Michael Long, a former Lord Mayor of Belfast, is advocating for a new series of cultural events under the banner “Belfast 2024” to rejuvenate the city. The initiative, which is set to run from March to November 2024, aims to boost tourism and increase footfall in the city center, which has struggled since the Covid-19 pandemic and a significant fire at the Primark store in 2018.
The £5.9 million program, billed as the city’s “biggest ever creative and cultural celebration,” includes 24 major projects such as an immersive experience at Thompson Dry Dock, public art inspired by nature, a partnership event with the Eden Project, and various music events. While 17 projects have already been commissioned, details for the remaining seven are still being finalized.
Long, a councillor from the Alliance Party, believes these events could be a “game-changer” for Belfast but expressed concern that there isn’t enough public awareness about the initiative. He emphasized the importance of promoting the events to ensure both local and international attendance.
Belfast City Council has made a significant financial contribution to the program, with the goal of making the city center more vibrant and welcoming. A council spokesperson highlighted that the investment in the cultural sector would support jobs, attract visitors, and encourage community participation in the arts.