Record Numbers attend Party In The Park

Record numbers descended upon the award-winning Antrim Castle Gardens for Party in The Park at the weekend. The raindrops might have been falling on their heads but still they arrived in their droves for this great free family day out.   Despite the damp start to the event the main event field was awash with picnic blankets and deck chairs as families and friends gathered to hear four hours of sensational music. Kicking of the music extravaganza was local band Rock n Rehab followed by the sensational superstars of the 70’s with their tribute acts to Smokie and the Bay City Rollers, Cher NI and This Way Up, the crowds were on their feet from the onset literally ‘dancing in the rain’.  

This annual event, now in its eighth year attracts thousands of visitors to the Borough and we were delighted to welcome a group from the Chernobyl Children appeal Northern Ireland to Party In The Park this year.   Deputy Mayor Councillor Anne Marie Logue who attended the event commented “I am thrilled to see the crowds here today, this is a great free event for families to enjoy in the award-winning Antrim Castle Gardens. The atmosphere is amazing and it is fabulous to see everyone here embracing the rain and enjoying Party In The Park to the full”.   Birthday Girl Arlene McFerran from Newtownabbey brought her Party to our Party as family and friends gathered to celebrate her special day.   Culture land was an added attraction to this year’s event entertaining the crowds with their dance performances and workshops which included Chinese Lion Dance, African Drumming and Bollywood dance.  

The face painting, arts & crafts tents and indoor cinema were packed throughout the day and over at the Parterre Gardens the crowds loved the puppet show, teacup rides and crazy golf.   This year’s Party in The Park was definitely no damp squib!