24/05/2013

BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend Begins

Culture Minister, Carál Ní Chuilín, has welcomed the start of the BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend in Ebrington Square, L'Derry.

The Minister said: "I am sure this weekend will be one of the highlights of the City of Culture programme for many young people. It will bring people together from every part of the North and every walk of life to celebrate music. This is a unique opportunity to see a range of high profile artists and DJs right on their doorstep.

"There is tremendous buzz and atmosphere in the city and the North West. Hotels, suppliers and local companies are all gaining commercially from the City of Culture. There remains a need to keep focusing on employment and economic opportunities for the city.

"All of this combined with the positive images of the city being shown on TV, streamed online and the huge audience listening in on the radio will help to ensure that the City of Culture continues to grow in confidence."

Commenting on the lasting effects of City of Culture, the Minister said: "Behind the scenes and away from the limelight there are also direct local community improvements. In the lead up to the Big Weekend, the BBC Academy has been providing a series of workshops to young people giving them an opportunity to gain valuable music and media industry skills. This will be one legacy of the Big Weekend as this practical advice and insight helps those participants to take the next steps on their chosen career path."

(CD)

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

07 March 2022
Armagh City, Banbridge And Craigavon Bid For UK City Of Culture
Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon would "unleash its huge creative potential" if it was named UK City of Culture 2025 The honour would put in place foundations for an inclusive, diverse and culturally-rich society for future generations, a London event showcasing the region has heard.
20 August 2021
Armagh City Official Contender For UK City Of Culture 2025
Armagh City is among the contenders to be named UK City of Culture 2025, competing against a record number of entrants.
19 July 2011
Belfast Launches Olympic Countdown Events
Belfast City Council is to mark the one year countdown to the London 2012 Olympics with a weekend of events at the City Hall and Ormeau Park.
28 May 2013
Big Weekend Hailed A Success
35,000 people attended Radio 1's Big Weekend in L'Derry over the weekend, leading the council to brand the event as "an outstanding success for the city".
31 January 2013
BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend Heads To L'Derry
BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend will return in May, heading to L'Derry and for the first time will be extended to three days. The extravaganza will kick off on Friday 24 May, where there will be a day focused on dance music and BBC Radio 1Xtra plus the usual two huge days of big name acts and fresh new music on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 May.