Author: whatsonni

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

 

Discover NI’s Offers of the Week

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Bishop’s Gate Hotel, Derry~Londonderry

 

Come and wish the Bishop’s Gate Hotel a happy 10th birthday with their special offer, starting from £179 per night. Enjoy bed and breakfast, a two-course dinner and raise a toast to this special occasion with a glass of prosecco on arrival to the Walled City. Offer is available for selected dates in March and April and must be booked by midnight, Tuesday 10th March. Visit www.bishopsgatehotelderry.com for more information. Please note, prices are from £179 midweek, Fridays from £199 and Saturday 7th March From £249.

 

 

Shipquay Hotel, Derry~Londonderry

 

Spring into the city with Shipquay’s seasonal offer available now until 30th April. From only £179 per couple, enjoy an overnight stay in the heart of the city with a two-course evening meal in Shipquay restaurant, £20 hotel credit to personalise your stay, and a freshly cooked to order breakfast in the morning. Visit www.shipquayhotel.com 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 9 – 15 March

 

  1. St Patrick’s Weekend at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, Royal Hillsborough, County Down, 15 March. Visit Hillsborough Castle and Gardens for a fun-filled family day out with stories, music and celebration in honour of St. Patrick’s Day. Immerse yourself in the magic of traditional Irish storytelling with renowned storyteller Eamonn Keenan, accompanied by the captivating music of Aodan MacSeafriadh.
  2. Homes In Focus: Tea Lane at Ulster Folk Museum, Holywood, County Down, 14 March. Join Victoria Millar, Senior Curator of History, for a talk on the Tea Lane Houses. Discover what life was like for those who lived here and explore the research happening behind the scenes. Originally located off Sandy Row in Belfast, the houses were built for workers in the nearby textile mills and brickfields in Sandy Row. They are believed to be amongst the earliest surviving examples of industrial housing in Belfast.
  3. Leprechaun Treasure Trail at Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch, County Down, 14 – 17 March. Can you track down Montalto’s mischievous Leprechauns? Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a fun-filled treasure trail style adventure through the beautiful Trails & Gardens at Montalto Estate.
  4. St Patrick’s Day at Antrim Castle Gardens, Antrim, County Antrim, 14 March. Bring the whole family along for a day of fun in the stunning gardens. Enjoy live music, Irish and Ulster-Scots dancing and plenty of family-friendly activities as the gardens come alive with the spirit of St Patrick’s Day.
  5. Belfast St Patrick’s Music Festival, Belfast, 13 – 17 March. Belfast St Patrick’s Music Festival returns with five days of concerts, workshops, dance, pipe bands and a free Festival Village in the Cathedral Quarter of Belfast, UNESCO City of Music. At the heart of the festival is a diverse, cross-cultural celebration of traditional arts in honour of St Patrick.
  6. Wild Caving at Marble Arch Caves, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 14 March. Delve off the beaten track with our experienced and qualified Cave Leader to explore “wild caving” in the depths of the Marble Arch Caves system. Your group of ten will explore wild cave passages, negotiate boulder chambers and clamber through the well-known flyover to emerge into the public tour area of the show cave before navigating your way out through the wild chambers.
  7. Walled City Music Festival 2026, Derry~Londonderry, 12 – 15 March. Derry~Londonderry is set for a serious musical takeover this March as the Walled City Music Festival returns with a razor-sharp programme built for everyone – the seasoned concertgoer, the curious first timer, and anyone who simply wants to feel something live. Expect powerhouse piano, high-voltage violin and richly coloured chamber music, performed by world-class artists in the heart of the city.
  8. Ashes to Fashion at Ulster Museum, Belfast, until 13 September. A collection reborn through significant acquisitions, a future-proof collecting policy and generous donations, making it one of the most important collections in Western Europe. ‘Ashes to Fashion’ marks this extraordinary milestone with a stunning showcase of fashion from the eighteenth century to today, from historic garments to contemporary pieces by Chanel and Versace.
  9. Home of St Patrick Festival 2026, Armagh, County Armagh, 8 – 18 March. The Home of St Patrick Festival celebrates St. Patrick’s life through music, art, theatre, film, and dance. This is a chance to reflect on the legacy of St Patrick and have fun celebrating his influence on history and culture.
  10. Visit Gortin Glen Forest Park, County Tyrone, visit website for open dates and times. Gortin Glen Forest Park is made up of a network of 5 waymarked trails of varying lengths that start from the Trailhead close to the main car park. All trails are colour coded and return back to the car park. Each of the trails give the visitor the opportunity to enjoy the woodland, nestled nicely in the Sperrin Mountains.

 

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.

TITANIC BELFAST TO DISPLAY LIFEJACKET OF SURVIVOR AS PART OF NEW EXHIBITION

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TITANIC Belfast has welcomed an original lifejacket worn by a female survivor which will be on public display for a limited time.

The rare artefact is on loan from Wiltshire auction house Henry Aldridge and Sons, the world’s leading Titanic memorabilia auctioneers, until Sunday 5th April, before going to auction on 18th April. It was worn by Laura Mabel Francatelli, who survived the tragic sinking of RMS Titanic alongside 11 other passengers in Lifeboat 1. A First-Class passenger, Laura Mabel was the secretary to fashion designer, Lady Lucy Duff Gordon. They were journeying to Chicago for business, accompanied by Lady Lucy’s husband, Sir Cosmo Duff Gordon.

The lifejacket bears the signature of Francatelli along with other survivors including leading fireman Charles Hendrickson, fireman George Taylor and able seaman James Horswill and is one of very few remaining original lifejackets that are identifiable to the person who wore it.

The artefact will form part of a wider free exhibition ‘Women of Titanic: Survival, Influence & Legacy’, located on Level 1 Apex of the world-leading visitor attraction and will explore the stories of the women who travelled onboard Titanic including Helen Churchill Candee, Marjorie Anne Newell and Annie Clemmer Funk.

Eimear Kearney, Commercial Director of Titanic Belfast said: “We are honoured to display the lifejacket worn by Laura Mabel Francatelli, a survivor of RMS Titanic and celebrate the women who travelled onboard through our ‘Women of Titanic: Survival, Influence & Legacy’ exhibition. It offers a deeply personal connection to the story of Titanic and to one of its passengers, whose life was spared in the tragedy but irrevocably changed and shaped forever.

Displaying an artefact worn and signed by Laura Mabel allows us to tell a powerful story of survival, memory and legacy. We are thrilled to be able to give guests from around the world this added experience to view yet another rare piece of Titanic history.”

Andrew Aldridge, Managing Director of Henry Aldridge and Sons, said: “We are delighted to be able to place such a significant artefact on public display at Titanic Belfast ahead of its forthcoming auction. Exhibiting Laura Mabel Francatelli’s lifejacket in the city where Titanic was built offers visitors a unique opportunity to view this object of historical importance and find out more about the human story behind it.”

For further information on the ‘Women of Titanic: Survival, Influence & Legacy’ exhibition or to book tickets for the Titanic Experience, visit titanicbelfast.com

Antrim and Newtownabbey welcomes Walking for All Launch to Inspire Health, Inclusion and Community

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Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has welcomed the announcement of a brand new ‘Walking for All’ programme. A major cross-border initiative supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), and led by Outscape, launched on Friday 27 February 2026 at The Junction, Dungannon.

Supported by €7.5 million from the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), ‘Walking for All’ will aim to engage over 14,000 people across rural areas in Northern Ireland and the border counties to engage in accessible, led walking activities.

Designed to improve health and well-being in rural communities by making walking more accessible, enjoyable, and social for everyone to explore and participate in, Walking for All, will deliver short, regular walks in local community spaces.

The programme is open to adults, regardless of age, background, or ability. By fostering a focus on connection, inclusion, and well-being, Walking for All will seek to build sustainable, healthy communities and address issues such as social isolation, wellbeing and inactivity.

The programme is being delivered by Outscape in partnership with 15 partner organisations across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, including 8 local authorities, the Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust and 6 Local Sports Partnerships. Sport Ireland, Mountaineering Ireland (Get Ireland Walking), and the Public Health Agency are associate partners. Locally this project is being led by Bridie Kelly, the newly appointed Walking for All Officer for Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, who will support the development of these walking groups across the council area, working closely with local communities.

16 dedicated Walking for All Officers have already been recruited and will lead the programme as well as train Walk Leaders, supporting the creation of nearly 600 walking groups and engaging thousands in regular, social walks over the next three years.

Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir MLA said: ‘I’m delighted that my Department, working in partnership with DRCDG and SEUPB, is providing funding under the PEACEPLUS programme to the Walking for All (WFA) project. WFA is not just about walking – it is about inspiring people to come together through shared, volunteer led experiences, strengthening bonds within our rural communities while enjoying the beauty of our countryside at its very best.

This project will create a lasting legacy of healthier, happier and more connected rural communities, demonstrating the remarkable impact of community-led initiatives to inspire long-term positive change and helping rural areas to thrive as places where people can live, work and prosper.’

The Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, and Minister of State with Responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer TD, welcomed the announcement.

Minister Calleary said: “I would like to express my gratitude to all those who contributed to the Walking for All initiative. I am pleased that my Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht will continue to support this outstanding project in collaboration with the Special EU Programmes Body and the Department of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland. The area will reap long-term benefits from this project”.

Minister Buttimer added: “This significant funding will support social interaction, reduce isolation and encourage active lifestyles. The planned investment will enable communities to reach their full potential in terms of the economy, society, and environment.”

Welcoming the announcement, Gina McIntyre, CEO of the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), said: “Walking for All reflects the purpose of PEACEPLUS by creating opportunities for people to come together in ways that strengthen health, confidence and connection. Many rural communities may not have easy access to sports facilities, and this programme offers a simple and inclusive way to address those challenges. By providing trained support, accessible routes and a welcoming structure, it will help thousands of people build new routines and deepen their sense of belonging together. We are pleased to support an initiative that encourages shared enjoyment of the outdoors and contributes to long-term wellbeing across our region.”‑term wellbeing across our region.”

Gareth Moore, Head of Participation at Outscape added: “Walking for All will enable people of all ages and abilities across NI and the border counties to ‘step out’ in supported, inclusive and welcoming walking groups. Rooted in rural communities, this landmark participation programme seeks to increase levels of physical activity, while addressing social isolation and loneliness amongst some members of our community. 

The funding from PEACEPLUS will bring communities to the heart of their local landscapes, enabling them to explore, create friendships and support each other through walking and in shared appreciation of the outdoors.

Trained Walk Leaders will deliver local walks within their communities, supported by Officers engaged by local authorities and sports partnerships. This network of Walk Leaders will be responsible for delivering life-enhancing support to their communities in a fun and fulfilling role, leading a short, regular weekly walk near their home. Together with our partners, we’re excited to offer everyone the opportunity to walk together, make new friends and improve their health through Walking for All.”

Walking for All is a key priority for both governments across the island, supporting public health, community wellbeing, and preventative action.  Research shows that structured walking is one of the most cost-effective and inclusive ways to increase physical activity, improve mental wellbeing, reduce social isolation, and deepen people’s connection with nature, whilst strengthening community participation and cross-sector collaboration.

Dawson Stelfox, Chair of Outscape and the first Irishman to summit Mount Everest speaking on the programme potential added;  “Walking for All is a vital investment in community health and wellbeing across NI and the border counties of Ireland, rooted in the evidence that simple, locally led walking programmes can deliver lasting benefits which improve physical and mental wellbeing, reduce isolation and strengthen community ties.

Outscape is proud to be the lead delivery partner for Walking for All working in partnership with Councils, LSPs, health bodies and community organisations. The programme has the potential to reach people who might otherwise be left behind, as well as create sustainable, positive change in community wellbeing and social cohesion across the region.”

Welcoming the launch announcement, the Deputy Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Julie Gilmour said; “This initiative shows what can be achieved when partners work together with a shared purpose. Walking for All will bring lasting benefits to our rural communities, helping people feel more connected, supported and active as they enjoy the outdoors. We are delighted that Antrim and Newtownabbey will be at the heart of this important work. I would encourage people in our community to visit the Council’s website to find out more, antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/walking-for-all.”

Visit www.walkingforall.com for more information on becoming a Walk Leader or to find local walks.

Mayor’s Charity Concert to Bring an Unmissable Night of Music, Community and Belonging

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Ards and North Down Borough Council is delighted to announce the Mayor’s Charity Concert, taking place on Saturday 28 March 2026 at 7.30pm in Bangor Elim Church.

This uplifting evening promises a vibrant celebration of local talent, community spirit and the Borough’s shared commitment to inclusivity and belonging. Audiences will enjoy an inspiring night of performances from some of the area’s most loved musical groups and musicians.

A Showcase of Local Talent

The concert brings together a wonderful line‑up of performers, including:

Ards Comhaltas | Bangor Ladies Choir | Jackie Rainey and Emma D Drummer | Bangor Ukes | Donaghadee Male Voice Choir | Bangor Grammar School Jazz Band | Orchardville Band and Makaton Choir

From traditional melodies to jazz arrangements, and from choral harmonies to uplifting community ensembles, the evening offers something for everyone.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum said:

“This concert is a celebration of who we are as a community — diverse, welcoming and stronger together. The theme of Belonging is especially important to me in my Mayoral year, and I can think of no better way to express that than through music that brings people of all backgrounds together. I am deeply grateful to every performer taking part, and to everyone purchasing a ticket – we’re really looking forward to welcoming you.”

Every ticket purchased directly supports life‑changing work right here in our community, with all proceeds supporting the Mayor’s three chosen charities, each carrying out essential work across the Borough:

Orchardville – empowering individuals with learning disabilities and autism
St Vincent de Paul – supporting local families experiencing hardship
Women’s Aid North Down and Ards – providing safety and refuge for women and children

The Mayor’s Charity Concert is set to be a joyful night of harmony, celebration and connection. Whether attending with friends, family or as part of a local group, everyone is warmly invited to be part of this special evening.

 

Event Details

Saturday 28 March 2026
Doors 7:00pm | Concert begins 7:30pm
Bangor Elim Church, BT19 7WP
Tickets: £12 (booking fee applies)
Available now via Mayor’s Charity Concert! Sat 28th March 7.30pm Bangor Elim at Bangor Elim Church event tickets from TicketSource

Writers from Across Ireland and Beyond Unite for ‘Words, In Other Places’

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Words, In Other Places, an Irish Writers Centre Literary Festival presented in partnership with the European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland, will take place over one weekend — Saturday 11 April at the Seamus Heaney Centre, Queen’s University Belfast, and Sunday 12 April at the Irish Writers Centre in Dublin.

Across one weekend, this tri-lateral festival will bring together writers from the north and south of Ireland alongside international voices, celebrating literary form, cultural exchange and contemporary perspectives. Through panel discussions and creative workshops, Words, In Other Places will explore storytelling across borders, languages and traditions.
Each day will feature three distinct events, offering audiences the opportunity to engage with some of the most compelling writers working today.
Saturday 11 April – Seamus Heaney Centre, Queen’s University Belfast
12pm – Inside Out: Telling Tales Elsewhere – An hour-long panel discussion featuring Louise Nealon, Patrick Holloway and Rob Doyle, hosted by Martin Doyle.
1.30pm – Creative Writing Workshop – A two-hour workshop with Sarah Moore Fitzgerald.
4pm – Literature in Translation: Words Beyond Borders – A panel discussion with Csilla Toldy, Enrica Maria Ferrara and Rafael Mendes, hosted by Lucy Sweeney Byrne.
Books will be available for sale from No Alibis Bookstore.
Sunday 12 April – Irish Writers Centre, Dublin
12pm – Inside Out: Telling Tales Elsewhere – Featuring Jan Carson, Leontia Flynn and Wendy Erskine, hosted by Neil Hegarty.
1.30pm – Creative Writing Workshop – A two-hour workshop with Paul McVeigh.
4pm – Literature in Translation: Words Beyond Borders – With Hugo Hamilton, Suad Aldarra and Victoria Melkovska, hosted by Adam Wyeth.
Books will be available for sale from Chapters Bookstore.
Mags McLoughlin, CEO of the Irish Writers Centre, said: “We are proud to partner with the European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland on Words, In Other Places. Bringing this festival to both Belfast and Dublin reflects our shared belief in the power of literature to connect across borders, languages and lived experience. By uniting writers from the north and south of Ireland alongside international voices, we are celebrating creative exchange at its very best — open, inclusive and enriched by diversity.”
Fearghas Ó Béara, Head of the European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland said: “We are delighted to partner with the Irish Writers Centre on Words, In Other Places. The European Union’s motto is ‘United in Diversity’ and we know that literature and translation play a vital role in strengthening cultural dialogue and understanding across Europe. These events in Belfast and Dublin resonate with the EU’s commitment to linguistic diversity, creative collaboration, and fostering cross-border and cross-community engagement on the island of Ireland.”
”Words, In Other Places promises a weekend of conversation, creativity and connection, celebrating storytelling in all its forms while highlighting the evolving literary landscape across Ireland and beyond.  The Irish Writers Centre is grateful to the Seamus Heaney Centre for hosting the Belfast event and for its continued support of cross-border literary collaboration.
The Irish Writers Centre is funded by the Arts Council of Ireland.
Bookings for both days will open on Tuesday 10 March via the Irish Writers Centre website. All events are free to attend, but advance booking is required : https://irishwriterscentre.ie/

The Violin That Premiered Tchaikovsky Is Coming to Derry

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More than 140 years ago, a violin helped introduce Tchaikovsky’s now-famous Violin Concerto to the world. This March, that same instrument will be heard in Derry.

As part of the Walled City Music Festival (12–15 March 2026), internationally acclaimed violinist Kirill Troussov will perform on the legendary 1702 “Brodsky” Stradivarius during Romantic Virtuosity: Violin & Piano at Christ Church.

Crafted by master luthier Antonio Stradivari, the “Brodsky” violin was played at the 1881 premiere of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto- a work once controversial, now considered one of the most exhilarating and emotionally charged in the repertoire. The instrument itself has become part of that story, celebrated not just for its history, but for its luminous tone, warmth and remarkable expressive depth.

The festival’s concerts will be set within one of Derry’s most charming historic churches, admired for its elegant stained glass and beautifully resonant acoustics, Christ Church offers a warm, welcoming and perfectly suited setting for performances of this calibre. In such an intimate acoustic, the voice of a Stradivarius feels almost tangible- its sound carrying effortlessly from the quietest whisper to soaring, full-bodied intensity.

Troussov will be joined on stage by his sister, pianist Alexandra Troussova, in a programme celebrating Romantic virtuosity. Their close musical partnership brings an added layer of connection and understanding to the performance, combining technical brilliance with expressive sensitivity.

Across four days, the Walled City Music Festival transforms Derry into a hub of contemporary classical excellence, presenting world-class piano, chamber and vocal concerts alongside composer workshops and educational outreach initiatives.

The arrival of the 1702 “Brodsky” Stradivarius is more than a historic curiosity- it is an opportunity to experience living musical heritage, performed by a brother-and-sister duo in one of the city’s most atmospheric venues.

Full programme details and ticket information are available at walledcitymusic.com.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 2 – 8 March

 

  1. Home of St Patrick Festival 2026, Armagh, County Armagh, 8 – 18 March. The Home of St Patrick Festival celebrates St. Patrick’s life through music, art, theatre, film, and dance. This is a chance to reflect on the legacy of St Patrick and have fun celebrating his influence on history and culture.
  2. Belfast Children’s Festival, 5 – 14 March. Over 10 days, enjoy hand-picked incredible shows, performances, events, activities and creative experiences for everyone, including a range of inclusive shows specially created for those with additional needs. They have shows from across the world, as well as some of the very best of performances for young audiences being made right here in Belfast, from festival favourites to world premieres and, of course, the Festival Family Day Out.
  3. Taste Mid Ulster Restaurant Week, Mid Ulster, 7 – 13 March. Get ready to tantalise your taste buds and embark on a gastronomic journey like no other. Discover culinary delights in Mid Ulster as participating restaurants across the district roll out the red carpet to showcase their finest culinary creations. From gourmet delicacies to classic comfort foods, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Indulge in specially curated menus that offer a taste of Mid Ulster.
  4. Ranger Led Tour of Antrim Castle Gardens, Antrim, County Antrim, 7 – 28 March. The Ranger led guided tour of Antrim Castle Gardens takes approximately 1 hour and involves an easy walk over flat ground. The tour focusses on the general history of the 350-year-old gardens alongside the remnants of the Massereene family dynasty, dating back to 1573. You will hear many interesting facts, stories and tales of the colourful characters making up the family history.
  5. Carrickfergus Castle & Islandmagee Witches Walking Tour (with Haunted Tours NI), Carrickfergus, County Antrim, check website for availabilities. Perfect for history buffs, true crime fans, lovers of the supernatural, and those curious about the infamous Islandmagee witch trial – this is the only tour company that tells the real story of Ireland’s last witches, inspired by the book ‘Possessed by the Devil’ by Dr. Andrew Sneddon.
  6. Bronze Age Connections: Smoked Fired Pottery, Bushmills, County Antrim, 7 March. The incredible landscape of the Causeway Coast is made up of layers of limestone, basalt and red ochre. People have a long history of using ochre for body paint, cave paintings and decorating pots. Join this workshop to decorate two incense pots.
  7. Earth Yoga – In The Heart Of The Marble Arch Caves, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 8 March. Join in a unique experience as you get in touch with your inner yogi in a beginner-friendly 60 minutes yoga session in the depths of the Marble Arch Caves. Relax body and mind as you connect to nature inside the cave with an inviting and inspiring class suitable for all levels.
  8. Wild River Dipping at Tollymore Forest Park, Newcastle County Down, 7 March. Hike to the secret spots and immerse in the rivers of the Mourne Mountains. The activity explores the trending cold water and wild swimming craze and including hiking, wild dipping, forest bathing and cold water therapy. Their trained and highly experienced mountain leaders and cold water specialists guide you into the hidden landscapes of the Mourne Mountains to the spots we love the most.
  9. The Derry Girls Experience at Tower Museum, Derry~Londonderry, visit website for open dates and times. Visit the home of Derry Girls and discover where it all began. See original memorabilia from the hit show, like Erin’s diary, Aunt Sarah’s famous pyjamas and Ma Mary’s Woolworths sweater, not to mention the infamous Spice Girls costumes. Step into the set of the Quinn’s household and feel like one of the family.
  10. Hill of The O’Neill & Ranfurly House, Dungannon, County Tyrone, visit website for open dates, times, and events. Ranfurly House is an impressive Victorian building located in Dungannon and gateway to the ancient site of Hill of The O’Neill. This location has been the site of castles, barracks, and seats of power for thousands of years. It is from this very hilltop that the O’Neill dynasty, perhaps one of the greatest of the Irish clans ruled for more than 300 years.

 

 

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.

 

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