SIMPLY THE ‘BEAST’ SHOW AROUND AT ARMAGH’S MARKET PLACE THEATRE

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Be our guest this Christmas at The Market Place Theatre’s furry-tale pantomime spectacular, ‘Beauty and The Beast’. Prepare yourself for a tale as old as time but told in a way you won’t have seen the like of before!

Can Belle save the day before the last petal falls from the enchanted rose? Join our heroine as she tries to break the Wicked Fairy’s curse and escape the castle of the ‘monstrous’ Beast… but is he really as bad as he seems?

There’ll be talking teapots, singing candlesticks, dancing dogs and a bunch of wily wolves to deal with, but with your help, can Belle reverse the curse?

Beauty and The Beast will be sure to make you laugh, sing, shout and cheer as you fall in love with a host of hilarious (and hairy) characters. Get ready for magic, music and mayhem aplenty, all rolled up in one action-packed show that’s sure to be simply the beast!

‘Beauty & The Beast’ will run at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre from Saturday 29 November to Sunday 21 December, with a range of times to suit all busy schedules!

 

Prices range from £15 to £19. Tickets are flying out the door, so hurry to book yours now!

 

To book your tickets for the most exciting pantomime of the season, phone the Box Office now on 03300 561 025, or book online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre.. The house is sure to be packed to the rafters for this festive hit! There will be BSL signed, captioned and relaxed performances during the run. Please contact the Box Office for full details.

 

To keep up-to-date with the latest news at the Market Place Theatre, you can follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/marketplacearmagh) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/mptarmagh) where you will find all the latest information, special offers and video previews.

 

Belfast Agency Excalibur Press Appoints Managing Director To Lead Ongoing Growth And Development

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Excalibur Press chief vision officer Tina Calder and managing director Alexandra Feher

Belfast based communications company Excalibur Press have appointed Alexandra Feher to the role of managing director to support the company with their growth.

In eight years the business, set up by comms strategist and business mentor Tina Calder in 2017, has grown from a solopreneur led journalism and media services business to a full multidisciplinary media, marketing and consulting firm with seven departments and a six-figure turnover.

According to chief vision officer Tina the new appointment signifies a new era for the business.

Alexandra, 30, who has been with the business for just under five years, started as a short-term contractor with general duties in marketing and communications. Having been promoted to head of content at the beginning of 2024 she has been instrumental in the restructure of the organisation over the last 10 months.

Speaking about the appointment Tina, who will now step away from the day to day running of the business, said: “I am absolutely delighted to be able to offer Alex the position she deserves within the business. She has been a key part of our survival journey over the last few years and has proven time and time again that she’s the woman for the job.

“Following the decimation of the business during Covid Alex was part of the new team who worked hard to bring us back to life when many businesses were going through significant difficulties.

“In October 2022 we were victims of the Cathedral Buildings arson attack and lost four offices, significant revenue and equipment. This pushed the business back into survival for the second time since Covid.

“Since then Alex has led the team through a difficult, but successful, regrowth period and I am delighted to be able to work with her to build on that success.”

Following a full restructure of the business Excalibur Press now offers clients a holistic service offering covering everything from generalised marketing such as social media, PR, website development, video production, copywriting, crisis comms, research, event management and digital transformation to training, mentoring and consulting services such as entrepreneurial programme delivery and design, community outreach, business mentoring and media production and publishing.

Alexandra will now lead an internal team of eight and a contractors and mentors network of over 25 managing day to day projects and workflows whilst Tina will move into strategic work for clients including fractional roles and consulting as well as delivering training, entrepreneur support programmes and mentoring.

Alexandra said: “It’s no secret the journey with Excalibur Press has been a bumpy one with many challenges along the way but throughout my time here I’ve been given the opportunity to craft a unique role that allows me to showcase and develop both my leadership skills and career goals.

“Excalibur Press is a fast-moving, vibrant business with a varied client base that gives the team a chance to learn and develop in many sectors and skills. Being part of that journey of course can be stressful but it’s also rewarding and exciting when you see the plans and new ideas come together.

“The world of agency life is changing, being ready and able to pivot quickly, efficiently and effectively is key to survival and I am delighted to say we have a team that allows us to do that.

“In the last few months we’ve been through a significant restructure and I’m excited to work with Tina and the team to announce our new plans for 2026 later this year.”

Alongside the restructure and appointment of Alexandra the Excalibur Press leadership team have reinforced their commitment to nurturing new talent and providing the next generation with much needed skills and experience through their work experience, internship and training schemes.

This announcement comes on the back of the company recently being awarded the Go Succeed Get Started In Business programme aimed at economically inactive individuals for six councils across Northern Ireland (Newry, Mourne & Down District Council, Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council, Ards & North Down Borough Council, Fermanagh & Omagh District Council, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council and Mid Ulster District Council), the Mid & East Antrim Borough Council Go Succeed Digital Edge programme and being appointed to the Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council ASK mentoring programme.

The company are already working with a number of large organisations and local councils on projects such as PR and comms for the Digital Transformation Flexible Fund (DTFF), media and marketing training programme with Fermanagh & Omagh District Council and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) as well as marketing and business development consultation for Arts Care and website development for Seaview Stadium.

“Business is hard all round let’s not pretend it isn’t, I’ve been very open that my journey with Excalibur Press has been a difficult one having had to build the company to where we are today three times since its inception” said Tina, adding: “But, when you have family, staff, contractors, friends and partners like I have it’s easy to weather the storm, stay focused and stay resilient.

“I am excited to see what the new chapter of Excalibur Press will bring and to watch my staff grow and develop their departments. Personally, I’m also very excited to be able to focus my attention on our strategic vision and to support our clients at a strategic level whilst delivering my training and mentoring day to day.”

For more information about Excalibur Press go to excaliburpress.co.uk or email alexandra@excaliburpress.co.uk 

Discover NI’s Offers of the Week

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Ballygally Castle, Ballygally, County Antrim

 

Join Hastings Hotels in celebrating 400 years of history, hospitality and charm with a special overnight escape by the sea, starting from £150 per room per night. Enjoy the ultimate coastal experience with an overnight stay and a limited edition Ballygally Castle Signature Candle for you to take home as a memento of your stay. The next morning, wake and indulge in a freshly cooked full Irish breakfast as the perfect send off before you go. Offer is available until 30th November 2025. Visit https://www.ballygallycastlehotel.com/offers/ for more information.

 

 

Bishop’s Gate Hotel, Derry~Londonderry

 

Embrace the festive season and indulge in a luxury shopping break in the heart of the Walled City with Bishop’s Gate Hotel’s festive shopping package. Starting from £199 per night, you can book now and pay later with an offer that includes overnight stay with cooked to order breakfast, three-course dinner in The Gown Restaurant, a glass of prosecco on arrival and 10% off all gift purchases at Walled City Crafters. Offer is available Sun-Fri in November and December. Visit https://www.bishopsgatehotelderry.com/ for more information.

 

 

For more inspiration or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com.

Offers are correct at the time of publication and are subject to availability and change without notice. Terms and Conditions apply to each offer and can be viewed on the individual provider’s websites. Tourism NI acts as a promoter of third-party offers and accepts no responsibility for any changes, withdrawals, or inaccuracies made by providers. 

10 Things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 3 – 9 November

 

 

  1. Sound of Belfast Festival at Oh Yeah Music Centre, Belfast, 6 – 16 November. The festival is dedicated to showcasing Belfast’s musical talents and its status as a UNESCO City of Music. Spanning gospel to garage rock, electronic to rap, the festival celebrates our world class music community through collaboration, partnerships and specially curated events across the city.
  2. The Echlinville Distillery Tour and Tipple, Kircubbin, County Down, 8 November. The Echlinville Distillery Tour and Tipple offers a unique insight into the workings of the family-run farm distillery. View their beautiful copper stills and enjoy the earthy aromas of their whiskey maturation warehouse.
  3. Wildlife Walk at Ulster Folk Museum, Holywood, County Down, 7 November. Take a walk around the nature-rich grounds of the Ulster Folk Museum and talk to CEDaR (Centre for Environmental Data and Recording) staff as you learn how to identify and record plants and animals. This is a beginner’s guide to biological recording.
  4. The Derry Girls Experience at Tower Museum, Derry~Londonderry, visit website for open dates and times. Visit the home of Derry Girls and discover where it all began. See original memorabilia from the hit show, like Erin’s diary, Aunt Sarah’s famous pyjamas and Ma Mary’s Woolworths sweater, not to mention the infamous Spice Girls costumes. Step into the set of the Quinn’s household and feel like one of the family.
  5. Leid AND Lairn: A Celebration of Ulster-Scots Language and Heritage at the Ards Arts Centre, Newtownards, County Down, until 25 November. This October and November, Ards and North Down will once again celebrate the richness of Ulster-Scots language, culture and history with the Leid AND Lairn festival. Organised by Ards and North Down Borough Council, the diverse programme invites audiences to explore the tradition through music, storytelling, walks, a talk and exhibition.
  6. Curator Tour: Ulster Emigration and Indigenous Peoples at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 9 November. Join Liam Corry, Curator of Emigration, for a tour of the Ulster American Folk Park exploring the impact of emigration to North America – not only through the eyes of those who left, but also those who were already there.
  7. Jen Farrar: A Journey into the Amazing Mini Jungle Around us at Sir Hans Sloane Centre, Killyleagh, County Down, 4 November. Jen will define Biodiversity and the importance of Bioabundance. Reframing “weeds and bugs” & exploring the interconnectedness of the flora and fauna around us. This is part of a Biodiversity Series of events thanks to funding from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.
  8. Martel’s Candlelight Tour at Marble Arch Caves, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 9 November. Experience the thrill of this historic exploration first-hand as you accompany Martel in an authentic re-enactment of his groundbreaking discovery of the show cave, as it was 130 years ago. With the electric lights switched off, you’ll journey underground through the cave’s natural darkness, guided solely by candlelight and lanterns.
  9. Photography Masterclass at The Market Place Theatre and Arts Centre, Armagh, County Armagh, 8 November. Join internationally acclaimed photographer James Hughes for an exclusive masterclass exploring the art and craft of photography through the lens of his celebrated career. With over 30 years of experience spanning social documentary, commercial, and fine art photography, James will share the techniques that have defined his distinctive visual style.
  10. Halloween Slemish Market Supper Club, Ballymena, County Antrim, 8 November. Slemish Market Supper Club invites you to their Halloween Feast in the hauntingly beautiful Secret Garden Café at the Ecos Centre, Ballymena. Chef Rob “Scarecrow” Curley will conjure a 6-course menu of devilishly delicious dishes, crafted from regenerative produce from Slemish Market Garden and Co. Antrim’s finest suppliers. Expect eerie flavours, seasonal surprises, and a celebration of ancient Samhain traditions and BYO.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Subject to availabilities with select dates.

Northern Ireland’s Most Magical Christmas Event Returns

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Presented by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, the much-loved Enchanted Winter Garden will return to Antrim Castle Gardens from Friday 28 November to Tuesday 30 December 2025, promising to be its most dazzling year yet.

In response to the event’s growing popularity, Enchanted Winter Garden will run for an additional four nights, giving families the opportunity to experience the magic through the festive season and up to just before New Year’s Eve.

This year’s event introduces a host of exciting new features designed to elevate the experience for visitors of all ages. Among the highlights is the debut of the Enchanted Tree Choir, a new attraction that will see the trees of the forest brought to life.

The funfair has also been expanded, offering new, more thrilling rides to entertain both the little and big kids. Visitors can also look forward to a series of brand-new light installations, including a striking light show.

Returning favourites will also make a welcome appearance, including the Festive Food Fayre, serving up delicious seasonal treats and of course Santa’s Grotto, where families can meet the man himself until 23 December.

Post Christmas, when Santa heads home for a well-earned rest, his Grotto will be taken over by The Grinch, who’ll be up to no good as he brings his own mischievous twist to attendees from 27 – 30 December.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick said, “As an Antrim woman and a mum of two, the Enchanted Winter Garden holds a very special place in my heart. It’s a magical experience for families and a chance to make lasting memories together right here in our beautiful Antrim Castle Gardens.”

The event will also continue its commitment to accessibility, with Inclusive Evenings on 4 and 10 December, offering reduced lighting, sound levels and a relaxed environment for visitors with additional needs. These evenings are supported by The Junction Retail and Leisure Park.

Tickets are on sale now at www.enchantedwintergarden.com. Book early to secure your preferred date and join the fun at Antrim Castle Gardens.

BELFAST CHRISTMAS MARKET SET TO COME ALIVE WITH FESTIVE FLAVOUR, LOCAL TALENT AND SUSTAINABLE SPIRIT

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With the festive season almost upon us, Market Place, stars of Channel Four’s ‘Secrets of the Christmas Market’ and the UK’s leading specialist market operators, are preparing the tinsel and baubles for another year of food, drink and craft celebrations.

The Belfast Christmas Market will officially open its gates at 12 noon on Saturday 15 November, running until 22 December in the stunning grounds of Belfast City Hall. 

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly, said:

“Belfast Christmas Market is an unmissable part of our city centre festive experience, offering magical opportunities to spend time and make memories with family and friends. It’s such a magnet for visitors, generating important income and showcasing local emerging and established entrepreneurs alongside international traders. I can’t wait to see all the happy faces, hear the buzz and enjoy the treats on offer!”

This year, visitors will be spoilt for choice with a huge variety of authentic goodies including crêpes from France, Dutch pancakes, Belgian chocolates, an exotic selection of ostrich, wild boar and crocodile burgers, giant bratwurst from the iconic Schwenkgrille, Spanish paella and nougat from Italy. Visitors can take a culinary trip around the world before relaxing in one of the bars, serving international drinks until late into the evening.

With free entry for all, the market offers a vibrant shopping experience for those seeking unique and meaningful gifts. Visitors can explore an extensive selection of artisan products, from ornate Christmas decorations, handcrafted jewellery and original paintings to cosy hats and scarves—perfect for ticking off that all-important shopping list.

Allan Hartwell, Managing Director of Market Place, said:

“The Belfast Christmas Market is more than just a festive attraction, it’s a celebration of culture and community. Each year, our goal is to create an experience that brings people together, champions local businesses, and proudly showcases Belfast on an international stage. Welcoming over one million visitors annually and generating more than £60 million in economic impact, the market plays a vital role in the city’s seasonal economy.

Sustainability remains a cornerstone of our operations and we continue to invest in environmental initiatives which have led to an 85% reduction in non-biodegradable packaging. We’re committed not only to delivering a magical Christmas experience, but to doing so responsibly and with purpose.”

No Christmas is complete without the laughter of excited children, and families will find plenty to delight them at this year’s market. Returning to the festive village are the traditional carousel and the vintage Helter Skelter, offering panoramic views of the market and a thrilling descent for those brave enough to take the slide. Although Santa Claus is taking a well-deserved break from his grotto this year, he won’t be far! Keep your eyes peeled for the big man in red as he makes his weekly stroll through the market, spreading cheer, sharing sweet treats, and rewarding those on the nice list. Capture magical moments inside the giant snow globe or gather around the fire to toast delicious marshmallows – creating cherished memories to last well beyond the season.

In a continued effort to support young and emerging businesses, Market Place has partnered with the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF) to donate two chalets to young entrepreneurs, allowing them to trade free of charge and showcase their products to thousands of visitors. The NMTF’s Northern Ireland regional winners of the Young Traders Market, Mini Sticher and The Candle Bottle Bank, will also have their own dedicated chalet, offering sustainable handmade clothing for little ones and a range of candles and soy wax melts, inspired by the beautiful Causeway Coast.

Visitors can stay up to date with market news, entertainment schedules and weather by following Belfast Continental Christmas Market on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Media partner Q Radio will be on-site with a bespoke DJ booth in the food court, playing festive music, engaging with visitors and offering spot prizes. Travel partner Dublin Express will also be offering convenient transport options and exclusive giveaways throughout the season.

Belfast Christmas Market will open in the gardens of Belfast City Hall at 12noon on Saturday 15 November and run until 6pm on Monday 22 December.

Opening hours are:

Monday – Wednesday 10am – 8pm

Thursday – Saturday 10am – 10pm

Sunday 12noon – 6pm

Ards Arts Centre Opens New Solo Exhibitions by Patrick Hickey and Bernie McAdam

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Ards Arts Centre in Newtownards is pleased to welcome two new exhibitions to its Georgian and Sunburst Galleries: A Longing for a Feeling I Cannot Remember a solo exhibition by Patrick Hickey, and I heard the footfall of the flower spring.., a solo exhibition by Bernie McAdam.

In A Longing for a Feeling I Cannot Remember, Patrick Hickey presents a new series of oil paintings and works on paper exploring queerness, masculinity, and identity through the depiction of the nude male figure in otherworldly landscapes.

Inspired by Irish mythology and the mythical island of Hy Brasil, Hickey reimagines a place of safety and openness for queer identities. Viewers will encounter stoic fishermen, dreamlike terrain, and abstract seascapes that reference mythological heroes like Cu Chulainn and Lugh. The exhibition opens in the Georgian Gallery on Thursday 13 November.

Bernie McAdam’s exhibition, I heard the footfall of the flower spring.. reflects an engagement with Greek mythology through the lens of personal trauma and loss, exploring how ancient narratives resonate with contemporary emotional landscapes.

Looking through the prism of these Greek sagas and characters, a vista is opened that explores the misrepresentations of women in particular who have been maligned and vilified by blinkered classicists with a patriarchal bias throughout the ages. Themes of injustice and betrayal emerge but values of kindness and humour also prevail. Bernie’s work

encompasses oil painting, cyanotype print, mixed-media drawing and writing. This exhibition opened in the Sunburst Gallery on Friday 31 October.

Both exhibitions will continue until Wednesday 3 December. Admission is free.

 

All are welcome to attend a Preview Event in Ards Arts Centre on Thursday 13 November at 7pm. As part of her exhibition, Bernie McAdam will give an informal Artist Talk on her current research and influences at Arts Centre on Thursday 13 November at 6.30pm. The talk is free to attend but pre-registration is required. For more information visit; www.andculture.org.uk

Charities Champion Inclusion And Opportunity Ahead Of Belfast Careers And Volunteer Fair

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With just days to go before The Winter Charity Careers & Volunteer Job Fair takes place at the Assembly Buildings Conference Centre in Belfast on Wednesday 5th November, organisations working across disability, autism and inclusion are encouraging people to explore the life-changing opportunities available within Northern Ireland’s charity and voluntary sector.

 

Among those leading the way are Positive Futures, National Autistic Society NI and Autism Initiatives, who are highlighting the importance of inclusion, accessibility and understanding in the workplace and beyond. The three organisations are featured together in a new photo with event organisers Richard Cherry and Chris Bunce, co-founders of Charity Jobs NI, ahead of the upcoming fair.

 

Positive Futures, a returning exhibitor, is a leading learning disability, acquired brain injury and autism charity that supports children and adults, and their families through innovative person-centred services, enabling them to achieve their dreams and transform their lives.

 

Chris Perry, Human Resources Director at Positive Futures, said the event provides an important platform for the sector to connect with people who want to make a difference.

 

“This event is your chance to meet the people behind the charities making a real difference to people’s lives and discover how you can be part of creating change.”

 

National Autistic Society NI, a new exhibitor this year, provides a range of support to Northern Ireland’s 35,000 autistic people and their families. The charity runs specialist services and programmes and campaigns to help create a society that works for autistic people. Paula McCann, Service Manager at National Autistic Society NI, said the fair is an opportunity for people to find a role that truly matters.

 

“If you’re looking for a role where you can truly make a difference – in others’ lives and your own – come and see what we have to offer. We have a range of rewarding opportunities available and we would love to chat with you about how you could be part of something meaningful.”

 

Autism Initiatives, a returning exhibitor, supports people with autism and their families across Northern Ireland, promoting inclusion, independence and understanding through tailored services, support and education. The organisation works to ensure that autistic people are heard, valued and supported in their communities.

 

They will be joined by Triangle Housing Association, which provides supported living opportunities that empower people to live more independently. Sharon McIlveen, Head of People and Learning at Triangle Housing Association, said their team is excited to meet attendees on the day.

 

“We have live opportunities and attendees are welcome to complete applications on the day with our team.”

 

Other organisations in the inclusion and care space taking part include Inspire Wellbeing, Caring Breaks, and Saint Vincent de Paul, highlighting how the third sector brings together charities across health, social care, and community support to improve lives across Northern Ireland.

 

They are among more than 25 organisations confirmed for the fair, representing a wide range of causes including youth and family services, environmental action, volunteering, animal welfare, and community development. The event provides a rare opportunity to meet directly with employers and charities offering both paid and volunteer roles in the third sector.

 

Chris Bunce, Co-founder of Charity Jobs NI, said the event celebrates the growing commitment to inclusion and equality across Northern Ireland’s charities.

 

“It is incredible to see so many organisations coming together to champion accessibility and opportunity. The commitment from charities across Northern Ireland to create inclusive workplaces is inspiring, and we cannot wait to see the connections and conversations that come out of this event.”

 

Free to attend and open to everyone, The Winter Charity Careers & Volunteer Job Fair will take place on Wednesday 5th November from 10am to 2pm at the Assembly Buildings Conference Centre, Belfast.

 

To book your free ticket to attend or find out more about how your organisation can exhibit and take part go to charityjobsni.com/charity-careers-fair

Local Charities Highlight Health And Wellbeing Careers Ahead Of Belfast Fair

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With less than a week until The Winter Charity Careers & Volunteer Job Fair takes place at the Assembly Buildings Conference Centre in Belfast on Wednesday 5th November, charities working across Northern Ireland’s health and care sectors are encouraging people to explore the rewarding opportunities available within the third sector.

Among those exhibiting are PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland Charity and Inspire Wellbeing, who will join Towell House Residential Care Home and Cancer Fund for Children in representing organisations that provide vital health and wellbeing support to individuals, families and communities across Northern Ireland.

PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland Charity, a new exhibitor this year, provides immediate, accessible and compassionate support to individuals, families and communities affected by suicide or mental unwellness. The charity offers free, confidential counselling, befriending, crisis and bereavement support across Northern Ireland, with an open-door, no-appointment-needed service at its Belfast location for anyone in need of help or hope.

Renee Quinn, Executive Director at PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland Charity said attending the fair is an opportunity to inspire more people to get involved in life-changing work.

“If you want to make a genuine impact in people’s lives, come and meet us. Whether you have personal experience, professional skills, or simply a desire to help others, there’s a place for you at PIPS Charity. Together, we can bring light to those facing darkness and build a more compassionate, suicide-free society.”

Inspire Wellbeing, a returning exhibitor, is an all-island charity and social enterprise whose aim is wellbeing for all. The organisation works alongside people living with mental ill health, learning disabilities, autism and addictions, ensuring they live with dignity and realise their full potential.

Becca Leslie, Recruitment Business Partner at Inspire Wellbeing, said the fair is a chance to meet people whose values align with the charity’s mission.

“Come and see us at the stand, bring your questions, ask about what a day in the role really looks like. At Inspire Wellbeing you’ll find roles where you’ll make a real difference, not just clock hours. If you’re someone who cares about people’s dignity, wants to be part of a team, and is ready for meaningful work, then this could be your place. Even if you’re just curious and exploring, pop by, let’s chat about how you could fit in and grow with us.”

Towell House Residential Care Home, a returning exhibitor, is a warm and welcoming haven in East Belfast dedicated to providing high-quality, person-centred care for older people and those with physical disabilities. With compassion, respect and a vibrant community spirit, the charity creates a true home from home where every individual is supported to live with dignity, choice and wellbeing.

Sarah Brooker, Senior Diversional Therapist at Towell House, said the fair is an opportunity for people to find a truly meaningful role in care.

“If you’re considering attending the Charity Careers & Volunteer Fair, go for it — it’s a brilliant chance to explore meaningful opportunities, meet inspiring organisations, and discover how your skills and passion can make a real impact. Whether you’re looking to volunteer, start a career in the charity sector, or simply learn more, this event is a gateway to purpose-driven work and community connection.”

They will be joined by Cancer Fund for Children, who represent the diverse range of organisations working to improve wellbeing across all stages of life, from elderly care to family support. Other health and care organisations signed up to the event include Caring Breaks, Saint Vincent de Paul, Triangle Housing Association and Extern, showcasing the range of opportunities available within this vital part of the third sector.

They are among more than 25 organisations taking part in the fair, representing every corner of the charity and voluntary landscape including animal welfare, disability support, community development, youth services, volunteering and environmental action. Together they highlight the variety of career and volunteering pathways open to anyone who wants to make a difference.

Richard Cherry, Co-founder of Charity Jobs NI, said the growing number of exhibitors is a testament to the strength and spirit of Northern Ireland’s third sector.

“We are absolutely delighted to see so many organisations coming together for this fair. Each one represents the compassion, skill and commitment that keep our communities strong. With more than 25 exhibitors confirmed, this year’s event will be our biggest yet and we cannot wait to welcome people who are ready to find purpose in their work or volunteering.”

Free to attend and open to everyone, The Winter Charity Careers & Volunteer Job Fair will take place on Wednesday 5th November from 10am to 2pm at the Assembly Buildings Conference Centre, Belfast.

To book your free ticket to attend or find out more about how your organisation can exhibit and take part go to charityjobsni.com/charity-careers-fair 

Santa’s spectacular tour returns to drive Christmas cheer across the borough

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The magic of Christmas is set to roll into town once again as ‘Santa on Tour’ returns to Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough promising a sleigh-full (or should we say bus- full) of sparkle, community spirit and festive fun for all ages!

Launching today, Monday 3 November, the much-anticipated annual extravaganza sees Santa, Mrs Claus and their merry band of elves hit the road in their dazzling red bus. From Friday 14 November, ‘Santa on Tour’ will bring festive sights, sounds and smiles to towns and villages across the borough, officially switching on Christmas lights and delivering a magical roadshow of cheer to every corner of ABC.

Expect an action-packed stage show featuring local schools, community groups, artists and professional acts, alongside a sprinkle of spectacular walkabout entertainment from stilt walkers, jugglers, acrobats, and dazzling performers who are sure to light up the night.

Little ones can get crafty in the festive arts and crafts zone, enjoy face painting and balloon modelling, and of course, visit Santa in his grotto or snuggle up for a heartwarming Christmas tale from Mrs Claus herself. But beware – the Grinch might just try to throw a spanner in Santa’s shiny red bus with some cheeky mischief!

Adding even more festive flavour this year, the Artisan Food & Craft Markets will pop up at the town switch ons, bringing a winter wonderland of local produce, handmade crafts and delicious treats. It’s the perfect opportunity to eat, shop and be merry while supporting talented local makers and producers.

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Stephen Moutray, said: “It’s fantastic to see ‘Santa on Tour’ return for another year bringing families and friends together across our borough to celebrate the true spirit of Christmas. These events are all about community, enjoying great entertainment, supporting local traders, and creating special memories that last a lifetime. I’d encourage everyone to come along, join the fun, and make the most of everything our city, towns and villages have to offer this festive season.”

Yet, the festive fun doesn’t stop there! Armagh City will once again don its Georgian finery for the ever-enchanting Armagh Georgian Festival, running from Thursday 27 November to Sunday 30 November. Expect the impressive light show, living history, street performers and the irresistible charm of a bygone Christmas.

The much-loved ‘Relaxed Christmas Sessions’ will also return to Bleary Business and Community Centre from Friday 5 December offering children with autism and special educational needs the chance to meet Santa and Mrs Claus in a calm, magical and supportive environment. Free tickets will be available from Friday 21 November at santaontourabc.com.

Then, if you’re on the lookout for the perfect present that keeps on giving, why not wrap up local with a Shop ABC Gift Card? A brilliant way to support local businesses while spreading a little extra joy to friends and family this Christmas.

With so much to see, do and enjoy, ‘Santa on Tour’ promises to make this Christmas truly tree-mendous. So hop on board, follow the jingling bells, and join Santa as he brings his bus-load of festive cheer to towns and villages across Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon!

For full event details, visit santaontourabc.com and follow the Council’s social media pages.

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