Here are Jacqueline’s pick of family events taking place this weekend across the NI.

Down

Ahoy, me Hearties! Batten down the hatches and prepare for a pirate showdown at Castle Ward, Strangford, Downpatrick, on 12th July.  It’s all hands on deck with our swashbuckling pirate pursuits.  Ye better dress in your finest pirate tackle to impress the captain in his brand new best dressed competition, with prizes for the top pictures uploaded online.  Scallywags young and old can play tug o’ war on the front lawn, just don’t fall into Davy Jones’ Locker!

Tyrone

This year’s Glenelly Rockin’ By The River Festival festival takes place in Plumbridge, Co Tyrone, from Sunday 13th July to Sunday 20th July 2014 with lots of fun for all the family including family walks, kiddies night, variety concert, show and shine car exhibition, evening entertainment and much more.

Fermanagh

Enjoy some live music in the beautiful surroundings of Castle Archdale on Sunday 13th July the Courtyard from 12pm-5pm. There will be a selection of bands with different music genres, something for everyone.

Derry

The third annual Benone Summer Craft Fair by Limavady Crafters takes place this Sunday 13th July at Benone Tourist Complex. Come and shop at this amazing fair packed to the brim with the beautiful handmade crafts and foods an there are plenty of activities to keep the children occupied. 11.00am to 4.00pm. Admission is free.

Armagh

Book your place now for the 27th John Hewitt International Summer School  from Monday 28th July – Friday 1st August 2014 in the Market Place Theatre, Armagh. A feast of arts and literature, the 27th John Hewitt International Summer School will bring together in Armagh’s Market Place Theatre high profile writers, artists, performers, speakers and critics to consider a selected theme, inspired by John Hewitt’s poetry.

Antrim

The Dalriada Festival 13th – 19th July is a packed programme of events that highlight the unique historic sporting, music and food cultures of both Ireland and Scotland. The Dalriada Festival reflects our shared heritage which extends back in time to the ancient kingdom of Dal Riada and beyond. See www.dalriadafestival.co.uk for full programme of events.

Belfast

It’s Family Fun Day at Belfast Zoo this weekend on 12th & 13th July 2014. During this weekend you can enjoy a range of family activities, including face painting and a bouncy castle. Animal feeding times will be taking place throughout the day.  For more information, call us on 028 9077 6277or email events@belfastzoo.co.uk
For more details on these and other events across Northern Ireland, news and competitions see www.whatsonni.com, follow us @whatsonni and like us at fb.com/www.whatsonni. Add your  events FREE OF CHARGE at www.whatsonni.com.