Author: whatsonni

Jacqueline McGonigle, owner of whatsonni.com and full time cabin crew at Loganair will be taking on the Quest Challenge (four half marathons in four days) from 13th to 16th August this year to raise funds for local animal welfare charity The Underdogs NI.

This will be the first time Jacqueline has taken on the Quads, but it has been on her bucket list for quite some time. She started running at the ripe age of 49 and ran her first marathon in Belfast at 51. Now aged 58 and recently recovered from a thoracic spine fracture, Jacqueline is back training and ready for a challenge. No stranger to rescue dogs, she is the proud owner of Bobby, her 9 year old tripod black lab who has run hundreds of miles with her in the past, and a past winner of the Spirit of Waggy Races Award.

The Underdogs NI, located less than a mile from Jacqueline’s home in Upperlands, are an amazing organisation who rescue animals who have run out of options, from surrenders to pounds dogs.  The work that they do is endless in ensuring animals in their care are treated for any ailments they may have when they arrive, as well as placing for foster and adoption.

The Underdogs NI are a dedicated team of volunteers who give up their time free to protect animals and give them a second chance at a life in a caring environment.

Needless to say vet fees, along with day to day costs run high, and as a charity the Underdogs NI rely on the goodwill of donations.

If you would like to sponsor Jacqueline in her efforts please make a friends and family Paypal payment to quadrathonunderdogsni@gmail.com and include a note with your name and contact details.

Everyone who makes a donation will be entered into a free draw.

You could be in with a change of winning an overnight stay for 2 including breakfast in a Hastings Hotel of your choice!

(Terms and conditions apply).

Visitors are being invited to step into a world of folklore, imagination and giant-sized adventure as Wake the Giant returns to Warrenpoint, Co Down on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August 2026.

 

The much-loved festival marks the opening chapter of Giant Adventures 2026, bringing the legendary story of Fionn mac Cumhaill to life as the giant spirit of Warrenpoint awakens once again.

This year will see the introduction of an exciting new festival experience, The Giant’s Trail – a walkable, story-led journey that will transform Warrenpoint into an immersive giant-sized world of discovery.

Stretching across the town, The Giant’s Trail will invite visitors to follow in the footsteps of the giant through a series of spectacular installations, interactive experiences and storytelling moments. Giant-sized books, oversized tools and a host of larger-than-life features will appear throughout the town, encouraging families and festivalgoers to explore, uncover clues and discover new chapters in the giant’s story.

Designed to connect key festival locations while celebrating the creativity, heritage and unique character of Warrenpoint, The Giant’s Trail will turn the town into a living landscape where legends come to life.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Glyn Hanna said, “Wake the Giant has become one of the most anticipated events in our annual calendar and continues to attract visitors from across Northern Ireland, the island of Ireland and beyond. The festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the folklore, creativity and community spirit that make Warrenpoint and Mourne Gullion Strangford such a distinctive destination.

“We are particularly excited to introduce The Giant’s Trail in 2026, creating an entirely new way for visitors to explore Warrenpoint and immerse themselves in the story of the giant. Combined with the spectacular parade, live entertainment, family activities and food experiences, it promises to be another unforgettable weekend for residents and visitors alike.”

Alongside this exciting new addition, festivalgoers can look forward to the return of many of the much-loved experiences that have helped make Wake the Giant one of Northern Ireland’s most distinctive family festivals.

The weekend programme will feature the spectacular Giant Parade, live entertainment from the bandstand, green crafts, family-friendly activities, food experiences and immersive performances, creating a vibrant festival atmosphere throughout the town.

Visitors will also be able to enjoy the Giant food village, Giant food trail, Curious Minds, garden games, the Bemusement Arcade, Giant funfair, film screenings and a range of interactive experiences designed for all ages.

The festival’s commitment to sustainability will once again be reflected through activities including the annual beach clean, helping to leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

As part of its commitment to ensuring everyone can enjoy the festival, Wake the Giant 2026 will continue to provide a welcoming, inclusive and accessible experience for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Chairperson Cllr Glyn Hanna continued, “Events such as Wake the Giant play an important role in showcasing our destination, encouraging visitors to stay longer, explore more and experience everything that Mourne Gullion Strangford has to offer. From our coastline and mountains to our towns, villages and hospitality businesses, the festival provides a fantastic opportunity to discover Ireland’s True Nature.”

For more information on Wake the Giant and Giant Adventures 2026, visit:

www.visitmournegullionstrangford.com/whats-on/giant-adventures/wake-the-giant

 

Belfast One BID, in partnership with Belfast Film Festival, has announced this year’s lineup for the 2026 Summer Cinema events, with eight blockbusters showing across two days – Sunday 19^th and 26^th July.

 

Big blockbusters and singalong classics take to the screen at this year’s festival, with day one on 19^th July featuring something for everyone with Mamma Mia!, Zootropolis 2 and Elemental showing alongside How to Lose A Guy in 10 Days.

 

And it’s a musical day full of family favourites on the 26^th July with Encanto, Sing 2, Wicked: For Good and Grease helping city hall come alive with all their well-known singalong hits. If the little ones want to dress up as any of ‘The Family Madrigal’ from Encanto, or Glinda and Elphaba from Wicked, all the better!

 

Belfast One BID has brought the Summer Cinema to visitors and residents of the city centre for many years, and is a firm favourite in the Belfast city summer calendar, which families look forward to every year.

 

CEO, Martina Connolly commented; “Belfast is the backdrop for so many feature films and dramas that are on both big and small screens, so film is now firmly embedded in the culture of our city. Bringing some of the most loved family and classic films to Belfast City Hall is another chance to remind visitors of everything they can enjoy in our city centre, and our hope is that groups of friends and families make it a day out, enjoying the shopping, tourism and hospitality that we have in Belfast City Centre.”

 

In between movies, there will be lots of family fun from live entertainment and giveaways to face painting and appearances from Cool FM presenters.

 

Martina continued; “We want visitors to come into the city centre for the movies, but to stay for the fantastic shopping, cafes, restaurants, bars, tourism and hospitality that can be enjoyed during their day in Belfast.

 

“We have built a schedule of films that will appeal to a wide range of audiences, and we know the singalong day will be so popular, with songs like We Don’t Talk About Bruno from Encanto, Food Good from Wicked and Summer Nights from Grease.”

 

Fiona McCartan, who helped launch this year’s events with her children, Arlo (6) and Ottilie (2), added: “My kids love nothing more than a fun family movie day, but watching their favourite films on the big screen in the grounds of Belfast City Hall will make it feel really special. With the characters, entertainment and singalong moments, it will be the perfect summer day out for families, and we can’t wait to be part of the atmosphere in the city centre.”

 

Martina finished; “Belfast One Summer Cinema is about creating moments that people remember long after the credits roll. Whether it’s families singing along to Encanto, friends enjoying a classic movie together, or visitors experiencing Belfast City Hall in a completely different way, these events bring people together and showcase the very best of our city centre.”

 

As this is an outdoor cinema experience, movie-goers should dress for the weather and can bring their own deck chairs and picnic blankets for their space on the lawn. Dogs are welcome but must always be kept on leads.

Tickets (£2 each) for Belfast One’s Summer Cinema on 19^th and 26^th July are allocated on a first come first served basis and can be purchased on Belfast Film Festival’s What’s On page: https://belfastfilmfestival.org/whats-on

 

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is delighted to announce the return of the popular Eats & Beats Festival to Newcastle on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Mourne Mountains in Donard Park, the much-loved two-day festival will once again bring together the very best in live music, artisan food and family entertainment, promising a vibrant and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

This year’s event is set to be bigger and more ambitious than ever before, with two live performance stages featuring more than 24 regional and national music acts across the weekend. Festival audiences can look forward to performances from headline acts including, D:Ream, Anna’s Number and When Ireland Rocked, featuring legendary Thin Lizzy guitarist Eric Bell, alongside an exciting line-up of emerging local talent and crowd favourites.

Food lovers will also be spoiled for choice, with more than 24 food vendors and 18 regional food producers showcasing the very best of local flavours and produce. A packed programme of live cookery demonstrations hosted by renowned chef Paul Cunningham, with guest appearances from celebrated chefs Jenny Bristow and Suzie Lee across 10 live cooking sessions, will offer plenty of culinary inspiration. Adding to the family-friendly atmosphere will be the Curious Minds and Kid’s Zone experiences, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Since its launch four years ago, Eats & Beats has grown into one of the standout events in the district’s festival calendar, attracting thousands of visitors to Newcastle each year and delivering a significant boost to the local hospitality and tourism economy. Talking about the return of Eats & Beats to Newcastle, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said, “Eats & Beats has become a key highlight in our annual programme and we are excited to welcome residents and visitors back to Newcastle for another fantastic weekend. The festival showcases the very best of our local food, music and hospitality offering while creating a fun, inclusive and family-friendly atmosphere for everyone to enjoy”.

To support the continued success of the festival and enhance the overall visitor experience, a small admission fee will be introduced this year. This will help ensure the event can be delivered safely, maintain its high-quality programme, and continue to grow in the years ahead.

A daily charge of £5 will apply, with children aged 0-4 admitted free. Family ticket options will also be available, offering added value for those attending together.

The introduction of ticketing will also support capacity management across the weekend, helping to create a safer and more enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Tickets will be available to purchase from Thursday 11 June at 10am via the Council’s Box Office at https://www.visitmournegullionstrangford.com/whats-on/giant-adventures/eats-and-beats.

Northern Ireland’s summer calendar is jam packed with festivals, events and activities, proving that you are only a small step from a giant adventure.

With a wide range of musical extravaganzas, food festivals, cultural celebrations, sports events and so much more, it has never been easier to plan your summer of fun with family and friends, right on your doorstep.

And with the world’s biggest celebration of traditional Irish music and culture coming to Belfast this August, Northern Ireland will be bursting with sound, colour and craic all summer long. The UNESCO City of Music will take centre stage as it proudly hosts Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, transforming Belfast into a vibrant music and cultural epicentre.

Stay longer and keep festivities going with a wide range of hotels, family-friendly self-catering options and unique accommodation to select from, plus a great array of offers you don’t want to miss.

Discover Northern Ireland have pulled together 30 festivals, events and more to explore this summer. Check out discovernorthernireland.com for further information on even more unmissable events this summer across Northern Ireland.

 

1. Belsonic, Belfast, 12 June-1 July. A firm favourite in the gig guide, Belsonic returns to the idyllic setting at Ormeau Park. Ten days of international acts including Pitbull, Kings of Leon, Def Leppard, The Cure and Michael Buble. The popular Farmer’s Bash opens the string of concerts with in demand Garron Noone, Whistlin’ Donkeys and Mark McCabe all announced.

 

2. Home & Garden Show Ireland, Antrim, County Antrim, 12-14 June. Home and Garden Show Ireland returns to Antrim Castle Gardens, offering a vibrant and inspiring experience for visitors of all ages. Guests can enjoy expert talks and live demonstrations from ambassadors David Domoney and Suzanne Garuda, alongside special guests sharing practical tips, creative ideas, and gardening inspiration.

 

3. The Royal Landing 2026, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, 13 June. The historic town of Carrickfergus is once again preparing to host one of the most anticipated events in the cultural calendar, as The Royal Landing returns, with a vibrant, family-friendly festival that showcases history, heritage and community spirit, attracting thousands of visitors from across Northern Ireland and beyond.

 

4. Buskfest, Banbridge, County Down, 20 June. Each year, the streets of Banbridge come alive as hundreds of musicians, singers, bands, solo artists and street performers from around the world entertain festivalgoers. With free admission and performances around every corner, visitors are invited to follow the music and enjoy the atmosphere.

 

5. Comber Earlies Food Festival, Comber, County Down, 20 June. A celebration of the local PGI status Comber Earlies potatoes and the delicious local food and drink offering, with guest chefs and cookery demonstrations, an artisan food market, live music, family entertainment, a vintage tractor display and more. Taste Summer programme will shine a light on our delicious local produce through food experiences, tastings, and local markets.

 

6. Taste Mid Ulster Market, Fivemiletown, County Tyrone, 20 June. Organised by Mid Ulster District Council, the market will showcase the very best of the region’s food, produce, and crafts. Visitors can look forward to exclusive foodie experiences, chef demonstrations focused on local ingredients, and a wide variety of artisan crafts—all free to attend.

 

7. Foyle Maritime Festival, Derry~Londonderry, 25-28 June. This four-day festival will transform the riverfront into an international marina with all the tastes, colours, scents, sights and sounds that come together to create this epic experience with an exhilarating programme of entertainment, activities and interactive events.

 

8. America 250 , various locations across Northern Ireland. As the U.S. prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Northern Ireland is proud to spotlight the deep and enduring connections that have long bound the U.S and Northern Ireland. Check out a wide range of events and exhibitions marking the occasion at Ulster American Folk Park, Armagh Robinson Library, Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, Public Record Office of Northern Ireland and much more.

 

9. Stendhal Festival, Limavady, County Londonderry, 2–4 July. Kickstart your summer with singing, dancing and all modes of merriment courtesy of a stellar cast of performers. Music, comedy, poetry, a dedicated family programme and a host of visual arts for your senses to feast upon.

 

10. Open House Festival, Bangor, County Down, July-August. Open House Festival is an annual summer event that takes place in the beautiful seaside city of Bangor, County Down, curated and run by Open House, a local charity dedicated to regenerating the city through arts and culture. The festival’s eclectic programme includes music, comedy, film, theatre, boat trips, food and drink, talks and tours, and crafting events.

 

11. Twelfth of July Celebrations 2026, various locations across Northern Ireland, 13 July. Celebrate the Twelfth of July across Northern Ireland, as towns and cities come alive with parades, music, and community festivities. From vibrant marching bands and colourful pageantry to family-friendly events and cultural showcases, the day honours tradition and heritage in every corner of the region. Whether you’re soaking up the atmosphere in a bustling city centre or enjoying local celebrations closer to home, there’s something for everyone to experience.

 

12. Fiddler’s Green International Festival, Rostrevor, County Down, 15-19 July. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere as the village celebrates this world-renowned annual event. Prepare yourself for a captivating experience that combines traditional music, arts and crafts, mountain walks and so much more.

 

13. Lady of The Lake Festival 2026, Irvinestown, County Fermanagh, 10-19 July. The Lady of the Lake Festival is Fermanagh’s biggest annual summer festival which takes place every July in Irvinestown, providing 10 days of fun for all. Folklore has it that the legendary Lady of the Lake walked amongst the mists & islands of Lough Erne bringing a sign of good times ahead.

 

14. Belfast Pride Festival, Belfast, 17-26 July. Belfast Pride returns, marking the 35th anniversary of the city’s largest LGBTQIA+ festival. The centrepiece of the week is the Pride Parade, which sees community groups, businesses, and allies join together for a walk through the city centre. Visitors can spend time at the Pride Village with stalls and family entertainment or attend the main stage performances at Custom House Square.

 

15. O’Neills Foyle Cup 2026, Derry~Londonderry, 20-25 July. The festival of football which began in 1992 will welcome over 900 teams ranging in ages from 8 to 19. The new ‘Six Days Festival of Football’ will see teams travel from the UK, Republic of Ireland, Spain, America and Canada and 2026 will cater for more than 11,500 young soccer players and reach over 250,000 spectators.

 

16. Féile An Phobail, Belfast, 25 July-9 August. Féile is a community arts festival, encompassing 600 events over 50 venues covering a broad range of art and cultural events plus live entertainment. The Saw Doctors, The 2 Johnnies, Ben Nicky and a Feile Dance Night headline the series of concerts in Falls Park while lively debates and discussions, art exhibitions, a 10K road race and summer school means there is a multitude of choice.

 

17. Belfast TradFest, Belfast, 26 July-2 August. World-class traditional music concerts, fiery pub sessions, and the island of Ireland’s fastest growing summer school of traditional music, is set to land across Belfast UNESCO City of Music. The internationally renowned festival will mark this milestone with its most ambitious programme of music yet.

 

18. Music By The Lake at National Trust’s Crom Castle, Newtownbutler, County Fermanagh, 25 July. Back for another year and ready to dance the night away, Crom is looking forward to the return of The Hand Me Downs to the ever-popular Music by the Lake this summer.

 

19. Budget Energy SuperCupNI, Coleraine, County Londonderry, 26-31 July. The Budget Energy SuperCupNI tournament is a magnet for top football clubs from all over the world, with teams such as Sunderland, Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool, Manchester United, Rangers, Celtic, Leeds United, West Ham United, Southampton and Tigres UANL, travelling to Northern Ireland for the week-long youth football tournament.

 

20. Giant Adventure Series, Various venues across County Down. Taking place from August through to October, the series opens with Wake the Giant in Warrenpoint (1- 2 August) which centres on the legend of Fionn mac Cumhaill which includes The Giant’s Trail, a walkable, story-led experience featuring giant-themed installations and interactive performances. Family-friendly activities, green crafts and food will also feature as part of the summer festival. Eats and Beats (5-6 September) returns to Newcastle, with two stages featuring local and international music alongside locally sourced food and live cookery demonstrations and artisan produce. And to finish is the popular family friendly Footsteps in the Forest at Slieve Gullion Forest Park from (21-27 October).

 

21. Whitehead Food & Folk Fest, Whitehead, County Antrim, 8 August. Enjoy a day of delightful festivities at the Whitehead Food & Folk Fest situated along the breath-taking Causeway Coastal Route. Bring the whole family for a fantastic day filled with laughter, good food, and great music.

 

22. Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026, Belfast, 2-9 August. From big-name acts to emerging talent, it’ll all be here as you wander through waves of music and movement, culture and craic. Whether you’re a devoted follower of trad or a wide-eyed first timer, experience the world’s biggest celebration of Irish music and culture.

 

23. Moira Speciality Food Fair 2026, Moira, County Down, 15-16 August. Moira Speciality Food Fair returns to Moira Demesne this summer to showcase the rich food heritage and innovative producers of the village and wider region. This two-day festival also features family-friendly and food-themed events.

 

24. Ould Lammas Fair, Ballycastle, County Antrim, 22–25 August. The beautiful seaside town of Ballycastle welcomes you to another year of trading, bargaining and a programme packed with entertainment. Sample the famous local favourites, yellowman or dulce, and wander around the Naturally North Coast and Glen’s Artisan Market, which features local fresh produce, quirky handmade crafts and fine art.

 

25. Belfast Mela, Belfast, 22–30 August. Prepare to be inspired, delighted, and transported at Belfast Mela. Northern Ireland’s largest and most vibrant celebration of cultural diversity weaves a rich tapestry of music, dance, food, art, theatre, wellbeing, and interactive experiences, transforming iconic venues and public spaces across Belfast into windows to the world.

 

26. Carnlough Whiskey Festival August 2026, Carnlough, County Antrim, 16-23 August. The Carnlough Whiskey Festival promises a week of whiskey, music and craic. Sample some of the finest spirits from celebrated local distilleries plus a full programme of live music – all set in the charming coastal village of Carnlough and Northern Ireland’s first whiskey hotel.

 

27. Ulster Orchestra On Your Doorstep: Symphonic Summer, Dungannon, County Tyrone, 23 August. The Ulster Orchestra returns to the Hill of the O’Neill for one of their favourite annual performances. Another fabulous afternoon of best-loved classical music favourites lies in store – it’s the concert for all the family that you won’t want to

 

28. NI Legends, Ballymena, County Antrim, 31 August-6 September. The NI Legends returns to Galgorm Castle Golf Club for its second edition, continuing a strong tradition of tournament golf in Northern Ireland.

 

29. Belfast International Tattoo, Belfast, 4-5 September. Join them at the SSE Arena for a spectacular showcase of music, precision, and tradition as we bring together world-class performers from across the globe. The Belfast International Tattoo 2026 promises an unforgettable celebration of military music, dance, and cultural heritage like never before.

 

30. Armagh Food and Cider Festival, County Armagh, 3-6 September. A food festival like no other, showcasing the region’s renowned PGI-status Bramley Apples and craft ciders. From artisan bites and pop-up dining experiences to farm-to-fork feasts, immersive culinary trails, and behind-the-scenes orchard tours, there’s something to tempt every palate. The weekend finishes with Cider in the City and a Sundown Market.

 

 

From world-class experiences to great value short breaks and days out, in Northern Ireland you’re always just one step away from a giant adventure. Visit www.discovernorthernireland.com for more ideas on summer fun and lots of other events happening throughout Northern Ireland.

The brand-new Summer ‘26 programme has just been unveiled at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre, and it’s bursting with spectacular entertainment. Featuring an exciting mix of top local and international performers, there’s truly something for everyone—whether your passion is live music, comedy, crafts or film, you’re sure to find something to enjoy at The Market Place.

 

Kicking off the comedy line-up on 6 June is Max Roddy, one of the year’s must-see acts, with over 40 million online views and appearances at the UK’s leading comedy clubs. On 12 June, the hilarious Belfast Ma returns with the latest riotous instalment from everyone’s favourite Ma. Audiences can also look forward to the high-energy comedy drama No Hope Here, packed with rising tensions, chaotic misunderstandings and plenty of mischievous twists.

 

Music lovers are equally spoilt for choice this season. Highlights include Michael English on 4 June, Ronnie Greer on 20 June, and Simon & Garfunkel Through The Years on 27 June. Country fans can enjoy a lively showcase of talent with the Legends of American Country Show on 26 June.

 

For something a little different, Off The Rails Dance presents BPM—a powerful fusion of contemporary dance and a thumping DJ set. This electrifying performance immerses audiences in the era-defining spirit of the Acid House generation, offering a vibrant journey back to the heart of 90s rave culture.

 

Drama enthusiasts won’t be disappointed either. Les Liaisons Dangereuses, from London’s National Theatre, will be screened on 25 June, followed by an impressive line-up of live performances including Becoming Marvellous (28 July), Work Is The Curse Of The Drinking Classes (29 July), and In The Heart Of The Country (27–29 August).

 

The Market Place Theatre will also once again host the annual John Hewitt International Summer School, featuring a diverse programme of theatre, talks, music and poetry. A firm summer favourite, this much-loved event promises another vibrant and inspiring season.

 

As usual, those with a taste for crafts will be spoilt for choice with an array of engaging and invigorating workshops. Learn the art of woodcarving and produce your own unique piece to take home. Or why not unleash your inner artist at the Paint Your Pet class. Or you could tickle your tastebuds when you take part in the massively popular Thai Cooking classes and master the art to impress your loved ones at home.

 

Details of all events can be found online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre, and tickets can be booked by contacting the Box Office on 03300 561 025.

 

And to keep up-to-date with the latest news at the Market Place Theatre, you can follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/marketplacearmagh) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/mptarmagh) where you will find all the latest information, special offers and video previews.