Author: whatsonni

Northern Ireland’s premier outlet destination, The Boulevard, is hosting a series of events this October for all the family to enjoy.

The Boulevard has a spooktacular weekend planned with lots of Halloween themed activities, beginning on 26th October 2024.

Pumpkin Patch – 26th – 31st October (1-3pm daily)
Wizz around with our wheelbarrows and pick up a pumpkin at our complimentary Pumpkin Patch, just outside Clarks.

Scavenger Hunt – 26th – 31st October
Collect your worksheet from Guest Services and find the Pumpkin clues. Return your completed sheet to Guest Services for a Trick or Treat.

Carnival Rides – 26th October – 3rd November
Big Wheel & traditional carousel.

Paint a Pumpkin Workshop – Saturday 26th – Wednesday 31st| 1-4pm
Paint a Pumpkin with the friendly scarecrow and take it home to decorate your home for Halloween.

S’Mores – Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th October
Enjoy complimentary S’mores (for the first 200 customers).

Fancy Dress Parade with Pixie Pinecone – Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th| 3pm
Fancy Dress Parade led by Pixie Pinecone with a competition. The Parade will begin at the Pumpkin Patch at Clarks and finish at Guest Services.

The Hallowqueen – Thursday 31st October | 1-4pm
Meet & Greet and take a spooky selfie with the Hallowqueen.

Join Ballymoney Museum on Thursday, October 24th at 7:30pm for a special free screening of ‘The Lion Game’, a fascinating documentary that relives the vibrant days of the Causeway Safari Park.

This captivating film offers a nostalgic journey into one of the region’s most cherished attractions, showcasing the wildlife, adventures, and memories that made the Safari Park a beloved destination for families and nature lovers alike.

Causeway Safari Park was located at Benvarden just outside Ballymoney and was developed in 1970 by Pat and Louise Stephenson. It was the first National Safari Park on the island of Ireland and its success saw the team welcome 6,000 people during its first 3 days of opening.

This is a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with cherished memories and share stories over some refreshments.

Bookings for the free screening can be made via an Eventbrite link available on our Causeway Coast and Glens Museum services Facebook page.

For more information on how to book your free place, email museums@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk or phone 028 276 60230.

 

What artistic responses can we invent in the face of climate collapse to inspire alternative visions to the dominant apocalyptic climate discourse?

How can we collectively tune into the sonorities of socio-political change and ecology? Acoustics of Resistance is a multi-media project comprising of works that collectively tune into the sonorities of socio-political change and ecology. It rejoices in the transformative and healing powers of listening and sound-making while declaring that changing the course of climate change is in our hands and lies on humans learning the language of nature.

Surging Seas and The Weather Orchestra are two installations that approach the theme of climate change from the perspectives of scientific data, collective and individual emotional response, speculative thinking and sounding.  They are an ode to the elements, expressing our deep relationship and entanglement with the weather and celebrating our connection to the atmosphere and the earth. Surging Seas comprises video, a textile work references thermal maps and a display of placards with futurological flood maps.

The Weather Orchestra was created with diverse performers from different climes and takes the form of multi-channel video installation with surround sound. The installation transforms the gallery space into an indoor weather system generated through sound vibration and singing. Three projections feature Iberian female musicians performing on instruments and analogue noise machines designed to imitate the sounds of natural phenomena.

From the old wind machine to the ancient Latin American ceremonial rain stick, ocean drums, aqua-phones and thunder sheets generate sounds that allude to the forces and magnificence of nature. In the middle of this soundscape and swept up by the noise, human voices burst with folk songs from different cultures as a reservoir of knowledge and connection with nature, expressing joy, respect, fear and wonder toward all elements surrounding us. In his mourning song, a Syrian refugee asks the rain to become ‘mute’ in his dedication to friends and family he lost at sea on their way to Greece. A Danish folk singer recalls an ancient nordic song asking the sun to come and warm the seeds to sprout. A Madeiran islander begs the fog to clear because it threatens his life. A Portuguese singer sings an ancient pagan-christian prayer to Santa Barbara requesting her to calm the tempest at sea.

Mikhail Karikis is a Greek-British artist working with moving image, sound, performance and other media. Through collaborations with individuals and/or communities located beyond the circles of contemporary art, and in recent years with children, refugees, support workers and people with disabilities, he develops socially embedded projects that prompt an activist imaginary and rouse the potential to invent hopeful and sustainable futures. Focusing on listening as an artistic methodology, and the voice as a socio-political agent he centers on themes of environmental and social justice. His projects highlight alternative modes of action and solidarity, while nurturing critical attention, dignity and care.

Karikis exhibits internationally. In his most recent work for the stage, ‘Universe of Solutions’, he was artistic director for UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network inaugural cultural event for which he created a performance with 150 young people. Group exhibitions include 54th Venice Biennale, (2011), IT; Manifesta 9, Ghenk, (2012); 19th Biennale of Sydney, (2014); Kochi-Muziris Biennale, IN, (2016); MediaCity Seoul, KR (2015); British Art Show 8 (2016-7); 2nd Riga International Biennale of Contemporary Art, LV (2020), 2nd Saitama Triennale (2024), JP and others.

The MAC Belfast is thrilled to announce an exclusive night of music, soul, and fundraising with the legendary DJ Pete Brady on 12 October titled, Art on the Floor. The Northern Soul Fundraiser promises an unforgettable evening celebrating the iconic sounds of Northern Soul while raising crucial funds to support the MAC’s arts and community programmes.

In a rare and intimate setting, DJ Pete Brady will bring his extensive collection of soul classics to the Belfast venue for a one-of-a-kind dance night. Known for his passion for Northern Soul, Pete Brady has been a key figure in the scene since the 1970s, spinning records at iconic venues across the UK and internationally. His carefully curated set will transport guests back to the iconic era of Northern Soul, with a soundtrack guaranteed to keep the dance floor moving all night long.

The event aims to raise funds for the MAC’s vital outreach programmes, which provide creative opportunities and support for underrepresented communities in Northern Ireland. Guests will have the opportunity to dance the night away while directly contributing to these initiatives, ensuring the MAC continues to be a beacon for the arts in Belfast.

Speaking on the event, Pete Brady said: “Northern Soul has always been about the love of music and the energy of the dance floor. I’m delighted to bring this special night to the MAC, not just to celebrate the music but also to support such an important cause. It’s going to be a night to remember!”

Guests attending the Northern Soul Fundraiser will experience an authentic night of rare soul tracks, a lively dance floor, and the chance to mingle with fellow soul enthusiasts. The event is part of the MAC’s ongoing fundraising efforts to support its creative programmes, which range from world-class exhibitions and performances to impactful community-led initiatives.

Lisa McGinley, Interim Director at the MAC, adds: “We’re excited to host this fantastic night, bringing the magic of Northern Soul to Belfast. Events like these are crucial in helping us continue to deliver high-quality, accessible arts experiences to our local community and we appreciate every ticket booking for this special event – it truly makes a difference.”

Tickets for the Art on the Floor: Northern Soul Fundraiser are available now via the MAC website and priced at £15. Early booking is advised, as space is limited, with high demand for this special event.

For more information or to book tickets, visit www.themaclive.com.

Join us at the MAC for a night of music, dancing, and supporting the arts—don’t miss out on this Northern Soul spectacular!

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Neil Kelly, proudly unveiled the Borough’s third Sensory Room and officially launched the Council’s new eight-week Walking Football programme at Crumlin Leisure Centre.

The Sensory Rooms at Valley Leisure Centre and the Antrim Forum have become highly sought-after sanctuaries for individuals, families, and children with learning disabilities or specific needs. In response to the overwhelming demand, the Council has once again collaborated with Learning Spaces to introduce a third sensory room at Crumlin Leisure Centre.

The Centre is also launching the Borough’s Walking Football programme, in partnership with the IFA and funded by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust. The programme will run at Antrim Forum, Crumlin Leisure Centre, and the Valley Leisure Centre.

Mayor Neil Kelly commented, “The Sensory Rooms in our leisure centres are a relatively new concept and in the last six months, they have proven to be essential in supporting those who need them. As a champion for the charity Mencap and a registered nurse with over 40 years of experience in Health and Social Care, I firmly believe facilities like these are crucial for creating an inclusive environment for individuals with sensory needs.

“I’m also delighted to launch the Walking Football programme, which offers seasoned footballers the chance to get back into the game. As a Council, we are constantly striving to enhance our Active Aging programme, and I’m confident this new initiative will be a success.”

The Walking Football programme will start on the following dates:

• Tuesday, 8 October, 10-11am at Antrim Forum
• Wednesday, 9 October, 10-11am at Crumlin Leisure Centre
• Thursday, 10 October, 10-11am at Valley Leisure Centre

To find out more about the Walking Football programme, visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/activeaging

To learn more about the Sensory Rooms and Sensory Gardens available in the Borough, visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/accessibility

Ards and North Down Borough Council is excited to announce the Leid and Lairn Festival, a month-long celebration of the rich language, culture, and history of the Ulster Scots tradition.

The festival provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Ulster Scots, from its language and powerful folklore to its influential role in shaping local history.

Running from Saturday 26 October to Tuesday 26 November, the festival offers a vibrant mix of events that showcase the depth and beauty of Ulster Scots heritage through music, poetry, storytelling, film, and a historical exhibition. Taking place across the Borough, the events offer something for everyone.

Highlights of the festival include a digital film screening of Tha Queen O’Wuntér at Donaghadee Community Centre, that explores the winter myths of the Cailleach, NI Opera presents From Old to New: Ulster Scots Songs, a lunchtime concert exploring how Ulster Scots song has changed over time. Stories and Songs of the Seanchaí at Portico, Portaferry will feature folksinger, songwriter and storyteller Colin Urwin for some beautiful ballads and rhyming monologues.

Join Valhalla Street Theatre for a theatrical walking tour through historic Newtownards, and an exhibition at Ards Visitor Information Centre will delve into the lasting influence of Ulster Scots on local place names and culture.

Speaking about the festival, The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart said: “I am delighted to launch the Leid and Lairn Festival. This is a wonderful celebration of Ulster Scots heritage with many fantastic events on offer. I would encourage everyone to check out the programme, book tickets and get involved.”

Tickets are on sale now and can be booked online at ANDCulture.org.uk, or in person at Ards Arts Centre, North Down Museum, or any of the Ards and North Down Visitor Information Centres.

For more information visit; https://andculture.org.uk/whats-on

The sound of music will be heard across Portstewart and Portrush this November as Council’s award-winning music festival Atlantic Sessions returns.

The much-loved event will take place over 4 days from Thursday 14th November to Sunday 17th November 2024, bringing a fantastic music programme of over 30 live gigs to both seaside towns. 

With something to suit all tastes, music fans can look forward to unmissable performances offering a fantastic music trail, throughout venues in both locations.

Deputy Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Tanya Stirling who is very much looking forward to this year’s Atlantic Sessions said:

“We are delighted to welcome both locals and of course visitors to the Borough this November, to enjoy our award-winning annual music festival Atlantic Sessions.

“We are very proud of the reputation Atlantic Sessions has gained over the years and Council looks forward to this year’s event celebrating emerging talent as well as showcasing more established artists.”

“There will be a warm welcome for all in Portrush and Portstewart as both locations host a wide array of musical entertainment combined with outstanding hospitality in these beautiful coastal locations that our Borough is renowned for.”

For 2024, Council has partnered with Mark Sheppard from Get Shep who is programming this year’s festival, bringing a wide array of established and up and coming acts over 4 days of exciting performances.

Rising stars, Dark Tropics, with their dark cinematic brand of pop-noir, are set to open the festival on Thursday 14^th November with a free headline performance at Portrush Playhouse.

Having recently supported Belle & Sebastian along with plaudits from Steve Lemacq on BBC 6 Music this is sure to be a performance you won’t want to miss.

On Friday 15^th November Atlantic Sessions will proudly introduce two of the most promising young bands in Northern Ireland, Polar Bolero & The Taylor Lally Band for a headline show at Flowerfield Arts Centre. Tickets for this can be purchased via Flowerfield’s website https://www.flowerfield.org/events/atlantic-sessions-presents-polar-bolero-taylor-lally-band

Fresh from playing this year’s Glastonbury festival, Paul Casey will make a very welcome return to Portrush with an intimate performance in Holy Trinity Church on Saturday 16th November, this is a free walk in performance – so get your seats early.

Later that evening, Portrush Town Hall will host one of Ireland’s most acclaimed songwriters and performers, Mary Coughlan with her band, who this year celebrate a fantastic 40 years in the music business.

Atlantic Sessions will also showcase home grown artists Johnny Brady and Jordan O’Keefe who are both returning to their roots, after years of working in other areas of the music industry. Audiences will be excited to hear Johnny’s new material after previously singing both rock and Irish country, while Jordan, who first found fame 10 years ago in Britian’s Got Talent, will also showcase something new for audiences to hear.

With over 30 acts, Atlantic Sessions will showcase the talent that Northern Ireland is famous for, from established headlines acts such as The Bonnevilles joining new artists Telezura and the Zac Mac Band – this year’s festival will surely showcase the music and hospitality this island has to offer.

Sundays only ticketed performance brings something a little different, with a team of popular NI musicians forming a “superband” to create a very memorable evening, called ‘Remembering John Prine’.

Fronted by Junior Johnson and his band, we will see special guests join them to play songs from John Prine’s repertoire, they will talk about the inspiration it gave them to go on to do what they have achieved in their careers. The show will feature Junior & Band, Paddy Nash, Chris Taplin, Sean Doone and a few more faces and will be hosted by Ralph McLean from BBC Radio Ulster, another self-confessed John Prine superfan!

Audiences can also see an ‘In The Round’ with Reeva, Ferna and Jordan O’Keefe plus, heaps of free events including Ken Haddock, Tony Villers, King Ceder and many more!

Tickets are now on sale for our headline events, available at www.atlanticsessions.com you can rest assured your travel to the Causeway Coast this November will be well worth it!

Alongside the not-to-be-missed music gigs, Visit Causeway Coast and Glens has been working closely with hospitality partners to ensure visitors can access a fantastic range of accommodation offers.

For more information, programme details and offers visit https://www.atlanticsessions.com/

Keep an eye on the event’s online channels for the latest updates – follow Atlantic Sessions on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

For more to see and do in the Causeway Coast and Glens visit www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com

Highlights include Viking Weekend, Halloween, Apple Harvest Fayre, and the annual Georgian Festival

Autumn is in full swing across Armagh, inviting visitors to embrace the region’s autumn beauty through a showcase of unique and seasonal events. The jam-packed programme highlights Armagh as a must-visit destination for autumn, with a variety of immersive experiences from Viking Weekend to Halloween and apple harvest celebrations.

Viking Weekend at the legendary Navan Centre and Fort takes place on September 28 and 29. Attendees will be transported back to the days of legend, with access to the Viking encampment, the resident clan of Celts, and the historical and archaeological wonders of the area. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a family looking for a fun weekend, this is a must-see event where visitors can embrace the beauty of Armagh’s historic landscapes against an autumnal backdrop.

As we approach the spookiest time of year, Halloween events will light up the region with ghoulish fun for all ages. Navan Centre & Fort’s Halloween Spooktacular kicks off with Little Spooks. Taking place from October 26 to 31, families can enjoy ghost stories, a haunted trail through the ancient site, and pumpkin carving competitions with plenty of treats – and perhaps a few tricks.

From October 25 to 28, the Halloween Ghost Tours of Armagh bring history to life with gruesome tales of the city’s past. With ghostly guides, the one-hour walking tour offers both thrills and a chance to embrace the darker side of Armagh’s autumn charm.

Why not experience something new with a Dining in the Dark experience at the Game of Thrones Studio Tour. Encounter a night of shadowy ambience with a delicious autumnal menu under the gaze of the Night King’s army, from 31 October – 2 November. For a more traditional Halloween experience, The Richhill Apple Harvest Fayre will be held on Saturday October 26. The unique festival celebrates the local apple harvest and the PGI status of the Bramley apple.

Apple Sundays at Ardress House, running from October 6 to 20, offer hands-on apple pressing, cider tasting, and apple baking competitions, perfect for families looking to experience the rich beauty of Armagh’s rich agricultural heritage.

For a truly immersive orchard experience, the Long Meadow Cider Orchard Tour & Tastings kick off on October 24 offering a deep dive into apple production, from orchard walks to cider tastings. Visitors will get a behind-the-scenes look at the McKeever family’s award-winning craft cider production, complete with a chance to relax and sample local treats.

For live music lovers, the William Kennedy Piping Festival celebrates its 30th anniversary from November 14 to 17, bringing world-renowned pipers to Armagh for a musical journey that resonates with the spirit of the season.

As the season transitions to winter, the festive spirit takes centre stage with the highly anticipated Armagh Georgian Festival from November 28 to December 1. The highlight of the festival, Georgian Day on November 30, will transport visitors back in time with horse-drawn carriages, street performances, and market stalls, all set against the stunning Georgian architecture of Armagh. The Highway Man’s Banquet on November 29 takes place in the Archbishop’s Palace, a night of tales of dastardly deeds and the most sumptuous menu. Don’t miss the candlelit Baroque Concert on December 1, which concludes the festival with a musical journey through 18th-century Europe.

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or a chance to immerse yourself in seasonal festivities, the destination offers something for everyone. Embrace the season and discover why Armagh is the perfect autumnal destination.

For more information and to book tickets for any of the events, visit visitarmagh.com/autumn.