10 THINGS TO DO IN NORTHERN IRELAND NEXT WEEK

Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland next week (January 25 – 31).

  • The Fine & Dandy Market, Crescent Arts Centre, University Road, Belfast, January 31. Come along to this popular market which showcases the work of independent artists, designers, illustrators and crafters alongside collectors of records, books, vintage wares and quality local food and drink produce. It’s a great place to spend a Sunday morning!
  • Derry International Music Festival, Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin, Great James Street, Derry~Londonderry, Co. Londonderry, January 31 – February 7. Presenting a brand new festival celebrating the very best in traditional and contemporary Irish music. Taking place in an array of venues across the city, the festival will include top quality live gigs, exclusive workshops and master classes, as well as an incredible jam-packed Trad Trail held at many of the city’s finest bars and restaurants.
  • The Big Breakfast at The Elk, The Elk Complex, Hillhead Road, Toome, Co. Antrim, January 30. As part of Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and Drink celebrations in 2016, the Elk are holding a Big Breakfast day. Come enjoy a delicious, freshly prepared and locally sourced breakfast for a small donation to Chest Heart and Stroke NI. The Elk chefs will be preparing lots of options whether you like a hearty fry, a continental platter or a healthy omelette. From 8am to 12pm.
  • Big Garden Birdwatch, The Cloughmore Centre at Kilbroney Park, Rostrevor, Co. Down, January 30. Taking part in this year’s Big Garden Birdwatch couldn’t be easier. Just call 028 30313100 to get involved.  Come and be an integral part of the conservation of birds in the County Down area. You will be watching and recording the birds in the park and enter your findings into the RSPB online counting tool. There will be lots of other fun birdy activities to take part in on the day from colouring sheets to making bird masks and finger puppets. There will be plenty of activities to help keep your kids entertained during the quieter moments of your Birdwatch hour. From 10am to 1pm.
  • Derek Ryan, Ardhowen Theatre, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, January 28-30. Derek Ryan has recently celebrated his fourth year on the road with his band, during which time he has gained a huge following up and down the country. His most recent album, ‘The Simple Things’ topped the Irish charts, overtaking some big names for the top spot. Begins at 8pm.
  • Cajun Bluegrass Club Feat. Wookalily, The Market Place Theatre, Armagh, Co. Armagh, January 30. Wookalily returns to the Orchard County’s Market Place Theatre featuring the best of bluegrass and cajun music with delicious food that is as spicy as the music. Begins at 8pm.
  • Stars of Country, Theatre at the Mill, Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim, January 22. Kick off 2016 in style with this great country music extravaganza that features a fantastic array of acts guaranteed to go down a treat. The show will see popular singers including Curtis Magee, Gary Gamble, Trevor Loughrey and Matt Leavy who between them have legions of fans across the country. Begins at 7.45pm.
  • Cirque Berserk, Grand Opera House, Belfast, January 29-30. Showcasing the finest in traditional circus craft and skill, Cirque Berserk brings a treasured form of live entertainment bang up-to-date in a jaw-dropping spectacular created especially for the theatre. Check www.goh.co.uk for show times.
  • Educating Rita, Lyric Theatre, Ridgeway Street, Belfast, January 30 – February 28. Willy Russell’s award-winning comedy comes to the Lyric in this re-imagined new production starring the superb Kerri Quinn and directed by critically-acclaimed Emma Jordan.
  • Mourne Seafood Cookery School, The Nautilus Centre, Kilkeel, Co. Down, January 23- April 30. Perfect for seafood lovers, this is an ideal way to learn more about what to look for when buying, handling and cooking seafood. This tutorial is a fun and relaxed learning experience. The classes start at 10.30am for each class and run until 1pm, 2pm or 4pm depending on whether it is a half day or a full day class.

Please note some of the events require pre-booking. For more details on these and other events click on www.discovernorthernireland.com/events, visit your local tourist information centre or log onto www.facebook.com/discovernorthernireland