Enniskillen Castle and Strule Arts Centre to Illuminate in Symbolic Colours this October

Throughout October 2026, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council will illuminate Enniskillen Castle and the Strule Arts Centre in a series of symbolic colours from 6pm to midnight, supporting a range of important awareness campaigns, commemorative events and causes that matter to communities across the district.

Thursday 1 October 2026 – Purple for International Day of Older Persons:

Takes place each year on 1 October and recognises the opportunities and challenges of ageing populations, while promoting the development of a society that works for people of all ages. This year’s theme is ‘What’s on your doorstep’ in an effort to bring people together, resonate with local communities, and strengthen our collective impact.

Monday 12 October 2026 – Blue for World Arthritis Day:

World Arthritis Day, held annually on 12 October, raises awareness of the realities of living with arthritis and related musculoskeletal conditions. Around 550,000 people in Northern Ireland live with arthritis, a condition that can have a significant impact on daily life yet often remains hidden and misunderstood. The campaign promotes greater understanding, earlier diagnosis and improved support for those affected.

Wednesday 14 October 2026 – Blue for Community Transport Week:

From 12–16 October 2026, communities across Northern Ireland are encouraged to celebrate the work of local Community Transport organisations, including Fermanagh Community Transport and Easilink Community Transport, as part of Community Transport Week 2026. This year’s theme, ‘Driving Communities Forward’, celebrates volunteers, staff, and trustees whose dedication keeps community transport moving every day and makes these essential journeys possible.

Friday 16 October 2026 – Purple for Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) Day:

Both buildings will be illuminated in purple to raise awareness of Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), a lifelong condition that affects language understanding and communication in children. Affecting around two children in every classroom of 30, DLD can have a significant impact on learning and everyday life. Through this illumination, the Council aims to raise awareness, promote understanding and encourage early identification and support.

Saturday 17 October 2026 – Red for Black History Month:

Illuminated in red, Enniskillen Castle and Strule Arts Centre will mark Black History Month, an annual observance held each October to celebrate the achievements, heritage and cultural contributions of Black communities. First established in the UK in 1987, Black History Month provides an important opportunity to reflect on history, promote understanding and challenge racism and discrimination in all its forms. By illuminating these landmark buildings, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council reaffirms its commitment to celebrating diversity and creating a welcoming and inclusive district for all.

Friday 23 October 2026 – Purple for GloWeek:

On 23 October, Enniskillen Castle and Strule Arts Centre will be illuminated in purple in support of GloWeek, a Child Brain Injury Trust campaign promoting road safety during the darker autumn months. The campaign highlights the life-changing impact a brain injury can have on a child and their family, while raising awareness of the support and services available to those affected. Through its support of GloWeek, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council aims to encourage greater road safety awareness and help protect children and young people across the district.

For more information on illuminating Enniskillen Castle and the Strule Arts Centre, please visit the Charity Support section of the Council’s website at www.fermanaghomagh.com, contact the Community Services team at 0300 303 1777, or email communitysupport@fermanaghomagh.com