Get Hands On
Floral Art Workshops
Get creative with flowers! Join the NIGFAS team in the Floral Design Theatre for fun, guided sessions where you’ll make your own beautiful Floral Adornment using seasonal blooms.
Workshop times: 12.30-1pm and 3.30-4pm daily
Max 15 participants per session
With step-by-step guidance and all materials provided, there’s no need to bring anything but your enthusiasm.
Craft , Create and Explore with Craft NI
Head to the Craft Village to see talented makers in action throughout the day:
- Ulster Woodturners – Discover the art of woodturning and what’s possible with this popular and rewarding hobby
- Joel Smyth, Jeweller – Watch local silversmith Joel at work as he crafts stunning handmade jewellery
- Stephen Ryan, Green Woodwork Ireland – Experience traditional craftsmanship with wood turning on a classic pole lathe
- Redsmiths Forge – See coppersmiths Matthew and Caron create beautiful pieces using age-old techniques in this captivating metal.
Come along, get involved and be inspired by the skills and stories behind the craft!
Step into the Wild with Bushcraft
Take part in bushcraft activities with the Wild Walk team including:
- Join a Foraging Walk – Learn to identify useful plants and trees around Castle Gardens for food, medicine, or craft
- Spoon Carving – Carve your own wooden spoon using simple hand tools
- Tool Sharpening – Get advice from Dave on how to use and maintain essential woodsman tools
- Shelter Building – Help build a primitive group shelter using only natural materials
- Firecraft – Try creating fire using traditional techniques—no matches allowed!
Whether you’re learning a new skill or exploring the old ways of living, there’s plenty to get involved in. Come along and give it a go!
Fly Casting and Tying
APGAI Ireland (The Association of Professional Game Angling Instructors) returns to Garden Show Ireland, offering free expert instruction in the art of fly fishing.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to fine-tune your technique, come along and learn the basics of fly casting and fly tying from some of the finest instructors in the industry.
You’ll find the APGAI stand along the banks of the Sixmile Water, set within the stunning Victorian Pleasure Gardens — the perfect backdrop to cast a line and discover the joy of angling.
No experience needed. Just drop in and give it a try!
Workshop with the Flower Farmers
Explore the beauty of locally grown blooms with expert-led workshops and demos including:
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Seed to Vase – Learn how to grow cut flowers from seed and turn them into stunning seasonal bouquets.
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Sustainable Floristry – Create foam-free, eco-friendly arrangements using local flowers and reusable mechanics.
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Multiply Supply – Boost your garden by dividing perennials and taking cuttings for a sustainable flower supply.
Family-Friendly Activities
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Flower Crown Activity – Decorate your own compostable flower crown with fresh blooms.
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Seedling Activity – Plant a seedling in a mini paperpot to take home and grow.