Month: October 2018

BE TRANSPORTED BACK IN TIME DURING THE GREAT WORKHOUSE ESCAPE

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Clip, clop your way around Newry in style! You may have been in the city many times on foot or visited by car, but have you ever travelled by horse and carriage?

As part of the extensive events programme for this year’s City of Merchants, “The Great Workhouse Escape” will offer an interactive and fully immersive experience, which promises to be historical yet hysterical.

Be part of Marie and Daniel’s great escape from the Newry Workhouse as they attempt to flee the city, but by horse and carriage. You can hitch a 30-minute ride around the Merchant City, taking in the tales of the past, as you enjoy the sights from a whole new perspective.

The pony and trap tours will run throughout the day, offering rides to the public, leaving from Newry Town Hall. Tours depart every fifteen minutes from 11am to 3.45pm on Saturday 3rd November. Your journey will encompass historical sights, including Sugar Island, Needham Bridge and Merchant’s Quay.

Liz and Mervyn, from L&M Carriage Driving will be providing their horses and carriages for the event. “We love our horses and it is an absolute pleasure to share them with the people of Newry and beyond for this special occasion.  In the 18th century, horse transport was the only transport. Families would come to town to do their shopping. When sugar, coal or other goods came in off the boats, Clydesdale horses would have been used to do heavy lifting.  This event gives the public a unique opportunity to experience a side of history they aren’t familiar with.”

Deputy Chairperson Oksana McMahon said, “This particular part of the City of Merchants Festival is fantastic. I had the privilege of getting a sneak preview of the tour and it is so imaginative, not to mention unforgettable. The beautiful horses and carriages will make this event memorable for all ages. The fun theatrical elements and the important historical messaging are the perfect combination to share the city’s heritage.”

This is a free ticketed event. Tickets can be booked online at https://bit.ly/2Evl9jh

The City of Merchants Festival will take place from Friday 2nd to Sunday 4th November and will see a host of activities take place to celebrate the area’s maritime and trading heritage. Activities on Friday alongside the Walking Tour & Banquet at Bagenal’s Castle include a Twilight Market from 5pm to 10pm in Newry Variety Market Hill Street; free children’s art and craft workshops at the market; a sensational parade to the Fathom Line at 7.15pm; ending with a magnificent firework display from 8pm.

On Saturday you can enjoy the Tall Ships from 12noon to 4pm; a theatrical Merchant Quest through the streets of Newry created by theatre company Big Telly; a theatrical guided tour of Bagenal’s Castle; plus, a comical look at trade through the years taking place in both The Buttercrane and The Quays Shopping Centres.  This year will also see the inaugural Scenic Carlingford Ferry Loop Sportive in which hundreds of keen cyclists will take on a 62km route around the shores of Carlingford Lough. More details on this event can be found at www.loopsportive.com

On Sunday in partnership with Kx and Newry Business Improvement District (BID), Aston Martin Red Bull Racing will be bringing one of its famous Formula 1 cars to Marcus Square in Newry. Set to take up its podium position outside the newly opened First Derivatives building, the car will be on display between 2pm and 4pm.

For more information on the overall City of Merchants Festival programme, which is supported by Tourism NI,  and for details on how to book tickets for other events please visit: www.heaveninaheartbeat.com/giant-adventures

  Pat Shortt Presents His Brand New Stage Show – Hey!

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Pat Shortt is back with his brand new stage show called ‘Hey!’ at The Courtyard Theatre on Thursday 8 November at 8pm.

Following the sell-out successes of ‘The Hall’, ‘Selfie’ and ‘How’s Tings?’ and fresh from starring roles in the hit play ‘A Skull In Connemara’ and the film ‘The Belly of The Whale’, Ireland’s best loved comedian takes to the road with his latest quirky look at Irish life.

Pat is hugely excited about making his debut at The Courtyard Theatre with ‘Hey!’ Featuring brand new material and sketches, Hey! is a rogue’s gallery of odd ball characters, bizarre situations and even a song or two.  Pat promises a whole raft of new characters and promises to get “down and dirty with the audience!”

Hey! delivers a peculiar take on modern life that only the unique imagination of Pat Shortt could conjure up.

Hey! You have been warned! A show not to be missed. Tickets on sale now available from Box Office on T: 028 9034 0202 or online thecourtyardtheatre.com

FLEETWOOD MAC ANNOUNCE RDS ARENA DATE FOR EUROPEAN TOUR

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THURSDAY 13TH JUNE – TICKETS GO ON SALE THIS FRIDAY AT 9AM

Legendary, GRAMMY-award winning band Fleetwood Mac announced today a European tour, set to kick off in June with three exclusive performances currently announced in London, Dublin and Berlin.

Tickets for RDS Arena on Thursday 13th June costing from €79.50 go on sale this Friday at 9am

Produced by Live Nation, the tour will feature the newly announced line-up of Mick Fleetwood, John McVie, Stevie Nicks, and Christine McVie along with newcomers Mike Campbell and Neil Finn.

A limited number of LaneOne VIP Packages will also be available, including amazing seats with premium benefits such as transportation, preferred entrance and more. LaneOne premium VIP packages are available here.

For further information, please visit www.fleetwoodmac.com.

 

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

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Down

This Saturday 27th October seas the return of the hugely popular Seapark Fireworks to Seapark Recreation Grounds which transforms into a hive of activity from 4.00pm.  Wrap up warm against the brisk Seapark air to enjoy the children’s funfair and live music by local band The Jukes. A selection of food stalls packed with delicious bites will be on hand to help take the chill off.  The excitement culminates for the always impressive fireworks display at 8.00pm, set to a music soundtrack. Remember to bring a torch to navigate the grounds, finding the perfect spot to view the display.  The fun continues until 9pm.

Armagh

Little Spooks at Navan Fort from 27th to 31st October is the perfect Halloween experience for boys and girls who aren’t afraid of enjoying some spooky surprises.  A Halloween Bride & Gloom Story – Do you have the courage to be witness at the ceremony?  With an undead bride and ghostly groom, join the hapless couple on the most memorable day of their lives (or afterlives).  The witch’s cabin is just a short walk away along the winding path. Discover what ghastly ingredients go into a witch’s cauldron and, if you are brave enough to torture your taste buds, there will be a truly gruesome brew freshly prepared just for you.  Proceed along the path to the Palace of the Pumpkin Prince. There, you will hear some startling stories sure to put a shiver up your spine.

Fermanagh

Leave daylight behind as you join a 15th century Maguire’s House Party in Enniskillen Castle this Friday 26th October. The castle doors will swing open for one night only, with live music, an on-site bar, and medieval-inspired food.  Alt-rockers Emerald Armada will be headlining music on the night, with support acts to be announced. Grab a drink from The Giddy Box vintage bar and roam the castle to discover music, performance, and some 15th-century guests that once revelled in the medieval stronghold. The Castle Café will be serving a medieval-inspired menu of stew and soup served in traditional edible ‘trencher’ plates made of bread, alongside sharing platters. Get ready to party like it’s 1499.  Strictly over 18s.

Tyrone

Mid Ulster Sports Arena will host their annual Halloween Fireworks Display on Saturday 27th October from 5.30pm when hundreds of people are expected to gather to enjoy some scary antics at Mid Ulster Sports Arena Cookstown, before the grand finale fireworks extravaganza at 8pm that will brighten up the dark skies into a fantastic fanfare of colour and lights.  Children can get ghoulishly creative at the Halloween themed arts and crafts station, listen to storytelling by Winifred the witch, be amazed by the fire performers, have a spin in the Vortex Tunnel and get to meet our spooktastic Halloween characters throughout the evening.  Children will also be able to burn off some wicked energy at the climbing wall, krazy karts and caterpillar train.  There will be music, face painting and lots more to help keep your little monsters entertained. If you get hungry, there’ll be a wide range of food stalls offering sweet and savoury tempting treats.

Derry

On Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th October, Drumnaph Nature Reserve will come alive at night to celebrate the Celtic festival, Samhain.  Samhain was celebrated by our Ancestors and it marked the end of the harvest and the beginning of the ‘Dark Half’ of the year. Remember to wrap up warm and wear appropriate footwear for the journey.  Don’t forget to bring your own lantern too. Delicious, homemade refreshments will be available when you return to our new café at An Carn.  Book your tickets online at www.ancarn.yapsody.com.

 

Antrim

This Thursday 25th October, The Junction, Antrim  will host their Halloween Spectacular.  This year’s theme is Day of the Dead and your little ghosts, goblins and ghouls are invited to come along in their scariest costumes. Join Stephen, Cate and the Q Radio roadshow to see who picks up the bag full of tricks and treats for the best dressed. We will also have fire jugglers, face painting, arts & crafts and spooky characters to keep everyone entertained.  The celebrations reach a crescendo around 8.00pm, with a spectacular fireworks extravaganza.  Free shuttle bus departs from Dunsilly and Market Square, Antrim to The Junction, at regular intervals from 5.45pm. Access to the event is by Ballymena Road entrance only.  Firework display is subject to weather conditions.

 

Belfast

Enjoy a ride in a restored steam train from Belfast Central, along the shores of Belfast Lough to Whitehead Railway Museum and return this Sunday 28th October. Ghosts and ghoulies of all ages are invited to come along in seasonal costume to sample the unique steamy Halloween atmosphere. All children holding a ticket will receive a spooky goody bag from the wicked witch!  Departing from Belfast Central Station at 11.00am.  Book online at www.steamtrainsireland.com.

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.

Jacqueline McGonigle

OFFERS OF THE WEEK

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Northern Ireland boasts an irresistible collection of places to stay including beautiful B&Bs, luxurious spa hotels and great value self-catering properties. Discover NI has selected the best offers of the week to help you plan a short break.

 

  • One Night B&B, Canal Court Hotel & Spa, Co. Down from £99 per room

This four-star hotel is located at the heart of Newry City Centre, along the idyllic Merchants Quay area. Enjoy a ‘home away from home’ feeling amidst the luxurious surroundings that the Canal Court Hotel & Spa has to offer. Offer includes one night’s bed and breakfast accommodation. To book call 028 3025 1234. Offer available until 30 November.

  • One Night B&B, Seagoe Hotel, Co. Armagh from £129 per room

The three-star Seagoe Hotel is situated just outside of Portadown. This modern, yet homely hotel has maintained a high standard of service and attention to detail over its many years of business. The hotel is conveniently located nearby areas of shopping and local parks, while Lough Neagh is only a short drive away. Offer includes one night’s bed and breakfast accommodation. To book call 028 3833 3076. Offer available until 30 November.

  • One Night B&B, O’Neill Arms Country House Hotel, Co. Antrim from £69 per room

The three-star O’Neill Arms Country House Hotel is a long-established hotel in the village of Toomebridge. The hotel pride themselves on providing an experience like no other to help you indulge in the Mid Ulster journey. Guests are welcome to fish from the banks of the River Bann, whilst Lough Beg is two miles to the north and Lough Neagh is just a mile south of the hotel. Offer includes one night’s bed and breakfast accommodation. To book call 028 7965 0800. Offer available until 30 November.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are ten exciting things taking place this week (22 -28 October)

 

  1. The Dark Tower, Derry~Londonderry, 26 October. Ascend the Dark Tower for an adults-only night of music, drink, and scares. Come to the darkest reaches of the Tower Museum and meet the ghosts and ghouls of the city’s past. Prepare to be scared witless and afterwards pull yourself together, grab a drink at the bar and explore the upper levels of the Tower.
  2. Belfast Horror Con, 27 October. Taking place at the Clayton Hotel, this event will feature eight media guests including David Warner (The Omen), Barbara Nedeljakova (Hostel), Shauna MacDonald (The Descent) and Belfast’s own Patricia Quinn who played Magenta in the cult classic The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Other attractions include a gaming lounge where attendees can test PlayStation 4 VR games, film screening with Q&A sessions, traders, novelists, independent comic creators and a SFX make-up artist.
  3. Beach Races 2018, Portrush, 27 – 28 October. Organised by Foyle District Motor Club at East Strand Beach. Based on the success of last year’s beach races which was the first of its kind to be staged in Northern Ireland, this event returns for a second year. It is expected to attract more than 100 competitors. With free admission for spectators, this event is set to be a unique racing weekend at a spectacular and beautiful location.
  4. Purple Turnip Festival, Lisburn, 27 October. Enjoy kids’ entertainment including animal encounters, creative craft workshops, fancy dress competitions, face painting and outdoor games. Join in the hunt, find the turnips and be in with a chance of winning a great prize or visit the “enchanted” autumn market where you will find fresh produce from local suppliers and hand-crafted goods.
  5. Little Spooks, Armagh, 27 – 31 October. Little Spooks is the perfect Halloween experience at Navan Centre and Fort for boys and girls who aren’t afraid of enjoying some spooky surprises.  From storytelling to making their own witches brew there’s plenty of activities to send a shiver up your little ones spine.
  6. Hogwarts Halloween Cruise, Lisnaskea, 27 – 30 October. This unique Harry Potter theme cruise leaves Platform 9 3/4 at the Share Discovery Centre. During the cruise expect to be sorted into your house, cast some spells and sample some fascinating foods from the professors, as well as other fun games and crafts. This cruise must be pre-booked, as all witches and wizards must be accounted for.
  7. City of Derry International Choir Festival, Derry~Londonderry, 24 – 28 October. Created as a joyous celebration of choral music-making, this festival provides opportunities for competitive and non-competitive participation of singers across a wide range of styles, ensembles and ages.
  8. Maguire’s House Party, Enniskillen, 26 October. Leave daylight behind as you join a 15th century adults-only party in Enniskillen Castle. The castle doors will swing open for one night only, with live music, an on-site bar, and medieval-inspired food. The Maguire Clan have invited you to experience their legendary medieval parties. If your family name is Maguire, then you’ll get in free!
  9. Boo at The Zoo, Newtownabbey, 27 – 28 October. Enjoy eerie activities for all the family including creepy crafts and fiendish face painting. Meet barn owls, reptiles and enjoy spooky story-telling with Mr Hullabaloo. You can even bring along your own pumpkin and watch as the animals tuck into them at the ‘trick or treat’ feeding times!
  10. Ghosts in the Glens Storytelling Festival, Co. Antrim, 25 – 28 October. The Ghosts in the Glens Storytelling Festival offers a four-day celebration of the rich traditions of storytelling and music in the Glens of Antrim. Sessions will be held from Ballycastle and Rathlin Island to Carnlough, Cushendun, Cushendall and Glenariff, including workshops for those looking to develop their storytelling skills along with special children’s activities such as quizzes, crafts and fancy dress.

 

 

For more information on these events or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit www.DiscoverNorthernIreland.com.

BEST FOOT FORWARD FOR CITY OF MERCHANTS HISTORICAL WALKING TOUR

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As part of the programme of events organised for this year’s City of Merchants, the Newry and Mourne Museum is once again hosting its highly anticipated walking tour culminating in a celebratory banquet at Bagenal’s Castle.

Focusing this year on Newry’s railway heritage, the tour will start at 2.30pm from the Museum, and will visit locations once occupied by stations, bridges and platforms. Participants will find out how the railway and port provided the foundation for Newry’s development as a mercantile centre on Carlingford Lough.

Starting at 5pm the banquet will be a sumptuous and enjoyable end to the walking tour. The menu consists of a cold meat buffet including a dressed salmon, ham and a choice of dessert, plus a glass of mulled wine.

Entertainment will be provided by Living History re-enactors who will perform songs and poetry inspired by the 1885 Golden Wedding celebrations of Newry MP and railway investor, Peter Quinn.

Peter Quinn was a merchant in Newry and served as a Justice of the Peace in the counties of Armagh and Down. He also served on the committee which issued the prospectus for the Newry, Armagh and Enniskillen Railway in the autumn of 1844 (the company was formed in 1845) and was on the Board of the Newry Navigation Company.

Speaking on Newry & Mourne Museum’s activities, Deputy Chairperson Oksana McMahon said: “It is great to see the return of the 2018 City of Merchants celebrations. The walking tour has proved extremely popular and it is a wonderful insight into the heritage and history of Newry as a Merchant town. By celebrating Peter Quinn through the banquet, it is a great way to acknowledge those that have helped build the trading legacy we are proud of.”

Numbers are limited and due to its high demand, we urge people to book tickets soon. Tickets are £10 and available from Newry Visitor Centre, Bagenal’s Castle Tel. 028 3031 3170

The City of Merchants Festival will take place from Friday 2nd to Sunday 4th November and will see a host of activities take place to celebrate the area’s maritime and trading heritage. Activities on Friday alongside the Walking Tour & Banquet at Bagenal’s Castle include a Twilight Market from 5pm to 10pm in Newry Variety Market Hill Street; free children’s art and craft workshops at the market; a sensational parade to the Fathom Line at 7.15pm; ending with a magnificent firework display from 8pm.

On Saturday you can enjoy the Tall Ships from 12noon to 4pm; a theatrical Merchant Quest through the streets of Newry created by theatre company Big Telly; interactive Horse and Trap tours; a theatrical guided tour of Bagenal’s Castle; plus, a comical look at trade through the years taking place in both The Buttercrane and The Quays Shopping Centres.  This year will also see the inaugural Scenic Carlingford Ferry Loop Sportive in which hundreds of keen cyclists will take on a 62km route around the shores of Carlingford Lough. More details on this event can be found at www.loopsportive.com

On Sunday in partnership with Kx and Newry Business Improvement District (BID), Aston Martin Red Bull Racing will be bringing one of its famous Formula 1 cars to Marcus Square in Newry. Set to take up its podium position outside the newly opened First Derivatives building, the car will be on display between 2pm and 4pm.

For more information on the overall City of Merchants Festival programme and for details on how to book tickets for the events please visit: www.heaveninaheartbeat.com/giant-adventures

LIVE AT THE WATERFRONT HALL, BELFAST: 29 APRIL 2019

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Much-loved tenor, Alfie Boe has today announced a Belfast date at the Waterfront Hall on 29th April 2019

*Tickets go on sale this Friday, 19th October*

Alfie is one of the most acclaimed vocalists of his generation and a hugely successful, multi-platinum selling artist. He has triumphed on theatre stages and in concert halls around the world and has two recent UK #1 albums under his belt for albums ‘Together’ and ‘Together Again’, made with his great friend Michael Ball.

The duo also won two Classic BRIT Awards earlier this year for ‘Best Album’ and ‘Group of the Year’.

Alfie Boe releases his first album in four years on 23rd November – a vibrant and instantly classic album As Time Goes By. This is a record that celebrates the golden era of music from the 30s and 40s, a time that is often overlooked – sandwiched as it is between the roaring twenties and rock ‘n’ roll.

Tickets go on sale this Friday 19 October at 9am

Tickets for the Waterfront Hall are available:

In person at the Ulster Hall Box Office

By Telephone: 028 9033 4455
Book On Line: www.waterfront.co.uk

In person: From 100 Ticketmaster Outlets Nationwide
By Telephone (24 Hour): Northern Ireland – 0844 277 44 55
Book On Line: www.ticketmaster.ie

Wicked Walks at Halloween!

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Enter the world of Wicked Walks this Halloween.

 

Come and be guided through the historical grounds of Antrim Castle Gardens, Mossley Mill and Sentry Hill and hear about the goings on of yester year.  These evenings of tall tales and spooky stories will provide a sensory experience to entertain and enthral as we explore the darker side of some of our better- known venues.

Our storytellers will take you on a guided tour in the early evening when night has drawn in. These specially created Wicked Walks will reveal the shadowy side of our heritage with mirth, wit and a feast of unknown facts about the local area and beyond.

Suitable for ages 14+, these after-hours events would make the perfect date night, work night out, teen half-term fun or simply an opportunity for a friends get together.

With limited availability on each tour, early booking is recommended. To book please contact Box Office on T: 028 9034 0202 or ww.theatreatthemill.com

Please arrive 10 minutes before the tour start time. Please come dressed appropriately for the weather as these events take place outdoors.  To help chase away any shivers, warming refreshments will be available after each walk and a hot drink is included in the ticket price of £5

Only for those who dare step back in time during this spookiest time of the year! Are you brave enough?

 

Dates & Times:

Mossley Mill-

Saturday 27 October 6pm

Sunday 28 October 6pm

Friday 2 November 6pm

Sunday 4 November 6pm & 8pm

Antrim Castle Gardens-

Tuesday 23 October 6pm and 8pm

Wednesday 24 October 6pm and 8pm

Thursday 25 October

Thursday 1 November 6pm and 8pm

Sentry Hill House

Tuesday 30 October 6pm and 8pm (8pm Tour Sold Out)

 

Spooked Out at V36!

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Are you ready to be spooked out in Antrim and Newtownabbey?

The Mayor, Councillor Paul Michael looks forward to Spooked Out at V36 with Emillie Murphy.

Come along to Spooked Out at V36 at the Valley, on Wednesday 31 October from 6pm – 8pm. All ghosts, ghouls, villains, vampires, witches and wizards are invited to join in the freaky, free family fun this Halloween!

The festivities will kick off with Rebecca McKinney and the Cool FM Roadshow, followed by lots of family fun and frolics! Join in the Halloween games and enter the fangtastic fancy dress competition, to win some gorey prizes. We will also have face painting, bouncy castles and spooky characters to keep everyone entertained.

The evening will come to a close at 8pm when the Cave Hill will be a spectacular backdrop for a fireworks extravaganza*.

Access to V36 on foot will be by the main entrance, opposite KFC on the Church Road or, from the Valley Leisure Centre car park, along the footpath by the duck pond. Car parking at V36 is only available to blue badge holders.

For our full programme of events and information on car parking please visit www.antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/halloween.

*Please note the fireworks display is subject to weather conditions.

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