Social Programmes

Your social programme can be one of the most critical aspects of your conference; most organisers will admit that their first criterion is for something different, something unique that gives delegates a true flavour of their host city and a social experience, the memory of which, will remain long after the event has reached a successful conclusion. Our members are progressive and creative; together they can help you conceive a social programme that is innovative and justifiable. Your delegates will leave with a lasting impression of a successful and enjoyable conference where the social programme allowed them to establish productive business relationships and strong and fruitful networking links.

Social Programme Suggestions

The social events are a very important part of any conference programme. Northern Ireland is one of Europe’s most scenic destinations, just waiting to be discovered.

Suggestion: Gala Dinner

Option 1: Parliament Building, Stormont, Belfast

The Northern Ireland Parliament Buildings, commonly called Stormont are situated on an elevated site in the suburbs of East Belfast.  Designed by Sir Arthur Thornley, this neo-classical building is set on a plinth of Mourne granite and is finished in Portland Stone. The then Prince of Wales officially opened it in November 1932.  This building is a stunning location for a formal dinner or a welcoming reception.

Option 2: Belfast City Hall

Belfast City Hall is offered as a venue for a Gala Dinner in the Banqueting Hall.  Built in 1906 the interior of this opulent Victorian building is breathtaking and a splendid setting for a formal event. Due to the central location of the City Hall, transport is not necessary. The majority of the city centre hotels are within 2 – 3 minute walking distance.

Option 3: Traditional Irish Evening at Ulster Folk & Transport Museum

A Traditional Irish Evening at Ulster Folk & Transport Museum where delegates can taste our sumptuous local produce beginning with a Black Velvet reception and enjoy an evening of traditional Irish music and dancing and join in the ‘craic’. The Museum setting together with our rich culture will ensure a truly memorable evening.

The Ulster Folk & Transport Museum, awarded the Northern Ireland Tourist Board Visitor Attraction of the Year, illustrates the way of life and traditions of the people of the north of Ireland and celebrates transport history. The Museum offers a unique venue for a gala dinner.

Option 4: The Ulster Hall

Magnificently refurbished and restored to its original glorious state in March 2009, the Ulster Hall offers a unique location for a Gala Dinner that proclaims ‘prestige’; located in the centre of Belfast it has a matchless cachet that will impress even the most cynical conference attendee. With floor space for up to 1000 people standing it makes a special venue for that exclusive welcoming reception that’s sets the tone for your conference. Where the ‘Grand Old lady of Bedford Street’ really comes into her own is as a spectacular dinner venue with capacity for up to 350 enthralled conference guests. This has to be ‘the’ venue of venues.

Option 5: The Ulster Museum

In the autumn of 2009 the Ulster Museum opened its door after a £17.5 million refurbishment and since then it has become the location of choice for the most prestigious gala dinners, with reception capacity for up to 600 people and capacity for 400 diners. The state of the art museum now provides a unique backdrop to any function and being located in the Queen’s Quarter is accessible to all delegates no matter where they are accommodated.