The Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) has put together a list of 12 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland over the next week (October 1 – 7). For all events in ni2012 click on www.discovernorthernireland.com/events, visit your local tourist information centre or log onto http://www.facebook.com/discovernorthernireland
- International Day for Older People, Ulster Hall, Belfast, October 1. Enjoy a day out with short writing workshops, storytelling for film and a special screening of Ladies in Lavender, a story about two sisters who befriend a mysterious foreigner washed up on the beach.
- Camerata Ireland, Strule Arts Centre, Omagh, Co. Tyrone, October 3. Enjoy a mesmerising mix of music by some of the best musicians in the world.
- Tommy Makem Festival of Traditional Music & Folk Song, various locations, Co. Armagh, October 4 – 6. This festival, named in honour of one of Armagh’s most famous musical sons, invites everyone to celebrate old and new music.
- Fermanagh Live Festival, various venues, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, October 4 – 7. Experience Fermanagh’s finest live entertainment and visual festival with everything from music to drama and visual arts on offer.
- Battle of the Chefs, St George’s Market, Belfast, October 6. Local chefs will be taking part in a cook-off, preparing a family meal from quality, locally sourced produce to be named Family Dining Champion.
- Autumn Plant Fair, Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, Co. Down, October 6. A favourite event for gardeners and non gardeners with many special plant stalls.
- Autumn Watch, Kilbroney Park, Rostrevor, Co. Down, October 6. Join the Ulster Wildlife Trust to explore the changes that take place in autumn during this fun scavenger hunt for all the family. Search for seeds, fallen leaves and signs of wildlife activity as you put your sleuthing skills to the test.
- The Soul Train, Lagan Valley Island Hall, Lisburn, October 6. Grab your flares and dancing shoes for one of the best tribute shows to the golden age of motown and seventies disco classics.
- Red Squirrel Day, Mount Stewart, Newtownards, Co. Down, October 6. Come along and learn about the work undertaken by the National Trust to protect the endangered red squirrel and hopefully spot one of these elusive animals. Suitable footwear and clothing essential.
- Cupcake Making with the Kiddies, Cookery School at James Street South, Belfast, October 6. A two hour cupcake making class where you get the chance to make, decorate and bring a selection of cupcakes home. Suitable for children 4 years and above.
- Harvest and Country Fair, Springhill House, Magherafelt, Co. Londonderry, October 7. Join Springhill for a day of harvest fun, craft and local produce stalls, rare breeds, country music and activities. There will also be plenty of activities for children including a scarecrow trail.
- National Trails Day, various locations across Northern Ireland, October 7. A celebration of outdoor trails offering everybody the chance to enjoy some of the most beautiful countryside, forests, mountains and lakes through a range of free activities including horse riding, canoeing, mountain biking, hill walking, forest walks and much more.