“Let’s Celebrate oor Leid!” – Council to mark Ulster Scots Week!

Hosted by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s Good Relations team and Arts Service, in partnership with local organisations, the free programme will feature a range of music, poetry and storytelling events taking place throughout the week.

Coordinated by the Ulster Scots Agency, Ulster Scots Leid Week aims to raise awareness of the Ulster Scots language and celebrate the important contribution of Ulster Scots culture to communities across Northern Ireland.

Sara Glendinning, Good Relations Officer at Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, said: “We are delighted to run these events as part of the Traditional Cultural Heritage programme within Good Relations which aims to promote the culture and language of Ulster Scots across the Borough.

“These events are well attended each year, and we hope many will take the opportunity to come and explore Ulster Scots and the range of talent we have in our community.”

Council is hosting a series of free events throughout the week, with several delivered in partnership with local organisations, offering residents an opportunity to discover more about Ulster Scots language and traditions and enjoy the wealth of local cultural talent.

Kilrea Orange Hall, Monday, November 23, 7:30pm.

The week commences with Kilrea and District Ulster Scots Society presenting a varied programme, including a talk from Shirlie Gregg of the Ulster Scots Agency, engaging poetry from Aileen McCahon, and a musical performance from band, Purple Heather.

Light refreshments served, free entry, no booking required.

Fuse Ballymoney, Tuesday, November 24, 7:00pm.

The Fuse Centre Ballymoney are hosting an evening of poems, verses, and stories from Matthew Warwick, Alan Millar, Dick Glasgow and Anne Gilmore.

Light refreshments provided, free entry and no booking required.

A Wee Highland Coo, Saturday, November 21, 10.30am - 12.30pm. – SOLD OUT

A workshop for children (8-12 years) to create their own adorable Highland Coo to take home, layering colourful materials to make the iconic cow’s fluffy fringe and characterful features.

Scottish Dancing Family Workshop, Saturday, November 28, 10am – 1pm.

Rowland Hill from the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society leads a Scottish Dance workshop for the whole family. Whether you’re 8 or 80, this fun beginner-friendly session teaches the steps and patterns of a traditional reel.

All ages are welcome and lunch is provided before your dance is performed along with live traditional music. Book for free via flowerfield.org or call reception 02870 83140.

For those who are unable to attend the events but would like to engage with the language, Ulster Scots radio station in Ballymoney, Fuse FM 107.5, plays full-time coverage of a variety of programmes including music, news and sports.

These events have received financial support from The Executive Office as part of Council’s Good Relations Programme.