From family-friendly fun activities to cultural and food events giving the opportunity to learn more about this lovely part of the world, there really is something for everyone to enjoy.
We’ve put together a list of some of the many events taking place in September.
5. Couch to 5k
Taking up running can seem like a scary prospect, especially if you feel out of shape or unfit. The concept of Couch to 5k is simple and suitable for recreational runners who need a little extra encouragement and advice on how to get back into or start running. Couch to 5K works because it starts with a mix of running and walking to gradually build up your fitness and stamina. The programme is suitable for all ages, no matter the level of competency. The new autumn running programmes provide the choice of either in-person or virtual Couch to 5k training – giving you the freedom and flexibility to build up your fitness while working around your own schedule. A new session, starting on September 11 at the Silverwood sand arena in Lurgan and then every Monday and Wednesday from 6.30pm – 7.15pm for eight weeks.The cost for the programme is £32 per person and the minimum age to participate is 16. By the end of the eight-week programme participants will be able to complete a 5km Parkrun at City Park Parkrun at Craigavon Lakes on Saturday, November 4. Photo: Malik Skydsgaard on Unsplash
6. European Heritage Open Days
The annual European Heritage Open Days - Saturday, September 9 and Sunday, September 10 - presents the perfect opportunity to explore some of the fascinating buildings and locations throughout Northern Ireland, some of which wouldn't normally be open to the public. Northern Ireland's Secret Bunker hidden 15ft below a field on the outskirts of Portadown is just one of a number of interesting local sites open to visit. Also on the list are numerous interesting churches and historic buildings and sites along with walking tours such as Tree Tours of Lurgan Park and a walking tour of Lurgan by theThe AE Russell Society, For more details go to www.communities-ni.gov.uk/topics/historic-environment Photo: Tourism NI
7. Get snapping
Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council is inviting local amateur photographers to give their best shot at capturing Northern Ireland’s largest and most beautiful urban park, and Ireland’s second largest urban park in all its glory – Lurgan Park - with the winning photos being included in the park’s 2024 calendar. With more than 250 acres of open space including an expansive lake, overlooked by Brownlow House; mature woodlands, walking trails and the majestic Coalbrookdale Fountain, budding photographers are spoiled for choice. A maximum of five photos are allowed per entry, and photographers are asked to share their best photos of the park in one of following categories (preferably excluding any people or children):wildlife, park life or landscape. The closing date for entries is Friday, September 29 at noon. The competition is for amateur photographers only. Photos should be of high resolution, landscape and 8×6 size. All entries must be emailed to [email protected] and include the date the photo was taken, the name of the entrant and address. By emailing photographs for submission you are providing confirmation that you are happy for your photo to appear in the calendar if it is shortlisted. Calendars will go on sale in November, with proceeds going to the Lord Mayor’s charity. Photo: John Hamilton
8. Second World War community fun day
A Second World War-themed community fun day is being held in the open spaces at the rear of Brownlow House in Lurgan on Saturday, September 23 from 11am to 4pm, hosted by community development group Regenerate. Among the activities on the day will be a WW2 American tented village, with various workshops in each tent; the Wartime Living History Association will be in attendance and there will be stalls and vehicle displays along with training and patrolling with wartime US Army re-enactors. There will also be a WW2 American museum in Brownlow House and the Startime Starlets will be on stage with songs from the era. A spectacular finale at 3.15pm will see a full wartime battle re-enactment with special effects. There is free admission to the event. Photo: Museums Victoria on Unsplash