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First ever light and sound show in Armagh Orchard

Long Meadow Cider are staging the first ever illuminations and sound show in an orchard in County Armagh.

The bespoke light and sound show has been created by Walter Holt from Travelling Tree Luminations.

The naked beauty of the apple trees, whose fruit make award-winning ciders, fruit juices and vinegars, will be transformed by light variation and sound.

There will also be a farm tour including a visit to the cold storage facility where apples can be stored from harvest season in September through to June the following year. There will also be an opportunity to see the pressing and blending facilities and to learn the history of the oak barrels.

The McKeever family, who own Long Meadow will be offering samples of their craft ciders and apple juice. There will also be two information sessions on their Apple Cider Vinegar explaining the various health benefits, the process in making apple cider vinegar and the opportunity to see the live Mother Culture (the natural bacteria grown within the vinegar).

“The Orchard Treeluminations event is a fantastic opportunity to see the raw, naked beauty of the trees transformed and illuminated by light and sound without foliage or fruit” said Catherine McKeever.

“I think we all have a vision of apple orchards complete with apple blossom or an abundance of fruit, this illumination event highlights the orchards in a totally different perspective, a raw, natural, resting state before the cycle of growth begins.

“We are hoping to raise the profile of agri-food tourism in Armagh and we hope to make this an annual event”

The ticket price includes a cup of hot mulled cider. The food is provided by Ballymoran Meats and Crepes 2 Go.

There will be free tea/coffee and hot chocolate for children. Donations are in aid of Katie Rose’s Journey. Indoor games will also be available. Treeluminations can be experienced any time between 6pm and 10pm. Apple Cider Vinegar sessions will be at 6.30pm and 8pm and Long Meadow Farm tours will take place at 7pm and 8.30pm.

Tickets cost £5 per child, £12 per adult and £30 for a family of two adults and two children. The tours will take place between 13th and 16th February. To book, go to www.longmeadowcider.com