Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland next week (July 13-19).
- Scarva Sham Fight, Scarva, Co Down, July 14. This event is firmly established as one of the major events on the Northern Ireland cultural and tourism calendar. It will be an amazing occasion packed with music and pageantry, a day the whole family can enjoy. Video screens and other stage equipment will be provided for people to enjoy the day and a special marquee will be set up to allow visitors understand the history of the Royal Black Institution and the Sham Fight.
- Ulster Fleadh 2015, Dromore, Co Tyrone, July 18-26. The Fleadh kicks off on July 18 with an eagerly anticipated concert. July 23 will see the final chapter of the ‘Families of Ulster’ series featuring talent from each of the nine counties in Ulster. The Official Opening of the Fleadh takes place on July 24 featuring the All-Ireland Champions who will give an open-air performance. The feature weekend of Fleadh Uladh shall see the streets come alive with music, song and dance with many lively sessions from Friday July 24 until Sunday Jul 26. It is the perfect experience for young and old to soak up the talent and culture from all across Ulster with something for all the family.
- Teddy Bears’ Picnic at the Ark Open Farm, Newtownards, Co Down, July 17. Bring along your teddy or favourite cuddly toy for a day of fun at the Ark Open Farm. Punch and Judy will be there too! So pack your picnic and cuddly toy and help the Ark Open Farm celebrate 25 years of welcoming visitors. Come along between 2 and 4pm.
- Rose Week, Sir Thomas & Lady Dixon Park, Belfast, July 14-19. The International Rose Garden at Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park is amongst the best in the world and you are invited to enjoy over 45,000 roses in bloom at this stunning location. A full programme of events takes place in the park during Rose Week including music and a variety of entertainment for all ages. From 1pm – 5pm each day.
- DinoStories, W5 Lite, Outlet Park, Banbridge, July 1- August 19. Get ready to roar as you join a storyteller for some interactive stories and rhymes featuring all of your favourite Dinosaurs! An event perfect for young visitors. Every Wednesday 2.30 – 4.30pm.
- Seaside Country Music Showtime Concert, Newcastle Centre, Newcastle, Co Down, July 15. Come and enjoy Newcastle’s Seaside Country Music Concert on Wednesday 15th July in the Newcastle Centre with all your favourite country stars including country legend John Hogan, Eugene O’Doran and Boxcar Brian. Show starts at 8pm.
- Shambles Artisan Food & Craft Market, Shambles Yard, Armagh, Co Armagh, July 18. A feast for the senses the Shambles Artisan Food & Craft Market will offer a range of food, drink and crafts from local and regional producers and crafters. Budding crafters and chefs can learn the secrets of the crafts and pick up a few culinary tips at one of the many demonstrations and be entertained by the musical talent of our local musicians. From 10.30-4pm.
- Oliver! Workshop, Theatre at The Mill, Newtownabbey, Co Antrim, July 13 – August 1. Now in its fifth year, this Workshop will provide an in depth focus on training and preparation for stage performance, the vital skills required for any aspiring young theatre performer and experience the thrill of being part of a fully staged, live, performance on a professional stage with a live orchestra. Open to all young people aged 8 – 18 years of age and auditions will be held at the Theatre at The Mill. See website for timings.
- ISLAND Children’s Arts Festival 2015, ISLAND Arts Centre, Lisburn, Co Antrim, July 1-August 31. This has something for all ages – tiny tots, kids and teenagers – plus events the whole family can enjoy together. Festival highlights include mini festival events, including workshops, film screenings with a difference, community outreach and a fun-filled interactive Children’s Exhibition which will keep even adults entertained. See website for timings.
- Summer Stroll, Window on Wildlife, Off Airport Road West, Belfast, July 18-19. Join Warden Chris Sturgeon to explore Belfast’s Window on Wildlife as summer is in full bloom. At this time of year wonderful views over the lagoon are complemented by the sound of squabbling terns on the man-made rafts and the reserve will also be all-a-flutter with beautiful butterflies. From 10.30 – 12.00.
Please note some of the events require pre-booking. For more details on these and other events click on www.discovernorthernireland.com/events, visit your local tourist information centre or log onto www.facebook.com/discovernorthernireland.