Author: whatsonni

10 Exciting Things to do Next Week across NI

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Here are ten exciting things to do 1-7 July

 

  1. American Independence Weekend Celebrations at the Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 6-7 July. Don’t miss this American Independence celebration. Discover what it was like for emigrants who left Ulster and arrived in America just as they declared independence. Watch the reading of the ‘Act of Independence’ on American Street, see demonstrations of traditional skills and try tasty food samples like cherry and almond cake or succotash. There’ll be live music on the frontier, face painting, air rifle shooting range, plus entertainment for kids (and big kids) alike including ‘Punch and Judy’ and magic shows.
  2. Kayak Sunset Sessions, Rostrevor, County Down, until 1 September. Each week during the summer months of July and August, enjoy kayak sunset sessions on the amazing Carlingford Lough. It is run from Rostrevor slipway behind the Pier. The sunset sessions will be run every Monday and Wednesday evening 6pm – 8pm, depending on weather, and will be £15pp (charges may apply when booking online). The price includes hire of all equipment (kayak and paddle, wetsuit, buoyancy aid).
  3. Summer of Play at Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down, 1 July – 1 September. Get your heart racing in nature this summer. Challenge friends and family to a host of games sure to get you active in the sun. Play volleyball or badminton on the front lawn, stroll through the Pleasure Ground in search of sporting adventures or explore the play area and test your abilities as you duck under and clamber over the obstacles.
  4. A Collection of Robots, Cyborgs and Androids at the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, Armagh, County Armagh, 2 July – 1 September. Visit Armagh Planetarium this summer for a robotic exhibit showcasing memorable and iconic robots from the last 40 years of Science Fiction. Marvel at full size heroic robots, vintage tin toys and sculptures in all shapes and sizes from comics, books and movies. Around every corner lurks another metallic star. Admission to the robots is included with a dome show ticket. Exhibit only ticket also available.
  5. Children’s Bushcraft at Old Castle Archdale Forest, Enniskillen, Fermanagh, 6 July. Join Geopark Guide Stephen at Old Castle Archdale to sample life in the great outdoors and connect with your inner Bear Grylles. Learn all about shelter-building and cooking outside during the two-hour Introduction to Bushcraft session. Please dress for the outdoors.
  6. Stendhal Festival, Limavady, County Londonderry, 4-6 July. Get ready to have fun at the Amazing Stendhal Festival, Northern Ireland’s biggest and much-loved independent music and arts festival since 2011. Kickstart your summer with singing, dancing and all modes of merriment courtesy of a stellar cast of performers from all artistic walks of life. Music, comedy, poetry, a dedicated family programme and a host of visual arts for your senses to feast upon.
  7. Kid’s Choccy Rocky Summer Experience, Castlerock, County Londonderry, 5 July. Join the Chocolate Manor team in Castlerock for the tastiest kids experience on the Causeway Coast. In this one-hour kids only experience, participants will make three fabulous chocolate creations using the finest Belgian chocolate. They will be offered a hot chocolate while their creations set and then package them up to take home and enjoy.
  8. Glass Runway, Belfast, until 25 July. Showcasing the unexpected potential of glass and fashion, the Glass Runway is brought to NI craft audiences by the Glass Society of Ireland, in collaboration with The Council of Irish Fashion Designers. Expect hot topics, hard truths, thought-provoking reflections and an unyielding focus on what beauty, gender and equality mean to different people. The exhibition will feature 20 glass artists and fashion designers showing collaborative and individual pieces which include glass bags, millinery, dresses and jewellery.
  9. Secret Garden at Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, Belfast, 5 July. Enjoy an evening stroll through Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, famous for the International Rose Garden. This walk will focus on some of the less well-known aspects of the grounds and the local history of the park. Meet at Lower Stables car park, Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park at 7pm. Cost £6 per person. Booking and pre-payment essential.
  10. County Antrim Junior Senior and Masters Tennis Championship, Ballycastle, County Antrim, 6 – 13 July. The County Antrim Tennis Championships are back again this Summer! Held in the beautiful setting of the Ballycastle tennis courts, close to the beach, the tournament features events from age 8 to 80, with junior, senior and veteran events taking place in the same venue during the tournament week.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Keep a look out for additional dates of the above events throughout the year.

Wake the Giant Festival Returns with Fionn Mac Cumhaill Welcoming Two New Giants

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Fionn Mac Cumhaill, the towering figure of the Wake the Giant Festival will make a spectacular return to Warrenpoint this year with the theme, ‘The Land of Giants’. Taking place on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 August, this year’s festival promises even more excitement with the arrival of two new Giant Guardians, Wee Binnian and Carley.

These magnificent 14-foot marionettes have journeyed all the way from the legendary ‘Land of the Giants’ to join in the festivities for the first time. Having heard about the vibrant festival atmosphere and the legendary craic, the giants could not resist the opportunity to be part of the celebrations and to help wake Fionn from his sleep.

Wee Binnian and Carley are eager to explore Warrenpoint and meet festivalgoers, as they make their grand debut in The Giants Parade. Beginning on Church Street, Fionn, Wee Binnian and Carley will stroll along Queen Street, creating awe-inspiring moments and unforgettable photo opportunities before reaching Fionn’s resting place for the weekend on Warrenpoint Pier.

Join us as for an unforgettable weekend as Warrenpoint transforms into the ‘Land of the Giants.’ Packed with family-friendly activities, from magical encounters to engaging events featuring Fionn Mac Cumhaill, Wee Binnian and Carley. Our incredible giants will take part in various programmed activities throughout the weekend, giving you the chance to interact with them up close. Bring the whole family and help our new giants discover the wonders of their new world!

Wake the Giant is part of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Giant Adventures series – a year-long programme of unforgettable visitor experiences which showcase the breathtaking landscapes and the captivating myths and legends of the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark.

Highlights of the festival include the spectacular Giants Parade through Warrenpoint and the Gathering to Wake The Giant Fionn from his slumber. Warrenpoint Municipal Park will once again be transformed into The Land of Giants, featuring Family Garden Games, Green Crafts Workshops, Bemusement Arcade and the Food Village.

Families and visitors can also enjoy a new Sensory Hub located in Warrenpoint Town Hall which will provide a safe and relaxing space for children and adults to enjoy over the weekend, with changing places located nearby on Great Georges Street (South).

Throughout the weekend, musicians will take to the stage of the Park’s beautiful bandstand. Kicking off Saturday’s lineup is Niamh Noade, finalist from The Voice Kids and Junior Eurovision, with soulful reggae sounds of The Vibes bringing things to a close. Visitors can also enjoy the likes of Sophie Lennon as well as NI Soul Troop and The New Leaves across the weekend.

Don’t miss this chance to watch the facade of the former Osborne Hotel be transformed into a vibrant canvas as nature street artist ‘Faunagraphic’ creates a Giant Art Mural depicting the unique aspects of Mourne Gullion and Strangford Global Geopark.

 

Warrenpoint’s Giant Food Trail through the town will return offering a Giant Feast of local and international cuisine to tantalise your tastebuds all weekend long and a Giant Funfair on Warrenpoint Promenade will entertain with thrilling rides and classic carnival games for all to enjoy.

 

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Pete Byrne said, “Wake the Giant is one of the Council’s flagship events, and I am delighted that it is returning to Warrenpoint this year. Since 2016, we have been growing the Giant Adventure festivals, establishing the area as a premier tourism destination in Ireland.

 

Councillor Byrne continued, “This year’s festival promises to be spectacular, with giant-sized experiences and visual delights at every turn. The highlight will undoubtedly be Fionn Mac Cumhaill’s sensational return accompanied by his two new Giant Guardians, ‘Wee Binnian’ and ‘Carley’, who will entertain visitors all weekend long.

 

“Complementing our Giant Adventure series this year will be the return of the 2024 Amgen Irish Open, which will take place from Wednesday 11 September to Sunday 15 September in Newcastle. We look forward to watching our favourite stars compete throughout the week at Royal County Down. Together, these events increase our tourism offering, providing unique opportunities to connect with our community, celebrate our heritage, and create lasting memories. Please join us this summer for another season of unforgettable adventures across Newry, Mourne and Down and south Armagh.”

 

For the latest information on our Wake The Giant Festival visit www.visitmournemountains/co.uk/wakethegiant . For ideas of where to stay, eat and for even more things to do during your time here in Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion and for Giant event details please go to www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/giant-adventures Follow us on Social media @VisitMourne #VisitMourne #MourneMountains #RingOfGullion #StrangfordLough

EXHIBITION HIGHLIGHTING INTERNATIONAL TESTIMONIES OPENS AT ULSTER MUSEUM

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Exhibition is a collaboration between National Museums NI and Conflict Textiles, and features 29 artworks from around the world

Ulster Museum has announced the opening of a new exhibition – Threads of Empowerment: Conflict Textiles’ International Journey. The exhibition – which will feature in Belfast International Arts Festival – displays 29 textiles from individuals and communities across the world who have experienced violence and conflict, human rights violations, poverty, oppression and environmental issues. The artworks highlight how important a resource artistic expression can be as each piece is based on personal and poignant testimonies.

Roberta Bacic, curator of the Conflict Textiles collection, which includes over 400 artworks, explained how valuable textile art can be as a medium of expression and said, “When words are not enough to express lived experiences of violence, stitching and sewing emerge as a language. Since the exhibition The Art of Survival: International and Irish Quilts in Derry~Londonderry in 2008, the Conflict Textiles collection has been exhibited around the world, leaving a lasting impression on people, and crucially, empowering more people to share their stories and experiences.

“Our partnership with National Museums NI reflects our commitment to integrating these important works into broader collections in public spaces to foster deeper empathy and understanding of global issues related to conflict, violence, poverty, and human rights violations.”

The works included in the Threads of Empowerment: Conflict Textiles’ International Journey exhibition span a broad range of locations including Chile, Peru, Argentina, Mexico, Zimbabwe and Germany. Many are arpilleras – appliquéd picture textiles that are hand sewn from scraps of materials onto a hessian backing – a practice which originated in Chile during the Pinochet regime (1973-1990) when women came together to voice their experiences of the repressive dictatorship.

One such piece is entitled The Day We Will Never Forget and is an arpillera made by a group of girls in Killarney, Zimbabwe in 2012. It shows the destruction of their informal settlement in May 2005 during the government led ’Operation Murambatsvina’ (get rid of the filth) in which an estimated 500,000 people were evicted and displaced in the space of a month.

In 2022, National Museums NI acquired 14 pieces from the Conflict Textiles collection. Karen Logan, Senior Curator of History at National Museums NI, explains the significance of the exhibition, she said, “The presentation of these international testimonies relating to human rights is incredibly important in helping people to reflect on the world we live in and some of the issues still faced today. This broad collection of textile art will create conversations that inspire change, encourage empathy and promote community spirit.”

Ulster Museum has long been an important resource for exploring conflict and legacy in Northern Ireland. The Art of the Troubles exhibition in 2014 showcased artistic responses to the conflict and the current Troubles and Beyond exhibition draws upon an internationally significant collection reflecting diverse perspectives and experiences. It situates politics within a wider social, economic and cultural history, beginning with the pivotal year of 1968, and continues onto the present day.

William Blair, Director of Collections at National Museums NI, said, “We’re 25 years on from the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement, but building the social peace process remains a vital on-going process. Empathy is key to understanding conflict and its legacy, and fostering greater mutual understanding. The Ulster Museum provides a platform for diverse voices and experiences, ranging from local to international perspectives. Threads of Empowerment represents another important contribution to this work, and again highlights the importance of partnership and creative collaboration.”

Threads of Empowerment: Conflict Textiles’ International Journey will run until April 2025 at the Ulster Museum. Entry is free and booking is not required. For more information visit ulstermuseum.org.

 

F.E McWilliam Gallery & Studio welcome exciting new exhibitions

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Scottish Women Artists: 250 Years of Challenging Perceptions and solo exhibition by North Coast based sculptor Sara Cunningham-Bell

 F.E. McWilliam Gallery and Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council are delighted to present two new exhibitions focusing on the work of talented women artists. Scottish Women Artists: 250 Years of Challenging Perceptions and Congruent, a solo exhibition by North Coast based sculptor Sara Cunningham-Bell, will run at the Banbridge Gallery from the 8 June to 2 September and promise to provide a great day out for locals and visitors to the Borough.

Lauch of Sara Cunningham-Bell’s “Congruent” at the FE MCWilliam Sculpture Garden, 7th June 2024. ©Paul Byrne Photography

Scottish Women Artists: 250 Years of Challenging Perceptions, brings together the work of over 40 artists. The exhibition highlights key women artists who have changed society’s view over the centuries of what women should and could do, and the significance of work by women artists in Scotland’s cultural history.

Scottish Women Artists, is the second collaboration between the F.E. McWilliam Gallery and The Fleming Collection. Dr Riann Coulter, curator of the F.E. McWilliam, said,

“We are thrilled to have another opportunity to collaborate with The Fleming Collection whose Scottish Colourist Exhibition in 2018 was so popular with our audiences. Scottish Women Artists will introduce the public to incredible artists who we rarely get the opportunity to see on the island of Ireland.”

James Knox, Director of Fleming-Wyfold Art Foundation, commented,

“In the very first year of its existence in 1968, the Fleming Collection acquired two key paintings by Joan Eardley. It went on to increase its holdings of this important artist and to form in-depth collections of other mid-century greats, Anne Redpath and Elizabeth Blackadder, as well as acquire historical rarities by earlier artists. Today this strategy continues apace and collaborating with the F.E. McWilliam Gallery offers a superb opportunity to celebrate the achievement of Scottish women artists from the eighteenth century to the present day and to bring their work to new audiences.”

 

Running in conjunction with Scottish Women Artists is Congruent a fascinating new body of work exhibited in the F.E McWilliam sculpture garden, by Sara Cunningham-Bell. Based in her studio on the North Coast of Ireland, Cunningham-Bell works with storm-felled local timber including larch, maple, beach and oak, combined with upcycled lead and steel, GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic), concrete and bronze. Made through a variety of processes including carving, casting and sanding Cunningham-Bell’s sculptures often reveal the layered traces of their creation.

Speaking of this new body of sculpture Sara said,

“In the seventeenth century, philosopher Nicolas Malebranche called attention ‘the natural prayer of the soul’. In the twentieth century, novelist Iris Murdoch spoke of attentiveness as a way of deepening ‘experience to such a degree that a change of consciousness can be achieved’. Our indifference is exposed, interrupted, and challenged. To induce such a remembering, these sculptures are conceived to perpetually provoke attention. I am delighted to have this piece on display at F.E McWilliam Gallery sharing my work with others to enjoy.”

 

Both exhibitions are free entry and will run throughout the summer to 2nd September 2024. Open Monday – Saturday 10am – 5pm.

Creative Peninsula to Celebrate Arts and Crafts in Ards and North Down – 2024 Programme Unveiled

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Ards and North Down Borough Council is proud to present Creative Peninsula 2024, a highlight of the thriving annual arts programme and a celebration of the high-quality art and craft that is produced in the Borough.

Now in its 23rd year, this vibrant annual event unites local artists and makers to demonstrate their skills and showcase their exceptional work.

Ards and North Down is renowned for its lively artistic community, and Creative Peninsula provides visitors with a unique opportunity to view, purchase, or even commission artworks, as well as participate in workshops throughout the festival. Running throughout August, the festival offers a wide array of free and bookable activities suitable for all ages and experience levels. Attendees can engage with various art and craft forms through open studios, exhibitions, workshops, demonstrations, and more, fully immersing themselves in the local creative scene.

This year’s featured artist is Maria Horvathova, whose artwork graces the cover of the Creative Peninsula guide. Since moving to Northern Ireland from Slovakia, Maria has found a strong connection to home in nature. She will be leading a Freedom of Painting workshop in Ards Arts Centre, on Thursday 8 August, offering participants the chance to express their feelings about home through painting.

The festival kicks off with the Creative Peninsula Twilight Market and Arts Night at Conway Square in Newtownards on Friday, 2 August. For one night only, the space will transform into a bustling arts and crafts village with artists and makers displaying and selling their work. Free demonstrations, including potter’s wheel throwing, painting, printing, and wool spinning, will run throughout the evening, accompanied by live music from the String Ninjas and Los Dramaticos. Ards Arts Centre will also be open and filled with artists demonstration their work. Try your hand or just sit back and watch!

New to the programme this year are some special events at Castle Espie. Create your very own treasure tray with Ceramicist Tracey Johnston, make your own decorative bird with Wildlife Artist Adele Pound or try your hand at the En Plein Air Workshop with Pandora Butterfield. On Saturday 3 August, the Alfresco Art event in the garden and Kingfisher Café Courtyard at Castle Espie will feature artists and makers demonstrating their skills.

The popular Bangor Art Tour and Tipple returns on Wednesday, 7 August, where attendees can enjoy a walking tour of Bangor, visit three creative spaces, meet the makers, and enjoy a drink along the way! North Down Museum in Bangor will also play host to a Creative Peninsula exhibition and a Heritage Craft Afternoon taking place on Sunday 4 August.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, said: “Creative Peninsula is a wonderful celebration of arts and crafts in our Borough. It is fantastic to have so many talented creatives living and working here, and Creative Peninsula provides a unique opportunity to showcase their work. We are excited to bring this event to you once again and would encourage everyone to explore the Creative Peninsula programme and see what’s on offer.”

Emily Crawford, Arts and Heritage Manager for Ards and North Down Borough Council, added: “We are thrilled to offer a vibrant programme of art and craft activities this August as part of August Craft Month. With events at Castle Espie, a Creative Walking Tour of Bangor, a Twilight Market in Conway Square, exhibitions showcasing our local artists and makers, and a variety of creative workshops and Open Studios, there are plenty of opportunities to get creative.”

To view the full Creative Peninsula programme and to book tickets, visit: creativepeninsula.andculture.org.uk

Tickets go on sale on Thursday 27 June at 12noon.

TITANIC BELFAST LAUNCHES NEW TERRY BRADLEY EXHIBITION AND IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE

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TITANIC Belfast has announced the return of a free summer exhibition in partnership with Terry Bradley Art following the huge success of last year’s inaugural event.

Dockers & Dolls – The Art of Terry Bradley runs daily from Monday 1st July until Saturday 31st August from 9am – 7pm in The Andrews Gallery.

Press Eye – Belfast – Northern Ireland –
27th June 2024
Photo by Darren Kidd / Press Eye
TITANIC BELFAST LAUNCHES NEW TERRY BRADLEY EXHIBITION AND IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE … Judith Owens MBE, Chief Executive of Titanic Belfast is joined by Terry Bradley at the launch of a free summer exhibition following the huge success of last year’s inaugural event
Dockers & Dolls – The Art of Terry Bradley runs daily from Monday 1st July until Saturday 31st August from 9am – 7pm in The Andrews Gallery. For further information visit www.titanicbelfast.com

The new exhibition will showcase Bradley’s long tradition of painting the dockers – representing fair, strong Belfast workers who have dealt with a lot in life, while also incorporating some of the rich maritime history of the city, his iconic colourful female pieces and his work relating to mental health awareness.

As part of this year’s exhibition, Titanic Belfast has announced the launch of a new and exclusive immersive experience designed to delve into Bradley’s life and artistic journey. This unique feature is narrated by Terry and will allow people to find out more about the renowned artist and provide deeper insights into his art.

Judith Owens MBE, Chief Executive of Titanic Belfast said: “We are delighted to welcome Terry Bradley back to Titanic Belfast following the huge success of last year’s exhibition. As one of Northern Ireland’s best-known artists, we are so proud to be able to make his art more accessible and provide a platform to give people, both local and from around the world, the opportunity to view Terry’s incredible work and find out more about him as a person and the journey he has been on.

As part of the Dockers & Dolls – The Art of Terry Bradley exhibition, Titanic Belfast has created a new experience that gives people the chance to hear more about the meaning behind Terry’s pieces in his own words – something that has never been done before as part of his exhibitions. This interactive feature will give people a deeper insight into how his life’s experiences have shaped his art.”

Terry Bradley said: “It is an honour to return to Titanic Belfast, with a brand new exhibition to celebrate my work. For me, Dockers & Dolls – The Art of Terry Bradley, is a very personal and reflective exhibition, as it shows how introducing colour into artwork signifies a shift in my mental health.

The transformation from monochrome to a full spectrum of colour is not just aesthetic, it is deeply symbolic. It represents the gradual reawakening of senses, the rediscovery of joy, and the acceptance of the self in all its complexity. I can think of nowhere better than Titanic Belfast, the heart of Belfast’s rich maritime history where I have taken so much inspiration from, for me to share my own personal story.”

For further information on Dockers & Dolls – The Art of Terry Bradley visit www.titanicbelfast.com

WHITNEY: Queen of the Night!

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WATERFRONT HALL:  Sunday 18 May 2025

Following standing ovations and sold out shows, Whitney: Queen of the Night returns to the Waterfront Hall, Belfast on Sunday 18 May 2025

*Tickets on sale Friday 28 June at 10am*

Waterfront Hall: www.waterfront.co.uk & Ticketmaster: www.ticketmaster.ie

Direct from the West End, The London Palladium, and the iconic Royal Albert Hall, Whitney – Queen of the Night is a celebration of the music and life of one of the greatest singers of all time: Whitney Houston.
Experience the ultimate tribute to the remarkable musical repertoire of Whitney Houston in an electrifying production that honours her timeless songs with sensational vocalists and a full live band.

Prepare to be blown away by an extraordinary journey through three decades of all-time hits such as:

I Wanna Dance With Somebody, One Moment In Time, I’m Every Woman, I Will Always Love You, My Love Is Your Love, So Emotional, Run To You, Saving All My Love, How Will I Know, Million Dollar Bill, The Greatest Love Of All, and many more.

Join us for an unmissable evening filled with live music, captivating choreography, and powerful vocals, as we pay homage to the one and only queen of the night.

Please note that Whitney – Queen of the Night is a tribute production and is not endorsed by or affiliated with the Whitney Houston Estate.

www.queenofthenight.co/

Jacqueline shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI

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Antrim

Northern Ireland’s Armed Forces Day event will transform Jordanstown Loughshore Park on Saturday 22 June from 10am until 5pm into a lively venue for all.

Find out more HERE

Armagh

The Stars, The Moon and the Georgian Sky. Join Northern Ireland Opera as they present a brand new Salon event designed for, and performed in, the stunning Bishop’s Palace in Armagh.

Find out more HERE

Belfast

The awe-inspiring Allison McGrath and her band Soulantics make a welcome return to the Saturday Afternoon Club, 22nd June. Note, this is a full band performance this time ..!  The American Bar/Sailortown.

Find out more HERE

Down

The annual Comber Earlies Food Festival, taking place on Saturday 22 June 2024, is always a wonderful day out filled with family fun, cookery demos in the Festival Kitchen and activities that celebrate the Comber Earlies potato which holds PGI Status.

Find out more HERE

Fermanagh

To mark the launch of the new trails at Crom, you are invited to a celebration weekend in partnership with Lough Erne Landscape Partnership. You can enjoy a weekend of arts, culture, nature and heritage.

Find out more HERE

Derry/Londonderry

Join Cancer Focus NI under the stars and immerse yourself in the moonlit water at Splash Outdoor Waterpark in Moneymore on 21st June 2024 at 8pm.  Each ticket includes a complimentary hot drink and a Cancer Focus teeshirt. Cancer Focus Northern Ireland are delighted to have teamed up with Splash outside Moneymore, slap bang in the middle of Northern Ireland.

Find out more HERE

Tyrone

“Much bloodshed & rebellion by contention for the seigniory”: Gaelic succession in early modern Ireland. Ranfurly House, Dungannon.

Find out more HERE

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 24-30 June

  1. Foyle Maritime Festival, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 27-30 June. This year heralds the return of the Foyle Maritime Festival to the banks and waters of the River Foyle. This four-day festival will transform the riverfront into an international marina with all the tastes, colours, scents, sights and sounds that come together to create this epic experience. The Foyle Maritime Festival will bring you an exhilarating programme of entertainment, activities and interactive events.
  2. Far and Wild Dragon SUP Race, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 29-30 June. Dragon Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) represents the high-end of SUPing, featuring a four-person crew competing head-to-head on one of Red Paddle’s exclusive Dragon SUPs in a time challenge to determine the overall competition winner. With high energy guaranteed, this epic race will take place on the River Foyle and promises to be a spectacle for those on and off the water. Please note heats will take 30-40 minutes. Far and Wild have many more epic activities available, including their SUP Yoga, a dream on-the-water experience.
  3. Celebrating 200 Years at The Argory, Moy, County Armagh, 30 June. To mark this momentous milestone, immerse yourself in a day filled with festivities, nostalgia, and jubilation, paying homage to the rich legacy of this beloved estate. Honour the legacy, heritage and splendor of The Argory in an unforgettable celebration of two centuries of timeless elegance. On the day, expect live Jazz and silver bands, face painting, lawn games, swing-boat, carousel and vintage chair-o-planes, estate and garden tour, boat trips in partnership with Blackwater Community Barge (pre-ticketed event), alongside a BBQ and baked treats. Members and visitors are also invited to participate in a commemorative 10k run on 29 June.
  4. Taste Mid Ulster Market, Pomeroy, County Tyrone, 29 June. Following the success of the first ‘Taste Mid Ulster’ Market in Moy earlier this year, it is set to return to Pomeroy Forest, which has just opened a new state-of-the-art Pomeroy Forest Building and spectacular magic forest trails. The market, organised by Mid Ulster District Council, will showcase the very best of Mid Ulster’s local food, produce and crafts from all across the district, and will include exclusive foodie experiences and chef demonstrations.
  5. Island Town Dinner & Cruise, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, until 31 August. The Island Town Dinner & Cruise Experience is a unique partnership between Erne Tours and some of Enniskillen’s finest eateries: The Westville Hotel, The Firehouse, The Crowes Nest. Available every evening Sunday through to Thursday, you will first enjoy a cruise to Devenish Island onboard the MV Kestrel on Upper and Lower Lough Erne. Your cruise departs at 4.15pm from the Round ‘O’ Jetty returning at 6pm. You will then be given a £20 Voucher, bring the voucher to your chosen venue and use it as you please.
  6. DownTime SummerFest, Downpatrick, County Down, 28-29 June. Bringing Downpatrick to life with a two-day summer festival of arts, heritage, sport, food and music. There are lots of quirky and unique events for you to enjoy, showcasing amazing local talent, with concerts and musicians, street art, artisan markets, epic days of sport and more. So come along, bring your friends and family, relax and enjoy some well-deserved fun and ‘DownTime’.
  7. Summer Postcard Trail at WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, Comber, County Down, 28 June-1 September. Pelican Postie has dropped their postbag, scattering mail across the area. Can you find the lost postcards, discover who wrote them, and work out where the world’s animals are spending their summer holidays? Which creature has been backpacking for 4,000 miles? And who’s got themselves a summer job with WWT? Pick up your trail map from the visitor centre and jet off on a first-class adventure.
  8. Ferguson Tractor Day at the Ulster Folk Museum, Holywood, County Down, 29 June. Watch a ‘concours d’elegance’, featuring a convoy of prized and rare Ferguson tractors as they make their way throughout the Folk Museum to the sounds of the Harry Ferguson Pipe Band (who will be unveiling a new drum this year at the event). There’ll also be traditional music, craft demonstrations and more. Henry George “Harry” Ferguson was a pioneer in engineering. He was born locally in County Down and is celebrated as a great innovator, having played a major role in the mechanical implementation of farming and agriculture on an international scale.
  9. Come From Away at the Grand Opera House, Belfast, 25- 29 June. Winner of four Olivier Awards including Best New Musical in London and the Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical on Broadway, this smash hit show shares the incredible real-life story of the 7,000 air passengers from all over the world who were grounded in Canada during the wake of 9/11, and the small Newfoundland community that invited these ‘come from aways’ into their lives with open hearts.
  10. Cushendall Artisan Market, Cushendall, County Antrim, 30 June. This market is nestled in a picturesque setting with views of the stunning coastline and the backdrop of Lurigethan. The stallholders are themselves producers – people who grow, make, create, style, rear, craft, design or bake the products that they sell. Featuring a wide range of products including ceramics, street food, garden products, local produce and specialty food, art, handcrafted gifts, wood turning, pet products, gifts for children, cosmetic products and so much more.

Booking is essential for most activities. Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Ardtara Country House, Maghera, County Londonderry

Ardtara is a historic country house offering genuine warmth and hospitality, luxurious accommodation and award-winning dining. Treat yourself to a getaway with their summer stay offer from £112 per person sharing. Enjoy one night bed and breakfast and a choice of a mini afternoon tea or a bottle of house wine. Alternatively, check out their foodie break offer from £249.50 per person sharing for two nights bed and breakfast, a four-course dinner on one evening and two courses from the bar menu on the other evening. Offers available now until 31 July 2024. Visit www.ardtara.com/ for more information.

Bushmills Townhouse, Bushmills, County Antrim

Escape to Bushmills Townhouse for a luxurious retreat and unforgettable dining experience. Their charming suites offer a haven of comfort, each thoughtfully appointed with king-size beds, en suite bathrooms and private outdoor seating areas. From £134.50 per person based on two sharing, their wine and dine on the Causeway Coast offer includes overnight stay in a luxury suite, two course dinner paired with wines and freshly cooked breakfast the following morning. Offer available now until 31 December 2024. Visit www.bushmillstownhouse.com/ for more information.

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com

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