Month: November 2023

Council set to mark Ulster-Scots Language Week 2023 with music, poetry and chat

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Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is set to host a series of events to mark Ulster-Scots Language Week from 20-24 November, 2023

Coordinated by the Ulster Scots Agency, ‘Ulster Scotch Leid Week’ aims to promote greater awareness of the Ulster Scots language and celebrate the contribution which Ulster Scots makes to our local area and communities.

The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Steven Callaghan said: “This year’s programme of events to mark Ulster Scots Language Week highlights the importance of the Ulster-Scots in our local culture, heritage and tradition. Ulster-Scots tradition can be heard in towns, shops and cafes across our Borough.  It is highly important to local people, helping to give them a sense of belonging and place.”

The week of activities commences on Monday, 20 November at 7pm in The Fuse Centre Ballymoney, with an evening of poems, verses and stories from Chalie Gillen, Councillor Ivor Wallace and Alan Millar.

On Tuesday, 21 November at 7pm in Tilly Molloy Centre, Liam Logan, a native Ulster-Scots speaker and an enthusiast promoter of Ulster-Scots, will give a talk on Ulster Scots and explore how it is an integral part of our shared linguistic and cultural heritage. There will be tunes and music from renowned local musician Dick Glasgow.

Then on Thursday, 23 November in Kilrea, there will be more tunes, stories and songs featuring Dick Glasgow and friends, with a talk by Liam Logan. This will be held in Kilrea Orange Hall, New Row, Kilrea at 7.30pm with light refreshments served.

Gerard McIlroy, Good Relations Officer at Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council said: “As part of the Hear Here project, we are delighted to run these events to mark Ulster Scots Week. This project aims to promote the use of the Ulster-Scots language across the Borough.  We hope that many will take the opportunity to come to these events and explore Ulster Scots and the range of talent we have in our community.”

For those who were unable to attend the events, Fuse FM will have coverage over live on their radio station. Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council will also be adding information across their social media channels.

The events received financial support from The Executive Office as part of the District Councils Good Relations Programme and supports the T:BUC strategy (Together Building a United Community).

Celebrate Christmas with Festive Arts Events in Ards and North Down

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Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Arts and Heritage Service has some fantastic festive events on offer this Christmas season.

Shoppers are invited to two unique festive shopping experiences where they can browse and purchase beautiful, handcrafted products created by local artists and makers. The special events which will be located in North Down Museum, Bangor and Ards Arts Centre, Newtownards are sure to offer ideal Christmas gifts.

North Down Museum’s Pop-Up Christmas Shop takes place from Wednesday 22 November to Sunday 7 January. The museum’s galleries with be festively decorated and filled with stunning, hand-made products, the perfect place to get that special gift whilst supporting local artists. The shop is free to explore during museum opening hours.

On Thursday 30 November, the museum is hosting a special Late Night Shopping Event where visitors can browse the galleries and buy unique presents in a completely different way. The event will also feature live music and artists demonstrations.

The Creative Peninsula Christmas Fayre makes a welcome return to Ards Arts Centre on Friday 1 and Saturday 2 December, exclusively featuring artwork and handcrafted produce made by the Creative Peninsula Artists. For a unique shopping experience, visitors can browse the artworks and be inspired to purchase a wonderful, handcrafted Christmas gift, made in the borough of Ards and North Down. Seasonal interludes, complimentary gift wrapping and festive refreshments will also be on offer. The Christmas Fayre is on 4pm – 8pm on Friday 1 and 10am – 4pm on Saturday 2 December. Admission is free.

Kids will love Little Miss Muffet’s Christmas Adventure at the Queen’s Hall, Newtownards on Saturday 9 December at 2pm and 6.30pm. Presented by Centre Stage Company, this hilarious Christmas tale with catchy songs and simple effects is guaranteed to have children shrieking with delighted. Tickets are on sale now and cost £8.

A Christmas Night at the Movies will be an enchanting evening of Christmas and movie favourites, taking place in the beautiful Chamber Room in Bangor Castle on Thursday 14 December. Performed and hosted by one of Northern Ireland’s finest vocalists and Bangor’s own Michelle Baird, the concert will feature much loved hits and themes from popular films including Elf, Love Actually and Home Alone as well as West End and chart favourites and Christmas classics. Joining Michelle will be the talented pianist Steve Barnett, along with Stephen McClenahan on guitar and other guest performers. Tickets cost £15 including festive refreshments.

Speaking about the events, Emily Crawford, Arts and Heritage Manager for Ards and North Down Borough Council said: We have something for everyone this Christmas with opportunities to purchase unique handcrafted gifts, festive fun for all the family at our Christmas show with Centre Stage Theatre Company and an atmospheric evening of music at Bangor Castle with the wonderful Michelle Baird that’s guaranteed to get you into the seasonal spirit!

For more information to book tickets visit: www.andculture.org.uk

Full Line Up Revealed For Big Belfast Marketing Event

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15 expert speakers from the world of marketing are set to take to the stage at Belfast’s leading marketing conference the Big Marketing Meet Up for a day of inspiration and knowledge-sharing at W5 in Titanic Quarter on November 14, 2023.

This one-day event promises to empower passionate marketers with fresh insights, interactive sessions, and expert knowledge. With 10 key presentations, five bitesize sessions, and a special Lego serious play workshop, the event is set to be a stimulating day of marketing inspiration.

Speakers include CEO of The Insight Factory Alan Branagh, legal technologist, and founder of Briefed Orlagh Kelly, the creative responsible for the HeineKEN x Barbie spec ad Ciaran McKeon, Irish autistic best-selling author and founder of Neurodiversity Training International Jude Morrow, communications specialist, founder and director of Excalibur Press Tina Calder and founder of Made With Intent, David Mannheim.

‘The Marketing Simplifier’ Roger Edwards said he’s looking forward to the event: “Undoubtedly digital marketing has been phenomenally successful for businesses of all sizes over the last decade or so. Especially small businesses. 

“It’s given them access to marketing techniques that before would only have been available to those companies with gigantic eye-watering budgets. But, there have been consequences to the success of digital marketing.

“I think it’s time to stop talking about digital marketing and just start talking about marketing again. It’s only a subtle difference, but hopefully, on the 14th of November in Belfast, I’ll tell you why I believe this is an essential move for marketers all over the world.”

Throughout the day marketers from across the country will get the opportunity to explore the dynamics of introverts and extroverts communicating marketing, gain invaluable insights into maximising the potential of video content, and challenge the notion that marketing is evolving at an unprecedented pace. 

Founder of Big Marketing Meet Up, Treena Clarke said she was delighted to reveal the full line up of speakers: “This time we wanted to build upon the fantastic line-up from our last event and to do that we have gone above and beyond. We not only have a huge line-up of expert speakers on the main stage but we also have a whole host of other talks and workshops throughout the day.

“The feedback from last May’s Big Marketing Meet-Up’s last event showed that there was so much enthusiasm for a programme that will deliver what marketers need.

“Our professional environment is changing so rapidly that it is clear everyone needs to stay up-to-date with the challenges and opportunities they present.”

Treena said that what was also apparent as she moved to prepare for the November programme was that mingling with fellow marketers was an important feature.

“We are going to have some serious fun,” she said. “There will be a Lego Lounge where attendees will get the chance to experience what the iconic brick brand can inspire new levels of creativity.”

Also taking to the stage at the event alongside Roger Edwards are Creative Director of Blue Sky Video Marketing Peter Craven, founder and CEO of Vixen Labs James Poulter, Excalibur Press director Tina Calder, LinkedIn brand builder Sharon Murray and managing director of Everybody Works in Sales Niraj Kapur, along with project manager and partner of Horrible Brands Aidan Harbinson, founder of MRKTSEARCH Sarah Stewart and founder of Eximo Marketing Andi Jarvis.

Speaker Tina Calder of Excalibur Press who will be speaking on the importance of using thought leadership in your marketing said: “The Big Marketers Meet Up has become an integral part of Northern Ireland’s professional marketing calendar” said Tina Calder, adding: “Not only is it an opportunity for professionals to get together and network but also to share experiences, expertise and learn from each other.

“I am looking forward to not only learning from my colleagues in the industry but also being able to talk about the importance of a thought leadership strategy in your marketing at the event.”

The Big Marketing Meet-Up is designed to empower passionate marketers with fresh insights and expert knowledge. With this new lineup of speakers, attendees can look forward to a day of stimulating discussions and interactive sessions.

Organiser Treena added: “The success of our last meet-up showed the demand for a program that provides key insights and discussions in a fun environment. 

“Our speakers and attendees ensure that this will be an event created by marketing professionals, for marketing professionals. It’s time for marketers to take time out, learn, and energise.”

To find out more about the programme and to secure tickets, go to bmmubelfast.com

The award-winning Maxwell Quartet performing at The Playhouse Theatre this month

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Hailing from Scotland, the award-winning Maxwell Quartet will perform across NI for the first time this November, with a performance at the Playhouse Theatre Derry on Thursday 23rd November.

Now firmly regarded as one of the finest young string quartets around, Maxwell Quartet are a group in high demand. Performing regularly across the UK, Europe and the USA, the quartet have wide-ranging projects and programmes, constantly expanding the string quartet repertoire. With a strong connection to their folk music heritage, the Maxwell Quartet sound is instantly recognisable.

The concert programme will feature Haydn’s String Quartet in E flat no.1, Beethoven’s String Quartet in C sharp minor, Op 131 and ‘Gather’, a selection of Scottish folk music arrangements from their most recent album.

The quartet’s performances have garnered rave reviews from The Guardian, The Strad, New York Times, Gramophone, BBC Radio 3 to name a few. This promises to be a wonderful concert of chamber music, celebrating two giants of the string quartet medium and the connections their music has to folk music.

Tickets are £15/10 concession and available from www.derryplayhouse.co.uk or 02871 268027

 

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 6-12 November

  1. ONÓIR, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 11 November. Experience the exceptional Donegal musicians; Tom McHugh, Declan Gaughan, Deane Connaghan, and Diarmaid McGee harmonising live from The Playhouse. These talented musicians with distinctive vocal styles are setting new standards with incredible musical arrangements and harmonies that make them so unique. From their new take on traditional Irish ballads all the way through to up-tempo modern Irish classics. Enjoy the onstage chemistry, excitement, and banter in a show not to be missed!
  1. Sound of Belfast, Belfast, County Antrim, 9-12 November.  This annual celebration turns the spotlight on what this UNESCO City of Music has to offer. Belfast is one of only three in the UK! This festival is bursting at the seams with a mixture of collaborative, independent and partnership events hosted by Belfast’s musicians, creatives and artists. You can take in a show (or several), support your local music venue and artists, take part in a workshop, join a conversation, or learn more about the music business. There is something at Sound of Belfast for all musical tastes, curiosities, and interests.
  2. Traditional Irish Breadmaking, Killinchy, County Down, 11 November. Join Tracey in her kitchen on the shores of breathtaking Strangford Lough in County Down. You’ll be welcomed into her home with the aroma of homemade Fruit Soda Bannock as it comes out of the oven. You’ll enjoy this sweet treat with some award-winning Irish butter.  Then it’s time for some Griddle Bread making! Aprons on and you’ll make traditional breads – Soda breads, Wheaten and Potato, all made the traditional way.
  3. Fermanagh Pride Drag Weekend Extravaganza, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh,10-11 November. Fermanagh Pride has organised a two night drag weekend fundraising extravaganza. This weekend is packed with fabulous events including a drag cabaret and disco by local John Hamilton as drag ‘Viva La Diva’ and his Bar Pop team all way from Canal St, Manchester. There will also be appearances from the iconic Manchester drag queen ‘Gypsy Darling’. Gypsy along with the Brian Boru Ceili Dancers will be welcoming beginners to join in on the Big Gay Ceili on Saturday night.
  4. Wild Atlantic Distillery Gin School & Distillery Tour, Castlederg, County Tyrone, 10-11 November. Learn the craft of making a spirit under the guidance of award-winning master distillers and discover the origins of the botanicals including kelp and dillisk, that are hand harvested from the Wild Atlantic Ocean. Over a light meal, savour a gin and tonic served with a lunch of artisan breads, cheeses, and charcuterie. Indulge in artisan gin, great local food, the wild surroundings, and a story or two along the way.
  1. Two Stacks Whiskey – Premium Blending Experience, Newry, County Armagh, 11 November. Discover what makes Two Stacks Irish Whiskey so unique. On this tour you will learn the history of blending and bonding in Ireland, the art of blending whiskey, and how to use Two Stacks in your favourite drinks at home. Enjoy a combination of informative discussion, hands-on whiskey blending experience, and sample some delicious whiskey cocktails.
  1. Autumn Woodland Walk, Comber, County Down, 11-12 November. Join an expert guide for a delightful dander in the woodland this weekend. Take in the fresh autumnal air and discover some of the woodland’s secrets from the life of the trees to the multitude of creatures both big and small who call this woodland home. This tour will begin in the Wild Wood play area.
  2. The Ark Open Farm, Newtownards, County Down, throughout November. The Ark Open Farm is a fantastic family day out set in 40 acres of beautiful countryside between Newtownards and Bangor. This family run farm has been open for over 30 years and promises to be a fun-filled family day out for all. Enjoy a wide range of farm animals and exotic residents, indoor and outdoor play areas, nature trails, cafe, and gift shop. There is something for everyone!
  3. Loving Cup Arrives at Titanic Belfast, Belfast, County Antrim, 6 November. Don’t miss the opportunity to see ‘one of the most iconic objects relating to the Titanic disaster’, The Loving Cup, at Titanic Belfast. The Loving Cup was presented to Arthur Rostron, the Captain of RMS Carpathia, which came to the rescue of over 700 surviving passengers and crew the night of Titanic’s sinking on May 29th, 1912. This limited time artifact will be display in the atrium, completely free for all to experience.
  1. Film as Art: Brian Desmond Hurst, Film Director exhibition, Belfast, County Antrim, throughout November. As Northern Ireland’s film industry thrives and continues to attract investment and creativity, now is an apt time to celebrate the life and work of a man who is often hailed as one of Northern Ireland’s best film directors, Brian Desmond Hurst (1895-1986). This exhibition will display film posters, invitations, lobby cards, original press clippings from Hurst’s own scrapbooks, film footage and photographs. Don’t miss this showcase of Hurst’s remarkable achievements.

Booking is essential for most activities. Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Banoge House, Craigavon, County Armagh

This charming country retreat is a delightful escape just 40 minutes from Belfast. Following the tree-lined drive to the beautiful house, you will relax in one of the four ensuite rooms. From £80 per room per night B&B based on two people sharing. Visit https://banogehouse.co.uk/  for more information.

Waterfoot Hotel, Derry~Londonderry

Now the ghouls have retired for another year this is a great place to explore the north west. Enjoy a two-night stay with an award winning full Irish Breakfast and an evening meal in the hotel Wine Bar on an evening of your choice. From £239 for DB&B for two nights based on two people sharing. Visit https://www.waterfoothotel.com/ for more information.

Mahons Hotel, County Fermanagh

Enjoy a midweek two-night autumn break in the heart of the Fermanagh Lakelands. Included is a delightful, hearty cooked-to-order breakfast on each morning and dinner tokens for an evening of your choice. From £105 pp based on two people sharing. Visit https://www.mahonshotel.co.uk/ for more information.

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

ARMAGH OBSERVATORY AND PLANETARIUM SET TO LIVESTREAM ROYAL INSTITUTION’S WORLD-FAMOUS CHRISTMAS LECTURES

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The world-famous CHRISTMAS LECTURES are coming to Northern Ireland in December, with Armagh Observatory and Planetarium set to stream the live filming, direct from the Royal Institution (Ri) theatre in London on 12 and 14 December in its Kepler Room.

Watched by millions on the BBC, the annual CHRISTMAS LECTURES are a firm family favourite, broadcast during the festive season. The 2023 event is set to reveal the truth about Artificial Intelligence.

01 Commercial – Royal Institution, 230810 Michael Wooldridge For RIGB

Confirmation of Armagh Observatory and Planetarium as one of 16 livestream partners announced, means that NI’s science lovers, and anyone who’s curious about the world around them, will be able to experience first-hand the magic of the world’s longest-running science lecture series.

The Ri has set a target of 20 or more partner venues – to exceed the previous highest total of 18, set four years ago before the Covid-19 pandemic – with the first 16 locations confirmed.

Helen McLoughlin, Operations Manager at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, said, “It is an honour to welcome the world-renowned CHRISTMAS LECTURES here to Armagh and we would like to thank the Royal Institution for partnering with us on this special event.

“At Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, we deliver internationally recognised research into astronomy and related sciences, along with vibrant educational and outreach programmes for all ages.

“As such, it is a pleasure to make this vital discourse on Artificial Intelligence accessible to people across NI.”

Director of the Royal Institution, Katherine Mathieson, said: “We’re extremely grateful to each of our partner venues, confirmed so far. They will all bring their own unique flavour to the live filming of the world-famous CHRISTMAS LECTURES, enabling local audiences to see what goes on behind the scenes when inspiring scientists are brought together with the public.

“We’re delighted to be working with some of the UK’s best science research and engagement organisations to bring the Lectures within reach for even more people this year. We’re very much look forward to welcoming more partners in the run-up to filming.”

From Aberdeen Science Centre and TechFest in Scotland to Exeter Science Centre in southern England, the first 16 partner venues named stretch the length and breadth of the UK.

Also confirmed are the National Museums Liverpool, Keele University, Cambridge Museum of Technology, Queen Mary University of London, STEM Learning (York), Plymouth University, Lancaster University, the University of Glasgow, the University of Warwick, London Metropolitan University, Oxford Brookes University and Science Oxford Centre.

The Ri is continuing discussions with further venues that have already expressed their interest, with others – including science centres, universities, museums, theatres and other cultural venues – invited to apply.

The CHRISTMAS LECTURES were the brainchild of Michael Faraday in 1825 and have been delivered every year since, with the exception of four years during World War II when it was too dangerous to have a theatre full of children in central London. The first science programme ever to be broadcast on UK national television, in 1936, they have been broadcast every year since 1966.

Last year Dame Sue Black revealed the ‘Secrets of forensic science’ and in 2021, Sir Jonathan Van-Tam delivered ‘Going Viral: How Covid changed science forever’ before notably going viral online himself due to the first Lecture’s opening sequences.

Filming of the 2023 CHRISTMAS LECTURES will be livestreamed from the Royal Institution’s iconic theatre on 12, 14 and 16 December. The Lectures will be broadcast on BBC national television and iPlayer between Christmas and New Year.

 

To find out more about Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, visit: https://www.armagh.space

Christmas events to spread festive cheer across Causeway Coast and Glens

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Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is delighted to announce its Christmas activities coming to a town near you.

Santa has a busy time ahead, as he will make his way around the Borough to mark the beginning of Christmas celebrations. Festivities will commence in Ballymoney on Thursday 16th November, followed by Saturday 18th November in Limavady, Thursday 23rd November in Ballycastle and finishing on Friday 24th November in Coleraine.

To get everyone in the spirit, the festive programme will be a treat for all ages, with seasonal parades, family fun, Christmas light switch ons, and of course visiting Santa in his Grotto.

The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council said: “I am very much looking forward to welcoming families to our traditional Christmas programme of events, helping to spread festive cheer throughout the Borough.

“There will be something for people of all ages to enjoy, with parades, Santa’s Grotto and of course our Christmas light switch ons, creating a wonderful atmosphere in our town centres. These events are a fantastic opportunity to bring people together for some festive family fun, as well as supporting our local traders.”

In addition to the four main events, there will be community festive events taking place in November and December in local towns and villages, supported by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.

Children with additional needs can enjoy a pre-booked ‘Quiet Time’ in the four towns.

To book your quiet time visit, email events@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

 

DATE TOWN LOCATION TIME
16th November Ballymoney Town Hall 3pm – 5pm
18th November Limavady Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre RVACC 10.30am – 12.30pm
23rd November Ballycastle Sheskburn House 3pm – 5pm
24th November Coleraine Town Hall 3pm – 5pm

 

 

Santa’s Grotto Opening Times

 

DATE TOWN LOCATION TIME
16th November Ballymoney Church Street From 7pm
18th November Limavady Drumceatt Square, RVACC From 2pm
23rd November Ballycastle Co-op Carpark (Diamond) From 7pm
24th November Coleraine New Row, opposite Moores From 7pm

 

All parade routes are detailed below, and we would encourage people to choose a safe spot to view the procession.

Christmas Parade Departure Times & Route details

DATE TOWN ROUTE DEPARTURE TIME
16th November Ballymoney Coleraine Road – High Street – Main Street – Meeting House Street – Queen Street – Victoria Street – Charles Street –
Coleraine Road		 6:45pm
18th November Limavady Irish Green Street – Rathbrady Road – Roemill Road – Catherine Street – Linenhall Street – Main Street – Connell Street – Irish Green Street 4:45pm
23rd November Ballycastle Quay Road – Ann Street – Market Street – Clare Street – Castle Street  – Diamond – Ann Street – Quay Road 6:45pm
24th November Coleraine Depart Coleraine Leisure Centre – Railway Road – Kingsgate Street – Church Street – The Diamond- Church Street – Kingsgate Street- Railway Road –  Coleraine Leisure Centre 6:45pm

 

For more information visit www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com or follow the Causeway Coast and Glens Events Facebook & Instagram pages for the latest updates.

Belfast prepares to switch on for festive season on Saturday 18 November

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Belfast City Hall will once again be the focus for the city’s Christmas lights switch-on, which will take place on Saturday 18 November

The event is returning to its pre-Covid format for the first time since 2019, with the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy, joining residents and local artists and performers to illuminate the city and begin the countdown to the festive season.

Tickets for the switch-on, entitled Let’s Glow Belfast, will be released at 10am next Wednesday 8 November from visitbelfast.com, on a first-come, first-served basis (limited to six per booking).

This year’s event will focus primarily on local music and arts performances, with a line-up that includes leading NI soul band Manukahunney, characters from the Lyric Theatre’s Christmas pantomime Hansel and Gretel, emerging electro pop queen FYA Fox, an upbeat routine from Belfast Boys, DU Dance NI’s youth dance group, and a singalong medley of popular Christmas songs from Fortwilliam Musical Society.

Pete Snodden, Rebecca McKinney and Paulo Ross from Cool FM’s breakfast show will also act as comperes on the evening.

“I’m really looking forward to welcoming families back to our traditional lights switch-on at City Hall and officially marking the countdown to Christmas,” said the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy.

“Our beautiful tree at City Hall, the colourful illuminations and the opening of the Belfast Christmas Market are all key elements of the festive season here in Belfast, so it will be great to get everyone together again for what promises to be a really fun evening.

“This time around, we’re putting our city’s own amazing talent front and centre, with a great line-up of music and live performance planned, sure to get everyone into the Christmas spirit.

“Our Winter’s Den at 2 Royal Avenue will also open its doors on Saturday 18 November, with activities and events for all ages in the run-up to Christmas, including festive markets, family performances, Santa’s post office, tea dances, upcycling workshops and lots more.”

David Tighe, Managing Director with Bauer Media Audio NI, said: “We are really excited to see the return of the traditional Christmas lights switch-on to Belfast, with a real focus this year on local acts and family entertainment.

“Cool FM’s Pete, Paulo and Rebecca will bring that magic Christmas touch to the festivities on stage, with Downtown’s Neal McClelland starting the countdown earlier in the day with the music you’d expect from the station that’s the Home of Christmas.”

Tickets for the Let’s Glow Belfast switch-on, limited to six per booking, will be released at 10am on Wednesday 8 November from visitbelfast.com, on a first-come, first-served basis.

You must click through to download the ticket as the email confirmation will not suffice.

Wheelchair accessible platform viewing for the event can be booked by calling 028 9024 6609 on Wednesday 8 November – these are limited to two per booking due to restricted capacity. Terms and conditions apply.

The Let’s Glow Belfast event on Saturday 18 November will start at 6.30pm, and last for around an hour. There will be road closures in effect in the city centre from earlier in the afternoon, so please allow extra time for your journey, with gates opening at 6pm.

The annual Belfast Christmas Market will also open in the City Hall grounds on Saturday 18 November, starting at 12 noon. The market will continue until 6pm on Friday 22 December.

The Winter’s Den at 2 Royal Avenue begins on Saturday 18 November and continues until Sunday 7 January with events for all the family. It includes Santa’s post office, operated by Belfast One, which runs from Saturday 18 November to Sunday 17 December, and is free to visit.

For full details of the Let’s Glow Belfast switch-on event, visit belfastcity.gov.uk/christmas

For details of other festive events in Belfast city centre, visit belfastcity.gov.uk/events

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