UU and Council look forward to wicked Derry Halloween programme
22 October 2024
Ulster University is joining forces with Derry City and Strabane District Council with support announced today for the Derry Halloween programme.
As part of its wider community and regional engagement campaign launching in September, the university is currently exploring new ways of promoting the region and all it has to offer. Working in partnership with Council and other stakeholders, Ulster University is focused on enhancing the rich cultural offering of Derry and the wider North West, and building on its profile as an attractive place to study, work and visit.
Derry Halloween over the years has developed into a major international showcase for the city, drawing tens of thousands of visitors each year. It’s just one of a number of Council led festivals supported this year by Ulster University, and it’s hoped the partnership will continue as part of the drive to create and develop exciting cultural experiences for all to enjoy.
Council and the university already work closely as strategic partners on a range of significant projects, and this is just the latest collaboration to benefit both citizens and students at the Derry~Londonderry Campus.
Looking ahead to Halloween, Festival and Events Manager with Council, Jacqueline Whoriskey, said: “Council already has a strong collaborative partnership with Ulster University in terms of our work on the City Deal projects and our shared ambitions for the growth and development of the university and the economic and social benefits that will bring.
“Derry Halloween is the perfect example of what can be achieved in terms of delivering international scale events, and the great potential to develop further experiences to benefit the local economy, if we have the right support. Partnership working is key to realising that potential, so I really welcome the ongoing support from Ulster University, and our other cultural partners.”
Ulster University plays a key role in the rich culture of Derry and is a hub for the thriving creative and technology industries and a nucleus for drama, music and cinematic arts. Through the organising and hosting of local, national and international events and conferences the Derry~Londonderry campus brings visitors, students and staff to the North West creating a halo effect for local tourism.
Professor Malachy O'Neill, Director of Regional Engagement, Ulster University, said: “At Ulster University, our mission is to be a driving force for positive change in the North West region. We are connected to the community, fostering a rich cultural landscape, and creating lasting impact. Our partnerships with local stakeholders such as Derry City & Strabane District Council are pivotal in transforming the city in a vibrant hub of culture and innovation. We are proud to support the flagship events that regionally define the city as a festival destination and following the huge success of City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival and Foyle Maritime Festival we look forward to a spell-binding programme of events at Halloween.”
Derry Halloween is delivered by Derry City and Strabane District Council and funded by Tourism Northern Ireland and The Executive Office, with support from Ulster University and Air Coach.
Follow all the latest news at derryhalloween.com or keep up to date with the Derry Halloween Facebook page.