Council to host Bonfire History and Culture evening at Lagan Valley Island

These evenings are part of its Good Relations Programme and the workshops have been designed to be interactive, informative and fun. It is hoped that those attending the events will understand the history and universality of bonfires within society.

Councillor Thomas Beckett, Chairman of the Leisure Services Committee, speaking about the workshop, said: “The workshops are free of charge and the first one will discuss the tradition of the bonfire and music. Lambeg drummer and fifer Mark Anderson will play his instruments throughout the course of the evening.

“Philip Orr will do a presentation on history of the drum, how it is made and the tradition of the fife. Those who attend the first workshop will also get the opportunity to ‘play’ the instruments and enjoy a short concert. I would encourage individuals from all communities to attend these informative events and exchange views about various bonfire cultures around the world,” he concluded.

The second event in the series will see Philip Orr look at bonfire traditions around the world including: Celtic bonfires; Norse bonfires; bonfires and Christian culture; Asian and American bonfire traditions; bonfires and effigy burning; and the Beacon tradition.

The Council urged anyone interested in attending to book their place early. For further information and to book a place contact David Mitchell, Good Relations Officer on 9250 9492 or email: [email protected]