Creative Industries Week

Mid & East Antrim

Creative Industries Week 16 February 2026

Led by

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Mayor’s Welcome profit. The week will conclude with a special showcase event, giving participants the opportunity to present and celebrate their creations.

Alongside this, the schedule features an exciting mix of public workshops taking place across the borough including Getting Creative on TikTok, Floriography, Cameraphone Photography, Making Reels, Getting Into Photography, Lino Printing, Sewing & Design, Jewellery Making, and a selection of baking demonstrations.

Welcome to Mid and East Antrim Creative Industries Week 2026!

On behalf of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, I am delighted to welcome you to Creative Industries Week, a celebration of creativity, innovation, and opportunity across our local community. Throughout the week, we’ve curated a diverse range of free events, workshops, and networking sessions designed to inform, inspire, and empower.

Whether you are at the very beginning of your entrepreneurial journey or are already growing an established creative venture, this programme offers countless opportunities to learn, connect, and develop. We encourage you to take full advantage of the live sessions, meet likeminded individuals, and broaden your network. There is nothing quite like the energy of a room filled with ambitious minds and bold ideas.

We are also hosting a number of inspiring school events throughout the week. These include a behind the scenes look at special effects make up and animation with Cinemagic, an introduction to theatre with Peter Corry’s Belfast School of Performing Arts, and an exploration of different roles within a real-life music studio.

If you’ve ever considered taking the leap into entrepreneurship or are thinking about turning a hobby into something more, there is no better time than now. Let this week be the spark that ignites your next chapter.

We look forward to welcoming you to our events and hope you leave feeling informed, supported, and inspired to pursue your creative ambitions with confidence.

Councillor Jackson Minford Mayor Mid and East Antrim Borough Council

One of the highlights of the programme is our weeklong Get Into Crafting programme.

Participants will have the chance to unlock their creativity, build new skills, and explore how a passion can be transformed into 1

Programme 4–week Programme Commencing 5 February 10am-12noon

Art in the Embers: Wood burning design course

Throughout the Week 10am–4pm

Crafted Futures: Make, Learn, Sell

Monday 16 February 10am–12noon

Get into Film Making with Cinemagic: SPFX workshop and SEN Animation

6pm–7:30pm

Make Your Photos Stand Out: Phone Photography & Simple Editing

Tuesday 17 February 10am–12noon

Baking Demonstration

12noon–2.30pm Get into Theatre with Belfast Performing Arts (school event) Wednesday 18 February 10am–12noon

Lino Printing

6pm–7:30pm

AI for Creatives: Ideas, Captions and Content Support

Thursday 19 February All day

Working in a Studio (school event)

10am–12noon

Jewellery Making

Friday 20 February 10am–12noon

Lino Printing

All day

Primary 7 Competition Launch: The Big Imagination Challenge – The Ultimate Story Dome Competition

Saturday 21 February 9am–11am

Cameraphone Photography

10am–1pm

Victorian Blooms and Felted Treasures – Floriography & Needle Felting

12noon–2pm

Crafted Futures: Make, Learn, Sell – Showcase Event

3pm–5pm

Making Reels

3pm–5pm

Getting into Photography

Tuesday 24 February 5:30pm–7:30pm Storytelling - Crafting a Compelling Product Story Thursday 26 February 7pm–9pm

Songwriting Together

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4–week Programme Commencing 5 February Art in the Embers: Wood burning design course Commencing 5 February (4–week programme) 10am - 12noon, Thursday & Saturday Men’s Shed Portglenone Discover the art of drawing with fire in this unique, hands-on creative workshop!

Join us for a 4 week programme where you’ll learn how to transfer designs and create beautiful artwork using heat and burning techniques. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to upskill, this is a fantastic opportunity to explore a new craft, meet others, and get creative in a relaxed and supportive environment.

This inclusive workshop is open to all residents of the Mid & East Antrim Borough.

To secure your place contact lmp@midandeastantrim.gov.uk stating your preference of a Thursday or Saturday.

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All week Crafted Futures: Make, Learn, Sell Monday 16 – Friday 20 February (5-day programme) 10am–4pm Tuition Time, Whitehead Unlock your creativity, build new skills, and turn your passion into profit!

Join our week-long programme for adults designed to inspire and empower you in the creative sector. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned maker, you’ll: • Learn from expert-led workshops in craft, design, and entrepreneurship • Create your own handmade products using a variety of materials and techniques • Discover how to brand, price, and market your work • Showcase & sell your creations at our vibrant end-of-week community event Dates: Week commencing 16 February 2025 Location: Tuition Time, Whitehead Cost: Free to participate Let your creativity shine — and take it to market!

To secure your place click here

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Monday 16 February Get into Film Making with Cinemagic: SPFX workshop and SEN Animation

SCHOOL EVENT

Monday 16 February 10am–12noon Larne Town Hall Dive into the world of movie magic with Cinemagic’s Special Effects Make Up Workshop.

Participants will learn how professional artists create realistic wounds, scars, and character transformations using industry standard SPFX techniques. This hands on session offers a fascinating behind the scenes look at how practical effects bring film and television to life.

The inclusive and engaging SEN Animation workshop introduces participants to the fundamentals of animation in a supportive, SEN friendly environment. Attendees will develop their own storyboards and explore accessible digital apps to animate their creations. By the end of the session, their ideas will be transformed into short animated sequences, showcasing imagination and storytelling brought vividly to life.

Please note this is a private school event. To get involved and learn about other school opportunities contact amplify@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Make Your Photos Stand Out: Phone Photography & Simple Editing Monday 16 February 6pm–7:30pm Ballymena Central Library Learn how to take stronger photos using your phone and make simple edits to improve light, colour and clarity. Ideal for anyone sharing creative work online or promoting events and handmade products.

Beginner-friendly and no equipment needed, other than your phone.

Adults only and booking essential by contacting ballymena.library@librariesni.org.uk or calling 028 2563 3950

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Tuesday 17 February Baking Demonstration Tuesday 17 February 10am–12noon McGarel Hall, Larne Town Hall Join us for a fun and interactive baking demonstration designed for beginners and food enthusiasts alike! Over two hours, you’ll learn essential techniques, explore creative recipes, and watch step-by-step guidance from an experienced baker. This hands-on session will inspire confidence in the kitchen and give you practical tips to recreate delicious treats at home. Perfect for anyone looking to combine learning with a love of baking!

Book your place now by contacting lmp@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Get into Theatre with Belfast School of Performing Arts Tuesday 17 February 12noon–2.30pm The Braid, Ballymena

SCHOOL EVENT

Students will go behind the scenes of a live working theatre with the renowned Belfast School of Performing Arts, founded by celebrated performer Peter Corry. This immersive workshop offers a unique look at how a production comes to life, from backstage activity to on stage preparation. Participants will also explore a range of drama styles and techniques, gaining hands on experience in performance skills and creative expression within a professional theatre environment.

Please note this is a private school event. To get involved and learn about other school opportunities contact amplify@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

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Wednesday 18 February Lino Printing Wednesday 18 February 10am–12noon Education Room, Carrickfergus Civic Centre Discover the art of lino printing in this hands-on, beginner-friendly workshop. Over two hours, you’ll learn the basics of carving and inking techniques, experiment with textures and patterns, and create your own unique prints to take home. Perfect for anyone looking to explore a new creative skill in a relaxed and supportive environment!

Book your place now by contacting lmp@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

AI for Creatives: Ideas, Captions and Content Support Wednesday 18 February 6pm–7.30pm Carrickfergus Library Discover how AI can help generate ideas, write captions and plan creative content while keeping your own voice. A practical, friendly introduction for makers, photographers and community creatives. No technical experience required.

Adults only and booking essential by contacting carrickfergus.library@librariesni.org.uk or calling 028 9336 2261

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Thursday 19 February Working in a Studio Thursday 19 February All day J14 Studio, Carrickfergus

SCHOOL EVENT

Students will step inside J14 Productions’ fully functioning music studio for a hands on introduction to the world of music production as well as the wide range of roles involved in creating a professional track, from sound engineering to mixing and production, and gain practical experience using real studio equipment. The workshop culminates in an exciting opportunity for students to create and record their own original piece, giving them a true taste of life inside a working music studio.

Please note this is a private school event. To get involved and learn about other school opportunities contact amplify@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Jewellery Making Thursday 19 February 10am–12noon Wilson Room, Larne Town Hall Join us for a hands-on, beginner-friendly jewellery making workshop designed to spark creativity and introduce you to the art of crafting unique pieces. Over two hours, you’ll explore essential techniques, experiment with materials, and create your own beautiful designs in a relaxed and supportive environment. Perfect for those looking to learn a new skill and express their creativity!

Book your place now by contacting lmp@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

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Friday 20 February Lino Printing Friday 20 February 10am–12noon Wet Art Room, The Braid, Ballymena Discover the art of lino printing in this hands-on, beginner-friendly workshop. Over two hours, you’ll learn the basics of carving and inking techniques, experiment with textures and patterns, and create your own unique prints to take home. Perfect for anyone looking to explore a new creative skill in a relaxed and supportive environment!

Book your place now by contacting lmp@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Primary 7 Schools Competition Launch The Big Imagination Challenge The Ultimate Story Dome Competition Friday 20 February Online throughout the day Mid and East Antrim Borough Council is thrilled to announce an unforgettable opportunity for schools as part of our Activate Your Curiosity programme! Council has teamed up with acclaimed local storyteller Vicky McFarland from Tale Time to offer Primary 7 pupils the chance to win a fully funded, four week creative workshop programme that promises to bring imagination, innovation, and storytelling to life in the classroom inside an immersive story telling dome!

This is no ordinary workshop series. Blending the magic of the arts with the excitement of technology, the programme shines a spotlight on the STEAM subjects in a way that is dynamic, hands-on, and deeply engaging for pupils. Over four inspiring weeks, the winning class will work with Vicky to create an original piece of work. Their creation will be brought to life in a grand finale showcase, where pupils will see their ideas transformed into something truly spectacular inside the dome.

This competition is designed to ignite curiosity, boost confidence, and encourage creative thinking—perfect for nurturing the next generation of storytellers, innovators, and problem solvers.

Download your competition entry form now at www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/AYC-BIC

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Saturday 21 February Cameraphone Photography with Sophie Hamilton Saturday 21 February 9am–11am Carrickfergus YMCA Unlock the full potential of your phone camera in this practical, hands-on session. You’ll learn how to capture stunning images confidently by mastering essential techniques such as working with natural light, finding the best angles, and using your phone’s built-in editing tools. We’ll also explore recommended apps that can elevate your photography to the next level. This isn’t just theory; there will be plenty of time to practice, so bring a coat as we’ll head outdoors for some real-world shooting!

Event facilitator, Sophie, is a local content creator with extensive experience in building vibrant online communities and collaborating with brands on social media. She brings practical insights into creating visually compelling content that resonates with audiences.

Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this workshop will give you the confidence and tools to make your photos stand out.

To secure your place click here

Victorian Blooms and Felted Treasures Floriography & Needle Felting Saturday 21 February 10am–1pm Dobbs Room, Carrickfergus Town Hall Join us for a three-hour workshop exploring Floriography—the “Language of Flowers” popularised in Victorian times. The session will begin with an engaging overview of the history of Floriography, including the traditional meanings assigned to individual flowers and how floral combinations were once used to send hidden messages.

Following the overview, participants will take part in a hands-on needle felting session.

All materials will be provided to create a needle-felted floral keepsake, including a 100% wool base, variety of felting wools, needle and embroidery hoop, to use as a frame.

This adults-only workshop has a maximum capacity of 12 participants.

Each participant will receive a bag of materials and tuition to make their own floral themed needle-felted keepsake to take away with them.

Book your place now by contacting lmp@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

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Saturday 21 February Crafted Futures: Make, Learn, Sell Showcase Event Saturday 21 February 12noon–2pm The Fuzzy Beak, Whitehead Join us for a relaxed lunchtime of browsing and shopping, showcasing a wide range of original craft and art pieces made during our ‘Crafted Futures’ programmed delivered during the week. Meet the makers, hear about their creative journeys, and discover the skills and ideas behind their work. Whether you’re looking for something special or simply want to enjoy the creativity on display, you might just find that unique piece you’ve been searching for.

Making Reels with Sophie Hamilton Saturday 21 February 3pm–5pm Carrickfergus YMCA Learn how to harness the power of your phone to create engaging and professional-looking reels in Whether you’re completely new to photography or looking to build confidence with the skills you already have, this session is designed to guide you through the fundamentals.

You’ll have the chance to explore how your camera works, understand the purpose of different settings, and learn when and how to use them. The workshop focuses on helping you get comfortable with the equipment you already own, so you can start creating images with intention and clarity from day one.

Event facilitator, Sophie, is a local content creator with a proven track record in building online communities and collaborating with brands on social media. She brings practical insights and creative strategies to help you feel confident and inspired to create content that resonates. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this workshop will give you the tools and confidence to make reels that shine.

To secure your place click here

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Saturday 21 February Getting into Photography with Megan Hill Saturday 21 February 3pm–5pm Carrickfergus YMCA Whether you’re completely new to photography or looking to build confidence with the skills you already have, this session is designed to guide you through the fundamentals. You’ll have the chance to explore how your camera works, understand the purpose of different settings, and learn when and how to use them. The workshop focuses on helping you get comfortable with the equipment you already own, so you can start creating images with intention and clarity from day one.

Megan is a Belfast based photographer who has been crafting compelling imagery for the past four years. Her work centres on portraiture, with a strong emphasis on editorial and commercial fashion photography. Known for her ability to blend creativity with authenticity, Megan captures genuine moments while bringing her clients’ visions to life, relying solely on her camera and her keen artistic eye. Her experience, passion, and approachable teaching style make her the perfect guide for anyone hoping to grow their photography skills.

To secure your place click here

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Tuesday 24 February Storytelling - Crafting a Compelling Product Story Tuesday 24 February Ballymena Business Centre, Ballymena 5:30pm–7:30pm The Go Succeed Start team hosts this in-person ‘Storytelling - Crafting a Compelling Product Story’ masterclass.

Discover the power of product storytelling in this practical, hands-on workshop with Go Succeed mentor and customer experience expert Catherine Scott.

This session is designed for creatives who want to go beyond describing what they make - and start sharing why it matters. Bring one of your products and, in a relaxed and supportive setting, explore how to tell its story in a way that adds value, deepens customer connection, and helps you stand out - whether you sell in-store, online, or at markets.

Topics covered: • Why Storytelling Matters: An introduction to how storytelling adds value, builds customer connection, and supports pricing and positioning.

• Crafting Your Product Story: Use guided prompts and examples to shape your story whether for signage, social media, online selling or markets.

• Tips, Tools & Next Steps: Explore good practice examples, simple AI tools for storytelling, and practical ideas to take away and use immediately.

To secure your place click here

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Thursday 26 February Songwriting Together with Dee McQueen Thursday 26 February The Open Door Centre, Carrickfergus 7pm–9pm This interactive session is designed for everyone, whether you’ve never written a song, have a notebook full of unfinished lyrics, or already have a few completed pieces. It’s a chance to spend time with like-minded creatives, share your ideas, and collaborate in a supportive environment. Bring your material, no matter how polished or raw, and let the group help you shape and refine it. Together, we’ll explore techniques to overcome creative blocks and get your songs over the finish line.

The event facilitator, Dee, is an accomplished musician whose songwriting draws deeply from personal experiences and raw emotion, creating music that resonates with authenticity. As one half of East Belfast’s psychedelic folk-rock band Folkadelic, Dee brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for storytelling through music.

This workshop is an opportunity to learn from his expertise, gain fresh perspectives, and leave feeling inspired and confident in your craft.

To secure your place click here

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Our Creative Industries Week Partners Mid and East Antrim Borough Council are very grateful to our partners for collaborating on our programme of events.

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Further Information T 028 2563 3190 E amplify@midandeastantrim.gov.uk www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/GEW

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