Jacqueline shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI

Down

Thousands of chocolate lovers and foodies from across the island of Ireland and beyond will descend on Killyleagh to celebrate the 2018 Finnebrogue Artisan Hans Sloane Chocolate & Fine Food Festival, 14th – 16th September. This year’s festival features many chocolatiers and local artisan food producers at the historic Killyleagh Castle.  The festival will kick off on Friday 14th September with the Chocolate Ball, held within the exquisite grounds of Killyleagh Castle, continuing on Saturday and Sunday with the Hans Sloane Chocolate & Fine Food Festival, where guests will be spoiled for choice with a vast range of chocolatiers’ displays, market stalls and local artisan produce to taste and purchase. The festival will also host a range of activities and entertainment for the whole family, offering a memorable weekend of fun for all in 2018!

Armagh

Foraging Sunday takes place this Sunday at Navan Fort.  Under expert guidance, you will learn to forage for food as the Celts would have. Explore the wealth of edible delights in our countryside and sample dishes made with foraged foods like berries, apples, cherries and even nettles – you are sure to be amazed!  This is a free drop in event.

Fermanagh

Plan a visit to Corralea Activity Centre, Belcoo for an Electric Mountain Bike Adventure – Ride, Discover, Explore! Explore the untapped wilderness using top of the range Electric Mountain bikes, cruise across old bog roads and forest tracks, discover megalithic tombs hidden in the forest and enjoy the sweeping views over Lough Macnean and its islands.  Whether you are tempted to buy an e-bike or you fancy tackling longer or more difficult trips but don’t want to be left behind… what better way to find out than booking an e-bike week-end package!

Tyrone

An autumnal treat, both visual and edible, is in store at the Woodland Trust’s Cabin Wood, Cookstown.  Saturday 15th September, 11.30am to 1.00pm, is the date for the diary. The charity has enlisted the support of foraging expert Dermot Hughes to lead a stroll through this charming woodland.  Dermot will identify the natural wares that are safe to eat, with some tasty recipes at his fingertips. The wood, bordered by the Ballinderry and Killymoon Rivers, was once part of Killymoon Estate.  Booking is essential.  Find out more and book a place at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/events or telephone 0330 333 5302.

Derry/Londonderry

Help Seamus Heaney HomePlace celebrate Roald Dahl Day this Saturday 15th September. Ten-year-old Sophie is in for the adventure of a lifetime when she meets the Big Friendly Giant. Naturally scared at first, the young girl soon realizes that the 24-foot behemoth is actually quite gentle and charming. As their friendship grows, Sophie’s presence attracts the unwanted attention of Bloodbottler, Fleshlumpeater and other giants. After traveling to London, Sophie and the BFG must convince Queen Victoria to help them get rid of all the bad giants once and for all.

Antrim

Join The Cancer Fund for Children for their Giant Coastal Challenge on Sunday 16th September and make a Giant difference to local children with cancer. Enjoy world class scenery on this 10 mile Atlantic adventure from Giant’s Causeway to Carrick A Rede. Highlights along the route include the ruins of Dunseverick Castle, the stunning Whitepark Bay, and Ballintoy Harbour. Funds raised will help to provide vital services for local families affected by cancer.  Sign up today at www.cancerfundforchildren.com.

Belfast

Belvoir Players present another great event and ideal for children aged 1-7 this Saturday 15th September – Goldilocks and the Three Bears Sing Along. Goldilocks and the three bears, Ruff The dog! and Mr Bunny, perform live on stage, right before their eyes in this exciting and fun filled musical production.  The popular tale takes a few twists and turn along the way with other new puppet characters and hopefully a happy ever after.  Kids will learn that music can be found everywhere as they sing and dance to all their favourite songs.

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.