Jacqueline’s pick of festive events this week across the North.

Down

Cinderella, one of the most famous fairy-tales by the Brothers Grimm, is always popular in its many forms and adaptations. The rags-to-riches figure has had young girls dreaming of becoming a modern day Cinderella for many years.  Come along and see 2nd Skin Theatre Company’s adaptation of this endearing fairy tale and you won’t be disappointed. Web Theatre, Newtownards, Friday 12th and Saturday 13th December.

Armagh

It’s the most wonderful time of the year in the Ancient Cathedral City of Armagh. Soak up the magical atmosphere and ‘make merry’ this Christmas with events for all to enjoy. Throughout the season, there is a full calendar of activities including Armagh’s panto spectacular ‘Scrooge’s Christmas’, Santa’s magical event ‘Ice Capades at Navan’ and Christmas workshops and demonstrations. Armagh City Centre will also be full of Christmas cheer with festive entertainment, late night opening and Santa’s FREE magical workshop.

Fermanagh

The Grand Hall at Castle Coole will be brought to life this Friday and Saturday with festive music and favourite Christmas carols performed by Fermanagh Choral Society. Booking essential. Contact 028 6634 8249. Performances begin at 8pm.

Tyrone

Join St. Joseph’s Brass Band for this children’s classic of the film adaptation of Raymond Brigg’s enduring Christmas tale at the Alley Theatre Strabane this week from Tuesday until Thursday. St Joseph’s Brass Band will perform Howard Blake’s uplifting music while school choirs will sing enchanting music such as ‘Walking in the Air’ as you watch the film on a big screen.  This performance will be a great way to start Christmas!

Derry

A gigantic beanstalk, Daisy the cow, magic beans, a goose that lays golden eggs and the nastiest of giants – it’s panto time again at the Millennium Forum! The Millennium Forum is well known for its outstanding Christmas pantomimes and this year’s production promises to be the best yet. Telling the story of peasant boy Jack and his attempts to please his impoverished mother and win the hand of Princess Jill, JACK AND THE  BEANSTALK remains one of the best-loved pantomimes of all time. Packed with great song and dance routines, hilarious comedy, dazzling scenes and magical special effects, JACK & THE BEANSTALK is fun for all the family from 4-94! Stars William Caulfield and runs until 4th January.

Antrim

Come and meet Santa at Breckenhill! He is back at his Grotto in the barn again until Saturday 13th December, waiting to meet lots of children and find out what they want for Christmas!  Also, enjoy the woodland walk, pat the donkey, munch on sausages and marshmallows from the brazier, write a letter to Santa, play some games, and have a lovely hot dog and a hot or cold drink!

Belfast

Have a blast at the Mac’s Festive Family Fun Workshops which run until Saturday 13th December.  Alongside the marvellously, magical Christmas show, we will be running some curiously creative workshops – inviting your little ones to explore Christmases past with our artists.  You’ll get to make delicate trinkets and clever Christmas cards with a twist, and lots more besides.