August Craft Month: Ballymena's 400th Anniversary Craft Celebration
- Amanda Jones
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Celebrate August Craft Month and Ballymena's Creative Heritage with a Captivating Showcase of Traditional Crafts
As Ballymena town marks its 400th anniversary, the community is invited to join in a spectacular celebration of its rich history and cultural heritage through the art of traditional craftsmanship at Midtown Makers Gift Shop. On Thursday 20th August, from 6pm, this special event aims to highlight the skills, artistry, and creativity that have been passed down through generations, shaping the fabric of the town for centuries.
August Craft Month is Ireland’s unique celebration of the craft sector, providing opportunities for all to learn about, make, see and buy local craft. ACM is a partnership between the Design & Crafts Council and Craft NI, now in it’s fifth year of promoting, growing and sharing audiences for craft makers.
Visitors will have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a variety of traditional crafts through live demonstrations and interactive taster sessions. These activities are designed to engage participants of all ages and skill levels, offering a first hand experience of the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating with your own hands.
Featured Activities Include:
Felting: Experience the ancient technique of felting with renowned felter Shelley Steele. Transform wool into stunning felted mini bowls in this hands-on taster session.
Crochet: Dive into the basics of crochet under the expert guidance of Amanda Jones, an experienced crocheter who will help you achieve the basic stitch.
Aran Knitting: Witness the timeless art of Aran knitting with Linda Wray, as she creates a classic cardigan using the iconic cables and stitches of the Aran Islands.
Bobbin Lace Making: Explore the intricate world of bobbin lace making with Yvonne Parker, Nora Evans, and Patricia Cummings from Ards Bobbin Lace. Try your hand at a basic stitch on a practice pillow and admire exquisite lace pieces on display.
Sewing with Irish Linen: Enhance your sewing skills with Sally White, as she shares essential techniques and tips for working with a sewing machine.
Exhibition and Sweet Treats
In addition to these engaging workshops, attendees can explore an exhibition chronicling the history of crafts in Ballymena. This display showcases the evolution and enduring impact of local craftsmanship over the past four centuries.
To complement the event, indulge in locally handmade treats crafted from traditional recipes, adding a delightful touch to your experience.
James Perry, Chairperson of Ballymena Business Centre looks forward to the celebrations:
“As we celebrate the 400th anniversary of Ballymena it is important that we recognise the importance of the craft industry in the development of our town. This Showcase of traditional crafts being held at our Midtown Makers Gift Shop, as part of our ongoing Ballymena 400 programme of activities, promises to be a unique community event, definitely an occasion not to be missed! Ballymena Business Centre is delighted that this joint initiative with BID, Council and DfC is taking place in our premises at Midtown Makers, right in the heart of Ballymena. We look forward to welcoming you along and joining in the celebration of this very special anniversary for our town”.
Midtown Makers Gift Shop is a town centre regeneration initiative established in 2014 by Ballymena Business Centre to nurture the growing interest in Northern Ireland's vibrant arts and crafts community. More than just a shop, Midtown Makers is a meeting place for culture and community. Visitors can discover one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting local talent, and makers can connect directly with those who appreciate and value their craft.
Alongside the Showcase of Traditional Crafts, Midtown Makers will also be hosting workshops throughout August Craft Month including painting with acrylics session with Midtown Makers artist Ursula Meehan, and screen printing on clay to make your own ceramic bunting, led by Midtown Makers member Áine McGuckin Ceramics.
Join us in celebrating Northern Ireland’s vibrant craft past, present and future. August Craft Month is not just a celebration of our history but also a testament to the creativity and resilience that will shape our tomorrows.
Midtown Makers Gift Shop, 51-53 Church Street, Ballymena, BT43 6FH. Thursday 20th August 2026, 6.00pm - 8.30pm. Free to attend.
If you have any questions please email Amanda at amanda@ballymenabusiness.co.uk
Excellent venue, Great Event. You need to come and be part of this