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 (December 19 – December 25).

  • Around the World Christmas Winter Wonderland, Kool Kidz Childcare, Derry~Londonderry, until December 23. Enjoy a magical night out with the kids at Kool Kidz Childcare. With a fantastic synchronised light show, snow tunnel, market stalls, treasure hunts in a gingerbread forest and activity huts highlighting winter festivals of other cultures, it is a night not to be missed. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Christmas at QFT, Queens Film Theatre, Belfast, until December 23. If you love sitting down with a hot drink and watching a classic festive film then you’re in for a treat this Christmas at QFT. From timeless classics such as ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’, ‘Meet me in St. Louis’ to modern favourite such as ‘Miracle on 34th Street’ and ‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’ there is something for the whole family to enjoy.
  • Walled City Market, Guildhall Square, Derry~Londonderry, until December 23. The city’s Guildhall Square will welcome the very best of artisan traders, offering visitors a friendly shopping experience with a wide selection of speciality foods ranging from fresh fruit and vegetables to homemade jams and preserves, artisan breads, cakes, sweets and treats plus handmade crafted products.
  • Cairn Illumination Hikes, Slieve Gullion Forest Park, Co. Armagh, until December 22. Don your walking shoes and climb to the summit of Slieve Gullion, home to the highest surviving passage tomb in Ireland, known locally as ‘the Calliagh Berra’s House’ on a winter walk. The walk will be happening at dusk so it is recommended for experienced hill walkers.  Appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear essential. To book call (028) 30 828594.
  • A Magical Christmas Experience, Titanic Belfast, Belfast, until December 23. Step back in time, join Father Christmas and explore Titanic Belfast’s traditional Christmas street scene from 18th December. Visit Ye Olde Picture House, peek through the toy shop window at the toys from a bygone era and check out the Post Office where Father Christmas has his elves hard at work! Hear a classic Christmas tale, challenge each other at one of our traditional games, or visit our old fashioned wardrobe and find the perfect outfit to transport you back in time. Booking essential. www.titanicbelfast.com.
  • Lade of the Lake Festive Sailings, Manor House Country Hotel, Co. Fermanagh, until December 23. Hop on board the Lady of the Lake cruiser for a special festive cruise with mulled wine on arrival.  Enjoy the wintery landscape of the Fermanagh Lakelands as you cruise Lough Erne dining on a sumptuous four-course meal.  Cost £27.50pp. Booking essential. To book call (028) 68 62 2200.
  • Cinderella, Grand Opera House, Belfast, until January 15. ‘He’s behind you!’ ‘Oh no he’s not!’ Panto season is back and what better way to celebrate that heading to the Grand Opera House for this year’s performance of Cinderella starring May McFettridge and singer Gareth Gates. Will Cinderella make it to the ball in time and meet Prince Charming? Booking essential.  www.goh.co.uk/cinderella.
  • Strabane Community Carol Service, The Alley Theatre, Co. Tyrone, December 20. Gather your family and friends and head to the Alley Theatre for a heart-warming festive evening of carol music. Enjoy music from St Joseph’s Brass Band and the wonderful harmonies from Strabane Chamber Choir and soloist Alyson Keys with readings from local clerics.
  • White Christmas with Cantilena, Market Place Theatre, Co. Armagh, December 21. We all dream of a White Christmas and Happy Holidays so join Armagh’s sensational a cappella group ‘Cantilena’ as they pour some festive spirit into the Christmas Celebrations and ring in the festive season in their own inimitable a cappella style. Booking essential.
  • Go West and Nik Kershaw, Belfast Waterfront, Belfast, December 22. The 80s are back! Two critically acclaimed legends of the era join forces in this major concert. With millions of album sales, and iconic hits from both artists such as, ‘We Close Our Eyes’, ‘Call Me’, ‘The King of Wishful Thinking’, ‘Wouldn’t It Be Good’, ‘The Riddle’, ‘I Won’t Let The Sunday Go Down’. This authentic 80’s double bill is a concert not to be missed!