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Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has announced Creative Industries Week 2026, a borough-wide celebration of creativity, innovation and opportunity, taking place from 16 February 2026.

The week-long programme will feature a diverse mix of free events, practical workshops and networking sessions, designed to inform, inspire and empower people at every stage of their creative journey.

Whether you are exploring a new idea or growing an established creative business, Creative Industries Week offers valuable opportunities to learn new skills, connect with like-minded people and expand professional networks across the borough.

Supporting Creativity, Innovation and Economic Growth

Announcing Creative Industries Week, the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Jackson Minford, highlighted the importance of the sector:

“Our Creative Industries are far more than a sector – they are a vibrant engine of economic growth, innovation and community life.

They shape how we connect, communicate and imagine the future, and Council is delighted to deliver these events.”

He also emphasised the value of engaging young people through hands-on learning and creative experiences:

“Creativity drives opportunity across every corner of our economy. Through film, games, design and digital media, the Creative Industries don’t just reflect the world around us – they reimagine it and bring people together.”

Crafted Futures: Make, Learn, Sell

A key highlight of the programme is Crafted Futures: Make, Learn, Sell, a week-long creative initiative designed to help participants:

• Unlock their creative potential
• Gain hands-on making experience
• Learn how to turn creative passions into sustainable business ideas

The Crafted Futures programme will conclude with a special showcase event, giving participants the opportunity to present and celebrate their creations.

Wide Range of Creative Workshops Across the Borough

Creative Industries Week will host an exciting variety of public workshops, including:

• Floriography
• Cameraphone Photography
• Reel Creation for social media
• Photography Skills
• Lino Printing
• Sewing and Design
• Jewellery Making
• Baking demonstrations

These sessions are designed to encourage creative exploration while delivering accessible, practical skills that can be applied immediately.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Creative Talent

Young people will also benefit from a dedicated programme of school-based events, including:

• Special effects makeup and animation workshops with Cinemagic
• Theatre introductions delivered by Belfast School of Performing Arts in partnership with the Council’s Arts and Culture team
• Insights into real-life music studio environments and creative roles

Each workshop is designed to spark early interest in creative careers and highlight the breadth of opportunities within the creative industries sector.

A Launchpad for Creative Entrepreneurs

For anyone considering turning a hobby into a business or taking the first step into entrepreneurship, Creative Industries Week 2026 provides the ideal starting point.

The Council hopes the programme will inspire confidence, creativity and ambition, helping to shape the next chapter for many local creatives across Mid and East Antrim.

How to Book and Get Involved

The full programme of events and workshop booking links are available at:

www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/CIW2026

For further information, contact:
Email: amplify@midandeastantrim.gov.uk