Here are ten exciting things to do 14 – 20 August
ISPS HANDA World Invitational, Ballymena, County Antrim, 17-20 August. Northern Ireland’s biggest annual golf tournament gets underway at the Galgorm where men and women will compete will go head-to-head for the same prize money at the same event. Take the train to see the professionals train at the new co-host course of Castlerock.- Wake The Giant, Warrenpoint, County Down, 19-20 August. The return of the Wake the Giant Festival is the perfect reason to visit the charming town of Warrenpoint. This vibrant festival celebrates the town’s unique heritage and legends, offering visitors a weekend full of exciting events and activities. From live music and performances to Giants food feast and children’s activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
- The Lake Kilrea, Kilrea, County Londonderry, throughout August. Make a giant splash in this fresh water aqua park a few minutes’ walk from the historic town of Kilrea and the mighty river Bann. There’s a great range of family friendly activities from canoeing and kayaking to paddleboards, not to mention the “Beast Slide”. There are more thrills on dry land with high ropes, a zip line and a 24 ft climbing wall.
- CHSq 2023, Belfast, County Antrim, 14-20 August. Custom House Square has another tremendous line-up of international acts in this year’s music festival including Kodaline, the Proclaimers and homegrown punk talent, Stiff Little Fingers. All set against the historic backdrop of Charles Lanyon’s designed Custom House.
- Finnebrogue Feasts, Downpatrick, County Down, 19 August. Celebrate this summer’s bounty with a five-course feast crafted by wild chef Rory Gorman. With a focus on local and seasonal produce, this bespoke culinary experience is created using ingredients foraged from the surrounding woodland. Enjoy the cosy ambience of the Scandinavian Tipi whilst observing the chefs at work over the fire, before tucking into the resulting deliciousness. This is truly a unique woodland dining experience!
- Exploris Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary, Portaferry, County Down, 15 August. Explore the story of Strangford Lough with the unveiling of a new tank, double the size of the old one, complete with an underground tunnel. You can now watch magnificent marine life float overhead. Whilst at Exploris don’t forget to explore the kid’s playroom, a two tier aquatic themed indoor soft play area with distinct zones for babies, toddlers and juniors up to eight years old.
- Family Fun at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, Armagh, County Armagh, 15-17 August. Join Scientific Sue on this historical and creative journey of discovery at the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium. Experience the new live science show, based on the book written by Cressida Cowell: How to Train Your Dragon. Find out if Cressida is a scientific genius or just a fantastic storyteller. Scientific Sue will need lots of brave volunteers to help her investigate and explore the science of how dragons fly.
- Open Park Days, Ballygawley, County Tyrone, 16 August. Open Park Days return at Todds Leap with over 15 amazing activities to choose from. Explore the sites archery, zip lines, climbing walls and drop zone, all set in the beautiful Clogher Valley. You can also explore the Granda Bens Ethical Zoo Trail with life sized zoo models, outdoor play trails and a rope bridge.
- Creels In The Cave, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh 18 August. Learn more about the ancient art of how Irish fish baskets, creels, were made. Dessie, owner of the Linnet Inn, will share stories and explain the extensive man-made cave network that lies beneath the pub. You will get the chance to try your hand at weaving with soft instruction from master weaver Tommy O’Brien. Enjoy a locally made bowl of broth and locally made fadge, all as you are regaled by the stories and history of this magical landscape.
- Lumarina, Ballyronan, County Londonderry ,19 August. Lumarina, the fun filled, free event held at Ballyronan Marina makes a welcome return on Saturday. Enjoy a unique firework display with the picturesque backdrop of the Lough reflecting the onshore illuminations. Don’t miss the evenings firework display, with a finale to amaze. There is something for everyone from fire performers, a fun fair, magic shows and illuminations on the riverside trail behind the play park that will catch the eye of the little ones.
For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/