Bangor Town: The Colorful Open House Festival

Every August, the sleepy seaside town of Bangor Town comes alive with excitement and purpose when the Open House Festival arrives.

The Bangor Open House Festival features various events, including music acts, spoken word events, food and drink, and general culture. It is a month-long celebration of the incredible diversity and creativity that Northern Ireland offers its inhabitants.

Always Open: What the Festival Is.

Bangor’s Open House Festival had humble beginnings. Operated initially in Belfast in 1999, the Festival was moved to Bangor in 2013. It has been lovingly cultivated by organisers Kieran Gilmore and Alison Gordon. It stems from the Open House Charity – an independent charity focusing on music and the arts.

As suburban spaces decline in Northern Ireland due to the incredible development of the city centre of Belfast, Open House focuses explicitly on the regeneration of the Bangor seafront. It has already begun developing the old Bangor Court House (with help from the Heritage Lottery Fund), which is set to open in Spring 2021.

Not only is Open House responsible for developing one festival, but they also operate the Seaside Revival, a vintage festival celebrating Bangor’s past. They promote events year-round as well, organising performances in Bangor and Belfast. The Festival has boasted an impressive line-up past. Music acts such as Father John Misty, Joan Armatrading, Midlake, Lord Huron, Iron & Wine, The Water Boys, Steve Earle, and Martha Wainwright have all played on the hallowed stage.

The spoken word is also highly valued, and the Open House Festival has welcomed acclaimed persons like Noddy Holder, Ian Rankin, Lucy Caldwell, Wayne Hemingway, and Helen Pankhurst. This year’s performers continue to support this heritage of fantastic artists and intellects.

A Kaleidoscope of Events

One of the hallmarks of the Open House Festival is its diverse lineup of events, catering to a wide range of interests and tastes. From intimate acoustic gigs in cosy cafes to large-scale concerts in historic venues, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Music plays a central role in the festival, with genres spanning folk, blues, rock, jazz, and beyond. Local musicians share the stage with established acts, creating a vibrant tapestry of sounds reverberating throughout the town. Whether you’re a fan of foot-stomping folk tunes or soulful ballads, you’re sure to find a performance that speaks to your musical sensibilities.

In addition to live music, the Open House Festival offers many other activities to engage and inspire. Literary enthusiasts can attend author readings and book signings, while foodies can indulge in culinary delights at pop-up restaurants and food markets. Art exhibitions, workshops, and street performances abound, providing ample opportunities for cultural immersion and creative expression.

Artistry Unveiled

Artistic expression flourishes during the Open House Festival, with exhibitions, workshops, and installations showcasing the creativity of both local and international artists. Galleries, studios, and pop-up venues become vibrant spaces where imagination knows no bounds. Visitors can immerse themselves in visual arts, from traditional paintings and sculptures to contemporary multimedia installations pushing the boundaries of perception. Interactive experiences allow participants to engage directly with the creative process, fostering a sense of connection and inspiration.

Festival Fancies: This Year’s Music Line-Up.

 Without fail, the Open House Festival delivers an impressive selection of global talent to perform on Bangor’s seashore. This year is no different. Here are some of the names you should be checking out on the music stage:

1. The Staves
   

A trio of sisters, The Staves are a folk-rock band with haunting, three-part harmonies. Their music perfectly blends a folk-like sound with Americana. They have a wealth of experience, having toured with Bon Iver, The Civil Wars, First Aid Kit, and Ben Howard. After performing a sold-out gig in 2013 at the Open House, this is one not to miss.

LARKS will be opening for The Staves this summer. LARKS is the brainchild of local artist Fiona O’Kane, who uses sensual electronic music to accompany her heartfelt lyrics. LARKS’ latest release is a second collaboration with Arvo Party—a cover of Kate Bush’s Running Up That Hill.

2. Villagers
   

Dubliner Conor O’Brien’s musical project, Villagers, has reached much acclaim after winning the Ivor Novella Album Award in 2016 for their album Daring Arithmetic. An Irish indie/folk band, Villagers has toured with heavyweights like Tracey Chapman, Grizzly Bear, and Elbow and has worked with Paul Weller on his most recent album. This Open House, we can look forward to the performance of their fourth studio album, The Art of Pretending to Swim.

Joining Villagers this year, Portadown’s Conchúr White will be supporting them after the release of his debut single this summer.

3. The Specials
   

Celebrating the 40th anniversary of their debut album, The Specials will be playing on Bangor’s seafront this year. Arguably the defining voice of 70s ska, they will perform songs from over the years and their UK number-one album from 2019, Encore.

Supporting The Specials this year are bands that ska fans will be familiar with. The Skallions is an exciting eight-piece specialising in reggae-ska. They will be playing a 60-minute set of entirely original material. Also, The Vibes, a reggae collective from multiple bands, will perform a soulful reggae mix with influences from Northern Soul and Motown.

Culture Vultures: More Than Music.

While primarily a music festival, Open House features multiple cultural events to entertain every aspect of the arts. From spoken word to food pop-ups, here are a few stand-out events to catch:

1. Michael Parkinson
   

Open House welcomes Sir Michael Parkinson who will be conversing with his son Mike, to celebrate a career that has spanned decades. Having interviewed figures such as Nelson Mandela, Mick Jagger, Madonna, Muhammed Ali, to name a few, ‘Parky’ has been long established as the definitive name when we think of the British talk show host. Having interviewed George Best, Parkinson has recently released a memoir of Best’s life and will discuss it that evening.

2. Alan Johnson
   

The former Labour cabinet minister isn’t here to talk politics but music. Johnson’s latest book, In My Life, discusses the soundtrack of his life, exploring his youthful pursuits of being a rockstar, a postman, and finally, his political career. BBC political correspondent Stephen Walker will converse with Alan Johnson on his third visit to the festival and take us through a vivid career.

3. Ruby
   

No cultural festival would be complete without a mention of the theatre, and Open House has an impressive offering. Ruby is a powerful recounting of the life of 50s singer Ruby Murray. In a one-woman show, Libby Smyth stars as the tortured Ruby, bringing nuance and feeling to playwright Michael Cameron’s latest work.

4. ROAM
   

If you’re beginning to feel peckish, fret not. The festival boasts incredible food and drink pop-ups to delight the senses. A standout event is ROAM, a pop-up by Ryan Jenkins that has been selling out within days of announcing its events on social media. This event is running in conjunction with The Copeland Distillery and Neill Wine. Ryan will design a one-off, five-course meal around seasonal, organic, and local produce—something for everyone’s taste buds.

With a varied and exciting program, it is unsurprising that the Open House Festival brought £2.1 million into the local economy in August 2018 alone. Though the headline acts come with a price, plenty of activities, events, and talks are free to attend. It is a great way to provide cultural nourishment in a lazy summer.

For more information, check on their website: https://www.openhousefestival.com/

We hope you enjoyed our capture of the Bangor Town Open House Festival. Another great place worth visiting is Pickie Park, a fun open-air amusement park in Bangor! 

Community Spirit: Bringing People Together in Bangor Town

The Bangor Open House Festival’s strong community spirit sets it apart. From the dedicated volunteers who help organize the event to the local businesses that support it, the festival is a testament to the power of collaboration and cooperation.

Throughout the festival, you’ll find a host of community-led initiatives and events to bring people together. From street parties to neighbourhood clean-ups, these activities foster a sense of belonging and pride in the local area. It’s not just about entertainment; it’s about building connections and strengthening the fabric of the community.

Exploring the Riches of Northern Ireland’s Coastal Gems

Beyond the bustling streets of Bangor Town and the festivities of the Open House Festival, there are numerous attractions and points of interest waiting to be discovered in the surrounding area. Here are some notable ones:

1. North Down Coastal Path

Stretching for 16 miles along the scenic coastline, the North Down Coastal Path offers breathtaking views of Belfast Lough and the Irish Sea. Ideal for walkers and cyclists, this picturesque trail passes through quaint seaside villages, sandy beaches, and rugged cliffs, providing ample opportunities for outdoor exploration and wildlife spotting.

2. Mount Stewart House and Gardens

Located just a short drive from Bangor, Mount Stewart is a stunning 18th-century mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens and woodland. Managed by the National Trust, this historic estate boasts lavish interiors, including the famous Spanish Room and a world-renowned collection of plants and flowers. Visitors can wander through the formal gardens, explore the wooded trails, and enjoy guided house tours to learn about its fascinating history and architecture.

3. Castle Ward

Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough, Castle Ward is a unique and intriguing property owned by the National Trust. This 18th-century mansion features an unusual combination of Gothic and Classical architecture and is set amidst landscaped gardens and woodland. Visitors can explore the elegant interiors of the house, stroll through the scenic grounds, and even embark on a cycling adventure along the trails of Winterfell, as seen in the hit TV series “Game of Thrones,” filmed on location here.

4. Exploris Aquarium

Head to the Exploris Aquarium in nearby Portaferry for a fun and educational family outing. This award-winning attraction offers a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world of Northern Ireland, with interactive exhibits showcasing marine life from the Irish Sea and beyond. Highlights include touch tanks, feeding demonstrations, and underwater tunnels where visitors can get close to sharks, rays, and other aquatic creatures.

5. Ulster Folk Museum

Step back at the Ulster Folk Museum in Cultra, just a short drive from Bangor. This outdoor museum offers a glimpse into life in rural Ulster during the 19th and early 20th centuries, with a collection of historic buildings, including farmhouses, cottages, and shops, painstakingly preserved and recreated. Visitors can wander through the cobbled streets, chat with costumed interpreters, and experience traditional crafts and activities firsthand.

6. Scrabo Tower

Dominating the skyline above Newtownards, Scrabo Tower is a distinctive landmark offering panoramic views of County Down and beyond. Built in 1857 as a memorial to Charles Stewart, 3rd Marquess of Londonderry, this imposing structure stands atop Scrabo Hill, surrounded by scenic parkland. Visitors can climb the spiral staircase to the top of the tower for sweeping vistas of Strangford Lough, the Mourne Mountains, and the Ards Peninsula.

7. Crawfordsburn Country Park

Escape to nature at Crawfordsburn Country Park, a tranquil oasis just a short distance from Bangor. This idyllic parkland features wooded glens, meandering streams, and sandy beaches, providing the perfect backdrop for a stroll, a family picnic, or a spot of birdwatching. With walking trails, play areas, and barbecue facilities, it’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Looking to the Future

As the Bangor Open House Festival grows and evolves, its future looks brighter. Each year, the lineup becomes more diverse, the crowds larger, and the excitement palpable. But amidst the hustle and bustle, the festival remains true to its roots, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Bangor and its people.

In an increasingly digital world, events like the Bangor Open House Festival remind us of the importance of real-world experiences and human connections. They offer a chance to unplug, unwind, and immerse oneself in a vibrant community’s sights, sounds, and stories.

So whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or a first-time visitor, mark your calendar for the next Bangor Open House Festival. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget—a celebration of music, arts, and community spirit in one of Northern Ireland’s most picturesque towns.