Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland next week (April 4-10).
Circuit of Ireland Rally 2016, various locations, Northern Ireland, April 7-9. Top rally drivers from around the world are gearing up for this year’s 85th Circuit of Ireland Rally. The King’s Hall complex in Belfast will host the Rally HQ, whilst fans across Northern Ireland will have several chances to catch rally action. The qualifying stage will take place on April 7 at Antrim Castle, followed by a ceremonial start outside the Irish Linen Centre, Lisburn, with special guest Louis Walsh, and free entertainment throughout the evening. Stages on April 8 will take place in Larne, Ballymena and the Causeway Coast, and also a special Ards TT stage, with action rounding up in Belfast on April 9.
- Ards International Guitar Festival, various locations, Newtownards, Co. Down, April 6-10. Ards International Guitar Festival returns with an eclectic mix for every taste, celebrating all that is brilliant locally with a clever mix of international artists. Newtownards will come alive with the sound of blues, folk and flamenco. Every genre is covered; whether you play yourself or just love music, there will be a gig for you, as well as opportunities to get hands on with guitar clinics and tours of the Avalon guitar factory.
- 6th Armagh City Toy Fair & Model Display Show, Armagh City Hotel, Armagh, Co. Armagh, April 10. The Fisher Suite in Armagh City Hotel will play host to some 30 model displays, with exhibitors from Northern Ireland, the South of Ireland and Scotland. Displays include construction, farm, railways, cars, steam engines and many more, with a large collection of Meccano models on display for the first time at the event.
- Zoo Lovers’ Day, Belfast Zoological Gardens, Belfast, April 8. Each year on April 8, Zoo Lovers’ Day is celebrated. Learn more about the role of a modern zoo, the animals that are cared for in Belfast Zoo, and the dangers that these species are facing in their natural habitat at the special keeper talks. Normal zoo admission prices apply.
- The Golden Years of Country Music, Ardhowen Theatre, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, April 6. Hit after hit, song after song, this is a show not to be missed, defining an era in country music never to be surpassed, featuring Jimmy Hendry and his band. Over two hours of hit songs we all know and love, this is the most authentic show of its kind. Show begins at 8pm.
- Starman – A One Man Circus Comedy Theatre Show, Riverside Theatre, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry, April 7. Have you ever looked to the heavens for inspiration or guidance? Starman, the latest show from the award winning Tumble Circus, is an entertaining expedition into what happens when circus and comedy collide. It follows the journey of one man and his life as a circus artist, a dad, and a clown. Show begins at 8pm.
- Meet the Artist – Terry Doherty, Larne Museum & Arts Centre, Larne, Co. Antrim, April 9. Larne Museum & Arts Centre will be open on Saturday 9th April featuring temporary exhibition “TAMED”, an arts exhibition by the Doherty Family. Terry Doherty will be available on the day to discuss or answer any questions on any of the works.
- Irish Vegan Festival, Ulster Hall, Belfast, April 9. The Irish Vegan Festival brings an array of vegan stalls and entertainment to the Ulster Hall. Ranging from hot food for consumption on the day, to sweets and chocolates, cosmetics and campaign stalls, there will be a great choice for everyone! Also enjoy live music throughout the day, film screenings and children’s entertainment.
- The Factory Girls, Alley Theatre, Strabane, Co. Tyrone, April 9. Set in a Donegal shirt factory, five women face the thread of redundancy. The play, written by Frank McGuinness, articulates their anger, courage and compassion. The Factory Girls presented by the acclaimed Newtownstewart Theatre Company is guaranteed to be very funny, engaging and moving. Show begins at 8pm.
- Easter Arts Scheme, Ards Arts Centre, Newtownards, Co. Down, April 4. Calling all Easter bunnies wanting to get creative over the holidays! Put down that chocolate egg and hop along to Ards Arts Centre to enjoy a whole day of arts, crafts and drama. Suitable for ages 6-12, from 10am-4pm.
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.