Large scale public events are due to return to the Mid Ulster area this summer, with the Cookstown continental market set to make a comeback in May.
Many public events in the area had been cancelled or postponed in recent months due to the Covid 19 pandemic, but with the majority of restrictions now lifted Mid Ulster District Council says it is ready to press ahead with a number of events this year.
The popular continental market is the first to return on Saturday May 28 and Sunday May 29 for the first time since 2019, while the Coalisland Summer Bash will arrive in June.
The council has said that, Covid restrictions permitting, annual fireworks displays and Christmas lights switch ons will take place in Cookstown, Dungannon and Coalisland, as well as the Co Derry towns of Magherafelt and Maghera.
The decision to start planning for the events was taken at a meeting of the council’s Development Committee.
Committee chair Councillor Dominic Molloy said the ability to meet up with friends and family at public events has been ‘sorely missed’.
“As restrictions ease and the weather improves, we’re all looking forward to getting out and about with our friends and family this summer if possible,” Cllr Molloy said.
“The Council’s events programme gives us the opportunity to meet up and celebrate across the year, which is something we’ve all sorely missed.
“Public safety continues to be a priority for us, so we will continue to review Executive guidelines, making any necessary changes to safely deliver enjoyable and successful events this coming year for all our residents and visitors.”
Here are some of the dates announced by the council for the upcoming events:
Cookstown Continental Market - Saturday May 28, Sunday May 29
Tafelta, Magherafelt - Saturday June 18
Coalisland Summer Bash - Friday June 24
Maghera Walled Garden Summer Event - Date TBC
Lumarina festival, Ballyronan - Friday August 19, Saturday August 20
