Author: whatsonni

Steinbeck Festival 2025: Celebrating the spirit of storytelling and humanity in Limavady

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Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre is thrilled to once again partner with the Steinbeck Festival for its 7th year, offering an exciting and diverse programme that celebrates and explores the legacy of John Steinbeck.

From music and spoken word to theatre, storytelling, and art, this year’s festival promises to bring his timeless works to life in fresh and engaging ways.

The festival, celebrating John Steinbeck’s notable connection to Limavady, begins with one of Northern Ireland’s finest interviewers, Mark Carruthers, in conversation with award-winning journalist and author Fergal Keane on Friday 7th February. Tickets cost £12 for what is sure to be an insightful and poignant event.

The following evening, Saturday 8th February, come along and dance the night away as the Limavady Big Band play some stomping tunes as well as sharing American classics, a brilliant night out!

Following the success of the 2024 event, this year’s programme will once again spotlight an evening with local storytellers and poets. A celebration of the area’s creative talent, the event will feature heartfelt performances, including debut readings from emerging voices.

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Ciarán McQuillan said: “I am delighted to see the Steinbeck Festival return to Limavady again this year, with an exciting programme of events for adults, children and young people.

“The festival offers a fantastic opportunity to explore Steinbeck’s literature and local links, while showcasing our excellent arts facilities to the community.”

Commenting on this year’s festival Committee Member Harry Coates added: “The Festival Committee is thrilled with the exceptional quality and the variety of events in this year’s programme.

“Preparations are in full swing to make this the best festival yet, and the enthusiastic early bookings from the public reflect their excitement. We’re confident that February will bring another fantastic celebration of all things Steinbeck in Limavady.’

In a remarkable coup for the festival, Muireann Bradley, who captivated audiences on Later… with Jools Holland, will perform on Saturday 15th February. This intimate performance, part of her Irish tour, promises an unforgettable evening of raw talent and soulful melodies.

The festival concludes on Friday 28th February, with Voices from a Far Field – an enchanting evening of music, stories, and poetry performed in English, Irish, and Ulster Scots. This event is free to attend, but advance booking is essential.

The vibrant programme continues with the Steinbeck Book Cover Exhibition from 22 Feb and the Dustbowl Photography Competition, showcasing 20 striking entries on the theme “Leaving.”

The Arts Centre galleries are open throughout the Festival as follows:

  • Monday: 9:30am – 5pm
  • Tuesday: 9:30am – 5pm
  • Wednesday: 9:30am – 5pm and 7pm – 9pm
  • Thursday: 9:30am – 5pm and 7pm – 9pm
  • Friday: 9:30am – 5pm
  • Saturday: 10am – 1pm

For further information visit and to book tickets visit  www.roevalleyarts.com or call us on 028 7776 0650

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 20 – 26 January

 

  1. Earth Yoga – In The Heart Of The Cave at Marble Arch Caves, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 25 January. This multi-sensory experience will take your yoga practice to a place it has never been, surrounded by the sights and sounds of mother earth deep in the heart of the show cave, 50 metres underground. The Yoga session will be led by Genny Brown from Yoga Ocean. Genny has a Diploma in Yoga Therapy and is a Certified Yoga and Mindfulness Now Teacher. During this indulgence yoga session, Genny will bring the cave environment, its beauty, sounds and atmosphere into her yoga session.
  2. Live Music Nights at the Bushmills Inn, County Antrim, 24 – 25 January (more dates available). If you’re looking for somewhere to let your hair down and enjoy some live music, the Gas Bar at The Bushmills Inn is a perfect choice. This bar is steeped in history and lit by gas light for a cosy atmosphere that’s rustic and romantic. Catch up with old friends by the open peat fire and relax in a comfortable chair as you listen to some great tunes over a pint of Guinness.
  3. The Out to Lunch Festival at The Black Box, Belfast, 4 –26 January. Presented by Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival, start your year with a burst of culture at the 20th, Out to Lunch Festival, featuring a vibrant lineup of live music, theatre, comedy, and more. Out To Lunch offers lunchtime (and latterly evening) shows featuring the best in comedy, theatre, literature and music. Out to Lunch has become one of the most loved winter festivals drawing artists and audiences from all over the world.
  4. NI Silver Experiences, Holywood, County Down, 23 January (more dates available). Challenge yourself to try something new and connect with the ‘old ways’ of our ancestors by creating jewellery rather than just buying it. All this whilst making unique storytelling memories with your family, friends or by yourself and the NI Silver team.
  5. ‘roselight’ Exhibition By Frances O’Reilly at Down Arts Centre, Downpatrick, County Down, 9 January – 1 February. In this exhibition at Down Arts Centre, Downpatrick, the artist, Frances O’Reilly, presents a series of abstract landscapes, drawing from
    her observations of the natural world and the dynamic forces of nature. Working mostly in ink, charcoal, acrylic and oil – her work combines natural and geometric based forms and lines to weave a series of visual stories.
  6. Stargazing Evening at the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, County Armagh, 24 January (more dates available). Join Armagh Observatory and Planetarium for a series of Stargazing evenings. A team of experts will help you navigate the night sky using telescopes (weather depending) along with a dome show in the digital theatre and an astronomer talk.
  7. Planetarium Sound Journey Under the Stars at the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, County Armagh, 26 January. Embark on a journey to explore the Youniverse at the unique Sound Spa, “Sound Journey Under the Stars,” within the Armagh Planetarium Dome. Immerse yourself in a unique experience as you listen to soothing sounds while journeying under the stars and through the expansive cosmos. Let the music transport you to another world as you gaze up at the night sky. It’s the perfect way to end your weekend and start the week ahead.
  8. An Ode to Robert Burns at the Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 25 – 26 January. Celebrate Robert Burns at the Ulster American Folk Park. Join them to honour Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, one of Thomas Mellon’s favourite writers. Enjoy traditional haggis pie samples and listen to readings of some of Burns’ famous poetry. Experience theatrical performances of Not So Serious Burns by Bready Ulster-Scots, featuring a traditional bagpiper, Highland dancers, and even Robert Burns himself.
  9. IMBOLC International Music Festival 2025, Derry~Londonderry, 26 January – 1 February. IMBOLC International Music Festival is a standout event in the North West’s cultural scene. The festival programme features concerts, workshops, late-night festival clubs, and a traditional music session trail in Derry~Londonderry’s renowned venues, pubs, and cafes, making for an unforgettable experience in a city that’s rich in character.
  10. Deirdre O’Mahony – FARMWORK at Void Art Centre, Derry~Londonderry, 11 January – 8 March. It is winter at Void Art Centre and time to reflect. FARMWORK presents a selection of Deirdre O’Mahony’s artworks made over the past ten years, reflecting on her interest in the politics of landscape, rural sustainability and food security, challenging mainstream narratives around agricultural matters and policy.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Subject to availabilities with select dates.

 

Discover NI’s Offers of the Week

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The Harrison Chambers of Distinction, Belfast

Plan a special stay at the Harrison Chambers of Distinction in Belfast. Whether you’re staying in or going out, a cozy ambiance is the perfect starting point for a magical evening. Starting from £150 per room, this offer includes an early 2 pm check in, pizza or cheese and charcuterie board with glass of wine or prosecco, free parking and WiFi and more. Offer valid now until 1 December 2025. Visit www.chambersofdistinction.com for more information.

 

The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, County Down

From £615 per person sharing, the Love Is Inn the Air package offers an overnight stay with a bottle of bubbles delivered to your room and a rose petal turndown. Guests can enjoy a 60-minute spa treatment and access to the Treetop Spa from noon on the day of check-in until checkout. A three-course dinner served in the restaurant and a full Irish breakfast is also included. Redeem this special offer between 14 – 15 February. Visit www.theoldinn.com for more information.

For more information on what’s on or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com.

 

Offers are correct at the time of publication and are subject to availability and change without notice. Terms and Conditions apply to each offer and can be viewed on the individual provider’s websites. Tourism NI acts as a promoter of third-party offers and accepts no responsibility for any changes, withdrawals, or inaccuracies made by providers.

Last few days of We Love Dogs exhibition as Jollyes, The Pet People, partners with Belfast Exposed

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Fur-iz Navidad!

With less than a week left of one of the year’s biggest celebrations of our furry friends, dog owners would be ‘mutts’ to miss out on this pawfect pre-Christmas event.  The We Love Dogs exhibition at Belfast Exposed in the city’s Cathedral Quarter, which runs until this Saturday, December 21, features hundreds of adorable portraits and action shots of dogs from right across Northern Ireland.

A joint venture between Jollyes The Pet People and leading photography centre, Belfast Exposed, the exhibition takes place in The Studio Gallery and is free to the public. The exhibition also hosts a ‘Give A Dog A Home’ space where images from seven local rescue and rehoming centres showcase dogs seeking their forever home.

Jollyes’ Northern Ireland regional manager Laura Hadden said the event has been a resounding success. She said, “Like us, our customers are ‘Pet People’ and the We Love Dogs exhibition has proven itself the perfect opportunity to celebrate the joy our four-legged friends bring to our lives. “With the rescue and rehoming centres highlighting those dogs needing a new family, it is also the perfect opportunity to give a dog a new home. But please remember a dog is for life not just Christmas and any decision to rehome a dog should not be taken lightly.”

Belfast Exposed CEO, Deirdre Robb, said the event has been truly heartwarming and she is encouraging those who haven’t attended to do so before the exhibition closes on Saturday. She said, “Jollyes is a household name right across Northern Ireland and we are thrilled to have had their
support for our ‘We Love Dogs!’ exhibition. “We were blown away by the number of submissions we received from right across Northern Ireland. We
are clearly a country of animal lovers.

“The pictures are just brilliant and you can’t help but have a smile on your face when you wander around the gallery looking at these images.” To find out more about Belfast Exposed’s ‘We Love Dogs!’ Exhibition visit We Love Dogs! – Belfast Exposed.

For more information about Jollyes, visit www.jollyes.co.uk or check out Jollyes’ social media on Twitter and Instagram.

Winter Weekend Trio of Classical Concerts

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Join Michael McHale, his friends and BBC R3 for a Winter Weekend at Portico, Portaferry

Winter weekends in January can be bleak but, for a stunning and heartwarming winter treat, Portico has the answer: Ulster pianist Michael McHale is returning to Portaferry but this time with his friends, oboist Juliana Koch and clarinettist Michael Collins, for three recitals over two days, for BBC Radio 3.

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Come to all three, stay a night, enjoy all that Portaferry has to offer from picturesque shoreside accomodation to the freshest of seafood.

Michael McHale needs no introduction to Ulster audiences – in his stellar career he has given recitals in most of the major concert venues in Europe and much further afield but it is always a joy to welcome him back to Portico in his native Ulster. In his first recital on Friday 31 January, Michael will play Mozart, Barber, Brahms and, to finish, Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata.

On Saturday 1 February at 1pm he will be joined by Juliana Koch, Principal Oboe of the London Symphony Orchestra and Professor of Oboe at the Royal College of Music, London, for a lunchtime recital to include Britten and Prokofiev.

There’s time, then for a good walk along the shores of Strangford Lough and indulgent refreshment before returning in the evening when Michael will be joined by the international clarinettist Michael Collins, fresh from engagements with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, BBC Symphony Orchestra and the Zurich Chamber Orchestra. His astounding career has included stints with the Philharmonia, Minnesota, Swedish Chamber, Rheinische Philharmonie, Kyoto Symphony, BBC Concert and Kuopio Symphony Orchestras as well as tours in South Africa, Australia, Japan and Mexico. The two Michaels will play works by Finzi, Ferguson, Brahms and Poulenc.

Tickets are £17 per show or, for all 3 recitals the special price of £34. Portico’s specialist music programme is supported by National Lottery Good Causes through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. For more details and to purchase tickets visit www.porticoards.com

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 2-8 December

 

  1. The Argory Christmas Fair, Moy, County Armagh, 7-8 December: Christmas at The Argory is all about the excitement of reviving festive traditions and sharing precious moments with loved ones. The Christmas Fair will return to The Argory, bigger, better and more festive than ever before, with live music, food and craft stalls and plenty of opportunities to tick off that Christmas gift list with unique locally made finds. Soak up the wonderful atmosphere and see the house decorated for Christmas. Families will also have the chance to meet Santa and his elves in the grotto.
  2. Castlerock Christmas Market at Bertha’s Bar, Castlerock, County Londonderry 7-8 December. The Castlerock Christmas Market returns to Bertha’s Bar. Visitors can stroll through a variety of stalls offering locally crafted gifts, treats, and seasonal décor, perfect for holiday shopping. Set against Castlerock’s scenic coastal backdrop, this market creates a magical opportunity to support local artisans and embrace the Christmas spirit on the Causeway Coast.
  3. Cranfield Alpaca Christmasfest, Kilkeel, County Down, 7, 14 & 21 December. Enjoy a magical Alpaca Christmasfest Experience and revel in the joy of the season with festive crafts, a special visit from Santa in the festive barn, and the chance to meet, walk, and feed adorable alpacas. Capture memorable moments with Santa, who brings gifts for everyone! Savour delicious refreshments, including hot chocolate with fresh cream and marshmallows, festive punch, and sweet treats like mince pies.
  4. Causeway Christmas, Bushmills, County Antrim, 7 & 14 December. See the award-winning Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre beautifully transformed into a Christmas wonderland. Embark on a magical Christmas Trail to discover the secrets hidden around the Visitor Centre and get your face painted before enjoying some traditional family games or creating your very own decoration. The latest addition to the Causeway Christmas 2024 programme is the one and only ‘North Coast Circus’.
  5. A Christmas Sing-Along with Northern Ireland Opera, Belfast, 7 December. Come along for an hour of festive music with Northern Ireland Opera in The Hub, The Custom House in Belfast’s historic Custom House Square. Members of the Northern Ireland Opera Chorus will perform some much-loved Christmas music and then there’ll be an opportunity for the audience to join in with some favourite seasonal tunes and carols.
  6. A Christmas Twilight Tour with Celtic Grace, Strangford, County Down, 7 December. Step into the enchanting world of Georgian Christmas at Castle Ward with an evening tour designed to capture the spirit and splendour of the season. Begin your evening with a drinks reception, then embark on a twilight tour through the festively adorned house. The rooms will be draped in colourful garlands, with tables set with lavish foods and wines, filling the air with the rich scents of Christmas. Our living history performers will guide you through the halls, offering a glimpse into the lively Georgian traditions that once filled these rooms with mirth and jollity.
  7. Mrs Claus’s Cottage, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 7-8 December. Gather around the fire as Mrs Claus shares heartwarming festive stories, bringing the magic of Christmas to life. After story-time, children will join Mrs. Claus’s cheerful elves in their busy workshop to create their very own festive keepsake and decorate a delicious gingerbread man to take home. This enchanting experience is perfect for families looking to embrace the holiday spirit with crafts, sweet treats, and unforgettable memories.
  8. A Very Victorian Crafty Christmas at the Poorhouse, Belfast, 8 December. Escape the hustle and bustle, indulge in creativity, and relive the magic of a classic Victorian Christmas in an event tailored just for grown-ups. Hear more about the Christmas traditions in the house from experienced tour guides and make a traditional Victorian Christmas bauble to take home whilst enjoying some festive refreshments.
  9. Christmas at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, 6 December – 3 January. Step into a Christmas past, full of nostalgia and traditions, as you wander the wintry streets of the Folk Park. Take in the Christmas décor, smells and festive flavours as you wander the cobbled streets of olde Ulster and America. On weekends, there’ll be Christmas crafts for kids, mince pies and warmed apple punch from Mrs Claus’ Bakery, plus festive tunes and Christmas storytelling sessions. Mummer characters will entertain you and there are also horse and carriage rides.
  10. December Winter Walks at Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down, 1-4 December. Discover the hidden beauty of winter at Mount Stewart in this enchanting garden walk. Experience a secret world of stunning flowers, intricate bark, and striking stems that will inspire and elevate your own garden. Marvel at winter blooms and see how seasonal flowers like hellebores, snowdrops, and winter aconites bring colour and life to the cold months.

 

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

By

Here are ten exciting things to do 2-8 December

 

  1. The Argory Christmas Fair, Moy, County Armagh, 7-8 December: Christmas at The Argory is all about the excitement of reviving festive traditions and sharing precious moments with loved ones. The Christmas Fair will return to The Argory, bigger, better and more festive than ever before, with live music, food and craft stalls and plenty of opportunities to tick off that Christmas gift list with unique locally made finds. Soak up the wonderful atmosphere and see the house decorated for Christmas. Families will also have the chance to meet Santa and his elves in the grotto.
  2. Castlerock Christmas Market at Bertha’s Bar, Castlerock, County Londonderry 7-8 December. The Castlerock Christmas Market returns to Bertha’s Bar. Visitors can stroll through a variety of stalls offering locally crafted gifts, treats, and seasonal décor, perfect for holiday shopping. Set against Castlerock’s scenic coastal backdrop, this market creates a magical opportunity to support local artisans and embrace the Christmas spirit on the Causeway Coast.
  3. Cranfield Alpaca Christmasfest, Kilkeel, County Down, 7, 14 & 21 December. Enjoy a magical Alpaca Christmasfest Experience and revel in the joy of the season with festive crafts, a special visit from Santa in the festive barn, and the chance to meet, walk, and feed adorable alpacas. Capture memorable moments with Santa, who brings gifts for everyone! Savour delicious refreshments, including hot chocolate with fresh cream and marshmallows, festive punch, and sweet treats like mince pies.
  4. Causeway Christmas, Bushmills, County Antrim, 7 & 14 December. See the award-winning Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre beautifully transformed into a Christmas wonderland. Embark on a magical Christmas Trail to discover the secrets hidden around the Visitor Centre and get your face painted before enjoying some traditional family games or creating your very own decoration. The latest addition to the Causeway Christmas 2024 programme is the one and only ‘North Coast Circus’.
  5. A Christmas Sing-Along with Northern Ireland Opera, Belfast, 7 December. Come along for an hour of festive music with Northern Ireland Opera in The Hub, The Custom House in Belfast’s historic Custom House Square. Members of the Northern Ireland Opera Chorus will perform some much-loved Christmas music and then there’ll be an opportunity for the audience to join in with some favourite seasonal tunes and carols.
  6. A Christmas Twilight Tour with Celtic Grace, Strangford, County Down, 7 December. Step into the enchanting world of Georgian Christmas at Castle Ward with an evening tour designed to capture the spirit and splendour of the season. Begin your evening with a drinks reception, then embark on a twilight tour through the festively adorned house. The rooms will be draped in colourful garlands, with tables set with lavish foods and wines, filling the air with the rich scents of Christmas. Our living history performers will guide you through the halls, offering a glimpse into the lively Georgian traditions that once filled these rooms with mirth and jollity.
  7. Mrs Claus’s Cottage, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 7-8 December. Gather around the fire as Mrs Claus shares heartwarming festive stories, bringing the magic of Christmas to life. After story-time, children will join Mrs. Claus’s cheerful elves in their busy workshop to create their very own festive keepsake and decorate a delicious gingerbread man to take home. This enchanting experience is perfect for families looking to embrace the holiday spirit with crafts, sweet treats, and unforgettable memories.
  8. A Very Victorian Crafty Christmas at the Poorhouse, Belfast, 8 December. Escape the hustle and bustle, indulge in creativity, and relive the magic of a classic Victorian Christmas in an event tailored just for grown-ups. Hear more about the Christmas traditions in the house from experienced tour guides and make a traditional Victorian Christmas bauble to take home whilst enjoying some festive refreshments.
  9. Christmas at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, 6 December – 3 January. Step into a Christmas past, full of nostalgia and traditions, as you wander the wintry streets of the Folk Park. Take in the Christmas décor, smells and festive flavours as you wander the cobbled streets of olde Ulster and America. On weekends, there’ll be Christmas crafts for kids, mince pies and warmed apple punch from Mrs Claus’ Bakery, plus festive tunes and Christmas storytelling sessions. Mummer characters will entertain you and there are also horse and carriage rides.
  10. December Winter Walks at Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down, 1-4 December. Discover the hidden beauty of winter at Mount Stewart in this enchanting garden walk. Experience a secret world of stunning flowers, intricate bark, and striking stems that will inspire and elevate your own garden. Marvel at winter blooms and see how seasonal flowers like hellebores, snowdrops, and winter aconites bring colour and life to the cold months.

 

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com.

Elvis Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

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Written by and Starring Caroline Curran The MAC Belfast, 5th-31st December 2024

 “It’s now or never” for best mates Marty and Frankie who are die hard Elvis fans and all they want this Christmas is to go to their idols (tribute) concert In Las Vegas before one of them leaves “The Ghetto”. But will getting delayed at the airport have these two “Caught in a Trap” for Christmas?

Come and join the gang that brought you last years hit Are Yule Being Served? for a rocking new Christmas comedy and let us have you “All Shook Up” this Christmas!

Cast featuring Rhodri Lewis (Torchwood) and Patrick Buchanan (Hope Street)

Following on from her successful run of last years Christmas Comedy  Are Yule Being Served? Caroline is hoping to have audiences “shaking their pelvis like Elvis” at the Mac this Christmas.

Having written & co-written the Christmas shows at Theatre at the Mill for the 7 years, including her most recent Jingle All the Hairspray, Caroline is delighted to be back in The MAC Belfast, producing her own work for the second time. Caroline is inspired to create employment for actors and stage managers over Christmas, and bring a brand new comedy to her loyal audiences who have supported her since her days of playing beloved character Maggie Muff. (Who is also coming back!!)

With shows quickly selling out again, The MAC are about to announce additional shows being put on to give everyone a chance to see this hilarious Christmas show!

Embrace a giant festive season across Northern Ireland

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Delight in the sparkle, cheer and magic of our top events this Christmas

 

It’s the most wonderful time of the year for a short break, day trip or new experience with extra sparkle. If you’re craving adventure or a relaxing retreat, Discover Northern Ireland has a ‘nice list’ of ideas for all your festive fun.

For the countdown to Christmas, Belfast becomes a magical place with twinkling lights and cosy pubs to escape into as the nights turn colder.

Tick off all your presents with a trip around Victoria Square shopping centre, before heading over to the famous Belfast Christmas Market or kick off the season of indulgence with a night of fine dining in one of the many restaurants, or cocktails in the plethora of bars and pubs.

Alternatively, make for the maiden city of Derry~Londonderry, and kick off your Christmas celebrations with a stroll along the Peace Bridge taking in the festive lights of the city or soak up some culture at The Playhouse or Millennium Forum.

From short break inspiration and activities to places to stay, amazing events, food and drink, this holiday season has everything you’d want and more. Check out our top events this Christmas season.

Belfast

  • Belfast Christmas Market, 16 November – 22 December: Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the award-winning Belfast Christmas Market is back with a nostalgic Victorian twist. On the third weekend (November 30th to December 1st), step into a charming Dickensian world as you stroll through the market, surrounded by iconic characters from Charles Dickens’ novels. Enjoy enchanting storytelling, lively performances, and the festive atmosphere of a bygone era along with the usual festive grotto and vintage Helter Skelter. With over 100 international and local traders, the market offers a delightful selection of handcrafted goods, artisan products and festive treats.

 

  • A Magical Christmas Experience at Titanic Belfast, 27 November – 23 December: Make memories at A Magical Christmas Experience with Titanic Belfast. Watch the excitement unfold as Father Christmas and his Elves count down to their favourite night of the year on a guided tour of their Magical Christmas Experience. Meet your Elf guide and take a journey as a group through the Enchanted Forest to make a wish by the Magical Wishing Tree, before stepping through the Old Curiosity Shop to enter the Elves’ Workshop.

 

  • Christmas at W5, 30 November – 23 December: Join Santa and his trusty elf-bot Bud-E at the Elf Academy and help save Christmas through fun games and challenges. Then, step into the magical world of With Every Christmas Card, where holiday scenes spring to life in an immersive walk-through experience. For some friendly competition, try Penguin Curling or join an epic indoor Snowball Fight—without the freezing fingers. Their massive Climbit structure is aglow with holiday cheer, and at the Jingle All the Way Café, you can warm up with seasonal treats and festive drinks.

 

County Armagh

  • Mission Santa at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, 23 November – 23 December: Join the E.L.F. crew for Mission Santa and blast off on a Christmas adventure in Space. Your out-of-this-world adventure will include admission to a full show in the dome theatre, a chance to help save Santa inside mission control during a live theatrical show, a visit to see Santa, a present for each child and a printed family photograph.

 

  • Santa at Long Meadow Farm, Portadown, 6 December – 21 December. Drive through this enchanting, star-lit orchard to the cosy Bramley Barn.  The elves will welcome you into Santa’s Grotto with a smile and festive cheer, and a Christmas story you will hearwhilst you sip on hot chocolate.

 

  • Winter Solstice Mindfulness Morning at Navan Centre and Fort, Armagh, 20 December (21 Dec sold out).Embrace the forthcoming year and celebrate the Winter Solstice. Follow a lantern lit processional walk to the top of Navan Fort/Emain Macha, where you will watch the sunrise. On returning to Navan Centre, you will be served breakfast where you can relax and enjoy live music.

 

County Fermanagh

  • Christmas Wonderland at Share Discovery Village, 6 – 23 December: Share Discovery Village has launched both an enchanting Christmas Wonderland and Fermanagh’s only festive roller-skating rink. The custom-built, 70-person roller skating rink transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Highlights of the immersive Christmas experience include a visit to Santa’s magical grotto, a winter roller rink session, meeting Santa’s donkeys, a dedicated teen games room, a bouncy castle and creative colouring station, interactive games and unique photo opportunities in Santa’s igloo.

 

  • Christmas at Marble Arch Caves, 1 December – 5 January: Visit Marble Arch Caves this Christmas and embrace the festive spirit with a variety of exciting events and experiences for everyone. Elf Escape Heroes vs Villains (2-21 December) is an elf-tastic quest – they could be in the high trees or hidden among the landscape. The Sensory Space is designed for those with access and sensory needs, this calming space offers low-lit blue lighting and interactive sensory stations, perfect for relaxed enjoyment. Up to eight visitors can follow a self-guided mini-trail, engage with gentle Elf activities, and even hunt for hidden elves with a special activity sheet.

 

  • Festive Fun Farm (Build a Bear) at Fermanagh Fun Farm, Lisbellaw, 30 November – 22 December. Don’t miss this family friendly experience that will bring a little bit of magic to your Christmas. Make sure to build your own bear with? the help of the elves in Santa’s workshop and join Mrs Claus for story time. Visit Santa and choose your very own gift and don’t forget to check out the 100+ resident animals on the farm.

 

County Tyrone

  • Winter Wonderland at Todd’s Leap Activity Centre, 1 – 22 December: This Christmas, Santa, Mrs. Claus, and those elves will be taking over Todds Leap again Following an incident on their Zip Line in 2014, Santa and his Elves set up home at Todds Leap and this year they’re BACK! Hop aboard Santa’s off-road sleigh, visit his post office and workshop and play for prizes in an exciting family quiz.

 

  • Christmas at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, 6 December – 3 January: Step into a Christmas past, full of nostalgia and traditions, as you wander the wintry streets of the Folk Park. Take in the Christmas décor, smells and festive flavours as you wander the cobbled streets of olde Ulster and America. On weekends, there’ll be Christmas crafts for kids, mince pies and warmed apple punch from Mrs Claus’ Bakery, plus festive tunes and Christmas storytelling sessions. Mummer characters will entertain you and there are also horse and carriage rides.

 

  • The Argory Christmas Fair, Moy, 7-8 December: Christmas at The Argory is all about the excitement of reviving festive traditions and sharing precious moments with loved ones. The Christmas Fair will return to The Argory, bigger, better and more festive than ever before, with live music, food and craft stalls and plenty of opportunities to tick off that Christmas gift list with unique locally made finds. Soak up the wonderful atmosphere and see the house decorated for Christmas. Families will also have the chance to meet Santa and his elves in the grotto.

 

County Antrim

  • Causeway Christmas, Bushmills, 7 and 14 December: See the award-winning Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre beautifully transformed into a Christmas wonderland. Embark on a magical Christmas Trail to discover the secrets hidden around the Visitor Centre and get your face painted before enjoying some traditional family games or creating your very own decoration. The latest addition to the Causeway Christmas 2024 programme is the one and only ‘North Coast Circus’.

 

  • Victorian Santa Experience at Whitehead Railway Museum, 1– 22 December: Enjoy a festive themed train ride in a heritage carriage adorned with Victorian style decorations and hauled by a steam engine at Whitehead Railway Museum. Enter the magical carriage shed where you will be greeted by Mrs Claus who will help you to find Santa. Don’t forget to post your letter to Santa in the chimney of one of the engines.

 

  • Enchanted Winter Garden at Antrim Castle Gardens, County Antrim, 29 November – 21 December: As the winter sun sets over Lough Neagh, Antrim Castle Gardens comes alive with lights and magic for the perfect Christmas experience suitable for everyone. Visit the fairies in Wonderland Wood, drop in and see Santa and meet the sprites in Pixieland who will help fill you with the Christmas spirit. There is a Big Wheel, rides and a Festive Fayre with local food and drink.

 

County Down

  • Christmas Movie Screenings with Strand Cinema at Ulster Transport Museum, 20 and 21 December: The Ulster Transport Museum has partnered with Strand Arts Centre for special screenings of two festive classics — A Wonderful Life and The Polar Express. Tickets includes access to the Rail Gallery at time of entry and a warm drink (hot chocolate at The Polar Express or a mulled wine at It’s a Wonderful Life). Also, from November 30 until December 1 see the Folk Museum decorated for the festive season. Settle in for a festive story and listen out for carol singers, plus festive sounds from a brass band and harpist. Post your letter to Santa at the Post Office, and make sure to say hello to the donkeys at the Marketplace.

 

  • Christmas at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, 23 November – 23 December: Explore the gardens adorned with dazzling decorations inspired by the 12 Days of Christmas and stay on the lookout for our polar bear in the pond and a giant Advent calendar! Families will love discovering hidden gems, from a secret grotto to a garden trail. Continue your journey inside the beautiful Castle, where twinkling lights and Christmas trees fill the grand State Rooms with festive cheer. On select December days, children can meet Santa himself and take home a special bag of reindeer food. Be sure to warm up with hot chocolate or mulled wine and with festive treats at the café, to round off a perfect day out for all the family.

 

  • Cranfield Alpaca Christmasfest, 7, 14 & 21 December: Enjoy a magical Alpaca Christmasfest Experience and revel in the joy of the season with festive crafts, a special visit from Santa in the festive barn, and the chance to meet, walk, and feed adorable alpacas. Capture memorable moments with Santa, who brings gifts for everyone! Savour delicious refreshments, including hot chocolate with fresh cream and marshmallows, festive punch, and sweet treats like mince pies.

 

County Londonderry

  • Walled City Brewery Carnival of Crafts, Derry~Londonderry, throughout December. Make your Christmas extra special with the Walled City Brewery’s Carnival of Crafts. This series of festive workshops will feature some of the finest craftspeople in the city. Each workshop has been tailored to create a truly immersive experience and includes a fabulous two-course dinner and drinks in multi award-winning restaurant.

 

  • Castlerock Christmas Market at Bertha’s Bar, 7 – 8 December. The Castlerock Christmas Market returns to Bertha’s Bar. Visitors can stroll through a variety of stalls offering locally crafted gifts, treats, and seasonal décor, perfect for holiday shopping. Set against Castlerock’s scenic coastal backdrop, this market creates a magical opportunity to support local artisans and embrace the Christmas spirit on the Causeway Coast.

 

  • Santa’s Grotto at the Bridewell, Magherafelt, select dates from 23 November – 21 December. Santa returns to the Bridewell this festive season. Experience the magic of Christmas at the Bridewell Grotto.  Post your letter to the North Pole and make your very own Christmas decoration. Visit Santa and his elf in his enchanting Christmas grotto, take your own family photos and receive a small gift.

 

Unmissable music and theatre across Northern Ireland

Enjoy extraordinary music, theatre and family entertainment this holiday season. To name a few, Peter Pan at Grand Opera House, Belfast; Ulster Orchestra at Christmas – The Snowman™ at Belfast Waterfront Hall; A Christmas Carol at the Lyric, Belfast; Beauty and The Beast at Waterfront Hall, Belfast; Aladdin at Millennium Forum, Derry; Rapunzel, at the Market Place Theatre, Armagh.

Whether you’re looking for enchanting light displays, heartwarming holiday markets, or special performances that capture the spirit of Christmas, you’ll find it in Northern Ireland. Check out our Christmas Supplement

https://discovernorthernireland.com/featured-pages/your-giant-guide-to-short-breaks-ni

Book your next festive break or day out and start planning for next year at discovernorthernireland.com

Cancer Fund for Children Twilight Concert – 21st November, Belfast Cathedral

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Local charity Cancer Fund for Children are inviting the public to their Twilight Concert in St Anne’s Cathedral Belfast Thursday 21st November.

 

It will not only feature the Cancer Fund for Children’s very own Carefree Choir ( made up of families supported by the charity, staff and volunteers) but performances from the wonderful ARCO String Quarter and Ireland’s premiere a cappella vocal band Ardú.

 

Cancer Fund for Children provides vital support to children, young people and families impacted by cancer and the special concert set in candlelight in the beautiful cathedral will raise money towards their services.

 

The event will also be hosted by award-winning journalist and presenter, Holly Hamilton.

 

Tickets are available via the charity’s website –

cancerfundforchildren.com and cost between £10 & £25.

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