Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is encouraging residents, community and voluntary groups, local organisations and schools to take part in Good Relations Week 2026, a Northern Ireland-wide celebration of diversity, inclusion and community connection taking place from 12 to 18 October.
The week, organised by the Community Relations Council, will see communities, schools, charities and voluntary organisations hosting events that encourage people to connect, learn from one another and celebrate the rich diversity that exists across our Council area and beyond.
This year's theme, "Include: Everyone. Everywhere. Every Day.", highlights the importance of creating welcoming communities where everyone feels valued, respected and able to participate.
Across Lisburn & Castlereagh, local groups will deliver a range of activities designed to bring people together through shared experiences, learning and conversation. The programme reflects the ongoing work taking place throughout the year to strengthen relationships, promote understanding and celebrate different cultures and backgrounds.
Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said: "Good Relations Week is an opportunity to celebrate the fantastic work taking place across our communities every day to bring people together and build understanding. Throughout the Council area, community groups, schools, and volunteers work tirelessly to create welcoming spaces where people can connect, learn from one another and, celebrate diversity.
"This year's theme, 'Include', reminds us of the importance of ensuring everyone feels they belong and has the opportunity to participate in community life. I would encourage residents to support the many events taking place during the week and discover the positive work happening in communities across Lisburn & Castlereagh."
Good Relations Week has been running for more than 20 years and is one of Northern Ireland's largest annual celebrations of good relations, peacebuilding and cultural diversity.
Martin McDonald MBE, Chair of the Community Relations Council, said: "I want to thank the schools, charities and community organisations across Lisburn & Castlereagh who have put time and care into this year's Good Relations Week. They are creating opportunities for people from different backgrounds to meet at a time when questions of identity, belonging and division still affect daily life.
"Every event is a chance for someone to leave knowing more about a neighbour than they did when they arrived. Those conversations can become the beginning of stronger relationships."
Jacqueline Irwin, Chief Executive of the Community Relations Council, said: "This year's theme, 'Include', reflects the importance of creating communities where people feel welcomed, valued and listened to. Through activities and conversations taking place across Northern Ireland, people will have opportunities to connect with others, explore different perspectives and build understanding."
Good Relations Week 2026 is supported by The Executive Office and contributes to the delivery of the Together: Building a United Community Strategy.
For information on events taking place during Good Relations Week click here.
The full programme of Good Relations Week 2026 events is available at www.goodrelationsweek.com.