The History, Heritage and Culture of Ireland and Northern Ireland can be felt the world over. Lisburn is a City with a very diverse heritage.  Culture creates vibrancy and enriches the lives of the local citizens.  The Cultural identity can be explored through arts, music, song, dance, poetry and performance.

The Gaelic or Irish language can still be found in many of the first, surnames and place names throughout Northern Ireland. Some links to Irish names and culture go back to 1,000 years ago, this is evident throughout the Lisburn City Council Area. Lisburn was founded in the early 17th Century and its name in Irish is Lios na gCearbhach or Lisnagarvey, which translated means the 'Fort of Gamesters'.  Other examples include Ballinderry the 'town of the oakwood'. Derriaghy the 'valley of oak trees' and Drumbeg the 'little ridge'.  For further information on the history of Lisburn and place names log onto www.lisburn.com

There is also an Ulster Scots tradition within the Lisburn City Area.  Ulster Scots have been in Ulster from the beginning of the 17th century when a large number of people arrived from Scotland encouraged by the London Government to purchase land and settle in Ulster. In the 17th Century the Ulster linen industry was established by Presbyterian Scots and Huguenot settlers. Many Ulster Scots maintain their cultural identity through tradional language and costume as well as music including the fiddle,drums, highland pipes, song and of course highland dancing, Scottish country dancing and Ulster Scots square and country dancing.

Lisburn City Councils commitment to work with individuals and community groups on culture and identity is explored through the Good Relations Officer.   Through a variety of activities the officer explores issues that help build a shared future for all of our citizens.  For further information contact David Mitchell on 028 92509250.