Parks Activities and Events

Our Parks service offers a varied programme of activities and events throughout the year in our parks and open spaces. These activities and events are usually free of / minimal charge and aim to encourage residents and visitors to spend time in our borough, making the most of nature and its benefits for our health and wellbeing.

From educational walks and talks to opportunities for play, there is something for everyone.

Some of these events are ticketed via Ards and North Down Borough Council - Parks Events | Eventbrite

If you have any queries about these events, please contact andparks@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk

July 2025

Summer Play in the Parks | Various dates and locations from 3 July onwards | FREE Events

Enjoy some family time across the Summer with our new Play in the Parks Events.

Various dates and locations across Ards and North Down.

Bring your picnic baskets and blankets, and enjoy a variety of family friendly lawn games. FREE family event, suitable for all ages.

No booking required | Parental supervision is required at all times

For any queries please contact andplay@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk

July dates:

Thursday 3 July | Ward Park Play Park, Bangor | 11am-1pm
Tuesday 8 July | Scrabo Estate Play Park, Newtownards | 10am-11am
Tuesday 8 July | West Winds Play Park, Newtownards | 12noon-1pm
Wednesday 30 July | Killinchy Play Park | 11am-1pm

Love Parks Week | 25 July - 2 August | Various locations

Celebrate Nature, Community and Wellbeing across Ards and North Down

This summer, join us for Love Parks Week 2025, a vibrant programme of free events celebrating the natural beauty, biodiversity, and community spirit of our local parks and green spaces.

Whether you're a nature lover, a creative soul, a young explorer, or simply looking to get outdoors and feel good, there's something for everyone — from ranger-themed activities and nature walks, to beach art, biodiversity workshops, plant swaps, and outdoor empowerment sessions for women and girls.

Coastal foraging and citizen science
Inclusive and dementia-friendly gatherings
Creative workshops inspired by the outdoors
Hands-on volunteering opportunities
Try-it taster sessions and movement in nature

Join us in connecting with nature, caring for our parks, and discovering new ways to enjoy the outdoors — together. Events are happening in Bangor, Portavogie, Holywood, Kircubbin, Killinchy, Ballywalter, Groomsport, and more.

For full programme details visit our dedicated Love Parks page: Love Parks Week - Ards and North Down Borough Council

August 2025

Summer Play in the Parks | Various dates and locations | FREE Events

Enjoy some family time across the Summer with our new Play in the Parks Events.

Various dates and locations across Ards and North Down.

Bring your picnic baskets and blankets, and enjoy a variety of family friendly lawn games. FREE family event, suitable for all ages.

No booking required | Parental supervision is required at all times

For any queries please contact andplay@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk

August dates:

Wednesday 6 August | Seapark, Holywood* |10am-12noon
Wednesday 6 August |The Green, Kircubbin* | 2pm-4pm
Monday 11 August | Millisle Play Park 11am-1pm
Tuesday 19 August | Bloomfield, Bangor | 10am-11am
Tueesday 19 August |Kilcooley Square, Bangor | 1pm-2pm
Wednesday 20 August | Rope Walk, Portaferry | 11am-1pm

*National Play Day Event with Circus skills

Playday 2025 | Wednesday 6 August | Holywood and Kircubbin

Playday is the national day for play, traditionally held on the first Wednesday in August.

Celebrate #Playday2025 with us on Wednesday 6 August.

Free activities available, please come along and join the fun!

10am-12pm, Sea Park, Holywood
2pm-4pm The Green, Kircubbin

Events will be facilitated by Circusful.

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Wild Days Out - Nature Adventures for Kids| Fridays in August 8^th, 15^th and 22nd | Various locations

Looking for free, fun, and educational outdoor activities for the kids this August? "Wild Days Out" is a series of exciting, hands-on nature sessions designed especially for children across Ards and North Down!

Each event offers a chance to explore the outdoors, learn about local wildlife, and get creative with natural materials.

Ideal for children and their families: just drop in anytime between 10am and 2pm.

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Friday 8 August - Feasts for Feathers

Location: Kiltonga Nature Reserve, Newtownards

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Get your binoculars ready! We'll go on a gentle guided walk to spot and identify native birds. Kids will also get to make eco-friendly bird treats using natural and recycled materials a fun way to support our feathered friends!

Friday 15 August - Coastline Biodiversity

Location: Coastal Playpark, Millisle

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Explore the shoreline and learn all about the animals and plants that call our coast home. This hands-on session will have kids discovering shells, seaweed, and even tiny sea creatures!

Friday 22 August - Tremendous Trees and Plants

Location: Walled Garden (Playpark), Bangor

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Learn how to identify native trees and wildflowers, then try 'Hapa Zome' a creative Japanese technique of leaf dyeing. Kids can make their own natural artwork to take home!

What to Bring:

Weather-appropriate clothing
Your curiosity and creativity!

For more information, please contact ANDparks@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk

Parks Activities and Events

July 2025