The Big Day Out 2025!
- Caroline O'Neill
- Apr 9
- 5 min read
A Celebration of Strength, Being a Woman, and Stories That Matter!
On April 5th, we gathered in Tullyglass House Hotel, Ballymena for The Big Day Out and what a day it was. I wanted to create an event for women to connect, drop their shoulders, and be celebrated. The room was filled with laughter, music, hugs, tears, and that quiet kind of strength that only women know how to carry. It was a day to let our hair down, fill our cups, and remember the power of being seen, heard, and uplifted. Women aged 20-80 danced like no one was watching. The businesses in the room gave away thousands of pounds of prizes to the women just for being there. Some of the brands are also offering discounts to the wider Digg Community and these offers can be found here.
I am very lucky to have an amazing friend Kasia from Polka Dot Photo who captured so many beautiful images of you all. Click here to see did she snap a picture of you.
At the heart of The Digg Community is the people. The women. The stories. The strength. This year, more than ever, we wanted to shine a light on those stories - not just for one afternoon, but forever, right here, on this blog.
I didn’t get the chance to read every message or nomination aloud on the day (oh, how I wish I could have!) but I’ve read every word since. And now, I want everyone to see the incredible women that make up this community and this unforgettable day.
Women Who Inspire: Real Stories from The Big Day Out
Sheila Butler came with her sisters Mary and Geraldine, who have been her anchor since the sudden passing of her husband six years ago. Their story is one of sisterhood, recovery, and enduring love. Proof that support from the people closest to you can carry you through life’s darkest moments.
Orla McShane, from Ballintoy, made space for a precious afternoon with her daughter Finvola while a hospice nurse stayed with Peggy, her 17-year-old daughter who lives with Rett Syndrome. Though Peggy cannot speak, the love between her and her sister and Finvola’s boyfriend Martin, is powerful and clear, proving that connection can go far beyond words.
Paula Leathem came to celebrate three generations of strong women: her mum, who is 80, and her daughters. Though her mum couldn’t attend in person, her spirit was there. This family laughs together, lifts each other up, and now carries the joy of The Big Day Out in their shared memories.
Patricia came to honour her daughter Dearbhla, her source of strength for the last 17 years. Now back in their hometown, Dearbhla is a reminder that healing, growth, and deep love can bring us full circle.
Jacqueline Dunning joined us with her sister Francesca McAuley, a full-time carer, advocate for her autistic son, and champion for adults with learning disabilities through her work. Tireless, selfless, and deeply inspiring, Francesca reflects what many women quietly do every day.
Lesa Kelly and her three incredible friends - Lisa, Amanda, and Mairead, have stood by her through one of the loneliest periods of her life, when she was caring for her husband during a mental health crisis. Their small acts of kindness, like a daily walk or listening ear, showed that friendship isn’t about fancy meals, it’s about showing up when it matters most. Lisa even spent her 15th wedding anniversary with the girls at The Big Day Out. That’s sisterhood.
A daughter brought her mother, Brenda Campbell, to celebrate her 70th birthday. Brenda has supported her through every medical battle, every dream, every success. A true definition of resilience and love.
Mary Leonard and friends came to celebrate a 60th birthday because joy, friendship, and dancing together are milestones worth marking in style.
Elaine Catterson finally made it to the event with her best friend Roisin - a friendship born 24 years ago at a parenting class. They built not just a bond, but a whole toddler group to help other women find connection. Their story is community at its finest.
Christine Sweeney, still recovering from knee surgery, showed up with the Jollies crew, proving that healing and celebration can go hand-in-hand.
Dorothy McKeating, nominated by her daughters, has raised six children, become a teacher against the odds, and still looks after nine grandchildren. Her life story is one of ambition, generosity, and maternal magic.
Helen Dunn travelled from the UK to be with her best friend Angela Trimby. Their story is one of friendship through grief, cancer scares, and unwavering support. Angela, who fundraises for suicide awareness and holds McMillan coffee mornings, is the kind of woman we all aspire to be.
Lauren Mason came on the recommendation of her sisters, Jenny and Donna. Jenny is an amazing mum advocating for her autistic son. Donna uses music to bring joy to others, mentoring teens and working with those affected by dementia. These sisters are a force for good.
Siobhan O’Loughlin’s group, aged between 28 and 63, came to celebrate themselves - working mums, expectant mums, and survivors of life’s challenges from hysterectomies to grief. They reminded us that all women deserve moments of light and laughter.
Kathleen McElchar came with her mum, two aunties, and cousin - just to be spoiled, have fun, and soak up the goodness of being together.
Amy Stewart was nominated by Hannah Lunt, who called her “my rock.” Amy is the kind of person who saves others without even knowing it. She’s also the aunty every child deserves and a teacher in the making.
And finally, Geordie Hylands was honoured too. His daughter Rhonda has shown how blood transfusions gave them precious extra moments during his battle with leukaemia. Brenda wanted her daughter to be celebrated for the work she has done and encourage others to give blood in his memory - a legacy of life, love, and gratitude.
Why The Big Day Out Matters
The Big Day Out isn't just about getting all dressed up. It is about celebrating real women, supporting mental health, building connection and spending time with those who we love.
These are just some of the incredible women who made April 5th unforgettable.
If you didn’t get your story read aloud on the day—know this: your story matters.
Until the Next Big Day Out....
To every woman who laughed, cried, danced, nominated, or just showed up - you made this day magic. These stories are now part of the Digg story forever.
Thank you for showing up. Thank you for being you. Thank you for helping us celebrate women and life.
Until the next Big Day Out…
With love,Caroline x