Down
Newry Chamber Music presents its annual Christmas concert on Wednesday 19th December at the Sean Hollywood Arts Centre Newry. Joining NCM’s artistic directors David Quigley and Joanne Quigley McParland will be the celebrated Irish soprano Máire Flavin. Expect a wonderful evening of classical and Christmas favourites. Early booking is advised to avoid disappointment. If you wish to reserve tickets by telephone please call 02830 828 632.
Armagh
Celebrate the Winter Solstice with a lantern-lit walk to Navan Fort and take part in a solstice ritual of morning meditation reflecting on the past and welcoming the arrival of new light. Appreciate the calmness and serenity of watching the sun rise over the sacred site of Emain Macha on the shortest day of the year, before returning to the centre for an optional breakfast. Pre-booking is essential although tickets are free, with the option to purchase a breakfast ticket at just £4.00 per person. Friday 21st December.
Fermanagh
Everyone across Fermanagh, Tyrone and beyond will have the opportunity to support the great work of Air Ambulance NI by visiting their fund raising Christmas Tree Festival which will be held in the Bawnacre Centre, Irvinestown next week, from Tuesday 18th until Sunday 23rd December. The spectacular display will consist of over 60 decorated Christmas trees presented by local groups, clubs, schools and voluntary organizations to reflect their good work in the local area. All funds raised will be presented to Air Ambulance via their local Trustee Mr Rodney Connor. Everyone is warmly invited to visit the Festival next week anytime Tuesday to Friday between 10 am and 10 pm; Saturday 10 am to 5 pm or during the special opening on Sunday 23rd December between 2 pm and 5 pm. Complimentary refreshments will be provided and families can also visit Santa’s Grotto in the Bawnacre for a beautiful family photograph.
Tyrone
The Christmas Country Concert Tour comes to the Mellon Country Inn Omagh on Friday 21st December. Doors open at 7.30 pm with the show beginning at 8.00 pm. With Ray Lynam, Philomena Begley, Dominic Kirwan, Louise Morrisey, Colm Kirwan, Barry Kirwan, Aidan Quinn, Stacey Breen, Chrissy Mac, MC Brian Cunningham. Dine & Dance/ Dine, Dance and Stay Packages Available! Tickets £22.50.
Derry/Londonderry
This Friday evening enjoy a Christmas Carol Service in the atmospheric setting of Mussenden Temple. Mulled wine and mince pies will be served in the interval. Please note that booking is essential for this event. Phone: 028 7084 8728 or email: downhilldemesne@nationaltrust.org.uk. Unfortunately dogs are not welcome at this event. Tickets : Adult: £7.50 | Child: £5.00 | Family: £20.00.
Antrim
A special screening of Frank Capra’s enduring and classic Christmas movie, It’s a Wonderful Life, will take place this Saturday afternoon at the Old Courthouse in Antrim. George Bailey has so many problems he is thinking about ending it all – and it’s Christmas! As the angels discuss George, we see his life in flashback. As George is about to jump from a bridge, he ends up rescuing his guardian angel, Clarence – who then shows George what his town would have looked like if it hadn’t been for all his good deeds over the years. Christmas gift included in ticket price.
Belfast
“Do you wanna build a snowman?” Join the Crescent Arts Centre this Saturday afternoon for an extra special Christmas treat and join Elsa, Anna and Olaf for an afternoon of sing-a-long cinema! There will be music, singing, films and even snow! The film will be shown with lyrics on a huge projector, blasting those famous tunes through the state of the art sound system. There are cinema seats and even popcorn, and don’t forget to dress up as your favourite character!
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Jacqueline McGonigle