One of Northern Ireland's largest outdoor artisan markets is celebrating a major milestone this weekend as the Causeway Speciality Market marks 20 years of championing local producers, makers and independent businesses from Causeway Coast and Glens and beyond.
Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is inviting residents and visitors to Coleraine Town Centre on Saturday 11 July for a free anniversary celebration from 9.00am until 4.00pm.
Bringing together more than 50 artisan traders alongside a full programme of live cookery, craft demonstrations, entertainment and family-friendly experiences, the anniversary event will celebrate the people, passion and creativity that have made the market a firm favourite over the past two decades.
Since launching in 2006, the Council-run market has grown into a much-loved destination, supporting hundreds of traders to develop and grow their businesses while creating a vibrant space where visitors can shop local, discover unique products and meet the people behind them.
The celebrations will officially begin with a special opening ceremony led by the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Dawn Huggins, before local trader Big Ted's American Cookies helps mark the occasion by cutting a special birthday cake and sharing the story behind his popular business.
Throughout the day, visitors will be able to enjoy a packed programme of demonstrations celebrating the very best of local food, craftsmanship and creativity.
Traditional baking takes centre stage as Tony Rogers from Tony's Griddle Goods demonstrates how authentic soda farls are made from scratch, before teaming up with Mervyn Kennedy of Kennedy Bacon to showcase quality local ingredients. Visitors will have the opportunity to sample freshly made soda farls served with locally produced bacon and Annie's Delights' award-winning Irish Whiskey Marmalade, offering a true taste of Northern Ireland.
Visitors can also experience traditional craftsmanship in action as Gerard Gray from Taisie Turning demonstrates the precision and skill behind handcrafted woodturning, while later in the afternoon local artist Brege Stanley will create a live seascape painting inspired by the Causeway Coast, sharing the creative process behind her work.
One of the day's highlights will see Stevie McCarry, local chef of Lir restaurant, take to the cookery stage for a series of live demonstrations, showcasing simple dishes inspired by the finest local produce from the market.
The celebration will also shine a spotlight on the Council's Journey to Market programme, with entrepreneurs including Ballykenver Farmshop & Kitchen, Olive & Aster, Sushi by Shi Zen Garden, Ellie Bakes, Bloom & Flour, AJD Designs, McCluskey Pottery, Kimmie-Koo and Jo McNaughton sharing how they transformed their business ideas into successful market ventures.
Photography enthusiasts can meet Conor Edgell as he discusses the stories behind his striking images of the Causeway Coast, while visitors looking for inspiration in the kitchen can enjoy demonstrations from Papa's Mineral Company, featuring handcrafted traditional soft drinks, Tully Farm's expert summer barbecue tips, and Tom & Ollie's guide to creating the perfect artisan grazing board using locally sourced cheeses, charcuterie and seasonal produce.
Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Dawn Huggins, said: "Twenty years is a remarkable milestone, and one that reflects the passion, dedication and hard work of everyone who has helped make the Causeway Speciality Market such a success – from our traders and producers to the loyal customers and wider community who have supported it over the years.
"The market has become a much-loved part of Coleraine, where people come together to discover something unique, meet the faces behind local businesses and celebrate the incredible creativity and craftsmanship on offer. It plays an important role in supporting independent businesses while creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere in our town centre.
"I am delighted to invite residents and visitors alike to join us on Saturday as we celebrate this special anniversary. Whether you're a regular visitor or experiencing the market for the first time, I hope you'll come along, support our wonderful traders and enjoy what promises to be a fantastic day for everyone."
As well as exploring more than 50 artisan stalls, visitors can enjoy live demonstrations, sample award-winning local produce, meet the makers behind independent businesses and discover the stories that have helped shape one of Northern Ireland's most successful artisan markets over the last 20 years.
For the full programme and trader line-up, visit the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council website. Follow Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council's social media pages for updates:
No.9 Creations showcasing its handcrafted products at the Causeway Speciality Market in Coleraine.
Visitors browse the stalls at the Causeway Speciality Market in Coleraine town centre.
Big Ted's American Cookies, one of the artisan food traders at the Causeway Speciality Market.