ while completing their qualifications.

Busy mum turns side hustle into success!

Our current Marketing Apprentice, Sarah Welsh, recently won the Public Sector Apprentice of the

PATHWAYS CAREER APPRENTICESHIP

PROGRAMME

Year Award. We’re incredibly proud of Sarah’s achievements and congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition.

Reflecting on her apprenticeship experience, Sarah said: "Being part of the apprenticeship programme has been an incredible opportunity. I’ve gained hands-on experience in marketing, while working in a sector I’m passionate about. The support from my mentors and colleagues has been invaluable and I’ve learned so much that will benefit my future career."

We will soon be on the lookout for another intake of apprentices, with a new scheme scheduled to launch later this year.

Stay tuned to our social channels and website for updates.

Come join our team!

Kirsty Damba always had a passion for creativity and enjoyed handcrafting unique gifts, home décor and personalised items in her spare time.

But when she first started selling handmade products online, she never imagined that just two years later, she would be launching her own brand and expanding into new markets. Through the support of Go Succeed, the busy mum of two (who works full-time) has built a brand, developed a wide range of new products and launched her business Grace Meadow Studios.

Speaking about the programme, Kirsty said: “I joined Go Succeed in November 2023 and didn’t really have a set plan for where I wanted to go. I was selling online and knew I wanted to do something more.

“On joining Go Succeed, I was quickly matched with a mentor. He was fantastic and gave me the confidence to believe

in myself and helped me explore my choices, markets and direction of travel! His support has been invaluable. I now have a whole range of seasonal products and I’m selling in person at markets and stalls.

“With the support of a Go Succeed grant, I have also been able to invest in the resources to support the demand for laser etched materials for the wedding industry. I am excited to work with couples to make personalised products for their special day. I would recommend Go Succeed to anyone who is thinking of starting a business."

Funded by the UK Government, Go Succeed offers tailored enterprise support for new and existing businesses.

If you have a business idea and want help to succeed then register at: www.go -succeed.com

Councillor Nicholas Trimble, Chair of the Corporate Services Committee with Sarah Welsh, Marketing Apprentice.

Alderman Amanda Grehan, Chair of the Regeneration and Growth Committee with Kirsty Damba, owner of Grace Meadow Studios.

Shaping the future: a look inside our Youth Council

Caitlin McGuinness (aged 17) is a member of Lisburn & Castlereagh City’s Council’s Youth Council. The Council was set up in 2017 to give young people the opportunity to engage with key decision makers, have their say on local issues and be a representative voice for young people in their area.

Caitlin, a pupil at Our Lady and St Patrick’s College, Knock, tells us what it’s like to be involved:

“The reason I joined the Youth Council was because we had an assembly about it in school and my best friend thought it would be great for our CVs. I went for moral support but when I met the youth workers, they started a debate about a variety of issues in my area and I quickly realised how much fun it could be. I decided to commit my Wednesday nights to it and from the first ice breaker I was hooked.

“What I have most enjoyed about my Youth Council journey was, over Halloween half term break, we went to Edinburgh for our study visit which was amazing! We got to meet three other youth groups who hosted events for us.

“It taught us a lot about teamwork and it helped us with our own campaigns on job searching and health related to young people.

“We had a meeting with The Mayor, Councillor Kurtis Dickson who willingly answered all our questions and gave us valuable insight into local government. We have learned a lot about what councils do, having had the opportunity to attend a ‘Meet the Councillors Event’ and we had consultations with the police, allowing us an insight into the organisations supporting the Youth Council.”

What’s On April to September 2025

APRIL

Easter Eggstravaganza

Saturday 19th April, 12 noon to 3.00pm Market Square, Lisburn

Join us for a family-friendly Easter celebration featuring games, activities and plenty of Easter treats!

Art on the Rails

Saturday 26th April, 9.30am to 12.30pm Market Square, Lisburn

Explore local creativity and browse an open-air gallery on the rails of the Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum. Admire and purchase unique pieces from local talented artists.

Tuesday Magpies

Tuesday 29th April, 13th and 27th May and 10th and 24th June, 4.00pm to 5.00pm ISLAND Arts Centre, Lisburn

In partnership with LCCC Waste Management, there will be a chance for your community group to upcycle records, jewellery, t-shirts and much more. For alternate times to suit your community group, email: lucie.corcoran@ lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

MOVICALS - A Movie Musical Extravaganza

Wednesday 30th April, 7.30pm

Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn

Cost: from £26

A movie musical extravaganza like no other. So, get ready to be swept off your feet with MOVICALS - the ultimate lights, camera, action experience!

MAY

Thursday 1st May, 8.00pm

Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn

Cost: from £26.50

Join Declan and his super live band with special guests John McNicholl and Hugo Duncan for a nostalgic night of music, song and laughter on the 2025 Round and Round concert tour.

VE Day 80 Tea Dance

Thursday 8th May, 2.00pm to 4.00pm Market Square, Lisburn

Commemorate VE Day 80 with music, dancing, and nostalgia at our VE tea dance with music from Housty.

Mayor's Carnival Parade and Family Fun Day 'Wonders of Nature'

Saturday 10th May, 12 noon to 5.00pm

The carnival leaves ISLAND Arts Centre at 1.00pm weaving its way through the city centre to the Carnival Village at Wallace Park. Wallace Park opens from 12 noon to 5.00pm

Songs from Stage and Screen

Friday 16th May, 7.30pm

Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn

Cost: from £8

Lisburn Harmony are delighted to share the stage with our guests The Leading Ladies, for a night of music from stage and screen.

Ceramic Bees (for 6 to 11 year olds)

Saturday 17th May, 10.30am to 12.30pm

ISLAND Arts Centre, Lisburn

Cost: £20

Mark World Bee Day by making bright, big, beautiful bees for your garden or room. Have fun with clay as you recreate and celebrate these glorious, essential creatures!

Swing Gals

Saturday 17th May, 8.00pm

ISLAND Arts Centre, Lisburn

Cost: £15

In the month commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe, the Gals celebrate with a glorious trip down memory lane.

Chamber Babies Concerts

Saturday 24th May, 10.00am

ISLAND Arts Centre, Lisburn

Cost: £9 for 1 adult and 1 baby up to 18 months

Walk, sway, roll or chill to live classical music performed by professional musicians. Guaranteed to engage and enchant or even soothe little ones to sleep!

Declan Nerney and Special Guests in Concert

Chamber Cherubs Concerts

Saturday 24th May, 11.00am

ISLAND Arts Centre, Lisburn

Cost: £9 for 1 adult and 1 child per session (1-3 years of age)

A fun, relaxed and engaging live classical music experience for little listeners, performed by professional musicians.

Hanging Basket Workshops

Saturday 24th May & Saturday 31st May 12 noon to 3.00pm Market Square, Lisburn

Get ready for summer blooms with our free Hanging Basket Workshops in Market Square, with all materials provided. This event is ticket only. For booking information check out Lisburn City Centre on Facebook

Little Women

Saturday 24th May, 8.00pm

ISLAND Arts Centre, Lisburn

Cost: £15

Hotbuckle Productions presents a fast paced, fun adaptation of Alcott’s enduring story about family, love and growing up in 19th century Massachusetts.

Art on the Rails

Saturday 31st May 9.30am to 12.30pm Market Square, Lisburn

Explore local creativity and browse an open-air gallery on the rails of the Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum. Admire and purchase unique pieces from local talented artists.

JUNE

Pots for Tots for Father’s Day: Seawater Bowls

(for 1 to 4 year olds)

Saturday 7th June 10.30am to 12.30pm

ISLAND Arts Centre, Lisburn

Cost: £32

It’s World Oceans Day – mark it by making a seawater ceramic bowl to use when you explore the shore with your dad on holidays or fun days out.

Hanging Basket Workshops

Saturday 7th June 12 noon to 3.00pm Market Square, Lisburn

Get ready for summer blooms with our free Hanging Basket Workshops in Market Square, with all materials provided This event is ticket only. For booking information check out Lisburn City Centre on Facebook

The Summer Country Show

Wednesday 11th June, 8.00pm Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn

Cost: from £25.50

The Summer Country Show returns for another night of blistering toe-tapping magic with six of Irelands top country stars all on one unmissable show.

Wendy Gibson Ballet Academy Showcase

Saturday 14th June, 12 noon to 1.00pm Market Square, Lisburn

Experience the grace and talent of ballet with this showcase from a local academy, the perfect event for any budding ballerinas.

Art on the Rails

Saturday 28th June, 9.30am to 12.30pm Market Square, Lisburn

Explore local creativity and browse an open-air gallery on the rails of the Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum. Admire and purchase unique pieces from local talented artists.

JULY

Park Life: Heroes and Princesses

Tuesday 1st July, 11.00am to 1.00pm Moira Demesne, Moira

Summer Movie Magic

Thursday 3rd, 10th, 17th, and 24th July, 12.30pm to 3pm (dependent on movie being shown)

Market Square, Lisburn

Enjoy family-favourite movies every Thursday in Market Square. Movies start at 1.00pm. Little ones can enjoy face painting from 12.30pm to 1.30pm.

Park Life: Messy Bug Ball

Thursday 3rd July, 11.00am to 1.00pm Moat Park, Dundonald

Park Life: Jurassic Adventures

Saturday 5th July, 11.00am to 1.00pm Moat Park, Dundonald

Tumble Circus Performance

Saturday 5th July, 12.30pm to 2.30pm Market Square, Lisburn

Enjoy a circus show like never before, including lots of comedy, juggling, acrobatics and plenty of fun for all the family! No booking required.

Park Life: Sunday Music Session

Sunday 6th July, 2.00pm to 3.00pm Wallace Park, Lisburn

Park Life: Nature’s Delight

Tuesday 8th July, 11.00am to 1.00pm Lough Moss Leisure Centre, Carryduff

Park Life: Nature’s Delight

Saturday 19th July, 11.00am to 1.00pm Moat Park, Dundonald

Sounds Like Summer: Live Music

Saturday 19th July, 12 noon to 2.00pm Market Square, Lisburn

This summer, whether you're shopping, grabbing a coffee, or enjoying lunch, enjoy live music from local acts in Market Square.

Park Life: Sunday Music Session

Sunday 20th July, 2.00pm to 3.00pm

Lough Moss Leisure Centre, Carryduff

July Summer Tea Dance

Tuesday 22nd July, 2.00pm to 4.00pm Market Square, Lisburn

Enjoy the charm of our Summer Tea Dances in Market Square. Dance to the lively tunes of Housty, our fabulous local musician. No booking required.

AUGUST

Park Life: Jurassic Adventures

Thursday 24th July, 11.00am to 1.00pm Lough Moss Leisure Centre, Carryduff

Art on the Rails

Saturday 26th July 9.30am to 12.30pm Market Square, Lisburn

Explore local creativity and browse an open-air gallery on the rails of the Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum. Admire and purchase unique pieces from local talented artists.

Park Life: Nature’s Delight

Saturday 26th July, 11.00am to 1.00pm Moira Demesne, Moira

Park Life: Sunday Music Session

Sunday 27th July, 2.00pm to 3.00pm

Moira Demesne, Moira

Park Life: Castle Gardens

Tuesday 29th July, 11.00am to 1.00pm Castle Gardens, Lisburn

Park Life: Jurassic Adventures

Thursday 31st July, 11.00am to 1.00pm Moat Park, Dundonald

Sounds Like Summer: Live Music

Saturday 2nd, 16th, 23rd, 30th August, 12 noon to 2.00pm Market Square, Lisburn

This summer, whether you're shopping, grabbing a coffee, or enjoying lunch, enjoy live music from local acts in Market Square.

Park Life: Sunday Music Session

Sunday 3rd August, 2.00pm to 3.00pm Moat Park, Dundonald

Park Life: Messy Bug Ball

Tuesday 5th August, 11.00am to 1.00pm Moira Demesne, Moira

Summer Movie Magic

Thursday 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th August Market Square, Lisburn

Enjoy family-favourite movies every Thursday in Market Square. Movies start at 1.00pm. Little ones can enjoy face painting from 12.30pm to 1.30pm.

Park Life: Messy Bug Ball

Thursday 7th August, 11.00am to 1.00pm Lough Moss Leisure Centre, Carryduff

Park Life: Heroes and Princesses

Saturday 9th August, 11.00am to 1.00pm Wallace Park, Lisburn

Park Life: Sunday Music Session

Sunday 10th August, 2.00pm to 3.00pm Wallace Park, Lisburn

Park Life: Nature’s Delight

Thursday 14th August, 11.00am to 1.00pm Castle Gardens, Lisburn

Park Life: Heroes and Princesses

Saturday 16th August, 11.00am to 1.00pm Moat Park, Dundonald

Park Life: Sunday Music Session

Sunday 17th August, 2.00pm to 3.00pm Lough Moss Leisure Centre, Carryduff

Park Life: Plant and Play

Tuesday 19th August, 11.00am to 1.00pm Wallace Park, Lisburn

Park Life: Plant and Play

Thursday 21st August, 11.00am to 1.00pm

Lough Moss Leisure Centre, Carryduff

Park Life: Jurassic Adventures

Saturday 23rd August, 11.00am to 1.00pm Moira Demesne, Moira

Park Life: Sunday Music Session

Sunday 24th August, 2.00pm to 3.00pm Moira Demesne, Moira

SEPTEMBER

A Night with the Country Stars

Wednesday 10th September, 8.00pm

Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn

Cost: from £26.50

A Night with the Country Stars returns to Lagan Valley Island for a night of blistering toe-tapping magic and a stellar line-up you won't want to miss.

August Summer Tea Dance

Tuesday 26th August 2.00pm to 4.00pm Market Square, Lisburn

Enjoy the charm of our Summer Tea Dances in Market Square. Dance to the lively tunes of Housty, our fabulous local band.

Art on the Rails

Saturday 30th August 9.30am to 12.30pm Market Square, Lisburn

Explore local creativity and browse an open-air gallery on the rails of the Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum. Admire and purchase unique pieces from local talented artists.

Park Life: Sunday Music Session

Sunday 31st August, 2.00pm to 3.00pm Moat Park, Dundonald

Essentially Cher - Live in Concert

Saturday 27th Sept, 8.00pm

Lagan Valley Island

Cost: from £20

Get ready to be dazzled by Trisha McCluney, star of BBC1’s I Can See Your Voice! As Essentially Cher, she delivers an electrifying tribute with a live band, dancers, and stunning production.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council will host a special commemoration event on Friday 15th August 2025 to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day, a pivotal moment in history that brought World War II to an end. The event will also include the annual National Malaya and Borneo Veterans Association (NMBVA) wreath-laying ceremony, paying tribute to the extraordinary bravery and sacrifice of those who served in Singapore during WW2.

The event will consist of a public parade and outdoor service at Lagan Valley Island, honouring those who served in the Far East, including local war hero and medical pioneerProfessor Frank Pantridge.

Residents are invited to attend as we reflect on the sacrifices of the past and honour the legacy of our veterans. Further details will be shared in due course.

Keep an eye on our social media channels for updates.