Big thank you from Lisburn.com

`Fire and Light Show' to light up Moira skyline

Launching Northern Ireland's first international Hot Air Balloon Festival with the Mayor of Lisburn, Councillor Brian Heading, Maurice Jay, U105 presenter, Kathryn Thomson, Chief Operating Officer, Northern Ireland Tourist Board; Paul Burrows and Alderman Jim Dillon, Chairman of the Council's Economic Development Committee.

Launching Northern Ireland's first international Hot Air Balloon Festival with the Mayor of Lisburn, Councillor Brian Heading, Maurice Jay, U105 presenter, Kathryn Thomson, Chief Operating Officer, Northern Ireland Tourist Board; Paul Burrows and Alderman Jim Dillon, Chairman of the Council's Economic Development Committee.

THE village of Moira is set to be lit up with a dramatic 'Fire and Light Show' when it hosts Northern Ireland's first international Hot Air Balloon Festival from August 27 to 29.

In addition to the colourful display of hot air balloons during daylight hours, on Saturday and Sunday evenings at approximately 9pm the 'Fire and Light Show' will see up to 15 balloon pilots will ignite burners and transform the night sky to the sound of music in a dramatic display of colour, light and sound.

The event is taking place in the 40 acre parkland of Moira Demesne and up to 30 hot air balloons will put on a number of impressive colourful displays morning and evening over the course of the three day event.

The Mayor of Lisburn, Councillor Brian Heading, said he was delighted that the Lisburn City Council area will be the location for the Province's very first such event.

"I would encourage everyone to come along on at least one of the days and see the spectacular sight of these colourful hot air balloons" he said.

Alderman Jim Dillon, Chairman of the Council's Economic Development Committee added: "It gives me great pleasure to confirm the support that the Council's Tourism Unit has provided to this event through both the organisation of activities and also financial assistance.

"This three day event has something to offer everyone; there will be live music, a fun fair and an artisan food festival with over 25 gourmet producers offering delights that will include Armagh cider, specialty cheeses, crepes, fresh breads strawberries and cream."

Susie McCullough, Director of Marketing & Events at NITB, said: "The Northern Ireland Tourist Board is delighted to support this innovative festival which will not only bring colour to Moira but help generate a "feel good" factor for all to enjoy."

Under 16s can enter the event for free when accompanied by an adult and there will be plenty for younger visitors to enjoy such as bouncy castles, a bucking bronco, bungee trampolines and much more.

 https://www.northernirelandballoonfestival.com/ and visit the Kid's Corner to get the children in 'balloon mode'.

If you wish to attend the event tickets can be purchased online at. https://www.northernirelandballoonfestival.com/

For those who prefer to order tickets over the phone, or collect them in person, contact Lisburn Tourist Information Centre on 9266 0038 or the Hillsborough TIC on 9268 9717.

Ulster Star
12/08/2011