Ards and North Down Borough Council has announced its Autumn Arts and Heritage Programme, packed with events, exhibitions, classes and workshops running from September through to December 2025.
A key highlight is Aspects Festival, returning to Bangor from 24 September to 5 October. This much-loved celebration of reading and writing brings together a vibrant mix of acclaimed authors, local voices and emerging talent. The programme includes discussions on memoirs, politics, history, poetry and new writing, along with workshops and creative events. Guests this year include Carol Drinkwater, Glenn Patterson, Dara McAnulty and Stephen Walker, among many others.
On 26 and 27 October, Ards Puppet Festival will once again delight audiences at Ards Arts Centre with magical performances and family-friendly shows for all ages. 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 4 September.
For festive shoppers, the Creative Peninsula Christmas Fayre on 5 and 6 December offers a unique seasonal experience, with Creative Peninsula Artists and Makers showcasing their handcrafted artworks – perfect for finding that special Christmas gift. 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 4 September. From 20 November to 4 January, 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.
Arts and Heritage Manager Emily Crawford said: “We have a jam-packed programme of activity for you this autumn/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. Check out our website or pick up a guide to explore the full programme.”
The full Autumn Arts and Heritage Programme can be viewed, and tickets booked, at www.andculture.org.uk Printed guides are available from Ards Arts Centre and North Down Museum.