Here are ten exciting things to do 28 August- 3 September
HotBox Field Trip, Limavady, County Londonderry, 28 August. Destress and unwind in this wood fired hot tub or sweat it out in the Finnish sauna. This pop up, usually on Benone Strand, is taking to a tranquil new woodland setting at Drumagosker. After braving the heat take the plunge in icy showers, before relaxing in front of the fire pit with warming mugs of tea.- Eats and Beats Festival, Newcastle, County Down, 2-3 September. This festival is a must for foodies and music lovers. A celebration of delicious local cuisine alongside great live performances by some of the hottest acts around. Eats and Beats draws thousands of visitors each year who come to sample the incredible food and soak up the festive atmosphere all set against the fabulous backdrop of the majestic Mournes.
- Tide and Turf Portavogie, Portavogie, County Down, 2 September. Set along the harbour and fish market this free family event showcases local produce with a special emphasis on the renowned seafood and beef. Pick up a snack from the many food stalls or be inspired by chef Paula McIntyre on how to cook up a storm in your own kitchen! Children can try the pedal boats or sand crafts and there’s live music from The String Ninjas and Bangor band the Florentinas who are making big waves on the local scene.
- Guided Tours of the Archbishop’s Palace, Armagh, County Armagh, 3 September. Take the chance to see behind the doors of what was the home of the Church of Ireland’s Primate’s from the 1700’s until 1970’s. This hour-long tour will guide you around this wonderful neo classical listed building.
- After the Rain, Derry ~ Londonderry, County Londonderry 26 August. The French circus Collective, Compagnie XY, accompanied by a 50 plus strong local ensemble of acrobats, local musicians and choirs will be in Guildhall Square. This specially commissioned event celebrates the resilience of the people and communities of the city 25 years on from the Good Friday Agreement.
- Fermanagh Fun Farm, Lisbellaw, County Fermanagh, 28 August. A fun day out for little children with the chance to meet 150 rescued and adopted animals. This social enterprise offers the opportunity to handle and feed some of the pets. A great day for hand on family memories with donkey and pony walking and grooming, a soft play area and indoor play barn.
- Downpatrick Racecourse, Downpatrick, County Down, 28 August. It’s Ladies Day at this historic course which has been hosting horses and riders for 150 years. Enjoy a fun day out of racing and fashion followed by live music. The turnstiles will open two hours before the first race.
- An Creagán, Omagh, County Tyrone, 25-27 August. Enjoy fantastic cycling and walking trails, all nestled in an area of outstanding natural beauty at the foot of the specular Sperrins. Catering for all tastes, there’s a wild wood for children and a forest walk and boardwalk for bigger kids. If history is your thing, there’s a reconstructed Bronze Age dwelling. Explore the community garden and refuel and relax after your exertions in the coffee shop, complete with an open fire, and pick up cool gifts in the craft shop.
- Spinning Yarns Festival, Newtownabbey, County Antrim, 2 September. Mossley Mill has a packed programme of workshops and stalls celebrating all things woolly. There’ll be traders from across Northern Ireland offering afternoon teas, artisan craft and gift stalls and much more.
- Belfast International Tattoo, Belfast, County Antrim, 1-2 September. Per head of the population there are more marching bands here than anywhere else in the world. This event is routed in the history, music, and dance traditions of the Ulster Scots. Pipe bands from across the globe will amass at the SSE Arena with the Majesticks Drum Corps and the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra among those taking part in this musical spectacle.
For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/