Having returned to London after spending the last few weeks in Ireland, I find myself comparing one of the world’s most thrilling, exciting and culturally varied capital cities to my little old hometown of Belfast.  Despite huge differences in population and geographical size, during last weekend’s Culture Night, Belfast more than matched London in terms of art and culture, and it was amazing to witness!  The entire city was abuzz with performances, exhibitions, interactive events and workshops, and all for free!

Welcome to the Cathedral Quarter...



Thousands of culture vultures explored the vibrant world of the Cathedral Quarter, from toddlers proudly displaying their handmade headdresses to 80-year-olds dancing along to the Troubadours of Love parade, and all manner of Belfastian inbetween (I even spotted my former Biology teacher, and he’s a science man!).  Below you will find a selection of my photographs from the evening – I already can’t wait for next year’s Culture Night… Bring on 2013!




Daredevil bikers from T13 wow the crowds with their gravity-defying antics...




Revellers lend their talents to the Culture Night Community Mural...




Merge Dance Group fuse contemporary with breakdance for a unique dance experience...






The atmosphere at The MAC was electric! Party-goers were treated to exhibitions by Catalyst Arts and Johanna Billing, and a sneak preview of Tinderbox's upcoming production of Huzzies. I am still in awe of Mark Garry and The Thomas Devlin Fund's stunning installation, 'The Permanent Present' - it is just gorgeous! I could stand and look at it in wonder all day... (Please visit The Thomas Devlin Fund for more information on how to support this important charity).





St. Anne's Cathedral hosted Organ Recitals, building tours, a meditation flash mob and beautiful choral singing...




This blog has only shown about a thousandth of all the fantastic things that were going on at Culture Night Belfast but I hope it has given you a flavour of the inspiring, uplifting, all-round brilliant event that it was. A huge WELL DONE to everyone involved! #loveni





What Friday night is complete without an enormous pink dragon?!



Laura xxx