1,000 visitors celebrate tradition and creativity at Spinning Yarns Festival

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council welcomed more than 1,000 visitors to this year’s Spinning Yarns Festival, a two day event showcasing craft, storytelling, and community spirit.

The festival brought the beauty of wool and linen to life with a bustling marketplace, live demonstrations from the Ulster Guild of Spinners, Weavers and Dyers, bobbin lace making, and even some friendly alpacas.

Families enjoyed free entertainment, while crafters of all ages explored workshops ranging from peg loom weaving and micro thread crochet to spoon carving, foraging and fibre, and sashiko, each offering an opportunity to learn new skills and take home a handmade creation.

A highlight of the weekend was the return of top crochet designer Eleonora Tully, who inspired audiences with her keynote talk celebrating 10 years of her Coastal Crochet designs.

Sharing insights into her design journey, Eleonora entertained both beginners and experienced makers with her creative process and practical advice.

Reflecting on the festival’s success, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, said: “Spinning Yarns is a wonderful celebration of our Borough’s textile traditions and creative talent.

“The festival has become a firm favourite in our cultural calendar, offering something for everyone, from hands-on workshops and inspiring demonstrations to tasty bites and fun for all the family.

“It was fantastic to see such colour, craft, and community spirit brought to life with so many visitors joining us this year despite the changeable weather!”