On Friday 26th September, over 100 young people from 8 Include Youth sites across Ireland came together to celebrate the organisation’s annual ‘Big Day Out’ a day filled with fun and community spirit.
Following the hugely successful revival of the event last year, after a 10-year pause, Include Youth was delighted to bring the Big Day Out back once again for 2025.This year’s theme was Hawaiian, with staff and young people fully embracing the spirit of the day in colourful, tropical-inspired outfits. The event space was brought to life with vibrant props and decorations that set the tone for a fun and inclusive atmosphere.
We were especially honoured to welcome the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Alderman Amanda Grehan, who paid a visit during the festivities to show support for the young people and the work of Include Youth. The day featured a wide range of engaging activities, with a dedicated Game Zone and Sports Zone offering something for everyone. Attendees took part in golf, target practice, penalty shootouts, tug of war, and enjoyed face painting, inflatables, and more.
There was a fantastic energy throughout the day, with young people from different sites and programmes connecting, building friendships, and making lasting memories. The highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the Paddy Mooney Memorial Trophy to the overall winners Lisburn Give and Take. This award is given in loving memory of our late CEO, Paddy Mooney, who was a passionate supporter of Big Day Out and believed deeply in the power of bringing young people together in celebration.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to our corporate partner, Danske Bank, whose team played a vital role in the success of the day running their own activity station and supporting staff to ensure everything went smoothly.
We extend our thanks to all those who made this event possible through their generous support. Special thanks to our funders Aviva, the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, and SEPUB for their vital contributions. We’re also incredibly grateful to the Rio Ferdinand Foundation for providing DJ Daryl from 5th Element, and to all those who supported with catering, venue space, inflatables, and equipment. A sincere thank you as well to Lisburn Leisureplex, In Your Space Circus, and Pizza Guys for their generous support with the venue, entertainment, and catering. This day would not have been possible without each one of you.
The Big Day Out continues to be a key part of Include Youth’s efforts to build positive relationships, celebrate progress, and offer care-experienced and disadvantaged young people the chance to feel supported and celebrated.
We already can’t wait for next year!
“What an incredible day for our young people and staff as everyone got into the spirit of Big Day Out once again! It was amazing to see the energy throughout the day’s activities. It was especially meaningful to present the Paddy Mooney Memorial Trophy, a tribute to our much-missed former CEO, who truly loved this event and everything it represents. Congratulations to Lisburn Give and Take very well deserved! A huge thank you to our charity partner Danske Bank for their continued support and enthusiasm. Their involvement makes a real difference, and we’re so grateful to have them championing this day alongside us.”
