Author: whatsonni

Ballymoney will come alive with carnival fun this April as the annual Spring Fair brings two days of free entertainment and lots of family-friendly activities to the town.

Organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, with support from Ballymoney Chamber of Commerce and FUSE FM, the 2025 fair will be held on Friday 11th April – Saturday 12th April.

This year will be the biggest fair to date, so get your dancing shoes on and come along for an afternoon of music, craic and some of your favourite tunes from Fuse FM between 11-4pm each day.

Ireland’s answer to Garth Brooks, Jason Hughes will be entertaining the crowds with special guests, live on Friday 11th from 12.30pm to 3.30pm in Castlecroft Square.

Saturday 12th brings some local talent in the form of country music singer Sarah Carson and the fabulous Cherith McCook who will both entertain the crowds with their incredible voices!

A recent addition to the programme which is fast becoming a highlight of the Spring Fair is the Maypole dance displays, Join the fabulous Kelly Neill Dance Company for performances at 12pm and 2.30pm on Saturday.

The Visitor Information Centre will also host a taste sampling session of local award-winning artisan products from 12 – 4pm over both days.

On Saturday the town centre will be closed to traffic and have an even bigger choice of activities this year due to the completion of the environmental improvement scheme in High Street, with a carousel, tag bunker and hook-a-duck game. While Main Street, will also be closed allowing for more carnival games and of course, Ballymoney Country market stalls

A Quiet Time Session will run from 11am – 12 noon on Saturday, providing an opportunity for individuals with additional needs to enjoy some of the activities on offer. Activities and entertainment commence from 12 noon across the town.

Ravara Obedience and Agility Club will be getting the pups off their feet and over obstacles in Taggarts Yard; why not watch the very clever dogs the club has trained or bring your own dog along if you think they can finish the obstacle tests!

The carnival parade will commence at 3.30pm on Saturday and will see a spring-themed spectacle of floats, children, music and colour. The parade will set off from the Town Hall, travel along both High Street and Main Street and then back up to the town hall.

Between The Ballymoney Country Market stalls, a wealth of independent boutiques and businesses in the town who will have special Spring Fair offers running, you’ll be able to shop local and treat yourself to something nice.

Don’t forget to be ready to find the special rocks hidden at various locations around the town. Ballymoney Rocks have a special treasure rock hunt, entry forms can be picked up from the Visitor Information Centre.

For more information about the event visit www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com and for updates follow Causeway Coast and Glens Events on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Sea swimming, stunning hike, expert tips on sleep, cosy room and amasing food all on offer!

Elephant Rock has designed an event for those seeking a break from their busy lives to enjoy nature, scenic walks, and new experiences, including a cold sea plunge.

The Elephant Rock Great Rock Reset package, taking place on April 26th, was created in collaboration with Revive North Coast and Tree and Tide. The retreat offers guests expert advice on how to recharge and revitalise. 

 “We spent a long time creating this package and put a lot of thought into every aspect of the trip”, explained Charlotte Dixon, Managing Director, Elephant Rock Hotel. “The Great Rock Reset includes an overnight in one of our stunning rooms, lunch on arrival, a delicious 2-course dinner and a hearty breakfast the next morning.”

“Activities include a guided hike of Binevenagh to the Devil’s Thumb, with panoramic views over Lough Foyle, the Roe Valley, Inishowen, and the West Coast of Scotland. There will also be an informative talk from Tree and Tide on the importance of sleep and how to achieve it,” said Charlotte.

The Global Wellness Economy Monitor 2024 revealed that the global wellness economy is worth 26% more than it was pre-pandemic – $6.3 trillion (£4.9 trillion/€5.8 trillion). This figure has grown from $4.6 trillion in 2020*.

Charlotte added: “Cold-water therapy is known to aid in recovery after exercise by reducing inflammation and soreness. Revive North Coast will lead a plunge into the Atlantic Ocean, right on our doorstep. They’ll share the best practices and safety tips for cold-water swimming, introduce breathing techniques, and highlight the many mental and physical benefits of this practice.”

This is an interactive weekend where all guests can enjoy the activities together.

“Our location is perfect for anyone wanting to escape their hectic lives, with captivating views of the Atlantic Ocean, stunning walks on blue-flag beaches and unforgettable places such as Dunluce Castle and the Giant’s Causeway right on our doorstep. However, a lot of our guests return time and time again because of the excellent service they enjoy – we do our best to make everyone feel like a member of the Elephant Rock family”, concluded Charlotte.

For more information on the Great Rock Reset package or to book visit https://elephantrockhotel.co.uk/ or call + 44 28 7087 8787.

The Ards International Guitar Festival rocks into Newtownards next week, bringing an exciting lineup that showcases both local and international guitar talent. From classical to rock, the diverse programme offers something for every music lover. Presented by Ards and North Down Borough Council, the festival runs from Wednesday 9 to Sunday 13 April.

Highlights of this year’s programme include viral guitar sensation Luca Stricagnoli, widely regarded as one of the most unique guitarists in the world. With nearly 30 years of music-making and global touring, Luca’s innovative style has redefined guitar playing. His groundbreaking inventions, such as the Reversed Triple Neck Guitar and the Reversed Slide Neck, have pushed the boundaries of modern acoustic guitar. Luca will take the stage at The Queen’s Hall, Newtownards, on Friday April 11, with support from John Tracey.

Renowned guitarist Gary Lucas, praised by Rolling Stone as “one of the best and most original guitarists in America,” will be performing at Ards Arts Centre on Friday 11 April. With a career that includes collaborations with legends like Lou Reed, Captain Beefheart and Jeff Buckley, Gary is known for his genre-defying performances on both acoustic and electric guitar. He will be joined by Irish singer Ellen Lyons to perform some of his most iconic works, including songs by Jeff Buckley and more.

Classical fans won’t want to miss the Eire Guitar Duo, a dynamic classical duo dedicated to expanding the classical guitar duo repertoire. Oscar Montague and Santiago Kodela will be performing at Ards Arts Centre on Saturday 12 April with support from the Classical Guitar Society of Northern Ireland.

With performances from The Rob Strong Band, Gary Lutton, Megan O’Neill, Amanda Agnew, Gráinne Hunt, Emma Langford, Craig Ogden and more, guitar fans are in for a treat with this year’s impressive line-up!

Speaking about the festival, Ards Guitar Festival Director, Emily Crawford commented:

“This year’s festival is a superb line-up showcasing the best of local, national and international guitar talent in intimate venues in Newtownards. From blues and rock to classical and contemporary there’s something for everyone; I’d encourage everyone to grab a ticket while you can and enjoy the best of live guitar music!”

For ticket details or to view the full programme please visit: www.ardsguitarfestival.co.uk                         

The Giant Adventures Series is back for 2025, bringing an exciting lineup of immersive tourism events to Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion.

Designed to captivate both visitors and locals, this trio of unforgettable experiences celebrates the region’s rich mythology, music, food and breathtaking landscapes. 

The 2025 series kicks off with Wake the Giant on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 June in Warrenpoint, before moving to Eats and Beats in Newcastle on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September, and concluding with the mystical Footsteps in the Forest in Slieve Gullion Forest Park from Monday 20 to Sunday 26 October.

Launching this year’s Giant Adventure festivals, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Pete Byrne said, “The Giant Adventures series is more than just a collection of events — it is a heartfelt celebration of our region’s rich heritage, breathtaking landscapes and the warmth of our vibrant communities. From the rugged beauty of the Mourne Mountains to the serene shores of Carlingford Lough, every experience is designed to captivate, inspire and create lasting memories.

“The Council remains committed to sustainable tourism and will ensure that each event is delivered in line with the Geopark Code of Practice — promoting responsible engagement with local communities, businesses and the environment while preserving the region’s unique character for generations to come.

“We invite everyone, from near and far to join us in embracing the magic, adventure and unforgettable moments that define Newry, Mourne and Down as a truly special place to explore, connect and celebrate together.”

From legendary giants to flavoursome feasts and enchanting forests, this year’s Giant Adventures promises a unique blend of spectacle, storytelling and sensory delights, set against some of Ireland’s most stunning natural backdrops.

The journey for 2025 begins with Wake the Giant on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 June in Warrenpoint. The legend of Fionn mac Cumhaill comes to life once again as the giant spirit of Warrenpoint awakens. This year, Fionn won’t stand alone — he will be joined by a spectacular Gathering of the Clans. Giants from near and far will come to celebrate heritage, culture and the power of storytelling, making this year’s festival an unforgettable display of myth, music and magic.

With family-friendly activities, green crafts, wellness experiences and a packed festival atmosphere, Wake the Giant is the perfect summer celebration in the heart of Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion.

Following this, the highly anticipated Eats and Beats festival returns to Newcastle, Co Down, on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September, promising an unmissable weekend of incredible flavours and unforgettable music.

This vibrant festival at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, will feature two dynamic stages showcasing an eclectic mix of local and international artists, providing the perfect soundtrack to a celebration of the region’s rich food culture. Visitors can savour the finest locally sourced food, experience live cookery demonstrations and indulge in a diverse selection of artisan produce. From the freshest coastal flavours to hearty mountain-inspired dishes, Eats and Beats is a feast for the senses, blending taste, sound and culture in one spectacular setting.

As the nights grow darker, the mystical woods of Slieve Gullion Forest Park will come alive with eerie encounters, spellbinding storytelling and otherworldly wonders.  Footsteps in the Forest returns to the Forest from Monday 20 to Sunday 26 October and is the perfect way to celebrate autumn magic in one of Ireland’s most mythical landscapes. This extended Halloween festival will immerse visitors in the ancient traditions of Samhain, blending legend, folklore and theatrical performances in a hauntingly beautiful setting.

With three unmissable events spread across the summer and autumn of 2025, now is the time to mark your calendar and start planning your Giant Adventure in Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion.

For event details or ideas of where to stay, eat and more things to do in Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion, visit: www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/giant-adventures

Roe Valley Arts Centre is delighted to present ‘Big Doodles and Wee Doodles’, a vibrant new exhibition by renowned artist John McMacken.

The energetic and colourful lyrical abstracts on display perfectly capture the artist’s boundless creativity and imagination, with the exhibition showcasing a striking collection of oil paintings, charcoal, and pen drawings.

To accompany the exhibition, John McMacken will also host a special ‘Doodle Party’ workshop for young artists aged 7-11 years on Saturday 5th April, from 11am to 12:30pm. This playful and engaging session encourages children to unleash their imagination through doodling, exploring art in a fun and interactive way.

John McMacken, who lived in Limavady for 25 years before studying Fine Art at Ulster University, has exhibited his work across Ireland. His expressive and dynamic pieces invite viewers to explore a world of movement, colour, and spontaneity.

The exhibition launches on Thursday 3rd April at 7pm, offering a fantastic opportunity to meet the artist and experience his work firsthand. The event is free, and all are welcome to attend.

For more information or to book a place at the workshop, visit www.roevalleyarts.com or call us on 028 7776 0650.