Here are ten exciting things to do 24 – 30 April
City of Derry Jazz & Big Band Festival, Derry~Londonderry, 27 – 1 May. If you’re looking for the perfect way to start the summer, then look no further than Derry~Londonderry, where the City of Derry Jazz & Big Band Festival returns this May Bank Holiday weekend. This is the 22nd iteration of the Festival which has grown year on year to become the biggest and best Jazz showcase in Ireland, making it the favourite stop off for hundreds of musicians on the jazz circuit.- Portrush Tasty, Portrush, County Antrim, 28 April. These Friday evening foodie tours are the perfect opener for your weekend. This tour is about getting together and sharing food, drink, stories and craic. It starts with an exclusive behind-the-scenes visit to Portrush’s only craft brewery, Lacada Brewery, for a private tasting, moving on for a delicious main course on Main Street, and rounding off with a cool new cocktail in an awarding-winning bar and entertainment venue.
- Burgers, Beer & Spirits at The Echlinville Distillery, Kircubbin, County Down, 29 April. Enjoy an afternoon of the finest local food and drinks with gourmet burgers by Ballyboley Dexters, craft beer by Modest Beer and Echlinville’s premium whiskeys and gins.
- Frock Around The Clock : Vintage & Handmade Fair, Belfast, 30 April. Frock Around The Clock have been running vintage and handmade fairs since 2008, and with over 200 events in Belfast and beyond, they are a firm favourite on the Northern Ireland event calendar. Expect to find cool collectables, on-trend homewares, beautiful jewellery, fashion and accessories.
- Rock Out With The Cave Crew, Florencecourt, Fermanagh, 30 April. The Cave Crew of the Marble Arch Cave are excited to host a new above-ground event exploring the rich heritage of Killykeeghan National Nature Reserve. Visitors will delve into the local human history and heritage of this hidden gem nestled within the landscape of Cuilcagh Mountain. They will uncover the treasures of the fascinating geology, stunning landforms and the unique biodiversity of this special place through an exciting new interactive guided trail.
- Rathlin Forage, Ballycastle, County Antrim, 30 April. Ksenia has, for the last seventeen years, collected and cooked with the natural produce that grows along the rocky shoreline of Rathlin Island. This exciting foraging walk will last approximately 1 hour 30 minutes and the guide Ksenia will introduce the ancient art of foraging.
- Food and Mindfulness Tour, Plumbridge, County Tyrone, see website for booking tours Starting your day at Butterlope Farm you will be welcomed by Annie a local expert in the flora of the area. Visit the vegetable garden and enjoy tea, scones and foraged jams before heading out on a forage walk. As you take in the views of the amazing Glenga Valley, Annie will lead you along ancient hedgerows and dry stone walls. The forage walk will look at the historical and medicinal uses of plants and consider plants that can be picked as ‘Food for Free’. Also, learn how to recognise the archaeological features of the upland Sperrins landscape.
- Gullion Adventures, Meigh, County Armagh. Whether you are planning some family activities over the bank holiday weekends or are planning a group bonding activity, Gullion adventures has it all. From mountain biking, archery and abseiling, you are sure to be entertained in this outstanding area of beauty and adventure. Contact 07591887370 for further information.
- Oakfire Adventures, Derry~Londonderry, see website for opening times. Oakfire strive to make their activity destination as best as possible. Located on the outskirts of Derry-Londonderry, Oakfire Adventures are accessible from all parts of Northern Ireland and beyond. Perfect for corporate events, sports teams, stag parties, birthdays or simply a fun day out, Oakfire provides an exhilarating alternative to those looking to have a great time.
- Hydrobikes at Enniskillen Castle, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh. This experience is set in the water below the magnificent Enniskillen Castle, and can be enjoyed during the day or at night time, providing a completely unique perspective of the town. Jump onboard the Hydrobikes with lights for a low-impact leisurely ride around Castle Island, with your colourful bike lighting up the water and creating an eye-catching display. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture fantastic shots of your friends and family enjoying the experience.
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/