- Foreward -
Alan Clarke
Chief Executive Northern Ireland Tourist Board
ON HOME GROUND POETRY FESTIVAL This is undoubtedly a fantastic year for Derry~Londonderry as it embraces the mantle of the UK City of Culture 2013 and I am delighted that the On Home Ground Poetry Festival will contribute to a great portfolio of events and activity as part of this year’s celebrations. This festival plays an important part in enhancing our reputation as a must visit destination by giving visitors the opportunity to explore our rich cultural history and unique landscape through poetry. With an entertaining programme of performances, exhibitions and activities the weekend promises to be not only a joyous celebration of poets and poetry, but an opportunity to showcase the wonderful people, talent, arts and cultural scene of Northern Ireland. It will also create a platform to celebrate, share and experience the unique and hidden gems Northern Ireland has to offer. Visitors who come to enjoy events such as the On Home Ground Poetry Festival are of vital importance in stimulating growth and delivering economic value to many sectors of the local economy. On behalf of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board I would like to wish all the poets, artists and visitors a great weekend and hope they have a truly memorable experience.