Families urged to book early as popular summer schemes return across Antrim & Newtownabbey borough

Children across the borough will once again be able to take part in a packed summer of sports, games, creative activities and outdoor adventures as Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council officially launches its 2026 Summer Schemes programme.

Running throughout July and August, the annual schemes are set to return to leisure centres, community venues and the grounds of Antrim Castle Gardens, with families already being encouraged to plan ahead amid expectations of high demand for places.

The council says the popular programmes will offer “an exciting mix” of activities aimed at keeping children active, engaged and social during the school holidays, with separate opportunities available for different age groups.

Children aged between six and 12 can take part in the main Summer Schemes, while Sports Camps will cater for young people aged five to 14.

Bookings open later this month

Families will be able to begin securing places from Wednesday 21 May, although booking times will vary depending on the venue.

According to the council, the staggered release is designed to help manage demand and ease pressure on the online booking system.

The booking schedule is as follows:

• Valley Leisure Centre — online bookings open from 9.30am on 21 May 2026

• All other schemes and sports camps — online bookings open from 1.30pm on 21 May 2026

Parents and guardians are also being reminded that multiple bookings cannot be made simultaneously during the booking process.

Full programme details, venue information, pricing, concession rates and dates are now available via the council website at:

Summer Schemes Booking

Council says schemes remain a summer highlight for local children

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, said the schemes continue to be one of the most anticipated parts of the summer calendar for many families across the borough.

“Summer Schemes are one of the things our kids across the Borough look forward to every year, giving them the opportunity to make new friends and have fun,” she said.

“We’re delighted to bring back a full schedule for 2026, and we encourage families to book early as spaces fill quickly.”

The return of the schemes comes as many parents continue searching for affordable and accessible activities during the long school holidays, particularly programmes that combine childcare support with recreation and social opportunities for children.

With activities spread across multiple venues and age categories, council officials are expecting strong interest again this year as families begin organising summer plans well in advance of July.