Author: whatsonni

Here are ten exciting things to do 28 July – 3 August

1. Belfast TradFest, Belfast, 27 July – 3 August. The pinnacle of world-class traditional music concerts, fiery pub sessions, and a summer school of traditional music, is set to celebrate its seventh edition this summer across Belfast UNESCO City of Music.
2. Taste Mid Ulster Market, Draperstown, County Londonderry, 2 August. An exciting event of food and entertainment will take over Draperstown with the arrival of the third ‘Taste Mid Ulster’ food market. The market will showcase the very best of the region’s food, produce, and crafts. Visitors can look forward to exclusive foodie experiences, chef demonstrations focused on local ingredients, and a wide variety of artisan crafts—all free to attend.
3. Disney Winnie the Pooh Hunny Hunt at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, Hillsborough, County Down, until 31 August. Pack your Big Boots and explore Hillsborough Castle’s captivating gardens to find the missing ‘hunny’. On the way see if you can spot Rabbit’s Garden, Eeyore’s Cabin and Piglet’s Burrow, inspired by Disney’s Winnie the Pooh.
4. Sir Hans Sloane Centre Curator Tours, Killyleagh, County Down, 30 July. Discover an enchanted world at the Sir Hans Sloane Centre in the shadow of 12th century Killyleagh Castle and a stone’s throw from Strangford Lough. This hidden gem interprets the history of Killyleagh and Shrigley, its monuments, flora and fauna and houses a collection of fascinating items relating to 18th century life in this part of the world.
5. Stand Up Paddle Boarding at Share Discovery Village, Lisnaskea, County Fermanagh, until the end of September. During a single session you’ll get a chance to explore Upper Lough Erne and maybe visit an island. If you are part of a large group, SUP can also be combined with another one-hour water activity. Share Discovery Village also offers SUP board hire.
6. Lúnasa Sound Experience at OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory, Davagh Forest, County Tyrone, 1 August. Join Tessa Ann’s meditative sound experience inspired by the Celtic festival of first harvest. As summer begins to shift, this immersive sound experience invites you to pause, reconnect, and align with the natural rhythm of the turning year.
7. Summer at the Discovery Centres at Ulster Museum, Belfast, until 31 August. Be inspired by the Inclusive Global Histories and Wild Ireland: Past, Present, Future exhibitions in the Ulster Museum Discovery Centres throughout July and August. Take part in a range of fun, free family activities designed to spark your creativity and help you connect with the Ulster Museum’s collections and displays.
8. Whitehead Summer Festival 2025, Whitehead, County Antrim, until 9 August. From toddlers to teens, from families to festival fans – the Whitehead Summer Festival has something for you. And don’t miss the Food & Folk Fest on 9 August. A full-day celebration with food stalls, live music, entertainment, and activities for the whole family.
9. 7 Hills Blues Festival, Armagh, County Armagh, 1–3 August. A jewel in the crown of a series of wonderful summer events across Northern Ireland. 7 Hills Blues Fest will make a much-welcomed return to Armagh City. Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrancy of the city’s electric atmosphere over the weekend.
10. Meet our Astronomers at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, County Armagh, Thursdays until 21 August. Why not drop into their data visualisation lab and see the astronomers at work? They will be showcasing some of the latest technologies that they have at the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium.

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.

Here are ten exciting things to do 21 – 27 July

1. Summer of Play at Castle Coole, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, until 31 August. Play on repeat this summer, every day from 1 July to 31 August. Get energised at Castle Coole’s sports camp as 4Corners Coaching return for a second year. Choose your horse & tackle the jumps in the Castle Coole Grand Yard Grand National. Immerse your senses in history on an interactive sensory tour of the mansion, and so much more.
2. Hats Off to the Forthill, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 25 July. Enjoy an afternoon of family fun at Enniskillen’s Forthill Park, as we say Hats Off to the beautiful Victorian park. Pack your picnic and come along to enjoy an afternoon of music from the bandstand, traditional games, Jo-Jingles, balloon-modelling, hula-hooping, and a few surprises.
3. SuperCupNI, Coleraine, County Londonderry, 27 July – 1 August. The BudgetEnergy SuperCupNI Tournament is a magnet for top football clubs from all over the world. This international event has built a global reputation as one of the most highly respected competitions providing opportunities for boys and girls to participate in a fully professional-level format, with many of the young players going on to have professional football careers.
4. O’Neills Foyle Cup 2025, Derry~Londonderry, 21 – 26 July. The O’Neills Foyle Cup is a highly successful youth soccer tournament held mainly in the City of Derry~Londonderry, but also branches out with matches played in neighbouring counties in Northern Ireland.
5. EastSide Arts Festival, Belfast, 24 July – 2 August. EastSide Arts Festival returns to Belfast as a spectacular celebration of the arts this summer. Over 10 days festivalgoers will have the opportunity to enjoy over 60 unique events that showcase east Belfast’s vibrant cultural scene and creative talent.
6. Dragonfly Festival at WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, Comber, County Down, until 21 September. A summer of dragonfly themed events and activities. Explore the magical world of dragonflies and dive into a summer full of wondrous new wetland experiences.
7. Ulster Fleadh, Warrenpoint, County Down, 20 – 27 July. Whether you’re a seasoned musician, a first-time visitor, or simply here to soak up the atmosphere, the Fleadh offers something for everyone — from lively street sessions and competitions to family-friendly events, workshops, and unforgettable performances.
8. Todds Leap Family Open Park Days, Ballygawley, County Tyrone, 27 July.

Join the fun with Todds Leap Family Open Park Days. Experience over 15 amazing activities, from ziplining and blindfold driving to the Big Yella Slide and Clip ‘N’ Climb. Running from 11am. Book online or call 028 85567170.

9. Jazz in the Forest with The Casino Jazz Band Garden Sessions, Killeavy, County Armagh, 26 July. The Garden Sessions welcome the smooth, toe-tapping sounds of The Casino Jazz Band. Set against the lush greenery of their beautiful garden, this event promises fun for all ages. Whether you’re a long-time jazz lover or just looking for a relaxing afternoon out, you’ll enjoy timeless classics, playful swing, and soulful melodies performed live under the open sky.
10. Beginners Kayak/Canoe Sessions at The Argory, Moy, County Armagh, 26 July. Ever wanted to learn to kayak or thought that canoeing looked fun? Now is your chance to join these beginner-friendly sessions at The Argory. Explore the River Blackwater and see The Argory from a new perspective. In these sessions, everything you need will be provided, so it’s the perfect opportunity to test out a new sport.

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.

Here are ten exciting things to do 14 – 20 July

1. The 153^rd Open, Portrush, County Antrim, 13 – 20 July. Prepare for an unforgettable golfing experience as The Open returns to the stunning Causeway Coast. Royal Portrush Golf Club first staged The Open in 1951 and left an indelible mark. Home to the famous Dunluce Links course, it’s sure to bring quite the show as the world’s best attempt to overcome this magnificent design.
2. Our Town is Open Stage – Portrush Entertainment during The Open, Portrush, County Antrim, 16 – 20 July. As The Open returns to Portrush, the town will come alive with an exciting programme of free family-friendly events to celebrate all things golf – and more. Our Town is Open will transform Kerr Street Green into a buzzing hub of activity, entertainment and local pride. Visitors can enjoy live music performances from a fantastic line-up of artists each day, alongside interactive experiences for all ages.
3. Belfast Whiskey Week, 18 – 26 July. Check out 100+ events over nine days: tastings, distillery tours, masterclasses, food pairings, immersive theatre, live music, daily walking tours and more.
4. Belfast Pride Festival, 18 – 27 July. Belfast Pride Festival is one of the biggest festivals in Belfast with over 150 events across 10 days. The festival runs from Friday 18th July to Sunday 27th July with Pride Day and the centrepiece, Pride Parade on Saturday 26th July.
5. DownTime SummerFest at Down County Museum, Downpatrick, County Down 18 – 19 July. Bringing Downpatrick to life with a Summer festival of arts, heritage, sport, food and music. There’s something for everyone. So come along, bring your friends and family, relax and enjoy some well-deserved fun and DownTime.
6. Fiddler’s Green International Festival, Rostrevor, County Down, 16 – 20 July. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere as the village comes alive during this world-renowned annual event. With a history dating back over 30 years, the Fiddler’s Green Festival is a celebration of music, arts and community that attracts visitors from far and wide.
7. LegenDerry Street Food Festival, Derry~Londonderry, 18 – 19 July. Get ready for a feast of flavour as the LegenDerry Street Food Festival returns this summer for two delicious days of food, fun, and vibrant city vibes. Taking over the streets beside Derry~Londonderry’s iconic Guildhall, this open-air celebration of local street food brings together the best bites, brews, and beats the region has to offer. Expect bold flavours from top local traders, craft drinks from award-winning brewers and distillers, and a buzzing festival atmosphere with family fun by day and live DJs by night.
8. Wild Woods and WatersTrail – Marble Arch Caves, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, until 27 July. Led by local guides passionate about showcasing all the area has to offer, this experience is perfect for those wishing to experience the sights, sounds and fresh woodland air in this wilder place.
9. Armagh City Summer Walking Tours, County Armagh, until 7 September. Armagh is an ancient compact city soaked in myths, legends, history and heritage. Unearth Hidden Gems with Armagh Guided Walking Tours. One of the best ways to discover more about the story of this city and its citizens is to book a guided walking tour which will take you through the city centre at a leisurely pace, stopping off at various locations on a route of approx 1 km.
10. Tyrone Farmer’s Market, Food and Craft markets, Dungannon, County Tyrone, 19 July. Tyrone Farmer’s Market Ltd hold food and craft markets on the first and third Saturdays of every month, in Tesco carpark in Dungannon, from 8.30am until 12.30pm. There are 30 stalls selling artisan food and hand-crafted gifts and homewares, from local producers.

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.

Here are ten exciting things to do 7 – 13 July

1. Finnebrogue Forage, Downpatrick, County Down, 12 July. Bushman Rob will safely guide you through the rules, principles and background of foraging, kit & safety and plant and tree ID. This experience is immersive with hands-on learning involving walking and exploring the woods with Rob’s guidance and expert eye. The time of year will determine what there is to forage from Finnebrogue Woods.
2. Summer of Play at Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down, 12 July – 25 August. With the house as your backdrop and gardens all around, you’ll find five themed zones filled with imaginative, creative and energetic activities – all designed for children (and their grown-ups) to enjoy at their own pace.
3. Summer of Play at Castle Ward, Downpatrick, County Down, 5 July – 31 August. Castle Ward’s Summer of Play 2025 promises magical adventure for all ages. This epic event features five exciting play zones across the stunning estate. Brave knights and maidens can engage in medieval sports in the Active Zone, while adventurers take on heroic quests in the Quest Zone, battling dragons and rescuing princesses.
4. Guided Canoeing at Crom, Newtownbutler, County Fermanagh, 12 – 13 July (more dates available during the summer). Join an unforgettable guided canoe trail on the serene waters of Upper Lough Erne, starting from the jetty at the Visitor Centre at Crom Estate. This adventure, led by the experienced Upper Lough Erne Canoe Company, offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and rich history of the area. You will be using their Canadian Canoes which seat two people.
5. Family Friendly Bug Walk with Buglife at Broughgammon Farm, Ballycastle, County Antrim, 11 July. Enjoy a wiggly, wonderful day out at Broughgammon Farm as they team up with Buglife for a Family Bug Walk bursting with nature-filled fun. Perfect for curious kids and nature-loving grown-ups, this hands-on event invites you to explore the wild world of mini beasts on Broughgammon’s regenerative farm.
6. InterAct Youth Arts Festival at Millennium Forum, Derry~Londonderry, 7 – 18 July. Get ready to unleash your creativity at the InterAct Youth Arts Festival. Each summer, dive into a world where your artistic talents can soar. Whether you’re into drama, music, dance, visual arts, or the magic behind the scenes in technical theatre, InterAct is your stage.
7. A Bite and Sup at Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Bellaghy, County Londonderry, 8 July (more dates available during the summer). Inspired by Seamus Heaney’s poem ‘Whatever You Say, Say Nothing’ (North, 1975), the centre is thrilled to introduce a brand-new experience for Summer 2025 at Seamus Heaney HomePlace — A Bite and Sup, a thoughtfully curated tour that weaves together poetry, place, and local flavours to celebrate the life and legacy of Seamus Heaney.
8. Family Fun Days at The Jungle NI, Moneymore, County Londonderry, 13 July (more dates available during the summer). Similar to a funfair, The Jungle Family Fun Days are open-park days, which offer an exciting range of outdoor adventure activities at budget prices. Activities are chosen on the day by exchanging pre-paid activity tokens for activities. Simply buy as many tokens as you wish, exchange your tokens for the activity, or activities, of your preference and enjoy a fun family experience day unlike any other.
9. The Armagh Observatory and Planetarium Legendary Telescopes Tour, Armagh, County Armagh, 12 July (more dates available during the summer). Take a journey through the Armagh Observatory to see its historic telescopes. Armagh Observatory opened in 1790 and is now a Grade A listed heritage building in which astronomers still undertake fundamental research. It is also the oldest observatory in the UK and Ireland continuously in use for its original purpose. Inside the Observatory there are four generations of historic telescopes that remain in their original settings, as well as one modern telescope still used today.
10. Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, visit website for open dates and times. The Ulster American Folk Park tells the story of Ulster people’s emigration to North America in the 18th and 19th centuries. Learn more about those left behind, the hardships endured on the journey and the pioneering spirit of building new lives in a new land.

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.