Discover More Outdoors: Ards and North Down Launches Packed Summer Parks Programme

Ards and North Down Borough Council is delighted to launch its Summer 2025 Parks and Events Programme, inviting residents and visitors to Discover More Outdoors across the Borough's stunning parks, coastline and open spaces. 

With more than 30 parks from Bangor to Portaferry, this free programme offers a vibrant mix of fun, nature, creativity and community spirit throughout July and August. Whether you're a family seeking play opportunities, a nature enthusiast, a thrill-seeking teen, or simply looking to enjoy the fresh air, there's something for everyone. 

Programme Highlights: 

Summer Play in the Parks 
Various dates and locations until 20 August | FREE | No booking required 

Bring your picnic blankets and join us for relaxed, family-friendly fun in your local parks! These drop-in events feature traditional lawn games and outdoor play, perfect for all ages. From Bangor to Newtownards and Killinchy to Portaferry, we'll help make the summer play dates stress-free and fun for everyone! 

Love Parks Week 
25 July - 2 August | Various locations 

Celebrate nature, community, and wellbeing during this week-long festival across the Borough's green spaces. The programme includes: 

• Coastal cooking experiences 
• Family bug hunts, tree tours, and nature-inspired play 
• Inclusive and dementia-friendly events 
• Creative writing and outdoor art with local artists 
• Outdoor empowerment event for women and girls 
• Volunteering opportunities and "try-it" activities 
• Park ranger taster sessions for young people 
    

Playday 2025 
Wednesday 6 August | Holywood and Kircubbin 

 Celebrate #Playday2025, the national day for play! Join us for circus-themed fun, games, and entertainment hosted by Circusful. 
• 10am-12pm | Seapark, Holywood 
• 2pm-4pm | The Green, Kircubbin 

Wild Days Out - Nature Adventures for Kids 
Fridays 8, 15, and 22 August | 10am-2pm | Drop-in | FREE 

Hands-on nature exploration for children and families, hosted at scenic outdoor locations: 

• Spot native birds and make eco-friendly bird treats
• Discover shells, seaweed, and shoreline species in a fun, interactive session 
• Learn about native flora and create natural artwork using the Japanese Hapa Zome technique 

Teens on Wheels
Various dates and locations between 31 July and 17 September | 6pm-8pm | Drop-in | Equipment supplied l FREE

Calling all teens, whether you're into bikes, skateboards, scooters or parkour, there will be something for everyone. These taster sessions will let you have a go at new activities, make friends and get active. No booking necessary. Parental consent required on the evening.

• Thursday 31 July | Portavogie Skate Park & MUGA (BMX taster sessions, Parkour/Urban Gymnastics) | 6pm to 8pm 
• Wednesday 13 August | Killinchy Pump Track (BMX taster sessions) | 6pm to 8pm 
• Wednesday 20 August | Comber Skate Park (Stunt Scooters taster) | 6pm to 8pm 
• Wednesday 17 September | Ards Blair Mayne Pump Track (BMX taster) | 6pm to 8pm 

Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum, said:

"Our parks are some of the Borough's greatest assets. With this summer programme, we hope to reconnect people with nature, support mental wellbeing, and encourage active lifestyles. We're excited to see residents and visitors explore what our beautiful green spaces have to offer. 

"This summer, we're bringing people together through nature, creativity, and play. With free activities for all ages and abilities, we're proud to make our outdoor spaces more accessible and enjoyable for everyone." 

 For full listings, updates, and more information, visit www.ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk/parks-activities or email andplay@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk. 

*All events are free of charge. 
*Parental supervision is required at children's events. 
*No booking necessary unless otherwise stated.