Arts & Culture in Mid & East Antrim

Welcome to the vibrant world of arts and culture in Mid & East Antrim! Whether you're a local looking for a creative spark or a visitor eager to immerse yourself in our rich heritage, you're in for a treat. Our borough is brimming with artistic flair, historical treasures, and cultural experiences that will captivate your imagination and leave you wanting more.

The Braid Arts Centre

At the heart of our cultural scene stands The Braid Arts Centre, a true gem in Ballymena. Named after the river that winds through our town, The Braid is more than just a building – it's a hub of creativity and community spirit. Here, history, arts, and culture are woven together, creating a range of experiences for all to enjoy.

Step inside The Braid Theatre, and you'll find yourself in a world of entertainment. From side-splitting comedies to heart-wrenching dramas, and from foot-tapping musicals to thought-provoking performances, our theatre hosts a diverse range of shows that cater to all tastes. Keep an eye on our 'What's On' section – you never know what theatrical delights await!

But The Braid is more than just a theatre. It's a place where creativity flourishes in all its forms. Fancy trying your hand at jewellery making or pottery? Or perhaps you'd like to brush up on your painting skills? Our arts workshops offer something for everyone, from complete beginners to seasoned artists.

The Mid-Antrim Museum

For history buffs and curious minds alike, our museums are a treasure trove of fascinating stories and artefacts. The Mid-Antrim Museum, housed within The Braid, takes you on a journey through time, exploring the rich tapestry of mid-Antrim's past. From prehistoric times to the present day, you'll discover how our landscape and people have shaped each other over millennia.

Carrickfergus Museum

Venture a little further afield, and you'll find Carrickfergus Museum, where the town's medieval past comes to life. Here, you can delve into the experiences of ordinary people and the dramatic events that have shaped this historic town. With hands-on interactives and audio-visual presentations, it's history at its most engaging.

Larne Museum and Arts Centre

Not to be outdone, Larne Museum and Arts Centre offers its own unique perspective on our borough's heritage. Housed in a beautiful Victorian building, it showcases everything from our strong maritime links to our rich folk traditions. It's a perfect blend of the past and present, with a rotating gallery of temporary exhibitions to keep things fresh and exciting.

Explore Your Ballymena Area Roots

You may begin to explore your roots by talking to your extended family or looking at the birth, marriage and death documentation, but there is also a wide range of other resources available through records offices, museums and family history societies.

Those researching family history are likely to find themselves looking at graveyard inscriptions at some stage in their investigations.

Exploring graveyards can provide vital information for tracing ancestors and confirming family connections to townlands or places.

Graveyards come in many shapes and sizes and vary greatly in age, but all can have great value in providing key information about those interred.

Mid- Antrim Museum has details of headstone inscriptions from almost all the graveyards in the former Ballymena Borough area. You will be able to search the available records by place and name.

Conferencing Facilities

Need a venue for your next big event? Look no further than our top-notch conferencing facilities. Whether you're planning a business meeting, a wedding, or a community gathering, we've got the perfect space for you.

So, whether you're a culture vulture, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun day out, Mid & East Antrim has got you covered. Our arts and culture scene is as diverse and vibrant as the people who call this borough home. Come and explore, learn, create, and be inspired. We can't wait to welcome you!