1 week Ago By [email protected] (Niall Deeney)
A festival celebrating fatherhood is set to return this summer, it has been announced. DaFest 25 is set to return to Comber Parkway Pitches in June this year following what organisers described as the "overwhelming success" of last year's event. The one-of-a-kind, free festival is dedicated to "honouring fatherhood while bringing families together for a day filled with laughter, entertainment and unforgettable memories" on Saturday, June 14, the organisers say.
Read more: MLA hits out after Health Service spends £125m at one private hospital Read more: Mourne fires raise evacuation plan concerns for council's gondola project It is organised by charity DadBodsNI, a group that encourages dads to connect via social media and weekly walks to share parenting tips, make friends and improve their physical and mental health. The organisers said: "With activities designed to appeal to all ages, this year’s event will include live music from local musicians, sports challenges, food stalls, fire service demonstrations and plenty of opportunities for dads to shine." Alan Tweedie, the festival’s main organiser, expressed his excitement about the event’s return.
“Last year’s festival was a phenomenal success, with families coming together to celebrate fatherhood in such a heartwarming way," he said. "We saw dads stepping up in for a tug-of-war, trying out firefighter outfits, doing their best dad dancing and just embracing the joy of family time. This year, we are building on that energy and creating even more magical moments.
” The festival, which is completely free, will feature a special Dad Appreciation Zone, where children can create personalised messages for their fathers, and a host of local bands providing live entertainment throughout the day. Community groups have also rallied behind the event, with stalls from Ulster Wildlife, Melted Parents, Glitter & Glow, and Dylan’s Starlight Trust as well as local businesses selling toys, trinkets, arts, crafts, prints and more. Alan Tweedie added: “Fatherhood plays such a crucial role in family life, and this festival is all about giving dads the recognition they deserve.
Whether you are a dad, stepdad, grandad, or a father figure, this day is for you and your family. We cannot wait to see families coming together again for another unforgettable experience.” DaFest 25 is expected to draw even larger crowds than last year and there is still time to sponsor the event to help create an even better festival and give back to the community.
The event is supported by various local and national organisations, including the Asda Foundation, Ards and North Down Borough Council, Active Parents NI and Bespoke Fire Safety. For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here..
