THE autumn arts and heritage programme organised by Ards and North Down Council has been unveiled.
Launched this week, the return of Bangor’s Aspects Festival, from September 24 to October 5 is one of the programme’s highlights.
This long running celebration of reading and writing brings together a mix of acclaimed authors, local voices and emerging talent. This year’s Aspects Festival also includes discussions on memoirs, politics, history, poetry and new writing, along with workshops and creative events. Guests this year include Carol Drinkwater, Glenn Patterson and Stephen Walker.
Ards Puppet Festival will again take place at Ards Arts Centre with performances and family-friendly shows for all ages on October 26 and 27. Music fans can enjoy the return of Friday Night Live at Ards Arts Centre this autumn, featuring Matt McGinn, Broken String Band and Anthony Toner.
There will also be performances by Arco String Quartet and Trú at Bangor Castle, and Hollow Reed Theatre Company will present Thicker than Water at Studio 1A in Bangor. Leid and Lairn, a celebration of Ulster-Scots language and heritage, returns in November with a full line-up of music events, talks and exhibitions. The full programme will be available from September 4.
For festive shoppers, the Creative Peninsula Christmas Fayre offers a unique seasonal experience, with Creative Peninsula artists and makers showcasing their handcrafted artworks on December 5 and 6.
Ards Arts Centre will also host a full programme of creative classes throughout the season, giving participants the chance to try new crafts and create their own unique works of art.
North Down Museum has a busy autumn planned, with exhibitions, festive events and workshops. The History Detectives, an exhibition exploring the history of Balloo and Killinchy, opens in the Long Gallery on September 4. The museum will also welcome back the Made in AND: Pop-Up Christmas Shop, filling the galleries with handmade creations from local artists and makers, all available to browse and purchase, from November 20 to January 4.
Emily Crawford, arts and heritage manager, said: “We have a jam-packed programme of activity for you this autumn and winter.
“There are plenty of hands-on activities to keep you busy as the nights draw in, along with seasonal events, local handmade shopping opportunities and workshops to get you into the festive spirit.”
The full programme can be viewed and tickets booked at www.andculture.org.uk. Printed guides are available from Ards Arts Centre and North Down Museum.
