Author: whatsonni

A Pop-Powered Celebration: ‘Flowers and Friendship Bracelets’ takes the Stage!

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Get ready for the ultimate pop concert at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre as ‘Flowers and Friendship Bracelets’ takes to the stage!

Come and join us for the ultimate pop concert and celebrate the biggest hits from five of the hottest artistes of the moment in a dazzling explosion of music, dance, and excitement.

Let’s ‘Shake it Off’ to our very own Taylor Swift; sing along to ‘Flowers’ with Miley Cyrus; dust off all our best dance moves and HOT TO GO! With Chappell Roan, and not forgetting the unstoppable Sabrina Carpenter performing all her top hits such as ‘Espresso’

Watch the girls delight the audience in this incredible concert with a huge pop party to finish the show.

‘Flowers and Friendship Bracelets’ creates unforgettable memories for children and families. This show is the ultimate concert experience!

So, grab your tickets today and don’t forget those friendship bracelets! See you at the show!

Flowers & Friendship Bracelets will be staged at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre on Wednesday 8 April at 6pm. Tickets are priced £25 and can be booked online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre or through the Box Office on 03300 561 025.

Discover NI’s Offers of the Week

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Roe Valley Resort, Limavady, County Londonderry

 

Enjoy an ‘egg-citing’ Easter with the whole family on ‘The Great Easter Getaway’. Starting from £249 per room, this includes an overnight stay, Irish breakfast, and full access to their kids activities and leisure facilities including their brand-new water slides. Little ones will have a blast with their on-site petting farm, Egg-stravaganza Hunt, Easter crafts, movie lounge and the Easter Bunny keeping them entertained from morning to night. Whether it’s sliding into the pool, hunting for Easter treats, or sharing a meal together, Roe Valley Resort is the place to make memories together. Offer available 4th –7th April and subject to availability. Visit https://www.roevalleyresort.com/the-great-easter-getaway.html for more information.

 

The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, County Down

 

Spring is a wonderful time to stay at The Old Inn. The blooming flowers and budding trees create a picturesque setting, and the comfortable and cosy atmosphere of the inn provides a tranquil escape. Step into Spring with their special offer starting from £295 per room, based on 2 adults sharing, Sunday – Thursday between March and May 2026. This offer includes an overnight stay, three course dinner with a bottle of house wine, full Irish breakfast, and access to the Treetop Spa from 12 noon on day of check-in to check-out. Visit https://www.theoldinn.com/step-into-spring.html for more information.

 

For more inspiration or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit https://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. 

 

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 30 March – 5 April

 

  1. The Easter Eggspress at Downpatrick & County Down Railway, Downpatrick, County Down, 5 and 6 April. The Easter Bunny is visiting the Downpatrick & County Down Railway on Easter Sunday and Monday, and his goal is simple: make sure all the children have a great day with their trains and come away with a chocolate Easter Egg. There’s also a fun word hunt, and face painting in the station included in your ticket price.
  2. Easter at the Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 5 – 7 April. Discover Easter traditions like the custom of cross-roads dancing, learn about the history of the Easter egg, and leave a message on the Easter Tree. Listen to live music in rural Ulster and America, and take part in traditional games including the classic egg and spoon race. Take a horse and carriage ride and watch an exciting magic show. Try tasty samples of barnbrack and hot-cross buns, plus get some Easter treats from the café.
  3. Easter at the Ulster Folk Museum, Cultra, County Down, 5 – 7 April. Discover Easter traditions, have a go at nature-based activities and meet their talented makers as they demonstrate heritage skills – including Easter card making in the Print Shop. Get involved with traditional games, watch baking and butter making demos, try tasty cake samples and listen to traditional music. Meet costumed characters and learn all about the history of egg production in Ireland and the connections to the Easter traditions we know today.
  4. Easter at Glenarm Castle, Glenarm, County Antrim, 5 and 6 April. Join Glenarm Castle for a fun-filled adventure in the fresh spring air. Explore the Walled Garden and Woodland Walk, let the kids burn off some energy in the Woodland Adventure Play Area, or hop into the driver’s seat with the Mini Land Rover Experience. Take part in their much-loved Easter Eye Spy & activity sheet while exploring the estate and enjoy great food, shopping, and even a dedicated dog park for your four-legged friends.
  5. Slow Art Sunday at Ulster Museum, Belfast, 5 April. Join the Ulster Museum on the first Sunday of every month for Slow Art Sunday, an opportunity to explore their art collections in more detail. Explore the influences and inspirations that contributed to the artwork and find out the guide’s favourite pieces. Feel free to sketch or bring your own interpretations as the guides bring the artwork to life.
  6. Easter at Florence Court, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 30 March – 7 April. Join in on Easter Monday for the annual Easter celebration at Florence Court. With lots of activities for kids to enjoy, live music, treats and of course the ‘Grand Tour’ Easter trail to explore, you are sure for a fun filled day out.
  7. Easter Adventures at WWT Castle Espie, Comber, County Down, 31 March – 12 April. Spring has arrived and there is plenty of family fun waiting for you at WWT Castle Espie this Easter. Have fun at the Easter Egg Trail, Pond Dipping Adventures and Easter themed arts and crafts sessions.
  8. Easter Trail at The Jungle NI, Moneymore, County Londonderry, 4 –7 April. Join this Easter for a fun-filled outdoor adventure, where families can follow a woodland Easter Trail, meet colourful characters, enjoy marshmallow toasting, and dance along at our lively Easter disco.
  9. Easter Adventures At The Argory, Moy, County Armagh, 30 March – 7 April. Explore the stunning grounds of The Argory as you follow the ten points of the Easter Activity Trail. The trail takes you through the beautiful River Walk, offering scenic views and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy nature in full bloom. Join for a fun-filled, family-friendly day out with plenty of activities for all ages to enjoy together.
  10. A Puffin Rock Easter at W5, Belfast, 1 – 11 April. Calling all little explorers and grown-ups. Now is your chance to join the Puffin Rock inhabitants and discover more from this beautiful island. Puffin Rock activities are free with general admission to W5.

 

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.

Derry dancers Maíre and Sarah to perform ‘Encounters’ across the city this weekend 

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Four public spaces in Derry will experience an unusual series of dance ‘Encounters’ this Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th March, as part of the Match Make Project.

Supported by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Match Make is an opportunity from Maiden Voyage Dance for dance artists based in the Derry City & Strabane District Council area to form new creative partnerships, encouraging collaboration across disciplines and inviting fresh ways of making and sharing dance with communities.

Emerging Derry dance artists Maíre Morrison and Sarah Flavelle began their piece ‘Encounters’ from creative conversations about human encounters and relationships, proposing a new duet exploring how brief interactions between people can shape connection and shared space.

During rehearsals the artists developed the duet through improvisation, partnerwork and choreographic exploration, collaborating with composer Caolán Austin, whose music shaped the atmosphere and rhythm of the work.

Looking forward to the performances, Nicola Curry, Artistic Director of Maiden Voyage Dance said:

“This year’s Match Make programme brings together an exciting group of artists whose collaborations span film, puppetry, voice and movement, reflecting the richness and diversity of contemporary practice.

We are very excited to see the culmination of  Maíre and Sarah’s artistic process with ‘Enounters’, a pop-up contemporary dance duet exploring the different ways in which we can coexist, interact and build relationships over time.

These short performances will invite passers-by to experience contemporary dance in everyday settings, bringing the work directly into the city and making it freely accessible to audiences.”

‘Encounters’ will be performed by Maíre Morrison and Sarah Flavelle on the following dates and times, and at the following locations:

Saturday 28th March – Guildhall Square at 2pm and Craft Village at 3.30pm.

Sunday 29th March – Brooke Park at 2pm and Ebrington Square 3.30pm.

The performances are free and booking is not required.

For further information on ‘Encounters’ and the Match Make programme, visit www.maidenvoyagedance.com

Bangor Castle to Welcome Antiques Roadshow

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BBC One’s Antiques Roadshow is coming to Bangor Castle this summer as part of filming for its 49th series. The much‑loved programme, presented by Fiona Bruce, will bring its team of expert valuers to the ground of the historic building on Sunday 26 July.

Visitors will have the opportunity to share their antiques, family heirlooms and vintage treasures with specialists covering jewellery, silver, ceramics, glass, pictures, rare books, clocks, watches, militaria and a wide range of collectable categories – from vintage fashion and furniture to film and music memorabilia.

As well as Bangor Castle the following locations will also feature in the upcoming series: Dartington Estate, near Totnes, Devon, Valentines Mansion & Gardens, Ilford, East London, Souter Lighthouse, South Tyneside and Caerphilly Castle, South Wales.

Presenter Fiona Bruce, who will be filming her nineteenth series of Antiques Roadshow, commented:

“Antiques Roadshow is gearing up to start filming a new series and every year I’m blown away by the variety and volume of objects shared with our team of specialists. There are always exciting moments of suspense and surprise when it comes to valuations as well as reassuring appearances of old favourites from diamond jewellery to fine china. I love meeting our visitors and hearing the personal stories behind their objects and we’ll be travelling around wonderful venues across the UK.”

Speaking ahead of the visit, Robert Murphy, Series Editor, said:
“The Roadshow is for everyone, and we’re looking forward to seeing those special items that mean something to our visitors. In recent years, we have seen a fantastic range of mementoes and treasures: ceramics by Picasso and paintings by Jack Vettriano, a medal for gallantry awarded to a pigeon, a rare Oasis demo tape and a cartoon by John Lennon, letters from poet Dylan Thomas, gold sovereigns and valuable watches by Omega and Patek Phillippe, a jewel-encrusted ballerina brooch valued at £40–£50,000, and items belonging to one of the founders of the SAS. We can’t wait to find out what treasures and surprises we’ll see at this year’s shows.”

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum welcomed the announcement, saying:
“We are delighted to host Antiques Roadshow at Bangor Castle. This is a fantastic opportunity for local people and visitors alike to showcase their treasured items in a beautiful and much‑loved setting. Bangor has a strong sense of community and heritage, and we look forward to welcoming the team and discovering the remarkable stories that will emerge.”

Free ticket applications are now open, with limited places available. Viewers can also submit items online for consideration.

For more information and to apply for tickets, visit www.bbc.co.uk/antiquesroadshow.

Watch Antiques Roadshow on BBC One on Sundays at 7pm and on BBC iPlayer.

For more information please contact: antiques.roadshow@bbc.co.uk

The ultimate spring family day out: Fibrus Family Race Day returns to Down Royal this April

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Down Royal Racecourse confirms Fibrus Broadband as headline sponsor of its popular Family Race Day, returning to Lisburn on Sunday 12th April 2026

Get ready for a whirlwind of excitement as the Fibrus Family Race Day returns to Down Royal on Sunday 12th April 2026. It’s set to be an action-packed fusion of racing and family entertainment, with headline sponsor Fibrus Broadband back to help transform Down Royal into the ultimate playground for racing fans and families alike.

Now firmly established as one of the most popular fixtures in Down Royal’s annual racing calendar, this year’s event promises another unforgettable day out for families across Northern Ireland, combining top-class National Hunt racing with a packed programme of family entertainment. From petting farm and pony rides to bouncy castles and face painting, the enclosure will ensure a magical day out for racegoers of every generation.

The pre-race excitement has already kicked off in local primary schools across Lisburn and Hillsborough with the “Design a Jockey Silk” competition. One lucky primary school pupil will see their artistic vision brought to life as a professionally manufactured silk displayed at the track on race day.

The continued partnership between Down Royal and Fibrus reflects a shared commitment to bringing communities together and inspiring the next generation of racing fans across the region.

Speaking of the return of Fibrus as headline sponsor, Dominic Kearns, Founder and CEO at Fibrus, said: “Fibrus are incredibly proud to be back as headline sponsor of the Fibrus Family Race Day for a third consecutive year. What started as an exciting new partnership has grown into something special – an event that genuinely brings communities together and creates lasting memories for families right across Northern Ireland.

“At Fibrus, connecting communities is at the heart of everything we do, and this race day captures that spirit perfectly. The atmosphere at Down Royal on Family Race Day is like nothing else, and we cannot wait to see families pouring through the gates again this April for what promises to be our best year yet.”

Chloe Ferris, Commercial Director at Down Royal Racecourse, added: “The Fibrus Family Race Day has grown year on year into one of the standout dates in our calendar here at Down Royal, and the enthusiasm from families across the region continues to blow us away each year. We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Fibrus back for a third year, their support has been instrumental in making this event the success it has become.

“With general admission, children under 14 can attend for free with a ticket-holding adult, making it outstanding value for families looking for a brilliant day out this spring. Whether you are a seasoned racing fan or bringing the kids to the track for the very first time, this is a day not to be missed.”

Gates open at 12pm on Sunday 12th April 2026. For full details and tickets visit //downroyal.com/.tickets.

The Fray Autumn Light Tour

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The Fray

Autumn Light Tour

National Stadium, Dublin – 12 November

Ulster Hall, Belfast – 13 November

Tickets on sale Friday 20th March

 

Following a triumphant, sold-out Telegraph Building show after a decade-long hiatus, The Fray have announced their return to play The National Stadium, Dublin on 12 November and Ulster Hall, Belfast on 13 November 2026.

Tickets on sale Friday 20th March at 10am from Ticketmaster.ie & www.ulsterhall.co.uk

The Fray had previously visited last November for the final dates of their How to Save a Life: 20th Anniversary Tour, which celebrated two decades of their iconic debut album. The multi-Platinum-selling band – composed of lead vocalist, guitarist, and primary songwriter Joe King, guitarist Dave Welsh, and drummer Ben Wysocki – continues to captivate audiences with the emotional depth and cinematic sweep of their music.

Originally rising to prominence in the early 2000s, the Colorado-bred group introduced a uniquely soul-searching alt-rock sound—timeless yet inventive, arena-sized yet profoundly intimate. Over the years, The Fray has earned four GRAMMY Award nominations, three Billboard Music Awards, multiple Billboard Top 10 hits, and a deeply devoted global fanbase. Their breakout single, “How To Save A Life,” spent 58 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a defining anthem of ABC’s Emmy-winning series “Grey’s Anatomy.”

Praised by Rolling Stone for their “stick-in-your-head hooks and eloquent narratives” and by the Los Angeles Times for their “melodically rich” songwriting, The Fray’s 2005 debut album How to Save a Life is certified 4x Platinum by the RIAA and remains one of the best-selling digital debuts of all time. The band is currently working on new music, with additional releases planned in the coming months, following the recent launch of their latest single, “A Light That Waits.”

Connect with The Fray

Instagram / X / Website / Spotify

Local Support Highlighted for Debt Awareness Week in Causeway Coast and Glens

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Debt can affect anyone. Yet the shame people feel around it often prevents them from getting the support they need.

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has partnered with Community Advice Causeway (CAC) during Debt Awareness Week (16–22 March 2026) to highlight the free, confidential support available through CAC’s Money and Debt Service. Funded by the Department for Communities and delivered in partnership with Advice NI, the Specialist Debt Team offers expert guidance to help people address and manage debt concerns.
Northern Ireland continues to face high levels of financial vulnerability, with many households affected by low wages, insecure work, rising energy and food costs, and limited access to savings. As a result, more people are turning to credit to make ends meet, often leading to unmanageable debt.
Encouraging anyone struggling financially to seek help, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Oliver McMullan, said:
“Many families and individuals across our Council area are feeling the pressure of rising costs, and financial worries can affect anyone at any stage of life.
“I would strongly encourage anyone concerned about debt or falling behind on bills to reach out to Community Advice Causeway. Their team offers free, confidential advice and guidance, helping people understand their options and take positive steps towards regaining control of their finances with confidence and reassurance.”
Samantha Boswell, Chief Officer of Community Advice Causeway, said:
“Debt can affect anyone, and too often people struggle in silence because they feel embarrassed or overwhelmed. Our message is simple: you are not alone, and help is available. Seeking advice at an early stage is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress, protect your wellbeing, and achieve a positive outcome.
“Clients can self-refer easily by calling or visiting our website. Once a referral is made, our qualified specialist debt adviser will take time to understand their situation and work with them to find the best possible solution.
Advisers can help clients explore a range of options, including budgeting support, negotiating with creditors, arranging affordable repayment plans, or, where appropriate, assisting with formal debt solutions such as a Debt Relief Order (DRO) or Bankruptcy.”
To self-refer or find out more about the Money and Debt Advice Service, contact Community Advice Causeway by phone on 028 703 44817 or visit their website at https://advicecauseway.com.
Information about other UK Debt Charities and online help can be found at
www.moneyhelper.org.uk

10 Things to do in NI This Week!

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Here are ten exciting things to do 16 – 22 March

 

  1. St Patrick’s Day at Slemish, Broughshane, County Antrim, 17 March. Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in spectacular style with a memorable trek up Slemish – the legendary mountain where Ireland’s patron saint once tended sheep. This iconic annual tradition invites you to conquer the 1.5 kilometre round walk to the summit and take in the breathtaking panoramic views.
  2. St Patrick’s Day Spring Carnival 2026, Derry~Londonderry, 17 March. Savour mouth-watering food from local vendors, explore the charm of traditional Irish music and be part of the magic as the St Patrick’s Day parade winds through the streets, showcasing dazzling displays of colour, creativity, and culture. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Spring in Derry~Londonderry.
  3. St Patrick’s Day Parade, Belfast, 17 March. A dazzling display of costume, music, dance and circus will bring the streets of Belfast alive this St Patrick’s Day. The annual parade will weave its way through the city centre. With colourful live performance and a high energy soundtrack, this year’s parade will include some new elements to celebrate the legends of St Patrick.
  4. St Patrick’s Day at Ulster Folk Museum, Cultra, County Down, 17 March. Join them for a family day filled with music, storytelling and hands-on activities that bring Ireland’s past to life. There’ll be traditional music performances and Irish dancing displays, plus folklore tales of legends and lore. Try Irish language taster sessions, sample colcannon and get hands-on with their family craft station.
  5. St Patrick’s Day Parade in Newry City, and St Patrick’s Day Parade in Downpatrick, County Down, 17 March. St Patrick’s Day parades will be the centre of celebrations in Newry City and Downpatrick. Led by Saint Patrick himself, the St Patrick’s Day parade will offer a feast for eyes and ears as swirling dancers, community floats and costumed characters entertain the crowds.
  6. St Patrick’s Day Omagh: Music and Mythology, Omagh, County Tyrone, 17 March. The streets of Omagh will come alive at this year’s St Patrick’s weekend with a vibrant celebration of music, mythology, dance and carnival parade. Delivered by Urban Events NI under the theme Music & Mythology, this year’s programme brings together an exciting blend of traditional musicians, dancers, performers and local groups to create an unforgettable festival experience.
  7. St Patrick’s Day at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 17 March. Enjoy a day of Irish heritage and celebration as you explore the history of the shamrock, accompanied by the sounds of traditional Irish music across Ulster and America. Watch Irish dance performances and see traditional craft demonstrations like basket weaving throughout the day. Stop by the Mellon House where the table will be filled with customary foods like colcannon and apple tart, taste samples of fruit brack and follow the ‘Shamrock Selfie Trail.’
  8. St Patrick’s Day Parade in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 17 Match. From Castle to Castle, the traditional parade will snake through the heart of Enniskillen, crossing its iconic bridges and celebrating the unique geography of the island town. The celebrations continue with an extended free fun day at Enniskillen Castle and the Broadmeadow, featuring family entertainment, activities and special guest appearances throughout the early afternoon.
  9. Sunrise at Navan Centre and Fort, Armagh, County Armagh, 17 March. What made Emain Macha so special to the ancient people of Ulster? Why was this site so steeped in history and wonder that it drew St Patrick to the area to build his first church? Celebrate St Patrick’s morning with St Patrick himself and the ancient people of Ulster. This year bear witness, through drama, to the story of a bull which attempted to stop the building of Patrick’s church and participate in a ceremony by the sacred pool. Afterwards, have breakfast with them, to the sound of live music.
  10. Sperrins Festival, Gortin, County Tyrone, 20 –22 March. Sperrins Festival is a three-day celebration of landscape, heritage, and community, taking place across Sperrin Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). It aims to strengthen connections between people and place, support sustainable tourism, and provide new opportunities to learn, explore, and celebrate the area’s rich and diverse heritage and culture.

 

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.

 

Jacqueline shares her pick of what’s on this Mother’s Day weekend

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Antrim

This Mother’s Day, treat her to a 3 course Sunday feast at The Rabbit, served from 12pm – 5.30pm. Every mum will be welcomed with a special gift, because she deserves nothing less.

Find out more HERE

Armagh

Storytelling, Fiddles and Stew at the Charlemont Arms Hotel is a charming event that combines the spoken word, good music and tasty food, all things Ireland is synonymous with. The Seancaithe (the Aged) and Scéalaí (the Narrator) were the bearers of Irish traditional stories. Important characters in Ireland’s cultural past, they passed the old stories down through the generations.

Find out more HERE

Belfast

Michael Harrison in association with Cameron Mackintosh presents… A new production of Miss Saigon at the Grand Opera House, as Boublil and Schönberg’s legendary musical is reborn. The soaring score features hit songs including; The Heat is On in Saigon, The Movie in My Mind, Last Night of the World and The American Dream.

Find out more HERE

Down

Terry McHugh returns to Portico Ards with hilarious stories of childhood, parenthood & his expensive Lego obsession. Don’t miss this new Tour!

Find out more HERE

Fermanagh

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a memorable lunch in the elegant surroundings of Corick House Hotel & Spa, where timeless charm meets warm hospitality.

Find out more HERE

Derry/Londonderry

Join Heaney Home Place for Room to Rhyme! This is our weekly half hour session for parents and children aged 0-4. Little ones will get the opportunity to interact with others, develop listening and language skills, and have fun!

Find out more HERE

Tyrone

Create a unique photo holder that can be gifted this Mother’s Day at Ranfurly House Dungannon. In this fun and creative one-hour workshop, ‘Claytastic Kids’ will guide participants through the art of 3D modelling, rolling, stretching, and colour mixing.  This workshop suitable for ages 6+.  All materials supplied.  Children will take home their own beautiful creation at the end of the workshop.

Find out more HERE

 

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