ARMAGH F E S T I VAL 2 0 17
23 - 26 NOVEMBER 2017
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rmagh’s much loved Georgian Festival returns for a long weekend packed full of events celebrating our heritage. The festival commences with ‘The Great Georgian Banquet’ hosted at the Archbishop’s Palace. On Georgian Day, step back in time into a Georgian winter wonderland as the historic streets are transported back to the bygone era. Visitors can indulge in seasonal treats and entertainment at the ‘Hot Food Village’ with mulled wine, mince pies and roasted chestnuts. As darkness falls, the dramatic ‘Five Gold Rings!’ light show will burst into life, illuminating the backdrop of the Georgian Market House adding to the festive atmosphere. The ‘Mock Trials’ in Armagh’s Georgian Courthouse offers a fascinating and fun insight into the harshness of the Georgian legal system! Themed walks, talks and workshops run throughout the weekend. Uncover the secrets behind the Georgian doorways around the historical setting of the Mall with the ‘Shades of the Past Night Tours’. The finale of the festival, the ‘Georgian Hidden Gems Tour’, provides a journey back in time and a peek into some Georgian private residences. For ticketed events, it is advisable to book early to avoid disappointment.
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THE GREAT BANQUET
FRI 24 NOV | 7.00PM - 12.00 MIDNIGHT THE PALACE DEMESNE, ARMAGH | DRESS CODE: BLACK TIE
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A complete sell-out in 2016, travel through the mists of time to Georgian Armagh, where an evening of gastronomy like no other awaits you at the Archbishop’s Palace! This beautiful Palace built in 1770 opens its doors for guests to enjoy its lavish surroundings and to experience a flavour of Georgian high society. Meet Georgian characters who will entertain you with the music and stories of the time. Our sumptuous five-course menu and fine wines evoke the menus of the time, all served with a modern twist. This year’s menu includes an artisan gin reception. This is an evening not to be missed! Book early to avoid disappointment! Special overnight accommodation rates are available for those attending ‘The Great Georgian Banquet’ at the Armagh City Hotel or the Charlemont Arms Hotel. When booking please quote ‘Georgian Banquet’ to avail of special package rates.
£85.00 2 B = Pre-Booking Essential
NEW FOR 2017
SHADES OF THE PAST SHADES OF NIGHT TOURS HORSE AND THE PAST FRI 24 NOV | SAT 25 NOV | SUN 26 NOV THECARRIAGE ART OF RIDES 5.00PM - 6.00PM & 7.00PM - 8.00PM SILHOUETTE & 8.30PM - 9.30PM ON THE MALL THE MALL, ARMAGH
FRI 24 NOV 6.00PM - 7.00PM B ARMAGH COUNTY MUSEUM
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SUITABLE FOR ALL AGE GROUPS
Uncover the secrets behind the Georgian doorways around the historical setting of the Mall, a racecourse in previouscarriage centuries! Sit back cutter and enjoy rideDon’t delay to book your Silhouette and a traditional horse-drawn guided evening walking tour where you will explore around the iconic Georgian Mall, in a stylish coach historian Steve Abbotttree-lined will the hidden history of Armagh. Hear intriguing stories take in the beauty distinctive Georgian give aand demonstration and of Armagh’s such as an uprising by unruly schoolboys and listen talk on silhouette cutting architecture. to tales of sad souls who met their death during the Georgian era. at Armagh Gaol. View some of the silhouettes housed within Armagh Asis the tour is outdoors warm clothes & suitable Armagh BT61 7BA. Warm clothing advised. County Museum’s collection walking shoes are recommended. Meeting point is at and take home a silhouette The Boer War Memorial/cannon, The Mall. memento. This event will conclude with light £2.50 refreshments.
SUITABLE FOR ALL AGE GROUPS
£5.00
3 B = Pre-Booking Essential
WATCH OUT FOR THE SHADES OF THE PAST SILHOUETTES ON THE MALL FROM FRI 24 NOV
CRIME AND PUNISHMENT TALK
MOCK TRIALS AND COURTHOUSE TOURS
SAT 25 NOV | 11.00AM - 12.00 NOON ARMAGH COURTHOUSE B
SAT 25 NOV | 1.00PM - 2.00PM & 3.00PM - 4.00PM ARMAGH COURTHOUSE B
Notorious body snatchers Burke & Hare, who came from counties Tyrone and Armagh, are synonymous with Georgian crime and punishment. Join Janet Philp, lecturer at the Department of Anatomy, Edinburgh University to hear how they carried out their nefarious deeds and how the early 19th Century justice system tracked them down and issued their punishment. After the talk you will have the opportunity to take a short tour of the Courthouse.
A complete sell-out in 2016, the doors of Armagh’s Georgian Courthouse will open once again for this unique event. The mock trials are set to rekindle the harshness of the Georgian legal system with an interactive (and hilarious) trial. Come along and immerse yourself in this spectacle of rough justice and possibly be part of the jury! After the trial you will have the opportunity to take a short tour of the Courthouse. Recommended for adults and children over 10 years.
Recommended for adults and children over 10 years.
ADULT £8.00 | CHILD £5.00
ADULT £8.00 | CHILD £5.00
4 B = Pre-Booking Essential
NEW FOR 2017
GEORGIAN ARMAGH A PERSPECTIVE FROM DAN CRUICKSHANK SAT 25 NOV | 8.00PM | ROYAL SCHOOL, ARMAGH
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Georgian Festival Armagh is delighted to welcome world-renowned historian and BBC broadcaster Dan Cruickshank for a fascinating discussion on Armagh’s Georgian architectural heritage. Dan, best known for his popular series Britain’s Best Buildings, Around the World in 80 Treasures and What the Industrial Revolution Did For Us, is no stranger to the city and has written extensively about Armagh’s importance from both an architectural and historic perspective. Hosted in the magnificent surroundings of the Royal School, this is an exclusive event not to be missed.
£12.50
5 B = Pre-Booking Essential
NEW FOR 2017
GEORGIAN HIDDEN GEMS TOUR
HORSE AND CARRIAGE RIDES ON THE MALL
SUN 26 NOV | 10.00AM - 3.00PM
Sit back and enjoy a traditionalDEPARTS horse-drawnFROM carriageARMAGH ride CITY HOTEL B around the iconic tree-lined Georgian Mall, in a stylish coach fabulous guided Georgian-themed coach tour through Armagh City and surrounding and take Enjoy in theabeauty of Armagh’s distinctive Georgian rural area. architecture. You will have the chance to visit two privately-owned Georgian residences not normally open to the public. First stop is Crannagael House where you will meet the Nicholson family and learn how they live today in an 18th Century home. Enjoy morning coffee here then meet the owners of Dean’s Hill and learn about the history of the original Deanery built 1772Warm followed by aistwo-course Armagh BT61in 7BA. clothing advised. lunch, served in the family dining room. As the buildings on the tour are over 200 years old, accessibility may be restricted. Please advise of access requirements at the time of booking.
£45.00
6 B = Pre-Booking Essential
GEORGIAN DAY SAT 25 NOV| 11.00AM - 8.00PM ARMAGH CITY CENTRE Over 100 merchants will line the streets with beautiful artisan produce and crafted goods, including a food village. Live music will fill the streets with festive melodies and street entertainers will be full of seasonal flair! Free Georgian Day Park & Ride available from various locations on the outskirts of the city. Visit www.armagh.co.uk/georgian for more information.
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TOUR OF ARMAGH OBSERVATORY AND ASTROPARK SAT 25 NOV | DEPARTS 11.00AM & 1.00PM FROM ARMAGH PLANETARIUM || £7.00 B Observatory building, the Human Orrery and the Astropark are included as part of the tour. You will hear about the Observatory’s history, its current scientific research and its programmes of Science in the Community. Tours last approximately 90 minutes. Light refreshments served. Recommended for adults and children over 10 years.
SILHOUETTE CUTTER SAT 25 NOV | 11.00AM - 1.00PM | ARMAGH COUNTY MUSEUM SAT 25 NOV | 1.30PM - 5.00PM | ARMAGH ROBINSON LIBRARY || FREE Portrait silhouettes became all the rage in fashionable Georgian society when they were known as “shades”. Have your silhouette cut on Georgian Day as a great momento for you to keep.
HOT FOOD VILLAGE SAT 25 NOV | 11.00AM - 8.00PM | LINENHALL STREET || FREE ENTRY Relax, sample the festivities and dine alfresco at the Georgian Day hot food village with an abundance of street foods, artisan food and drink specialities to purchase and entertainment to enjoy.
8 B = Pre-Booking Essential
GINGERBREAD ALLEY SAT 25 NOV - FRI 22 DEC | THE MARKET PLACE THEATRE || FREE Your chance to view the stunning gingerbread creations by local chefs and bakeries. This year’s gingerbread theme is “Happily Ever After”. The winning creation will be announced at 3.00pm on Georgian Day.
CHILDREN’S CRAFT WORKSHOP SAT 25 NOV | 12.00 NOON - 4.00PM | ARMAGH SHOPPING CENTRE, THOMAS STREET || FREE Drop in family Christmas craft workshop. Suitable for all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS MARKET SAT 25 NOV | 1.00PM - 7.00PM | THE SHAMBLES YARD || FREE ENTRY Features a large traditional carousel and a selection of Christmas stalls for little visitors. Traditional games, story telling, craft workshops, music, snow globe, real reindeer and as darkness falls, large lanterns and fire performances. Charges apply for some activities.
9 B = Pre-Booking Essential
NEW FOR 2017
GEORGIAN WALKING TOURS SAT 25 NOV DEPARTS 12.00 NOON & 3.00PM FROM DANSKE BANK, MARKET STREET Learn more about Georgian Armagh, its buildings and history on this free guided tour which takes you through the city streets. Take in the panoramic views as you ascend one of Armagh’s famous hills. Suitable footwear recommended. Please be aware that tours may contain steps, slopes and hills. No Booking Required.
FREE
GEORGIAN GIN SCHOOL
‘FIVE GOLD RINGS!’ ANIMATED LIGHT SHOW SAT 25 NOV | 5.00PM, 6.00PM, 7.00PM, 8.00PM MARKET SQUARE B An unmissable experience as Armagh lights up for Christmas. Join us for a spectacular celebration and a truly magical experience as Market House bursts into life with a dramatic light show, transforming this beautiful Georgian building into a shimmering canvas. Set to festive music and with a few surprises, ‘Five Gold Rings!’ will be a show to remember!
FREE 10 B = Pre-Booking Essential
SAT 25 NOV 7.00PM - 8.00PM ARMAGH COUNTY CLUB, UPPER ENGLISH STREET
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The Georgian era was the height of the “gin craze”, when a staggering 10 litres per person a year was consumed! Promising to be a Georgian Festival highlight, Listoke Distillery & Gin School will deliver the ultimate masterclass as you get to watch and help make gin! Places are limited so book early to avoid disappointment. Strictly over 18s only.
£20.00
HORSE AND CARRIAGE RIDES ON THE MALL
HORSE AND CARRIAGE RIDES ON THE MALL
Sit back and enjoy a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride around the iconic tree-lined Georgian Mall, in a stylish coach and take in the beauty of Armagh’s distinctive Georgian architecture.
SAT 25 NOV | 11.00AM - 7.00PM | SUN 26 NOV | 11.00AM - 4.00PM DEPARTS FROM THE FUSILIERS MUSEUM ON MALL EAST B
Sit back and enjoy a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride around the iconic tree-lined Georgian Armagh 7BA. Warmand clothing advised. Mall in aBT61 stylish coach take inisthe beauty of Armagh’s distinctive Georgian architecture. A limited number of tickets will be available on the day from Armagh Visitor Information Centre, 40 Upper English Street, Armagh BT61 7BA. Warm clothing is advised.
£3 SHARED CARRIAGE (CAPACITY 5) | £15 PRIVATE CARRIAGES (CAPACITY 4)
11 B = Pre-Booking Essential
GEORGIAN GENTRY SAT 25 NOV | 11.00AM - 5.00PM | ARMAGH ROBINSON LIBRARY || FREE Enjoy the company of one of our ‘gentry’ characters, listen to the music and learn about the language of the fan. Demonstrations throughout the day. In Georgian times sealing wax was used for posting letters. Drop into number 5 Vicars’ Hill and learn more about this custom.
GEORGIAN FANFARE SAT 25 NOV | 11.30AM - 12.30PM | ARMAGH CITY LIBRARY || £5.00
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Make your own Georgian fan in a workshop conducted by an experienced tutor who will not only provide expert guidance, but also a wealth of knowledge about the history and language of the fan in Georgian times.
GEORGIAN POETRY SLAM SAT 25 NOV | 1.00PM - 2.00PM | ARMAGH CITY LIBRARY || £5.00
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Join Armagh Theatre Group for an afternoon of stories from the archives. Enjoy recitals from a collection of novels, poems and letters from a catalogue of prolific Irish, English and Scottish authors from the ‘Romantic Period’, including Jane Austen, Thomas Moore, Robert Burns and many more.
12 B = Pre-Booking Essential
GORGEOUS GEORGIAN SAT 25 NOV | 2.00PM | THE RESIDENCE, ARMAGH ROBINSON LIBRARY B Witness our model being transformed into a gorgeous Georgian lady - learn about how she would dress, the makeup she wore and enjoy a demonstration of the language of the fan. £2.50 NEW FOR 2017
THE GREAT GEORGIAN SCIENCE SHOW
COFFEE AND GOSSIP SAT 25 NOV | 5.00PM - 6.00PM ARMAGH COUNTY CLUB, UPPER ENGLISH STREET B
Celebrate Georgian Day this year by peeping behind the fine curtain of Georgian life at The Great Georgian Science Show on Vicars’ Hill. Enjoy the theatre and comedy of medicine practised as you have never seen it before! Meet gravedigger and surgeon James ‘Mad Hatter’ Hatfield and his willing accomplice and get involved in a series of experiments!
Georgian characters tell the story of how this “bitter gruel” brought people together, and inspired brilliant ideas that made the modern, enlightened world. You’ll even have the opportunity to taste some of the “newfangled abominable heathenish liquor called COFFEE” that 18th Century women complained had reduced their men to effeminate gossipers.
£2.50
£2.50
SAT 25 NOV | 4.00PM | THE MUSIC HALL, VICARS’ HILL
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13 A B = Pre-Booking Essential
THE ROBINSON LECTURE WED 22 NOV | 7.00PM THE PALACE DEMESNE, ARMAGH THURS 23 NOV | 2.00PM BANBRIDGE ACADEMY Public astronomy lecturer Professor Louise Harra from University College London presents ‘Solar Orbiter - A Journey Towards the Sun: Exploring the Sun and Space Weather.’ Booking in advance advisable for Banbridge Academy event. Call T: +44 (0)28 4062 3220
FREE
THE ROKEBY LECTURE THURS 23 NOV | 7.30PM ARMAGH ROBINSON LIBRARY This year’s Rokeby Lecture will discuss Gulliver’s Travels, as the most widely read book ever written by an Irish writer. Professor Ian Campbell Ross marks the 350th anniversary of the birth of its author, Jonathan Swift. Booking in advance advisable. Call T: +44 (0)28 3752 3142 or E: admin@armaghrobinsonlibrary.co.uk
£2.50
14 B B = Pre-Booking Essential
GEORGIAN SEWING WORKSHOP FRI 24 NOV 12.00 NOON - 4.00PM THE MARKET PLACE THEATRE, ARMAGH Drop in and learn about costumes worn during the Georgian period. Get a chance to make a small Georgian item to wear on Georgian Day or get help and advice on making your own authentic costume. FREE
To pre-book events visit: armagh.co.uk/georgian Or alternatively contact: Armagh Visitor Information Centre 40 Upper English Street, Armagh BT61 7BA
+44 (0)28 3752 1800 vic@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk VisitArmagh Visit_Armagh
For overnight accommodation visit: armagh.co.uk/accommodation The Armagh Georgian Festival is kindly supported by Tourism NI.
B = Pre-Booking Essential