DISCOVER PORTRUSH MARCH 2021
The launch of PHG’s Young Explorer Portrush or YEP! App for children. A heritage exhibition in the ‘White House’ windows by Portrush Heritage Group. A virtual exhibition of local art works from Portrush Collective, inspired by our natural and cultural heritage. A community artwork curated by Frankie Creith, documenting local experiences of the pandemic. A Beach Art installation by North Coast World Earth and support for the Eco Rangers campaign. Music from North Coast Trad showcasing our best local musical talent and celebrating our musical heritage.Pirates Off Portrush & Heritage Fair
Pirates Off Portrush is “a two-day festival with Drama, Dance, Parade, Music, Heritage Fair, Artisan Market and Have-a-go Games” held in Portrush every year in July, themed around the historical figure of Tavish Dhu. Usually held on the first weekend after the schools close for their summer holidays, the event is free and attracts large crowds of locals and visitors on both days. The first day, Saturday, comprises a drama during which Tavish Dhu and his motley crew of pirates try to re-capture their stolen treasure, steal someone else’s treasure, defeat Vikings or Orientals invading Portrush or overcome other “bad guys” causing mayhem in Portrush.
The action takes place in The Amphitheatre on Kerr Street and in Antrim Gardens on Main Street with a large carnival parade acting as a chase scene from one site to the other. A battle usually ensues in Antrim Gardens and the victors then parade the losers in a parade back to The Amphitheatre for the final act wherein the losers are punished, usually by being made to walk the plank. The drama is supported by on site entertainment, side shows and charity stalls throughout the day. Sunday is another family fun day with a Heritage Fair in Antrim Gardens including concert and jazz bands, an artisan market, have-a-go games and sideshows, craft displays, historical exhibitions and much, much more.
Pirates Off Portrush is a Project funded by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council £15,000 and Local Business £15,000. Two day Festival for families with Pirate Adventure on Day 1 and Heritage Fair on day 2 which is normally held on the first weekend after the schools close for the summer holidays. Attendance in 2018 over the two days was estimated at 7500.
History of Golf Exhibition
Project funded by Heritage Lottery Fund £10,000 and Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council £5,000. This was held during the Open Golf Championship 2019 as part of Venture Golf in Antrim Gardens.
Heritage Evenings
These Portrush Heritage Group meetings are held over 6 evenings during the winter months (average attendance of 90) with speakers on a range of local heritage subjects.