Cllr Bréanainn Lyness, Deputy Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, pictured with Dearbháil Beatty, Awareness Campaigns Executive for Conradh na Gaelige
Deputy Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Bréanainn Lyness, has warmly welcomed Seachtain na Gaeilge, as the council prepares to host three vibrant events this week in celebration of Irish Language Week 2025.
Running annually from 1st to 17th March, the initiative seeks to promote and celebrate the Irish language, heritage, and culture, encouraging wider community engagement with this rich tradition.
Kicking off the festivities, a free evening of entertainment is scheduled for Wednesday, 12th March, at 7:00 pm in the Studio Theatre at The Braid, Ballymena.
The event promises to showcase the depth of Irish language and culture through a variety of performances with Irish dancing, and Irish folk tales from renowned storyteller Steve Lally. Local musicians, including Portglenone CCE, Ceoltoirí Baile Randal, Ballymena’s Glór Dhal Raida, and the talented duo Elaine and Nigel Black, will take to the stage alongside other special guests.
The night will also feature Irish dancing and captivating folk tales from renowned storyteller Steve Lally. While admission is free, tickets must be pre-booked via the Ticketsource website.
On Thursday, 13th March, history enthusiasts can step back in time with Cattle Battle, a unique medieval gaming event at Carrickfergus Town Hall starting at 7:00pm.
Developed by Carrickfergus Museum as part of a community engagement project, this interactive game invites players to adopt character roles and navigate the challenges of medieval life. This free event offers a fresh perspective on the past and can be booked online through The Braid website’s ‘What’s On’ section.
The week’s celebrations conclude on Friday, 14th March, with a free Irish History Walking Tour of Ballymena, beginning at 2:00pm from the Harmony Hub.
Led by tour guide Alastair Donaghy, participants will explore a 1.5-mile route through the town centre, delving into Ballymena’s storied past. The tour will visit historic graves, uncover early Presbyterian history, and examine connections to the Casement family, the United Irishmen of 1798, and Rose Young of Galgorm Castle. Tickets for this event are also available on the Ticketsource website.
Deputy Mayor Lyness expressed his enthusiasm for the programme, stating:
“As Deputy Mayor, I welcome Seachtain na Gaeilge and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s three events this week in celebration of Irish Language Week 2025.
“The events will be packed full of entertainment—celebrating the rich history of the Irish language across the Borough and beyond.”
He added that the diverse lineup aims to inspire greater interest and involvement in the language and its cultural significance.
With free entry to all events, the council encourages residents and visitors alike to take part in this celebration of Irish heritage. Be sure to secure your tickets early to join in the festivities marking Irish Language Week 2025.