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.
Riverdance 30 The New Generation is coming to Belfast!
Since Riverdance first emerged onto the world stage, its fusion of Irish and international dance and music has captured the hearts of millions worldwide.
The Grammy award-winning music and the infectious energy of its mesmerising choreography and breathtaking performances has left audiences in awe and established Riverdance as a global cultural sensation.
To celebrate this incredible 30th year milestone, Riverdance will embark on a special anniversary tour, bringing its magic to audiences around the world. This will include dates at Belfast’s SSE Arena from 17th – 20th December 2025 with a matinee on Saturday 20th December.
Tickets for these dates go on sale this Thursday 21st November at 10am from ticketmaster.ie
This spectacular production rejuvenates the much-loved original show with new innovative choreography and costumes and state of the art lighting, projection and motion graphics. And for the first time Riverdance welcomes “The New Generation” of performers, all of whom were not born when show began 30 years ago.
John McColgan, Director of Riverdance said “It is both a privilege and a delight to celebrate 30 years of Riverdance and the unique journey it has taken us on. In those 30 years the show has transformed from a spectacle into a global cultural phenomenon – continuously evolving yet remaining true to its Irish roots. On this upcoming tour we look forward to welcoming ‘The New Generation’ of artists while paying tribute to the talented performers, creators, dedicated crew, and the millions of fans who have made Riverdance a worldwide celebration of music and dance.”
Audiences will enjoy a unique and memorable performance which blends the traditional and the contemporary, showcasing the skill and passion of the world-class of dancers, musicians and singers in the Riverdance ensemble.
Composed by Bill Whelan. Produced by Moya Doherty. Directed by John McColgan.
Riverdance 30, The Next Generation will play SSE Arena Belfast from 17th -20th December 2025
Show schedule
Wed 17th Dec 8pm
Thurs 18th Dec 8pm
Fri 19th Dec 8pm
Sat 20th Dec 2pm matinee and 8pm evening shows
Tickets on sale from Thursday 21st November at 10am from ticketmaster.ie
For more information on Riverdance see Riverdance.com @Riverdance
For more concert / show information see aikenpromotions.com @aikenpromotions
TITANIC Belfast is partnering with ArtsEkta to launch ‘A Magical Christmas Experience’ at its annual Christmas Light Switch On event on Sunday 24th November.
There will be lots of free festive fun for everyone to look forward to from 2pm, with the arrival of Father Christmas, carols from the Lisburn Community Choir, ArtsEkta Bollywood dancers, funfair entertainers, Santa’s Elves and Reindeers, balloon modelling, face-painting and a Festive Fayre as well as the official illuminating ceremony, all taking place on Titanic Belfast’s Plaza.
Titanic Belfast Festive Light Switch On… Titanic Belfast is partnering with ArtsEkta to launch ‘A Magical Christmas Experience’ at its annual Christmas Light Switch On event on Sunday 24th November. The free family event will take place from 2-4pm on Titanic Belfast’s Plaza with a variety of festive entertainment and will see three children selected by the charity to join Father Christmas in illuminating the building while celebrating Belfast’s rich cultural diversity.
ArtsEkta, the multi-award-winning cultural organisation works to develop intercultural relationships at the heart of the community, have picked three children to join Father Christmas in adding festive sparkle to the world-famous building by switching on the Christmas lights while celebrating Belfast’s rich cultural diversity.
Eimear Kearney, Associate Commercial Director of Titanic Belfast said: “Our annual Christmas launch is always one of the highlights of our event calendar, bringing a real community spirit to the building, helping us kick off the festive season at Titanic Belfast. This year, we are delighted to be partnering with ArtsEkta to help make this a truly inclusive event for all communities across Northern Ireland. It’s a free event, so we invite everyone to join us for lots of family fun and festive entertainment.”
Nisha Tandon, CEO of ArtsEkta said, “We are honoured to be the charity partner for this year’s ‘A Magical Christmas Experience’ at Titanic Belfast. This partnership embodies the spirit of community, allowing us to enrich the lives of those in need while celebrating the cultural diversity of our city. We look forward to bringing our participants, many of whom are new to the city, to experience joy and excitement at Titanic Belfast this Christmas”
As part of the festive fun at Titanic Belfast, the hugely popular ‘A Magical Christmas Experience’ will open on Wednesday 27th November and run until Monday 23rd December. Visitors will enjoy a guided journey through the Enchanted Forest to make a wish by the Magical Wishing Tree, see the Elves’ Workshop, visit Mrs Claus to hear Christmas tales, write and post their own Christmas letter, enjoy some festive arts and crafts before their names are checked off the ‘Naughty or Nice’ list ahead of meeting Father Christmas individually with their families.
It might be cold outside but it’s warm and welcoming inside Portico with its ever-friendly volunteers, gorgeous architecture and wide range of events from classical to contemporary music not to mention stand up comedy shows and even a Christmas panto for the kids.
This weekend brings The Björn Identity on (Sat 16 Nov) for dancing queens of all ages followed on Sunday (17 Nov) afternoon by The Fews Ensemble with special guest Tenor Aaron O’Hare. Their programme includes favourites from Schubert and Barber as well as the world premiere of Amy Rooney’s ‘Response’.
Three comedians are bringing stand up shows to Portaferry in the next few weeks: William Thompson (Fri 22 Nov), Neil Delamere (Fri 29 Nov) and Tim McGarry (Fri 13 Dec).
On Sat 23 November, The Illegals featuring Niamh Kavanagh will deliver the best of The Eagles and Fleetwood Mac in one fabulous show. On Fri 6 December, another two for one special event pairs The Henry Girls with folk artists Lore to ensure a night of unforgettable harmonies.
Three festive events will get you in the mood for Christmas. First is a much-acclaimed production of Handel’s Messiah by Merry Opera (Sat 7 Dec). This dramatised version features 12 professional singers who each play characters searching for meaning in their everyday lives – a poignant, invigorating and fresh take on the seasonal classic.
Centre Stage Theatre returns with its annual family pantomime on Sunday 15 December at 3pm. This time it’s the turn of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Oh yes it is!
Just before the big day, the congregation of Portaferry Presbyterian Church and The Newquay Singers invite everyone to join them for their annual Nine Lessons and Carols on Sunday 22 December at 7pm.
Portico is supported by the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and by Ards and North Down Borough Council. To find out more about Portico or its programme please visit porticoards.com
On selected midweek dates across November, why not escape with a relaxing break in the Fermanagh Lakelands at Mahon’s Hotel. From £130 per person sharing, enjoy a two-night stay with breakfast served each morning. This package includes dinner on one evening in their casual dining area (£17.50 token per person) and an Aperol Spritz. After a comfortable stay, a hearty breakfast on your first morning, you will then go on a guided walk of Castle Irvine Estate with Joe Mahon (one of the owners of Mahon’s Hotel). Offers available until 29 November. Visit https://www.mahonshotel.co.uk/walk-the-lough-break-2/ for more information.
The Bushmills Inn, Bushmills, County Antrim
An Autumn Escape awaits you on the Causeway Coast at the iconic Bushmills Inn. Enjoy a cream tea by the fireside on arrival, savour chef’s three-course seasonal dinner and then have a restful night’s sleep followed by a hearty breakfast the next morning. From £245 per room for two people, this offer is available until the end of November. Visit https://www.bushmillsinn.com/ for more information.
Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.
For more information on what’s on or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com
Here are ten exciting things to do 11 – 17 November
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 first weekend (November 16th to 17th) and again 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. With over 100 international and local traders, the market offers a delightful selection of handcrafted goods, artisan products and festive treats.
Full Moon Sound Spa Experience @ Templemore Baths Heritage Space, Belfast, 14 November. Step into a journey of tranquility and rejuvenation within the walls of the former Minor Pool at Templemore Baths Heritage Space, a testament to the rich Victorian history of Belfast. Tessa Ann brings her Sound Spa Experience to this former aquatic space, under her theme of Sound Space Connect, ‘Connecting People, Places and Spaces through Sound’. Prepare to embark on an ethereal experience unlike any other, as the echoes of thousands who once learned to swim here infuse the air with a sense of timeless energy.
One-Day Blacksmithing Course at Patterson’s Spade Mill, Templepatrick, County Antrim, 16 Novem History and craftsmanship combine in these blacksmithing classes. Sign up for a one-day course to develop a new hobby, you’ll learn traditional forging and blacksmithing techniques, creating something bespoke under the expert guidance of the professional Blacksmith team.
Shakespeare’s Women at The Old Church Centre, Cushendun, County Antrim, 15 November. Commedia of Errors present this new production of their smash hit Shakespeare’s Women. Described as ‘Polished, thoughtful and good fun’, the debut play by Clare McMahon returns. Seamlessly fusing modern comedy and drama with classical verse, audiences will see Shakespeare and his favourite women in a brand-new light.
A Dander through Davagh, Davagh Forest, County Tyrone, 15 November. Join a guided walk through the lush green, almost fluorescent woodland that is Davagh Forest. Improve your mood, reduce stress and follow the lead through the many forest paths. Along the way you can breath in all the sounds and sights nature has to offer. What better way to spend your Friday afternoon than getting out into the great outdoors. This will be a moderate walk up to 8km.
Seamus Heaney Exhibition, Bellaghy, County Londonderry, until 30 December. Immerse yourself in the extraordinary world of Seamus Heaney and explore through his words and imagination, the people and place that so inspired him. Previously unseen artefacts, transcripts and books kindly donated by the Heaney family are also on display, ensuring a truly unique and illuminating experience for all.
Irish Fly Fair & International Angling Show, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 16 and 17 November. Visitors to the Irish Fly Fair at The Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel & Lodges will have the opportunity to watch the best International Fly-dressers practice their art, whilst champion fly-casters will be available to demonstrate and advise on fly-casting techniques and fly-fishing tactics. As usual, there will be a series of talks and seminars from expert anglers on a wide range of interesting angling-related topics and of course, a massive range of top-quality trade stands selling everything the fly angler and fly dresser needs.
An Evening at the Earl of Enniskillen’s Table – Florence Court House, County Fermanagh, 14 November. Step back in time as you enter the historic Florence Court House, once home to the Earls of Enniskillen. Your evening will begin with a warm welcome and a glass of something sparkling in the Grand Hall. As you enter, be serenaded by the soft strains of a harpist, adding to the charm of the evening. Indulge in a meticulously curated multi-course tasting menu, inspired by the culinary traditions of the regional area and a celebration of the finest local Fermanagh produce.
Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch, County Down, visit website for open dates and times. A visit to Montalto Estate is the perfect way to reconnect with nature, in a natural, historical, and truly relaxing setting. It is also a great day out for families. You know when you’ve reached the natural play area at The Low Wood when you see the impressive wooden tree house towering ahead of you. The Tree House offers a range of exciting activities and areas, including a jungle bridge, a climbing tower, and rope bridges. Make sure to visit The Christmas Shop at Montalto Estate, where you will discover a luxurious collection of enchanting decorations and festive accessories, to bring the wonder of Christmas into your home.
30th William Kennedy Piping Festival Opening Concert, Armagh, County Armagh, 14 November. Inaugurated in 1994, the William Kennedy Piping Festival has grown into one of the most prestigious events of its kind in the world. To celebrate the 30th anniversary, the festival is delighted to present a special evening of music featuring some local superstars plus music from further afield.
For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com.
Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Arts and Heritage Service has lined-up an array of festive events this Christmas season. The programme includes two Christmas Shopping experiences, some wonderful theatre events and Christmas Craft and Storytelling sessions!
North Down Museum’s Pop-Up Christmas Shop opens on Friday 22 November. The museum’s galleries with be festively decorated and filled with stunning, hand-made products, the perfect place to get that special gift whilst supporting local artists. The shop is free to explore during museum opening hours and will continue until Sunday 5 January.
A Christmas Carol; Ben Guest Photographer; Dyad Productions
On Thursday 28 November, the museum will host a special Twilight Shopping Event at the Pop-Up Christmas Shop. Visitors are invited to browse the museum’s galleries to purchase beautiful, handcrafted presents. The free event will also feature live music and demonstrations by local artists.
The Creative Peninsula Christmas Fayre returns to Ards Arts Centre on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 December, exclusively featuring artwork and handcrafted produce made by the Creative Peninsula Artists. For a unique shopping experience, visitors can browse the artworks and be inspired to purchase a wonderful, handcrafted Christmas gift, made in the Borough of Ards and North Down. Seasonal music, complimentary gift wrapping, and festive refreshments will also be on offer. The Christmas Fayre is on 4pm – 8pm on Friday 6 and 10am – 4pm on Saturday 7 December. Admission is free.
A Christmas Carol, Being A Christmas Ghost Story by Dyad Productions is happening at Space Theatre, SERC, Bangor on Thursday 28 November. Prepare to be enthralled by this version of Dicken’s classic and perennially relevant ghost story. It’s Christmas Eve and Ebeneezer Scrooge is about to have a ghostly night, he’ll never forget… Taking inspiration from Dickens’ original performances of his own work and utilising the brilliant narrator of the novel to bring the story to life, this solo piece is performed by Andrew Margerison and directed by Rebecca Vaughan.
The whole family will love Goldilocks and the Three Bears at the Queen’s Hall, Newtownards on Saturday 7 December at 2pm. Presented by Centre Stage Theatre Company, this classic family tale promises funny scripts, live original music and lots of audience participation! This fabulous production brings audiences the very best in Christmas traditional entertainment. Tickets are on sale now and cost £8.
Kids will also enjoy North Down Museum’s Christmas Storytelling with Squiggles and Giggles on Saturday 7 December. Come along for some festive stories, music and movement! Suitable for under 5s, £5.50 per child. The museum is also hosting Christmas Gift Workshops for kids on Saturday 14 December where children can make a bespoke gift for someone special in their life. Suitable for ages 7+, £7.50 per child, booking required for both events.
Speaking about the events, Emily Crawford, Arts and Heritage Manager for Ards and North Down Borough Council said: ‘We have lots of activity to get you in the festive spirit whether it’s an opportunity to buy hand-crafted local gifts or participate in some good old fashioned festive family fun with our annual pantomime. Don’t miss out on Dyad Productions atmospheric performance of A Christmas Carol, Being a Christmas Ghost Story, the perfect start to the festive season!’
From viewing original costumes from the planet’s biggest TV show to sampling whiskey in the birthplace of the world’s most famous ship, one of our most loved actors has been on a voyage of discovery to enjoy some of Northern Ireland’s unique visitor attractions.
Kathy Kiera Clarke, or Aunt Sarah to millions of global fans of the smash hit comedy series, Derry Girls, recently embarked on her own giant adventure to explore some of the places and experiences you can embrace in Northern Ireland that you just can’t find anywhere else.
And, as the nights draw in, you can holiday like a Derry Girl as Tourism Northern Ireland has recreated Kathy’s itinerary on its website, with a few extra stops along the way for inspiration.
Kathy said: “I’m born and bred in Belfast and it’s always lovely to come home. Every time I come back it seems like there is something new to see, there is a real vibrancy about the place.
“While I’ve always known this place is special, I am thrilled to see that so many people from all over the world think the same. We are truly blessed to have so many amazing places to visit and they’re right on our doorstep.
“For my trip, I wanted to experience Northern Ireland as one of the millions of visitors who come for our world class visitor attractions, award-winning food and drink, giant experiences and amazing scenery.
“If you haven’t had a short break in Northern Ireland for a while, I would highly recommend it.
“There’s never a bad time to visit but now as the seasons change, a short break is perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy the natural landscapes or while away the hours in a snug beside a roaring fire.
“You can find great value, too – there would be no need for Derry Girl, Jenny Joyce to dip too far into her famous trust fund, as a short trip won’t break the bank.
“The people I met along the way underlined how we are a warm and friendly bunch and always ready for a bit of craic. Is it the people or the scenery that makes Northern Ireland so special – that’s a question that could spark endless debate.”
Kathy’s trip included a stay in Belfast’s Grand Central Hotel, an introduction to the Seedhead Arts Street Art Walking Tour, a tour of Titanic Distillers, a stop-off at the Seamus Heaney HomePlace and a visit to the Game of Thrones Studio Tour.
She also called at Bushmills Inn, the Magheracross Viewpoint outside Portrush, took a NI Black Taxi Tour and marvelled at the beauty of Enniskeen Estate & Forest Spa which is set within the Mourne Mountains.
Kathy said: “Did you know it was the landscape around the Mournes and across to Rostrevor that inspired C.S Lewis to create Narnia for his chronicles, which would go on to become one of the all-time classics of children’s literature?
“At Enniskeen you really get a sense of this fairytale world, there really is nowhere else like it. Sitting by the fire with that extraordinary view in the distance is just good for the soul.
“When I visited the Seamus Heaney HomePlace, I took my personal copy of one of his books and it gave me shivers to stand there and look at his personal effects, including the pens he used to create his masterpieces. Fans come from all over the world and it’s almost like a pilgrimage for them, we’re so lucky to have it on our doorstep.
“I’ve already started thinking about what to pack for my next trip to Northern Ireland. From climbing the famous Cuilcagh Boardwalk, sampling County Armagh’s ciders to walking in the footsteps of giants under the night sky at the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, sure, where else would you get it?”
To plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland this autumn and winter or to find Kathy’s itinerary, visit discovernorthernireland.com.
Get ready for a hair-raising adventure this Christmas at The Market Place Theatre with the spectacular pantomime extravaganza, Rapunzel.
Let your imagination run wild as we unravel the story of Rapunzel, the lonely princess with golden hair who is trapped in a tower and longing for a life of adventure in the outside world. With the help of some ‘a-moo-zing’ animal friends and Dame Pam Loaf, will Rapunzel be able to escape the tower she has been locked in since birth by the evil witch and be reunited with her family?
Rapunzel Promo Shoot 20 September 2024 CREDIT: LiamMcArdle.com
Brought to you by a superb cast of colourful characters, Rapunzel promises a whirlwind of dazzling costumes, laugh-out-loud comedy, captivating musical numbers and plenty of audience participation in a pantomime that is sure to be a cut above the rest.
So let your hair down and join us for an unforgettably festive experience coupled with The Market Place Theatre’s renowned reputation for high quality, professional pantomimes that are up there with the best!
‘Rapunzel’ will run from Saturday 30 November to Sunday 22 December, with a range of times to suit all busy schedules! Prices range from £14 to £18.50. Tickets are flying out the door, so hurry to book yours now!
To book your tickets for the most exciting pantomime of the season, phone the Box Office now on 03300 561 025, or book online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre.. The house is sure to be packed to the rafters for this festive hit! There will be BSL signed, captioned and relaxed performances during the run. Please contact the Box Office for full details.
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.
NI’s biggest holiday fair to return with new title sponsor and a new city centre venue
Taking place at the ICC Belfast in January 2025, Holiday World Show Belfast in association with Bookit by NI Travel News is a three-day event that showcases a huge choice of dazzling travel options at home and abroad to more than 11,000 visitors every year.
A WORLD OF HOLIDAYS: Northern Ireland’s biggest holiday fair has announced its return to Belfast in January with a new title sponsor on board and, for the first time, a new venue in the heart of the city centre. Now in its 32nd year, Holiday World Show Belfast in association with Bookit by NI Travel News will take place at the ICC Belfast on January 10-12, 2025. The three-day event will showcase a huge choice of holiday options at home and abroad, featuring international tourist boards, destinations, airlines, ferry companies, hotels and B&Bs, visitor attractions, travel agencies and a vast range of service providers. Pictured at the launch are (l-r) Shane Hourican from event organisers Business Exhibitions Ltd, Kirsty Johnston of Bookit by NI Travel News, Maria Hourican, Business Exhibitions Ltd, and Jonathan Adair, Bookit by NI Travel News. For more information, visit www.holidayworldshowni.com.
With the days getting colder and the nights getting longer, people’s thoughts are turning to holidays and what better way to kick off 2025 than to start planning your dream holiday with a visit to the province’s biggest annual celebration of travel and tourism, now celebrating its 32nd year in Belfast.
Holiday World Show Belfast in association with Bookit by NI Travel News will open its doors to the public from 12.30pm to 5pm on Friday January 10, and from 10am until 5pm on Saturday January 11 and Sunday January 12. A dedicated Trade and Media morning will take also place on the Friday from 10am to 12.30pm with registration available at https://holidayworld.registrationdesk.ie/belfast/.
Visitors to the show will have a chance to snap up dozens of exclusive ‘show only’ deals, get the inside track on where to go from operators and destinations, discover new ideas and holiday trends, and receive advice from travel professionals on how to pay less for their holiday. Some lucky guests could even go home with a free holiday – if they win one of the many ‘free to enter’ prize draws that will run throughout the show.
With a new sponsor and new venue on board, Maria Hourican, Chief Executive of Business Exhibitions Ltd, the company which organises the Holiday World Shows in Belfast and Dublin, said she was doubly excited about January’s show.
“Today is a very special day for us as we proudly launch our 32nd annual Holiday World Belfast Show in association with Bookit by NI Travel News,” said Maria. “Since our very first show in Belfast, Jonathan Adair and the team at NI Travel News have always been very supportive, as they have been of the entire NI travel industry.
“As a valuable partner for this year’s show, Jonathan brings with him a vault of knowledge, eagerness and experience of the industry from both a travel trade and consumer point of view – so we are absolutely delighted to welcome him on board with Bookit, an exciting new travel hub that offers members a range of great holiday deals every week – which makes it a very good fit for our own Holiday World brand,” she added.
“Also, after many years at the Kings Hall and then the Titanic Exhibition Centre, we are thrilled and excited to bring the 32nd annual Holiday World Show into the heart of Belfast’s City Centre for the very first time. Having our event at the ICC Belfast will make it so much more accessible to thousands of people in the city wanting to explore their holiday options for 2025 and grab themselves a good bargain in the process.
“With operators and destinations from around the world and closer to home, all under one roof, next year’s show in January promises to be bigger and better than ever, offering visitors a one-stop-shop for all their travel dreams.Visitors will get the chance to do their travel research face-to-face, chatting with sector professionals in a lively, fun-filled environment that’s all about getting into holiday mood.
“There really is something for everyone,” concluded Maria. “Whether you like the thought of relaxing on a sunny beach, a cruise on the high seas, an exciting city break, or uncovering a hidden gem closer to home, you can be sure that Holiday World Show has it covered.”
New show sponsor Bookit by NI Travel News is a membership-based travel hub, created by long-running travel publication Northern Ireland Travel News, that offers members a range of weekly holiday deals and offers, from cruise to ski, family breaks abroad, local breaks, city breaks, long haul family specials and everything in between.
For a subscription fee of just £10 per year, members will receive a minimum of 10 fantastic travel offers straight to their inboxes each week – all hand-selected and supplied by local NI travel agents, providing members with peace of mind that their holiday is protected and their money secure.
Jonathan Adair, Managing Director of NI Travel News, is looking forward to bringing Bookit by NI Travel News to Holiday World Show Belfast for the first time.
“At NI Travel News, we’ve supported the annual Holiday World Show Belfast since it first came to Belfast 32 years ago, so I am delighted to strengthen our relationship further and continue our support as title sponsor of January’s event,” said Jonathan.
“For more than 35 years, NI Travel News has been the go-to publication and online hub for holidaymakers across the province. We have now taken our experience in the travel and tourism industry to the next level by providing our readers with the best holiday deals via our new membership hub – Bookit by NITN.
“With the launch of our new travel agent offers platform to the public, and a brand new venue for the Show, this is perfect time to profile Bookit by NI Travel News. We have exhibited at Holiday World since the beginning, but this is the first time we will be showcasing the best offers from our local travel agents every week. I am looking forward to the new Exhibition in the ICC with all the exciting holiday options on offer,” he added.
Holiday World Show Belfast in association with Bookit by NI Travel News will play host to international tourist boards, destinations, airlines, cruise & ferry companies, hotels and B&Bs, visitor attractions, travel agencies and a vast range of service providers.
Operators and destinations already confirmed include Malta, Spain, Cyprus, Travel Solutions, Air Canada, Cleveland, Oklahoma & Grapevine Texas, Costa Del Sol Living, Tunisia, Hays Travel, Stena Line, Irish Ferries, Barrhead Travel, Camino groups and French camping sites, with the promise of more to be announced over the next two months.
One of the fastest growing areas of the holiday industry is undoubtedly the cruise sector – which is reflected at the show, with a dedicated cruise showcase hosted by local specialist Oasis Travel.
For those who like to holiday closer to home, Holiday World Show Belfast in association with Bookit by NI Travel Newsalso features a wide range of hotels and accommodation providers, visitor attractions and tourism organisations from across Ireland and the UK.
Holiday WorldShow Belfast in association with Bookit by NI Travel News will take place at the ICC Belfast at 2 Lanyon Place, Belfast BT1 3WH, from Friday January 10 until Sunday January 12, 2025.
Tickets cost £5 for adults; £4 for Senior Citizens and £3 for Students.A special family ticket gives admission for two adults and up to four children for just £10 and a 2-for-1 ticket deal is available online athttps://holidayworld.registrationdesk.ie/2-for-1-voucher-belfast/.
All travel trade and media are invited to register and attend the Trade and Media morning on Friday January 10 (10am–12.30pm). To register, visit https://holidayworld.registrationdesk.ie/belfast/.
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.
The Grammy award-winning music and the infectious energy of its mesmerising choreography and breathtaking performances has left audiences in awe and established Riverdance as a global cultural sensation.
Three comedians are bringing stand up shows to Portaferry in the next few weeks: William Thompson (Fri 22 Nov), Neil Delamere (Fri 29 Nov) and Tim McGarry (Fri 13 Dec).
On selected midweek dates across November, why not escape with a relaxing break in the Fermanagh Lakelands at Mahon’s Hotel. From £130 per person sharing, enjoy a two-night stay with breakfast served each morning. This package includes dinner on one evening in their casual dining area (£17.50 token per person) and an Aperol Spritz. After a comfortable stay, a hearty breakfast on your first morning, you will then go on a guided walk of Castle Irvine Estate with Joe Mahon (one of the owners of Mahon’s Hotel). Offers available until 29 November. Visit 
An Autumn Escape awaits you on the Causeway Coast at the iconic Bushmills Inn. Enjoy a cream tea by the fireside on arrival, savour chef’s three-course seasonal dinner and then have a restful night’s sleep followed by a hearty breakfast the next morning. From £245 per room for two people, this offer is available until the end of November. Visit 
And, as the nights draw in, you can holiday like a Derry Girl as Tourism Northern Ireland has recreated Kathy’s itinerary on its website, with a few extra stops along the way for inspiration.
