Organised by Craigavon Borough Council in partnership with the Peace Builders Consortium, the free event was run as part of the Shared Process and Community Engagement Project (SPACE) and has been part financed by the EU’s PEACE III Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body.
On arrival, the Secret Garden was terrifyingly lit up with dramatic colours and eery smoke, while spine-chilling music added to the atmosphere, entertaining the crowds!
A fire juggler wowed gues
ts as they waited in line to be welcomed into the fairy-lit stretch tent by the Mad Hatter. All little gremlins were invited to take part in arts workshops, creating their own ‘mad hat’ and complete their look with glitter tattoos, face paints and balloon modelling!
Under the cloak of darkness, groups were introduced to a mystical tour guide who would lead them through the illuminated land. Each group had a mission, to help Willimena, the Friendly witch, on her quest to unlock the spell that had been cast over the gardens, keeping people out. Children were brave enough to journey through a bat cave, get past the nasty Gate Keeper and bring the tree lady back to life! The event was bursting with characters, performers, and sprinkled with magic and treats for all.
After young people and families successfully broke the evil spell on the Secret Garden, they had an opportunity to find out more about the Peoples Park project by watching videos and given literature in the ‘SPACE dome’ over free hot chocolate & toffee apples from Fosters Chocolate.
Over 6000 Flyers were delivered to local schools and businesses to help promote this event.