Belfast's Says It With Flowers. Roses

Roses are fun for everyone is the message from Belfast City Council as the city’s annual Rose Week – one of the premier family friendly events gets underway next Monday,16 July.



Besides the riot of colour from the roses there will be a host of other colours from the various activities on offer. These include face painting; magic show; a teddy bears picnic; a Ukulele Jam; hip-hop dancing; jiving; hanging basket workshops; football, food demonstrations; entertainers and music to add to the wonderful atmosphere.



The event is free and offers an opportunity for everyone in the family to try a new activity and to add to this year’s fun the council is asking visitors to name someone to whom they would gladly give a rose. Winners will receive one of the award winning rose plants from the Lord Mayor.



Nominations for the competition may be made on our social media – Facebook, Twitter or Instagram - using #roseweek18 accompanied by photos from the park or by using an entry form available from the information marquee.



Chair of the People and Communities Committee, Councillor Kate Nicholl, said: “Giving a rose plant will provide a lasting memory of visiting Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon may be Park during Rose Week. It is a fabulous family occasion with something to suit all ages.



“The programme shows something different on offer every day, especially in music choices, everything from jazz to band music – and there will be a two hour singalong on the final Sunday, which we hope a lot of people will join in,” added the councillor.



A free bus shuttle will ferry visitors from Belfast City Hall to Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park every 20 minutes throughout the week.



“Rose Week is one of the city’s premier events attracting thousands to the gardens every day and most of the activities are also free. It is a brilliant opportunity to get into the fresh air and enjoy one of our greatest amenities – our parks,” said Councillor Nicholl.



“There is also the excitement of the City of Belfast Rose Trials which takes place on Friday, 20 July and for those keen to learn more about the flowers the Rose Society of Northern Ireland have a marquee beside Wilmont House offering advice on how to grow them.



Refreshments are available on site from the Catering Marquee or the Stables Coffee Shop. More information on Rose Week and the activities offered each day is available on our website www.belfastcity.gov.uk/roseweek



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