Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival 2016

FREE Guide

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Your

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www.rathlinsoundmaritimefestival.com

Ferries from Ballycastle, Co. Antrim A world away for a day

Pre-Booking Essential

Office Open: 08.30 - 18.30

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www.rathlinballycastleferry.com

NI S m a rt & U n d e r pa ss 5’s

F R EE

Booking: 028 2076 9299

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Full Sail to Rathlin Island

Welcome to the

Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival At the very heart of the spectacular Causeway Coast and Glens the communities of Ballycastle and Rathlin Island would like to extend a very warm welcome and would like to invite you to come along and join in and help celebrate our rich and diverse maritime culture during the Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival. The festival is centred on Rathlin Sound, the body of water that lies between Rathlin Island and Ballycastle.

This programme is a guide to the activities and events that are part of this year’s Festival. From the adrenaline rush of the Sailing Regatta and races as well as exciting have a go activities, to tempting food and craft markets, seriously scenic guided walks, exciting and informative talks and tours, exhibitions and demonstrations, fun competitions, friendly giants, currach, Tall ship and Viking ships, there’s plenty to choose from including fantastic family friendly events.

There’s a fun filled and packed programme of events at the 4th annual celebration of our rich maritime heritage. Musical highlights for 2016 include Country with Lisa McHugh Dance, Altagore Folk Rock, Folk with Aoife Scott and our Sea shanty groups Hooks and Crookes and Molgoggers.

Naturally North Coast and Glens Market returns with a chance to see, sample and buy some of the great local food and crafts produced and made locally. New for 2016 some of these producers are holding cookery classes throughout the week, learn how to smoke your own salmon, make sushi or make real bread.

Adrenaline junkies - why not watch the JetMan use the power of water to soar into the air or take a hair raising ride in a powerboat…there is something for all at this year’s Festival…

We invite you to enjoy the Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival and to stay, enjoy and explore further the spectacular Causeway Coast and Glens.

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Festival contact numbers: Ballycastle Festival Office at the Visitor Information Centre, Portnagree House Harbour and Marina Visitor Centre 028 2076 2024 Rathlin Festival Office Michael Cecil 07740582670 Rathlin Boat House Call 077 0886 9605 For information on berthing contact: Harbour Master John Morton Tel: 028 2076 8525.

M: 078 0350 5084 E: john.morton@ causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk For emergencies contact the PSNI or Coastguard or Ambulance Service on 999.

At a Glance - Festival Events Quick Guide Tall Ship - Johanna - Lucretia.

Ballycastle seafront.

Traditional Boats - Ballycastle seafront.

Celebrating Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and Drink - Ballycastle seafront.

10am to 5pm - Maritime Exhibition Portnagree House Harbour & Marina Visitor Centre.

FREE entry children’s Treasure Hunt.

“By the Moyle Shore” exhibition Ballycastle Library Sea Shanty Groups and Maritime Music Sessions - various venues Ballycastle to Rathlin Swim Commemoration Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th.

The RNLI and the Coastguard will display their equipment and hold rescue exercises.

Everyday - Various boating and fishing trips throughout the Festival departing from Ballycastle and Rathlin Marinas with special festival rates.

On Rathlin Arandora Star Exhibition. All day St Thomas’ Church Shipwreck Exhibition 11am to 3pm in the Richard Branson Centre. Open Monday until 1pm Sunday 31 May. Everyday - Rathlin Boat House Visitor’s Centre - with Festival Information and Museum.

Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre 10m to 5pm With Upside Down Lighthouse and Seabird Centre .

Every day - Trips to Seabird Colony & Evening Charter Trips by arrangement.

Friday 27th May In Ballycastle 6.30pm - Family Entertainment and Fancy Dress Competition Ballycastle Seafront.

On Rathlin 4.45pm - Blessing of the Boats (Rathlin Side), Rathlin Harbour Saturday 28th May

In Ballycastle 11am to 5pm Naturally North Coast and Glens Market. Ballycastle seafront.

11am to 5pm Living Seas Event at the seafront.

11am to 4pm - Have a go Powerboating Sessions, Ballycastle Marina.

11.30am to 3.30pm Viking Workshop, Marquee at Seafront.

12 to 4pm - Camp Art, Ballycastle Seafront.

12 to 6pm - Casting Taster Session Seafront location.

12 to 4pm - Cookery Theatre, Marquee, Ballycastle Seafront.

12 to 5pm - Have a go Kayaking, Ballycastle Marina.

12 to 2pm - Traditional rope making In the Family Fun Marquee (or outside if weather permitting).

2pm to 4pm - Ballycastle Sailing Regatta, Ballycastle Marina.

2pm - ‘Roger Casement (1864-1916), North Antrim and the Easter Rising Ballycastle Library.

2pm to 4pm - Street Entertainers Competition around the seafront area.

3pm to 4.30pm - Sand Castle/Sculpting Competition, Ballycastle Beach.

3pm to 5pm - Kilmore JetBoard Display Ballycastle Harbour area.

Water Safety Talk Seafront area 3pm - Launch of “Maritime Blues Club at Halo” 5pm - Hot Smoking Fish at Home Seafront Marquee.

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In Ballycastle

7.30 pm to 8.30pm - Blessing of the Boats, Rathlin Island Ferry Company/ Ballycastle Harbour.

Late evening music and other entertainment hosted by local bars.

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Throughout the Festival

9pm. Altagore and Friends, Marine Hotel On Rathlin 9.30am - 4.30pm Scratch the Surface of Rathlin Art Workshop, Parochial Hall.

1pm - 3pm - Orienteering 2pm Concert - St Thomas Church Sunday 29th May In Ballycastle 11am to 5pm Naturally North Coast and Glens Market. Ballycastle seafront.

11am to 5pm Living Seas Event at the seafront.

11.30am to 3.30pm Viking Workshop, Marquee at Seafront.

12 to 4pm - Cookery Theatre, Marquee, Ballycastle Seafront.

12 to 6pm - Casting Taster Session Seafront location.

12 to 5pm - Have a go Kayaking, Ballycastle Marina.

12 to 6pm - Have a go Power-boating Sessions, Ballycastle Marina.

12 to 6pm - Camp Art, Ballycastle Seafront.

From 1pm Bushmills Whiskey Tasting at the seafront.

From 1pm Artisan Craft Ales & Beers at the seafront.

2pm to 4pm - Meet Our Friendly Local Giants Finn McCool and his wife Oonagh, Ballycastle Seafront.

2pm to 3pm - Children’s Storytelling with Liz Weir at the Family Fun Marquee at Ballycastle Seafront.

3pm Ulster Chowder Cook Off, Seafront Marquee 3pm to 5pm - Kilmore JetBoard Display Ballycastle Harbour area.

3pm - Boat Trip Carrick-a-Rede Rope bridge & Seabirds of Rathlin departing from Ballycastle Marina.

5pm - The Angler’s Arms Session From 9pm. Lisa McHugh at the Marine Hotel.

In Ballycastle 11am to 5pm Naturally North Coast and Glens Market. Ballycastle seafront.

11am to 1pm. Mum and Me Maritime Workshop, Home made Beautiful 3pm - Boat Trip Carrick-a-Rede Rope bridge & Seabirds of Rathlin departing from Ballycastle Marina.

7pm - Guided Walk of Historical Ballycastle seafront area.

On Rathlin Rathlin Food Tour, meet at Harbour 10.45am to 1pm Shipwreck Exhibition in the Richard Branson Centre.

11am to 3.30pm 2pm Traditional Music Session McCuaig’s Bar 3pm - 4pm Mural Painting (Weather permitting) - McCuaig’s Bar 8.30pm Pub Quiz McCuaig’s Bar Tuesday 31st May In Ballycastle 10am to 10.30am - Viking Themed Rhythm & Rhyme Session 0-4 years, 2pm - Intro to Bread Baking Unit 11, Moyle Enterprise Centre, Leyland Road.

3.30pm - Storytelling by Ian Stephen & Christine Morrison, Ballycastle Library On Rathlin 11am. Islander Kelp. Meet at Richard Branson Centre.

2pm Film-Mary Meets Mohammad.

Parochial Hall.

7.30 pm - Model Yacht Race & BBQ Ushet Lough.

Wednesday 1st June On Rathlin 11am Street Theatre & Pop-up Cafe Seafront.

2pm - 4pm. Old Days of Rathlin films Parochial Hall.

7.30pm. Cruising for Murder McCuaig’s Bar Thursday 2nd June In Ballycastle 3pm - Boat Trip Carrick-a-Rede Rope bridge & Seabirds of Rathlin departing from Ballycastle Marina.

7pm - Sushi Class, Thyme & Co 7pm to 9pm - Lampshade Making Workshop, Home Made Beautiful On Rathlin 11am. Islander Kelp. Meet at Richard Branson Centre.

2pm - Atlantic - Film about Ocean Resource Mismanagement, Parochial Hall.

7.30pm - ‘A Circumnavigation’, Stories, Images and Music Parochial Hall.

Friday 3rd June In Ballycastle 1pm (approx) - Ardglass Vikings Ballycastle Harbour.

5pm - 7pm (approx) Round Rathlin Sunset Cruise. From Ballycastle Harbour.

On Rathlin 11am Naturally North Coast and Glens Market visits Rathlin McCuaig’s Bar Row the Erne and Columcille Currachs.

Seafront / Church Bay. 11.30am start - Island to Island Rowing Challenge. Parochial Hall.

12 to 2pm. Roaming and Rummaging on Rathlin Island. Rathlin Harbour.

1pm to 5pm. North Coast Marine Wildlife Exhibition.

2pm to 4pm. East Lighthouse Tours 3pm to 4pm. Seaweed Pictures. Meet at Manor House.

Late Afternoon. Arrival of the Vikings.

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Monday 30th May

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On Rathlin 2.00 to 4.00pm Armagh Rhymers McCuaig’s Bar. 9.00pm Ceilidh - Join Kieran Dempsy and Friends in Bruce’s Kitchen for a night of dancing and craic.

7.30pm. Drontheims and Currachs, Rathlin Seafront 7.30pm. ‘an Sgoth’ Documentary on the Building of a Boat. Parochial Hall.

Saturday 4th June In Ballycastle 11am to 3pm Naturally North Coast and Glens Market. Diamond area.

3pm - Boat Trip Carrick-a-Rede Rope bridge & Seabirds of Rathlin departing from Ballycastle Marina.

On Rathlin Regatta and Dingy Sailing 10am to 5pm - Living Seas Exploration Stand.

11.30am - El Vigo Open Boat. Pontoons.

12 to 4pm. Roonivoolin Ramble.

1pm - 5pm. North Coast Marine Wildlife Exhibition.

2pm. Glens of Antrim Comhaltas Music and Dance. Bruce’s Kitchen.

8pm. Runabay. Pub Field.

Sunday 5th June In Ballycastle 3pm - Boat Trip Carrick-a-Rede Rope bridge & Seabirds of Rathlin departing from Ballycastle Marina.

On Rathlin 10am to 5pm - Living Seas Exploration Stand.

11am to 5pm. North Coast Marine Wildlife Exhibition.

12.00 to 5pm - Have a go Kayaking Rathlin Beach.

12.30pm The Rathlin Big Lunch Seafront.

From 1pm Bushmills Whiskey Tasting at the Seafront 1pm - Parade of Oar and Sail. Church Bay. 1.30pm - Snorkel Safari Meet at Richard Branson Centre.

2pm to 4pm - Meet Our Friendly Local Giants Finn McCool and his wife Oonagh 2pm - 4pm Altagore, Pub Field.

6pm - Aoife Scott, Pub Field

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Throughout the Festival IN BALLYCASTLE TALL SHIP – JOHANNA-LUCRETIA Every Day The Johanna-Lucretia is scheduled to arrive on Saturday 28th May (weather permitting), this Topsail schooner traditional wooden sailing ship is very welcome back to Ballycastle and will be here for the duration of the Festival with opportunities to take a trip onto the Rathlin Sound on various days, register your interest or book with Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre 028 2076 2024 £25 per person with concessions for families available.

FREE opportunity to walk on board whilst berthed all week – exact times will be advertised.

TRADITIONAL BOATS These will grace Ballycastle seafront throughout the first weekend of the Festival.

Including the two festival boats, the currach Mary-O and Dronthiem Portnagree.

Celebrating Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and Drink Learn some new cookery skills and techniques from some of the best in the business.

Whether you are an amateur cook or a food enthusiast, there’s

a class to inspire you. These short classes, hosted by local experts have an emphasis on local, with an aim to show you how to prepare artisan produce from home. Hot Smoking Fish At Home, Intro to bread baking and Sushi Class – full details of cost and times in programme, book your place via Naturally North Coast and Glens: info@ naturallynorthcoastandglens. co.uk www.naturallynorthcoastand glens.co.uk/#!workshops/c2tu

SPECIAL MARITIME THEMED MENUS Please support all our cafes, bars and restaurants who have prepared special seafood menus for the Festival in this Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and Drink.

MARITIME EXHIBITION 10am to 5pm, Portnagree House Harbour & Marina Visitor Centre, Ballycastle. Open throughout the festival. Come along to view traditional fishing elements of days gone by including footage relating to our local maritime heritage. Courtesy of Causeway Museum Service, Council & local fishermen.

TREASURE HUNT Free entry, children’s Treasure Hunt, collect your form from Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre or the Festival Site office 7

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Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival – Programme of events at the Marquee at the seafront.

Don’t forget to return your completed form to claim your prize and be in with a chance of winning extra prizes.

Closing date Monday 6th June, Hosted by Ballycastle Chamber of Commerce.

Libraries NI presents “By the Moyle Shore” Ballycastle Library. Every day.

An exhibition of postcards and photographs of Ballycastle and Rathlin shoreline kindly provided by Danny Morgan will be available to view during the Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival For more details contact Ballycastle library T: 028 2076 2566 E: ballycastle.librariesni. org.uk

The Maritime Sessions New for 2016, “The Maritime Sessions” in local Inns and Taverns, see website for live details of participating venues.

Sea Shanty Groups Two sea shanty groups Hooks and Crookes from Waterford and Molgoggers from Cobh will be joining us for the first weekend of the Festival. See website closer to the date for timetable of performances.

Rathlin to Ballycastle Swim Commemoration Date and time to be announced.

Unveiling of tribute to the late

www.rathlinsound maritimefestival.com

RNLI AND COASTGUARD Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th.

Throughout the weekend the RNLI and the Coastguard will display their equipment and hold rescue exercises. Hosted

by RNLI

BOAT TRIP CARRICK-AREDE ROPE BRIDGE & SEABIRDS OF RATHLIN Sunday 29th, Monday 30th, Thursday 2nd, Saturday 4th, Sunday 5th June at 3pm by Aquaholics departing from Ballycastle Marina. Special Festival rate £23 with under 12’s £15.

Booking essential - visit or Telephone Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre– 028 2076 2024 or Tel: 028 70832584 or Email: info@aquaholics.co.uk More info: www.aquaholics.co.uk

BOAT TRIPS From 1st June to 5th June every day from 11.00 on demand to West Light birds & return to Ballycastle cost £20.00 per head Contact: Aquasports Tel: 07962309670 e-mail: alanwilson@aquasports.biz

FISHING TRIPS ON LADY LYNDA Throughout the Festival, for special festival rate Contact: Sean McKay Tel: 07712167502.

FISHING TRIPS ON TORRA Throughout the Festival, for special festival rate Contact: Paul Martin Tel: 07754294177.

ON RATHLIN ARANDORA STAR Exhibition St Thomas’s Church, all day, Friday 27 May to Sunday 5 June At the back of Rathlin Island’s graveyard lies the body of an Italian man whose body washed up on the island in August 1940.

He had been one of the more than 800 unfortunate drowning victims of the Arandora Star, a pre-war luxury liner that had been sunk off the Donegal coast several weeks beforehand. The ship was transporting Italian and German civilian internees and German POWs to Canada when she was torpedoed by a U-boat.

Bodies from the ship were to be discovered at dozens of points all the way from Mayo to the Outer Hebrides, where remote coastal communities buried the men.

Rathlin is one of those locations.

Visit St Thomas’s Church to discover this fascinating and poignant story and to see the grave behind the church where one of the Arandora Star’s many victims rests.

Shipwreck exhibition Monday 30th May – Sunday 5th June, 11am to 3.30pm Call in to the Richard Branson Centre and enjoy a remarkable display of shipwreck artefacts salvaged from the waters around Rathlin Island.

This popular annual exhibition is testimony to the rich maritime history of the area and a moving 8

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Hosted by ‘The Friends of Ballycastle Museum’

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Jack McClelland and Ciaran McGinn who completed the swim from Rue Point on Rathlin Island to Ballycastle in 1959 and 2007 respectively.

reminder of the ever present risk to a life on the sea.

RATHLIN BOAT HOUSE VISITOR’S CENTRE Open Daily with Festival Information and Museum. The Boat House houses a collection of displays, photographs, images and articles gathering the Island’s past and present together.

Disabled access limited.

Tel: M: 07708869605 or Ballycastle VIC 028 2076 2024 Admission Free

RATHLIN WEST LIGHT SEABIRD CENTRE A tour of the recently re-opened extraordinary cliff-hanging ‘upside down’ lighthouse, built into the heart of one of Europe’s largest and busiest seabird colonies, provides unique views of this seasonal phenomenon starring puffins and thousands of other seabirds. Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre, is managed by RSPB N.I., is a member of the Great Lighthouses of Ireland partnership.

Opening Hours 10am to 5pm, last admission 4pm Admission costs: Adult £5.00 Child £2.50 RSPB members FREE

TRIPS TO SEABIRD COLONY & EVENING CHARTER TRIPS Trips to the seabird colony £10 per person and charter trips by arrangement, contact Rathlin Boat Trips. Find them on Facebook - Rathlin Boat Trips or Tel: 07543826820.

Ken Linklater and the Bowling Harbour Ceilidh Band will be with us from the Scottish Isles so watch out for some traditional Scottish folk music around and about Church Bay during the week.

RATHLIN BOATHOUSE

Open April to September Various opening hours contact Ballycastle VIC for more information

Visitor’s Centre The Boat House houses a collection of displays, photographs, images and articles gathering the Island’s past and present together.

Tel: M: 07708869605 or Ballycastle VIC 028 2076 2024 Admission Free Disabled access limited.

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Local

Other Markets in 2016

4th June Ballycastle Diamond (Ramoan Parish Centre Carpark) 11am - 3pm 11th June Porstewart Baptist Church Carpark 11am - 3pm 18th June Bushmills Salmon & Whisky Festival 12th June Ballycastle Seafront 11am - 5pm

25th June Ballymoney Castlecroft Square 11am - 3pm 2nd July Ballycastle Diamond (Ramoan Parish Centre Carpark) 11am - 3pm 9th July Porstewart Baptist Church Carpark 11am - 3pm 10th July Ballycastle Seafront 11am - 5pm 11th July Ballycastle Seafront 11am - 5pm

A platform for local artisans 10

Find out our other dates on our website

www.naturally northcoastand glens.co.uk

FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT & FANCY DRESS COMPETITION Ballycastle Seafront / Marquee Judging of Fancy dress at 6.30pm with prize giving around 7pm.

FREE family entertainment with a maritime themed show

BLESSING OF THE BOATS 7.30 pm to 8.30pm starting at the Marquee on the seafront before moving to Harbour.

Come along to witness and experience this unique tradition of the ‘Blessing of the Boats’.

Local vessels and seafarers are blessed for a safe passage at sea. Opportunity to board the Rathlin Island Ferry (Free) to go out to sea for final element of blessing. Everyone welcome.

Service Hosted by Ballycastle Church Action Group 8.30pm to 9.00pm Everyone welcome to return to Marquee for light refreshments and hear internationally renowned Irish Story Teller Liz Weir bring our maritime heritage alive, suitable for all the family.

9.15pm to 10pm Archive Film Footage of bygone days from Ballycastle.

The Maritime Sessions “The Maritime Sessions” in local Inns and Taverns, various participating venues see Visitor Information Centre or Website for up to date listing.

Harbour Lights Acoustic Sessions Upstairs at the Harbour Bar from 9pm

ON RATHLIN Blessing of the boats (Rathlin side) Rathlin Harbour, 4.45pm Restoring this old tradition on Rathlin, pausing at the dawn of the Festival to reflect on the awesome nature of the sea that surrounds us, all it gives – and takes, to invoke a blessing for our boats and wisdom, respect and safety for all who travel on or work with them. The ferries will then leave for Ballycastle to participate in the Blessing in Ballycastle and the laying of a wreath in Ballycastle Bay in memory of all who have lost their lives at sea.

Saturday 28 May IN BALLYCASTLE Naturally North Coast and Glens Market 11am to 5pm at the Seafront.

The Market offers a stage for exceptional local produce and 11

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IN BALLYCASTLE

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Friday 27 May

handcrafted items, wrapped together in the dynamic community event of the Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival. The Market is known for its great selection of produce, variety of knowledgeable, friendly traders, all eager to share their stories, and never happier then when they are talking about what they have made. A day at the market will affect every one of your senses, with new sights, sounds, smells, tastes and textures from a diverse mix of local produce, crafts and art for sale. Including some of the very finest, mouthwatering foods, unusual, quirky, intricate crafts and exquisite art. The market over the festival days has a strong maritime theme, featuring seafood, and appropriately themed arts and crafts along with some of the usual favourites! You’ll be amazed at the quality of our local produce and handcrafted goods. It’s a treat for all the family!

LIVING SEAS EVENT From 11am to 5pm at the seafront. Come and meet Ulster Wildlife’s Living Seas Team at our Marine Exploration stand with Marine Life Tank, Ocean Treasures, life size models of our Ocean Giants, and children’s Marine Life Arts and Crafts.

HAVE A GO POWERBOATING SESSIONS from 11am to 4pm departing from Ballycastle Marina.

Special Festival rate, groups of

www.rathlinsound maritimefestival.com

MARINE HOTEL BALLYCASTLE

The The Perfect Perfect Setting…

Setting…

31 newly refurbished en-suite Bedrooms 31 newly refurbished en-suite Bedrooms Marconi’s Bar & Bistro Marconi’s Bar & Bistro Proud to serve Costa Coffee Café Proud to serve Costa Coffee Café Unrivalled seafront position Unrivalled seafront position NI’s only Gluten Free Accredited Hotel NI’s only Gluten Free Accredited Hotel Private Dining & Events Private Dining & Events Iconic North Coast Wedding Venue Iconic North Coast Wedding Venue

www.marinehotelballycastle.com www.marinehotelballycastle.com

028 2076 2222 028 2076 2222 12

1-3 North Street, Ballycastle 1-3 North Street, Ballycastle

VIKING WORKSHOP 11.30am to 3.30pm Marquee at Seafront. Dress up, Viking touch table, weave cloth, making a wrist band, sword training and spear making and more at this FREE workshop for children from the active learning company.

CAMP ART 12 to 4pm, Ballycastle Seafront. Camp Art, a new and unique Arts and Crafts group, join them in their caravan for arts and crafts workshops with fishy and maritime ceramic pieces just wanting to be painted.

CASTING TASTER SESSION Seafront location.

12 to 6pm. Have a go fly casting, age 8 plus. Free Activity.

COOKERY THEATRE 12 to 4pm If you love food you’ll love our cookery theatre, located at the seafront area in the large marquee.

A selection of the finest chefs from Northern Ireland take part in the event, preparing our great local seafood along with some of our amazing local food

producers demonstrating how they make their produce.

Visitors to the festival will be able to delve into the wealth of fantastic food knowledge that our demonstrators have to offer at the theatre.

Tastings available – so taste, nibble and enjoy!

Featuring Paula McIntyre Sponsored by Causeway Coats and Glens Food Network, supporting local producers and showcasing local produce.

HAVE A GO KAYAKING from 12 to 5pm. From boat slip at Ballycastle Marina, FREE activity, 30 minutes sessions.

Sponsored by Malin Waters.

TRADITIONAL ROPE MAKING 12 to 2pm Traditional Ropemakers NI: demonstrating the 18th century lost trade of traditional ropemaking, using a rope jack a traveller and natural fibres as yarn; explaining the method of how ropes were made, to sail the mighty ships of the 18th century across many oceans. (did you know that a large sailing ship in Nelsons navy required 23 miles of rope.)

In the Family Fun Marquee (or outside if weather permitting)

BALLYCASTLE SAILING REGATTA from 2pm to 4pm at Ballycastle Marina. Cruising yacht races today. Lots of excitement as you watch competitors compete and display their skills and experience. Hosted by 13

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For more information contact Harbour Master Tel: 028 2076 8525 M: 078 0350 5084 E: john.morton@ causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk Sponsored by Malin Waters.

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4 passengers for total cost of £20 for one hour. Book through Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre 028 2076 2024.

Cushendall Sailing and Boating Club and Coleraine Yacht Club

Libraries NI presents ‘Roger Casement (1864-1916), North Antrim and the Easter Rising’ Ballycastle Library, 5 Leyland Rd at 2pm Talk by Dr Éamon Phoenix at Ballycastle Library In this illustrated talk, Dr Éamon Phoenix will look at Casement’s family background in North Antrim, his diplomatic and humanitarian work in two continents and his conversion to Irish Nationalism. His friendship with the Protestant Home Ruler, FJ Bigger and his involvement in the Glens Feis (1904) and the Ballymoney Home Rule meeting of 1913 will be addressed as well his role in the 1916 Rising.

Finally the speaker will discuss Casement’s trial and execution and the controversial ‘Black Diaries’.

Booking essential - For more details contact Ballycastle library T: 028 2076 2566 E: ballycastle. librariesni.org.uk

STREET ENTERTAINERS COMPETITION 2pm to 4pm around the seafront area.

Adults (over 16) and Junior (Under 16) sections with various cash prizes.

Register from 12 to 1.30pm at the Festival Office at the Marquee.

Prize giving at 4.30pm.

www.rathlinsound maritimefestival.com

On board with

MalinWaters Sail-Explore-Experience

MalinWaters covers the shared maritime waters of North West Ireland including counties Donegal & Sligo, the maritime counties of Northern Ireland and Western Scotland.

This region boasts fantasitc opportunities for sailing, surfing, diving, kayaking as well as other water based activites.

Let MalinWaters inspire you with this unique coastal region. Sit back, slow down and admire the view - it’s simply breathtaking.

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Donegal Tourism.indd 1

MalinWaters.com are delighted to support the Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival, one of Northern Ireland’s most celebrated marine themed festivals, which celebrates the rich local maritime history, culture, music and food of Northern Ireland.

10/04/2014 10:12

With a packed programme featuring a range of maritime activities including, sailing, crafts, have a go activities, demonstrations, exhibitions, seafood markets, music and entertainment, there is certainly something to suit all tastes and MalinWaters would encourage everyone to go along and support this impressive maritime festival.

The festival will no doubt introduce many people to the unforgettable beauty of Rathlin Island, Ballycastle and the spectacular North Coast and perhaps be their first experience of truly maritime event in such beautiful surroundings.

Our support is in keeping with our commitment to nurturing the development of marine and coastal activity in the MalinWaters regions and broadening our audiences. We wish all those taking part the very best of luck and we look forward to many more annual Rathlin Sound Maritime Festivals. The festival is already a significant addition to our maritime calendar of events for 2016 and one which we are very pleased to support.

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KILMORE JETBOARD DISPLAY From 3pm to 5pm at Harbour Area, Ballycastle. At approx.

15 minute intervals watch as the ‘JetBoard’ shoots into the air! Weather dependent. www. kilmorejetworks.com Hosted by BCDG

WATER SAFETY TALK Safety demonstrations by Coast Guard member Kieran Kinney on water safety in the seafront area.

Launch of “Maritime Blues Club at Halo” Doors open 3.00pm until 7.00pm. with Special Guest Band and Jam Sessions. Cover Charge £5.

Thereafter every last Saturday in the month.

Hot Smoking Fish At Home 5pm, Seafront Marquee Duration 1 hour Learn the professional techniques required to show you how to hot smoke fish using domestic kitchen equipment at home.

Hosted by Ruairidh Morrison of North Coast Smokehouse.

Bring a notebook and a camera Cost £10 per participant Book your place via Naturally North Coast and Glens : info@ naturallynorthcoastandglens. co.uk

Altagore and friends 9pm to late, Marine Hotel Based in the Glens of Antrim, Altagore have taken the folk world by storm in recent years due to their energetic stage performances and the ability to connect with any audience, be it in Ballycastle, Scotland or Denmark. All members of the band are multi instrumentalists with years of experience, honing their trade with some of the most well-known bands in Ireland. As musical ambassadors for the Glens, the band had the honour of being invited to perform for the 7000 strong crowd at the recent St Patrick’s Day celebrations at the custom house square in Belfast, along with the likes of ‘Brian McFadden (Westlife) Ben Haenow (X-Factor). Altagore have released two Albums to date ‘Into the West’ and ‘Rock til your folked’ which featured songs on the playlist of the “Celtic Fusion radio show’ KHTL radio Los Angeles and McSloans Irish radio.

Admission £5 at the door.

The Maritime Sessions “The Maritime Sessions” in local Inns and Taverns, various participating venues see Visitor Information Centre or Website for up to date listing.

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from 3pm to 4.30pm Sandcastle/ Sculpting Competition at Ballycastle Beach. Various prizes, hosted by BDCG.

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SANDCASTLE/SCULPTING COMPETITION

ON RATHLIN Scratch the Surface of Rathlin - a one day art workshop exploring textures and surfaces Saturday 28th May 9.30am to 4.30pm, starting in Parochial Hall.

A one-day workshop to discover the textures and surfaces of Rathlin. A morning spent out and about Church Bay and the shoreline, gathering source materials and surface textures. Then an afternoon to collate/collage/draw your way into creating a sample piece. This workshop is open to all abilities and no previous experience required, just a ‘have a go’ attitude to exploring the environment outdoors. Please bring a packed lunch, waterproof layers and old warm clothes that you don’t mind getting messy.

Art is a messy business! All materials provided.

Numbers are limited so please book your place (028 2076 0079)

Orienteering Start from the Archway by the Manor House, 1pm to 3pm Come have fun! Islanders and visitors can come along and enjoy a lovely walk, or for those a little more energetic, a run around a beginners’ orienteering course, taking in the beautiful wildlife and scenery of Mill Bay.

www.rathlinsound maritimefestival.com

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Sunday 29 May IN BALLYCASTLE Naturally North Coast and Glens Market 11am to 5pm at the Seafront.

Continues today with its great selection of produce, variety of knowledgeable friendly traders all eager to share their stories and never happier than when they are talking about what they have made.

Including some of the very finest, mouth watering foods, unusual, quirky, intricate crafts and exquisite art.

LIVING SEAS EVENT From 11am to 5pm at the seafront.

Come and meet Ulster Wildlife’s Living Seas Team at our Marine Exploration stand with Marine Life Tank, Ocean Treasures, life size models of our Ocean Giants, and children’s Marine Life Arts and Crafts.

VIKING WORKSHOP 11.30 to 3.30pm Marquee at Seafront. Dress up, Viking touch table, weave cloth, making a wrist band, sword training and spear making and more at this FREE workshop for children from the active learning company.

COOKERY THEATRE Seafront Marquee 12 to 4pm If you love food you’ll love our cookery theatre, located at the seafront area in the large marquee. A selection of the finest chefs from Northern Ireland take part in the event, preparing our great local seafood along with some of our amazing local food producers demonstrating how they make their produce.

Visitors to the festival will be able to delve into the wealth of fantastic food knowledge that our demonstrators have to offer at the theatre.

Tastings available – so taste, nibble and enjoy!

Featuring Paula McIntyre Sponsored by Causeway Coats and Glens Food Network, supporting local producers and showcasing local produce.

CASTING TASTER SESSION Seafront location.

12 to 6pm. Have a go fly casting, age 8 plus. Free activity.

HAVE A GO KAYAKING from 12.00 to 5pm. From boat slip at Ballycastle Marina, FREE activity, 30 minutes sessions.

Sponsored by Malin Waters

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2pm Music and Storytelling.

Featuring Hooks and Crookes, a sea shanty group of men based in Waterford in the southeast of Ireland. Their name comes from a light-hearted view of the old Cromwellian saying, ‘of getting there by Hook or by Crooke’. Hook and Crooke are the name of the two headlands on either side of Waterford Harbour and new to the festival Molgoggers a Sea Shanty and Maritime Song group from Cobh County Cork Ireland.

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Concert at St Thomas Church, Rathlin

HAVE A GO POWERBOATING SESSIONS from 12.00 to 6pm departing from Ballycastle Marina. Special Festival rate of £5 per person up to maximum of 5 or one group only £20.00. Book through Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre 028 2076 2024. For more information contact Harbour Master Tel: 028 2076 8525 M: 078 0350 5084 E: john. morton@causewaycoastandglens. gov.uk Sponsored by Malin Waters.

BUSHMILLS WHISKEY TASTING From 1pm, Seafront location.

Try some new blends offered by the famous Bushmills Distillery, Hosted by Bushmills Distillery

Artisan Craft Ales & Beers From 1pm, Seafront location.

Showcasing Artisan Craft Ales & Beers for NI’S Year of Food and Drink. Including , Glens of Antrim Ales and Lacada Brewery.

CAMP ART 2pm to 6pm, Ballycastle Seafront.

Camp Art, a new and unique Arts and Crafts group, join them in their caravan for arts and crafts workshops with fishy and maritime ceramic pieces just wanting to be painted. Hosted by BCDG. or Email: info@aquaholics.co.uk More info: www.aquaholics.co.uk

MEET OUR FRIENDLY LOCAL GIANTS FINN McCOOL AND HIS WIFE OONAGH coming over from the Giant’s Causeway from 2pm to 4pm to

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from 2 to 3pm at the Family Fun Marquee at Ballycastle Seafront. Come along to hear internationally renowned Irish Story Teller Liz Weir bring our maritime heritage alive

ULSTER CHOWDER COOK OFF From 3pm, Seafront Marquee Destination Ballycastle presents Ulster Chowder Cook Off!!

In keeping with the maritime Theme, the first ever Ulster Chowder Cook off will take place at the Festival in Ballycastle.

Watch competitors compete against each other to win the title of ‘Ulster Chowder Cook Off Winner for 2016’ Participants invited from all Ulster counties and will compete live on the day at the Sea Front venue. The winning Entrant will be sponsored by Destination Ballycastle to partake in the World Famous Kinsale Chowder Cook Off 2017 as the Ulster representative!

Paula McIntyre will also demonstrate a Chowder dish and offer the opportunity to learn, taste and enjoy!

Hosted by Destination Ballycastle

KILMORE JETBOARD DISPLAY From 3pm to 5pm at Harbour Area, Ballycastle. At approx.

15 minute intervals watch as the ‘JetBoard’ shoots into the air! Weather dependent. www. kilmorejetworks.com Hosted by BCDG.

BOAT TRIP CARRICK-AREDE ROPE BRIDGE & SEABIRDS OF RATHLIN at 3pm by Aquaholics departing from Ballycastle Marina. Special Festival rate £23 with under 12’s £15.

Booking essential - visit or Telephone Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre– 028 2076 2024 or Tel: 028 70832584 or Email: info@aquaholics.co.uk More info: www.aquaholics.co.uk

The Maritime Sessions “The Maritime Sessions” in local Inns and Taverns, various participating venues see Visitor Information Centre or Website for up to date listing.

The Angler’s Arms 12 North Street, Ballycastle “Tessie’s Traditional Sunday Session” from 5.00pm

LISA McHUGH AT THE MARINE HOTEL From 9pm. Dance with music

by Lisa McHugh, 27 year old Lisa McHugh is one of the few women on the Irish country scene, and her fans just can’t get enough of her, filling up dance floors around the country with her own style of country music.

Hailing from Glasgow and now

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CHILDREN’S STORYTELLING WITH LIZ WEIR

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visit Ballycastle Seafront. Say ‘Hello’ and get your photograph taken with our friendly giants.

Benandonner, Finn’s rival may even join us. Hosted by the Giant’s Causeway Visitors Centre, National Trust.

residing in Co. Fermanagh, Lisa is winning the hearts of country music fans up and down the country.

The gorgeous Glaswegian lassie also had huge success last year, with her album, “Wildfire” and hopes to have the same reaction to her forthcoming album, due out later this year. The rising star’s career really took off in 2015 and has been going from strength to strength since she first hit the Irish country scene just a couple of years ago, after moving to Co. Fermanagh, to concentrate on her calling country music.

Lisa is one of the biggest names in country music, and this year, the young beauty is definitely one to watch. The “Female Vocalist Of The Year” - make sure you do not miss what will be an unforgettable night!

Tickets £15pps - on sale from Ballycastle VIC – 028 2076 2225 or email ballycastlevic@ causewaycoastandglens. gov.uk Or from the Marine Hotel Tel: 028 2076 2222 Email: reception@ marinehotelballycastle.com

ON RATHLIN Armagh Rhymers Sunday 29th May, 2pm to 4pm McCuaig’s Bar / Seafront The Armagh Rhymers are one of Europe’s most celebrated folk theatre ensembles. A respected professional group of entertainers that have delighted audiences for over 30 years with a unique

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Sunday 29th May - Bruce’s Kitchen, 9pm Join Kieran Dempsey and friends for a night of dancing and craic.

Don’t worry if you are unsure of the dances, the locals will keep you right!

Monday

30 May

IN BALLYCASTLE Naturally North Coast and Glens Market 11am to 4pm at the Seafront.

Continues today with its great selection of produce, variety of knowledgeable friendly traders all eager to share their stories and never happier than when they are talking about what they have made. Including some of the very finest, mouth watering foods, unusual, quirky, intricate crafts and exquisite art.

Mum & Me Maritime Workshop from 11am to 1pm, Home Made Beautiful Mum & Me Maritime Workshop Or Dad and Me! This is a great creative family painting Workshop. The £25 cost covers one adult and one child but additional places (at £5 per child) can be added on request, Suitable for children aged between 7 and 14 years old (although age at parent’s discretion). Each attendee will create and take home their own unique Maritime inspired keepsake in a relaxed and fun session. Book Home Made Beautiful Tel: 028 20769029

BOAT TRIP CARRICK-AREDE ROPE BRIDGE & SEABIRDS OF RATHLIN at 3pm by Aquaholics departing from Ballycastle Marina. Special Festival rate £23 with under 12’s £15.

Booking essential - visit or Telephone Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre– 028 2076 2024 or Tel: 028 70832584 or Email: info@aquaholics.co.uk More info: www.aquaholics.co.uk

GUIDED HISTORICAL WALK 7pm Guided Walk of Historical Ballycastle seafront area by local historians Peter Molloy and James McCurdy. Meet at the front of Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre, Bayview Road.

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Ceilidh

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blend of Mumming, poetry, music, drama, song and dance.

Their style is deeply rooted in the old Irish Mumming traditions and they are easily recognised by their willow masks.

ON RATHLIN Rathlin Food tour meet at the harbour, 10.45am to 1pm Walk, eat, laugh, love Rathlin!

Come along and hear more of Rathlin’s history, culture and craic with tasters of the delicious local food the island has to offer.

Booking essential (Caroline 07718276612 / credmondni@ gmail.com ) – cost £7.50 per person includes light ‘breakfast’, ‘tasters’ and ‘lunch’. Easy road walk, appropriate clothing/ footwear advisable.

Shipwreck exhibition Monday 30th May – Sunday 5th June, 11am to 3.30pm Call in to the Richard Branson Centre and enjoy a remarkable display of shipwreck artefacts salvaged from the waters around Rathlin Island. This popular annual exhibition is testimony to the rich maritime history of the area and a moving reminder of the ever present risk to a life on the sea.

Traditional Music Session McCuaig’s bar 2pm Come along and join ‘Buzzceol’ for a lively afternoon of traditional Irish music!

Cormac Ó Briain has been playing the pipes for over 25 years in sessions around Ireland.

He will be joined by other musicians in what is guaranteed to be a great session.

www.rathlinsound maritimefestival.com

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Pub Quiz McCuaig’s bar, 8.30pm Join local quizmasters George and Liz Withers for a fun evening of quizzing (with a nautical leaning!). Entry charge £10 per table, with a maximum of 4 people per table and all proceeds going to the RNLI.

Tuesday

31 May

IN BALLYCASTLE Libraries NI presents Viking themed Rhythm & Rhyme 10:00am Free event - Rhymes, songs & stories for under fours – accompanied by an adult Fancy dress optional . For more details contact Ballycastle library T: 028 2076 2566 E: ballycastle. librariesni.org.uk

Intro to bread baking 2pm Location - Unit 11, Moyle Enterprise Centre, Leyland Road

Learn the principles of producing Real Bread and learn the skills required to enable you to bake it at home.

Hosted by Dara OhArtghaile, Ursa Minor Bakehouse Duration - 2 hours approx. Cost £10 per participant Book your place via Naturally North Coast and Glens : info@ naturallynorthcoastandglens. co.uk

Libraries NI presents Storytelling by Ian Stephen & Christine Morrison 3:30pm Ballycastle Library Free event - Tales by Scottish Storytellers for children aged 5-10 – accompanied by an adult For more details contact Ballycastle library T: 028 2076 2566 E: ballycastle.librariesni. org.uk

ON RATHLIN Islander Kelp 11am meet at the archway beside the Richard Branson Centre – 11am Recently shown on BBC Countryfile, this innovative Rathlin business offers a visit to the lab, seashore experience and (weather permitting) a trip to the kelp farm. Numbers limited so please book in advance with Sarah 078 4944 1691

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From Monday 30th May until completed (weather permitting) - Mc Cuaig’s bar, 3pm to 4pm, Everyone, young and not so young, is invited to come along to McCuaig’s Bar and help decorate the outside wall with maritime themed murals. This will continue throughout the week until complete.

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Mural painting

Film: Mary meets Mohammad Parochial Hall, 2pm As many thousands of people take their chance on risk-laden journeys to escape war and persecution, this moving and powerful documentary feature film tells part of the human story. It follows the arrival of Tasmania’s first detention centre through the eyes of local Christian woman and knitting club member Mary and Muslim Afghan Hazara asylum seeker Mohammad, who is detained inside the centre. The Screening is supported by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive who will facilitate a ‘Question & Answer’ session after the film, with light refreshments.

Model Yacht Race & BBQ 7.30pm, Ushet Lough Stroll down to the beautiful freshwater Ushet Lough in Rathlin’s Lower End for a traditional model yacht race.

These races have taken place on Rathlin for many years, with hand-carved wooden boats set to sail a course across the lough and back. Enjoy the scenery and the spectacle (and the BBQ!) of this traditional island community event. There may also be music!

www.rathlinsound maritimefestival.com

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‘Waste no Time’ (“As long as my bins get lifted”) – Street Theatre & pop up café Wednesday 1st June, from 11am, seafront Live street performance with a pop up café to start up some conversations about the local Council, the services we need and what good working relationships with a Council might look like. (You might need that coffee!)

Libraries NI presents “Old days of Rathlin” Vintage films of the island and its community 2pm to 4pm, Free event in the Parochial Hall Images from days gone by... come along and see if you can see anyone you know.

For more details contact Ballycastle library T: 028 2076 2566 E: ballycastle.librariesni. org.uk

Cruising for Murder Wednesday 1st June, McCuaig’s Bar 7.30pm £15 per person (includes complimentary drink) Spaces limited so please book early with Aoife (07876662942) to avoid disappointment

Trapped at sea, no one is safe and everyone is a suspect. As secrets are revealed, everyone’s innocence will come into question as the assassin tries to appear angelic. Sharpen your sleuthing skills, for that’s what you will have to rely on to call out the killer!

Check your baggage and set sail for a sinuous night of secrets, scandals and seafaring scoundrels.

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ON RATHLIN

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Wednesday 1 June

All aboard for an arousing adventure filled with peculiar passengers and conspiring crewmembers.

After a luxurious week at sea, all those onboard the Mystery of the Seas are ready for a night of romance and intrigue at the Captain’s Cocktail Reception—an extravagant affair to top all others. Adrift on the ocean, there is no better place to escape your troubles…or for a murderer to strike.

Could the killer be the commanding captain who has found his personal life out of control? A seething spouse who has discovered the dastardly deception of their darling? Or possibly a conniving contestant who will do anything to be crowned ambassadress by the cruise line?

Thursday 2 June In Ballycastle BOAT TRIP CARRICK-AREDE ROPE BRIDGE & SEABIRDS OF RATHLIN at 3pm by Aquaholics departing from Ballycastle Marina. Special Festival rate £23 with under 12’s £15.

Booking essential - visit or Telephone Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre– 028 2076 2024 or Tel: 028 70832584 or Email: info@aquaholics.co.uk More info: www.aquaholics.co.uk

Sushi Class 7pm, Thyme & Co Traditional Sushi made easy.

Learn how to make healthy and convenient snacks, that are simple to make, and delicious to eat! Eimear has vast previous experience as a Sushi and Fish Chef from time served at the well known Shu Restaurant in Belfast.

Hosted by Eimear Mullin of Thyme& Co DURATION 1.5 hours, Can be tailored for Vegans.

Cost £10 per participant.

Book your place via Naturally North Coast and Glens: info@ naturallynorthcoastandglens. co.uk

www.rathlinsound maritimefestival.com

ON RATHLIN Islander Kelp meet at the archway beside the Richard Branson Centre – 11am Recently shown on BBC Countryfile, this innovative Rathlin business offers a visit to the lab, seashore experience and (weather permitting) a trip to the kelp farm.

Numbers limited so please book in advance with Sarah 078 4944 1691

‘Atlantic’: New film from maker of 2010’s The Pipe explores the murky world of ocean resource mismanagement Parochial Hall, 2pm ‘Atlantic’ follows the fortunes of 3 fishing communities in Ireland, Newfoundland and Norway, as their livelihoods come under threat from oil explorers and industrial trawlers in their fishing grounds.

A follow on to ‘The Pipe’ which told the story of the community at the centre of the Corrib Gas controversy, ‘Atlantic’ is narrated

by Brendan Gleeson and won

‘Best Irish Documentary’ on its first outing at the Dublin International Film Festival.

‘A Circumnavigation’; stories images and music Thursday 2nd June – Parochial Hall 7.30pm An Evening of Storytelling with Ian Stephen, Christine Morrison and Ken Linklater.

The evening promises Ian’s linked chain of stories to enthral as, with projected paintings and photos, originated or edited by Christine and interspersed with music from Ken, the audience is taken through a journey to St Kilda and north of the Butt of Lewis on a Hebridean Odyssey.

Friday 3 June IN BALLYCASTLE ARDGLASS VIKINGS To arrive in Ballycastle for departure to Rathlin approx 1pm. Come along to view the long boat and vikings as they arrive.

ROUND RATHLIN SUNSET CRUISE departing Ballycastle at 5pm, returning approximately 7pm.

Enjoy on board live music and great views. Tickets £20, concessions available, booking is essential. Ferry Company Tel: 028 2076 9299 for details and to book.

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from 7pm to 9pm. Home Made Beautiful. Attendees will come along and make their very own drum style lampshade which can be used on a pendnant or a table lamp. We supply all the specialist materials, inlcuding a choice of coastal, beach-living, seaside fabrics and trims. Cost is £25 pp Book at Home Made Beautiful Tel: 028 20769029

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Lampshade Making Workshop

ON RATHLIN Naturally North Coast and Glens Market visits Rathlin 11am , McCuaig’s Bar car park A selection of the Naturally North Coast and Glens Market Traders will visit Rathlin Island to trade their wares! Including some of the very finest, mouth watering foods, unusual, quirky, intricate crafts and exquisite art.

Row the Erne and Columcille Currachs Friday 3rd June – Sunday 5th June See these magnificent traditional boats bring a taste of live maritime history to the Festival. Watch them race, visit, step aboard and have a go at rowing. There’s a selfie in there somewhere!

Coinciding with this year’s festival

Island to Island Challenge Friday 3rd June – Rathlin to Ballycastle, 11.30 start While we enjoy and celebrate our local maritime history and culture, many thousands of men, women and children, fleeing war, persecution and poverty, have risked everything to cross a stretch of water, similar to the Rathlin Sound, to seek refuge on the Greek island of Lesvos. In an act of solidarity and to sharpen our awareness of a much more desperate and dangerous coastal experience, three people from the Festival steering group will attempt to row from the island to Ballycastle in the Danny Rowan, a currach built on Rathlin in the first Maritime Festival.

The Causeway Coast and Glens Food Network, proud sponsor of the Cookery Theatre at the Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival

Supporting Local Producers Showcasing Local Produce causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk/foodnetwork facebook.com/groups/ccagfoodnetwork @ccagfood 27

Assembly Point: Rathlin Harbour, 12 to 2pm Join Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust for a guided walk and talk to discover the nature and heritage of the Island. This is a varied and leisurely walk, enjoying amazing views of the coastline. Afterwards why not join Ulster Wildlife’s Living Seas Team and Cumbria Wildlife Trust for a rockpool exploring adventure. This is a great site for family rock pooling with dozens of different seaweeds, beautiful beadlet anemones and plenty of opportunity to find crabs, fish, sea urchins and other marine life hiding between the rocks. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult Pre-booking is essential. We recommend you contact Rathlin Island Ferry Ltd 028 20769299 to arrange ferry travel.

2 hours, strong/solid footwear and waterproof clothing recommended To book email tierna@ccght.org or call 028 2075 2100

North Coast Marine Wildlife Exhibition 1pm to 5pm DoE Marine Division will set up

an exciting ‘hands-on’ display of the north coast’s marine wildlife based at its marine exhibition trailer. Come and explore some of the treasures hidden beneath the sea through colourful underwater video and photographs, hard hat and modern scuba dive equipment and a selection of whale and dolphin bones found washed ashore locally. Children can try on scuba equipment and discover what it’s like to work as a scientific diver in our rich waters

East Lighthouse tours 2pm to 4pm East Lighthouse, approx. 1.5 mile from Harbour.

Visit one of Rathlin’s three working lighthouses and enjoy a fascinating and spectacular perspective on the coastline.

(Visits will be scheduled limited due to space, and involve a lot of winding stairs...)

Seaweed Pictures 3pm to 4pm Meet at the Archway, by the Manor House, and try your hand at making pictures from pressed seaweed. Guided along by Islander Kelp , usually preparing kelp for consumption, this time it’s another kind of art.

Arrival of the Vikings Friday 3rd June – late afternoon Ardglass Vikings return to the island once again with the evocative imagery of the longboat, swords and helmets and, over the weekend mock fighting along the beach. Well

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Roaming & Rummaging on Rathlin Island

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One of the crew, Michael Cecil, has spent time on Lesvos in support of Refugee Rescue.

His wife, Shauna, and friend Ruari Morgan, who have also volunteered on Lesvos, will accompany the currach in a safety boat.

known throughout Northern Ireland for their fundraising for charity (not a traditional Viking activity) and for their participation in the successful US TV series ‘Vikings’, Rathlin is pleased to welcome them back to its shores.

Drontheims and Currachs 7.30pm, Rathlin Seafront Beautiful locally built traditional boats to add extra class and style to the Festival.

Weather - and challengers! permitting, there will also be sailing and racing.

‘an Sgoth’: Documentary on the building of a boat Friday 3rd June – Parochial Hall, 7.30pm The film maker, Sam Maynard, based on Lewis in the 1990s, met the teacher and boatbuilder John Murdo Macleod. Macleod had already restored one of the original North Lewis lugsail craft, built by his father and built a similar 25 footer. But his dream was to build a new example of the lost class of larger offshore vessels. This film shows a vision come to life, ‘from tree to sea’. This beautifully shot documentary, made for BBC 2 includes Gaelic conversation with subtitles.

Followed by discussion with Ian Stephen on ‘Maritime’, his new book of poetry on sea themes, illustrated by Christine Morrison.

Naturally North Coast and Glens Market 11am to 3pm. Based at the Ramoan Parish Centre Carpark in the Diamond Area in Ballycastle (opposite the co-op). NEW regular food market in Ballycastle.

The exciting new venture will be a ‘mainly food’ market on the first Saturday of the month from April to August. This will be held at the Ramoan Parish Centre Carpark, opposite the Co-Op at the Diamond Area of Ballycaste, and will showcase our excellent food producers.

Naturally North Coast and Glens Market is earning an enviable reputation in N. Ireland for high quality, locally hand-crafted products and high quality artisan food.

The market is known for its friendly atmosphere, which this year will be enhanced by some local music and heritage craft demos.

If you haven’t experienced the market yet, you have a treat in store. Whether you are looking for a unique gift, an original piece of artwork or a tasty treat, you will find the market has everything you want.

Come along and support the new regular Saturday Market in Ballycastle FREE ENTRY!

BOAT TRIP CARRICK-AREDE ROPE BRIDGE & SEABIRDS OF RATHLIN at 3pm by Aquaholics departing from Ballycastle Marina. Special Festival rate £23 with under 12’s £15.

Booking essential - visit or Telephone Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre– 028 2076 2024 or Tel: 028 70832584 or Email: info@aquaholics.co.uk More info: www.aquaholics.co.uk

ON RATHLIN Regatta and Dinghy Sailing Keep an eye to the sea to watch the spectacle of the yachts and dinghies in the Bay

Living Seas Exploration Stand 10am - 5pm Come and meet Ulster Wildlife’s Living Seas Team at our Living Seas Exploration stand with Marine Life Tank, Ocean Treasures, life size models of our Ocean Giants, and children’s Marine Life Arts and Crafts. This is an outdoor event for all the family.

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IN BALLYCASTLE

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Saturday 4 June

El Vigo – open boat Pontoons, from 11.30am Ian Stephen and Christine Morrison will welcome visitors, 2 at a time to have a look at a Robert Clark sloop which used to be based in Strangford Lough and once was sailed from there to re-visit the yard where she was built, in Vigo, Spain. Learn how the boat plays a vital part in their work and see a short recording of one of the boat’s journeys crossing the Bay of Biscay. There may be coffee...

ROONIVOOLIN RAMBLE 12 to 4pm Price: Free for RSPB members and under 5s. £5 for adults and £2.50 for children.

Join RSPB warden and islander Liam McFaul to explore the RSPB’s reserve at Roonivoolin on the southern arm of the island.

This nature reserve is home to a rich variety of birds and wildlife, from common blue butterflies to wildflowers, soaring birds of prey to Northern Ireland’s only family of chough.

Booking essential - Telephone: 028 9049 1547 E-mail: amy. colvin@rspb.org.uk Please book your ferry crossing in advance via www. rathlinballycastleferry.com or by calling 028 2076 9299.

We recommend booking the 11.15am departure from Ballycastle and the 16.15pm return crossing. Please also bring a packed lunch and wear suitable outdoor clothing and footwear in case of inclement

www.rathlinsound maritimefestival.com

11am to 5pm DoE Marine Division will set up an exciting ‘hands-on’ display of the north coast’s marine wildlife based at its marine exhibition trailer.

Come and explore some of the treasures hidden beneath the sea through colourful underwater video and photographs, hard hat and modern scuba dive equipment and a selection of whale and dolphin bones found washed ashore locally. Children can try on scuba equipment and discover what it’s like to work as a scientific diver in our rich waters.

Glens of Antrim Comhaltas – music and dance Bruce’s Kitchen, 2pm Come along and enjoy the flavour of traditional Irish music from the Glens.

Runabay Pub field, from 8pm Originally coming from a couple of small rural villages in the Glens of Antrim and Belfast Runabay are six musicians who through their passion for harmony and melody have been writing and recording since late December 2013.

Runabay are at the forefront of fresh, new music in

Northern Ireland, a sound which has undeniably been shaped by the beautiful coastline which surrounds the Glens of Antrim and is felt through the swooping melodies and poignant lyrics.

The band produce a mature sound that leaves the listener hanging on the intricate guitar riffs, mellow three part harmonies and haunting cello.

Sunday 5 June IN BALLYCASTLE BOAT TRIP CARRICK-AREDE ROPE BRIDGE & SEABIRDS OF RATHLIN at 3pm by Aquaholics departing from Ballycastle Marina. Special Festival rate £23 with under 12’s £15.

Booking essential - visit or Telephone Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre– 028 2076 2024 or Tel: 028 70832584 or Email: info@aquaholics.co.uk More info: www.aquaholics.co.uk

ON RATHLIN Living Seas Exploration Stand 10am to 5pm Come and meet Ulster Wildlife’s Living Seas Team at our Living Seas Exploration stand with Marine Life Tank, Ocean Treasures, life size models of our Ocean Giants, and children’s Marine Life Arts and Crafts. This is an outdoor event for all the family.

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North Coast Marine Wildlife Exhibition

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weather. Meet at the bus shelter after disembarking from the ferry.

North Coast Marine Wildlife Exhibition 11am to 5pm DoE Marine Division will set up an exciting ‘hands-on’ display of the north coast’s marine wildlife based at its marine exhibition trailer. Come and explore some of the treasures hidden beneath the sea through colourful underwater video and photographs, hard hat and modern scuba dive equipment and a selection of whale and dolphin bones found washed ashore locally. Children can try on scuba equipment and discover what it’s like to work as a scientific diver in our rich waters.

Have a go kayaking Rathlin beach, from 12.00 to 5pm.

Beginners welcome to try their hand with a paddle and a kayak in the safe company of expert tutors.

From boat slip at Rathlin Marina, FREE activity, 30 minutes sessions.

Sponsored by Malin Waters.

The Big Lunch Seafront, from 12.30pm Come along to the seafront and join the biggest picnic on the Island; help us out by bringing something to share – pastas, breads, fruit etc., or even something simple to share or swap with a neighbour. This will be our fifth consecutive Big Lunch, an event that now coincides with the closing day of the annual Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival. The Island, as a community, has always been close but the Big Lunch not only

BUSHMILLS WHISKEY TASTING From 1pm, Seafront location.

Try some new blends offered by the famous Bushmills Distillery, Hosted by Bushmills Distillery.

Parade of oar and sail Church Bay, from 1pm Enjoy a spectacular , colourful culmination to our traditional maritime celebration as all local and visiting boats are invited to take a short tour around Church Bay. (Weather permitting!)

Snorkel Safari 1:30pm Meet at the Richard Branson Centre to join Ulster Wildlife’s Living Seas team for a snorkelling safari at Church Bay. Snorkel in the company of our team of BSAC trained Snorkel Instructors and look beneath the surface to see some of Rathlin’s resident sea creatures. Wetsuits, masks, snorkels & fins provided but bring your own gear if you have it.

Minimum age of 8 years – under 16s must be accompanied by responsible adult (but adults don’t have to get wet). All snorkelers attending should be happy and comfortable in the water and must be able to swim.

Booking is essential - £5 per person.

Contact Dave Wall 02890463126 or email: dave.wall@ ulsterwildlife.org

MEET OUR FRIENDLY LOCAL GIANTS FINN McCOOL AND HIS WIFE OONAGH coming over from the Giant’s Causeway from 2pm to 4pm to visit Rathlin. Say ‘Hello’ and get your photograph taken with our friendly giants. Benandonner, Finn’s rival may even join us.

Hosted by the Giant’s Causeway Visitors Centre, National Trust.

Altagore Pub field, 2pm to 4pm An Irish folk/rock band from the ‘ Glens of Antrim’, formed in 2010. Guitars (Electric & Acoustic) tenor Banjo, button key Accordion, Bass, Drums and whistles, along with a powerful 4-part vocal unit that blends with dynamic stage performances. The band ethos has and always will be about delivering the punch and the fun of seeing a band perform live

Aoife Scott Pub field, 6pm Her sublime voice is a thing of beauty that stops people in their tracks. Fragile and ethereal one 31

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Our event is growing more and more as people become aware and spread the word. There is no pressure to come along or to bring anything except a smile but people have an inbuilt desire to meet new people and share what they can.

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brings communities together but can help cement those bonds year on year. Ours serves to remind us how dependant on our neighbours we really are throughout the year and gives everyone a chance to repay a kindness to those we know or make new friends for the future.

minute and strong and vibrant the next, Dublin Folk singersongwriter Aoife Scott has become a force to be reckoned with on the Irish folk and traditional scene.

With an impeccable pedigree as a member of the legendary Black Family, which includes her mother, Frances, and her aunt, Mary, Aoife is steadily rising to the top of the traditional and folk music scene, while garnering acclaim and recognition both here and abroad as she hones her craft.

With family roots deep in Rathlin, Aoife has been surrounded by and immersed in music from an early age, listening to her grandparents, mother, aunt and uncles making music around the fire. Aoife moved to the west coast of Ireland several years ago and her passion for the native Irish language spoken there is reflected in her choice of songs.

A good friend of the Maritime Festival we are delighted to welcome Aoife back to bring this year’s events to a close. Here’s to next year!

(Special Rathlin Express Ferry will depart from Rathlin at 7.30pm).

www.rathlinsound maritimefestival.com

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Festival Office contact number for information & urgent matters call: Ballycastle Festival Office at the Visitor Information Centre, Portnagree House Harbour and Marina Visitor Centre 028 2076 2024 Rathlin Festival Office, Rathlin Boat House, call 077 0886 9605 For information on berthing contact: Harbour Master John Morton Tel: 028 2076 8525 M: 078 0350 5084 E: ballycastlemarina@moyle-council.org For emergencies contact the PSNI or Coastguard on 999.

Rathlin Island

Ballycastle

Important Information applying to all events Activities & venues are subject to change & weather conditions. No refunds will be issued for music or other tickets affected by weather, sea or other unexpected events.

Details correct at time of going to print.

Additional events may be added and will be listed on our website at www.rathlinsoundmaritimefestival.com

• All children must be accompanied by an adult at all events.

• Events are weather dependent and subject to change.

• Events are free of charge (excluding travel costs) except where indicated.

• Details correct at time of going to press.

• Events may be photographed or filmed and used on future publicity.

The Festival is organised by a Steering Group and led by Council, community groups and chamber of commerce.

With special thanks to Daniel McAfee and Steven McAuley for all the great photographs taken at previous festivals.

We would like to thank all the supporters and sponsors including those mentioned throughout the programme and others including Tourism NI, Malin Waters, Rathlin Boat House Partnership, Naturally North Coast and Glens Market, Causeway Coast & Glens Food Network, Destination Ballycastle, Ballycastle Chamber of Commerce, PC Electrics, Rathlin Island Ferry Co., Good Food NI, Marine Hotel Ballycastle, NI Libraries, Ulster Wildlife, DOE Marine Division, RSPB, National Trust/ The Giant’s Causeway Visitors Centre, Bushmills Distillery, Causeway Museum Service, RNLI, Coastguard, Coleraine Yacht Club, Cushendall Sailing and Boating Club, Ardglass Vikings, Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust, Portrush Lifeboats, Red Bay Lifeboats, Ballycastle Co-op, Peter McCurdy & Bertie Currie and all individuals, communities and businesses who have contributed to the Festival. Whilst on the Island check out the special festival seafood menus. McCuaig’s Bar and the Water Shed Café.

Or browse the gifts at the Boathouse Visitor Centre, Island Treasure Gift Shop, The RSPB Seabird Centre and Breakwater Studio.

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RATHLIN SOUND

Prizes sponsored by Marine Hotel, Rathlin Ferry Company, Naturally North Coast and Glens Market

MARITIME FESTIVAL 27 May to 5 June 2016

Audience Survey

1st Prize Bed and Breakfast for a family up to 2 adults 2 children mid-week June-Sept with return Ferry Travel to Rathlin Island 2nd Prize A Gift Basket from Naturally North Coast and Glens Market If you wish to enter the competition please complete below Contact Name _______________________________________________________________________ Tel. number _____________________ Email address ________________________________________ Male o Age 18-25 o

Female o 26-34 o

35-49 o

Are you here today as SELF o

GROUP o

50-64 o

Over 65 o

FAMILY o

WITH A PARTNER o

Where did you travel from, for the events: ________________________________________________ If staying overnight where are you staying: B&B o TENT o

FRIENDS o

SELF CATERING o

HOTEL o

HOSTEL o

FAMILY o

MOTORHOME o

OTHER _____________________________________________________________________________ How long are you staying: DAY o

OVERNIGHT o (please state how many nights) ______________

How did you hear about the event: Word of Mouth o Television o

Web/Facebook/Twitter o

Newspaper/Magazine Poster/Banner o

Other o ___________________________________

What are your key interests in visiting this or other areas, please tick all areas that interest you. o

Activities e.g. walking, diving, sailing, culture, other ____________________________________

o

Events e.g. festivals, culture, music, other _____________________________________________

o

Entertainment – eg local music, storytelling, other _____________________________________

o

Food and local produce - please provide details _______________________________________

o

Attractions, historic and local interest ______________________________________________

Have you visited the Ballycastle/Rathlin area before?

Yes o

No o

What changes would you make to improve the event? _______________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ If you would like to to opt out of our festival email database please tick here o By doing so you will miss out on notification of future events and our quarterly e-zine.

Thank you for your time. Remember to return your completed forms to Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre at Portnagree House Harbour and Marina Visitor Centre for a chance to win a prize.

Like us on facebook at

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@RathlinSoundMF

Catch Cook

Enjoy Catch

Ready for 366 days of delicious celebration?

Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and Drink 2016 is a celebration of everything that makes the produce from this place so good. The epic landscapes, time honoured traditions, people and producers that make our food heritage wonderfully unique. Pay a visit during the 366 days of celebration and discover all of the deliciousness for yourself. With goings-on galore, there’s no better time to enjoy a true taste of Northern Ireland.

@RathlinSoundMF

www.rathlinsoundmaritimefestival.com

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Rathlin Development & Community Association