Author: whatsonni

Presented by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, the much-loved Enchanted Winter Garden will return to Antrim Castle Gardens from Friday 28 November to Tuesday 30 December 2025, promising to be its most dazzling year yet.

In response to the event’s growing popularity, Enchanted Winter Garden will run for an additional four nights, giving families the opportunity to experience the magic through the festive season and up to just before New Year’s Eve.

This year’s event introduces a host of exciting new features designed to elevate the experience for visitors of all ages. Among the highlights is the debut of the Enchanted Tree Choir, a new attraction that will see the trees of the forest brought to life.

The funfair has also been expanded, offering new, more thrilling rides to entertain both the little and big kids. Visitors can also look forward to a series of brand-new light installations, including a striking light show.

Returning favourites will also make a welcome appearance, including the Festive Food Fayre, serving up delicious seasonal treats and of course Santa’s Grotto, where families can meet the man himself until 23 December.

Post Christmas, when Santa heads home for a well-earned rest, his Grotto will be taken over by The Grinch, who’ll be up to no good as he brings his own mischievous twist to attendees from 27 – 30 December.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick said, “As an Antrim woman and a mum of two, the Enchanted Winter Garden holds a very special place in my heart. It’s a magical experience for families and a chance to make lasting memories together right here in our beautiful Antrim Castle Gardens.”

The event will also continue its commitment to accessibility, with Inclusive Evenings on 4 and 10 December, offering reduced lighting, sound levels and a relaxed environment for visitors with additional needs. These evenings are supported by The Junction Retail and Leisure Park.

Tickets are on sale now at www.enchantedwintergarden.com. Book early to secure your preferred date and join the fun at Antrim Castle Gardens.

With the festive season almost upon us, Market Place, stars of Channel Four’s ‘Secrets of the Christmas Market’ and the UK’s leading specialist market operators, are preparing the tinsel and baubles for another year of food, drink and craft celebrations.

The Belfast Christmas Market will officially open its gates at 12 noon on Saturday 15 November, running until 22 December in the stunning grounds of Belfast City Hall. 

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly, said:

“Belfast Christmas Market is an unmissable part of our city centre festive experience, offering magical opportunities to spend time and make memories with family and friends. It’s such a magnet for visitors, generating important income and showcasing local emerging and established entrepreneurs alongside international traders. I can’t wait to see all the happy faces, hear the buzz and enjoy the treats on offer!”

This year, visitors will be spoilt for choice with a huge variety of authentic goodies including crêpes from France, Dutch pancakes, Belgian chocolates, an exotic selection of ostrich, wild boar and crocodile burgers, giant bratwurst from the iconic Schwenkgrille, Spanish paella and nougat from Italy. Visitors can take a culinary trip around the world before relaxing in one of the bars, serving international drinks until late into the evening.

With free entry for all, the market offers a vibrant shopping experience for those seeking unique and meaningful gifts. Visitors can explore an extensive selection of artisan products, from ornate Christmas decorations, handcrafted jewellery and original paintings to cosy hats and scarves—perfect for ticking off that all-important shopping list.

Allan Hartwell, Managing Director of Market Place, said:

“The Belfast Christmas Market is more than just a festive attraction, it’s a celebration of culture and community. Each year, our goal is to create an experience that brings people together, champions local businesses, and proudly showcases Belfast on an international stage. Welcoming over one million visitors annually and generating more than £60 million in economic impact, the market plays a vital role in the city’s seasonal economy.

Sustainability remains a cornerstone of our operations and we continue to invest in environmental initiatives which have led to an 85% reduction in non-biodegradable packaging. We’re committed not only to delivering a magical Christmas experience, but to doing so responsibly and with purpose.”

No Christmas is complete without the laughter of excited children, and families will find plenty to delight them at this year’s market. Returning to the festive village are the traditional carousel and the vintage Helter Skelter, offering panoramic views of the market and a thrilling descent for those brave enough to take the slide. Although Santa Claus is taking a well-deserved break from his grotto this year, he won’t be far! Keep your eyes peeled for the big man in red as he makes his weekly stroll through the market, spreading cheer, sharing sweet treats, and rewarding those on the nice list. Capture magical moments inside the giant snow globe or gather around the fire to toast delicious marshmallows – creating cherished memories to last well beyond the season.

In a continued effort to support young and emerging businesses, Market Place has partnered with the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF) to donate two chalets to young entrepreneurs, allowing them to trade free of charge and showcase their products to thousands of visitors. The NMTF’s Northern Ireland regional winners of the Young Traders Market, Mini Sticher and The Candle Bottle Bank, will also have their own dedicated chalet, offering sustainable handmade clothing for little ones and a range of candles and soy wax melts, inspired by the beautiful Causeway Coast.

Visitors can stay up to date with market news, entertainment schedules and weather by following Belfast Continental Christmas Market on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Media partner Q Radio will be on-site with a bespoke DJ booth in the food court, playing festive music, engaging with visitors and offering spot prizes. Travel partner Dublin Express will also be offering convenient transport options and exclusive giveaways throughout the season.

Belfast Christmas Market will open in the gardens of Belfast City Hall at 12noon on Saturday 15 November and run until 6pm on Monday 22 December.

Opening hours are:

Monday – Wednesday 10am – 8pm

Thursday – Saturday 10am – 10pm

Sunday 12noon – 6pm

Ards Arts Centre in Newtownards is pleased to welcome two new exhibitions to its Georgian and Sunburst Galleries: A Longing for a Feeling I Cannot Remember a solo exhibition by Patrick Hickey, and I heard the footfall of the flower spring.., a solo exhibition by Bernie McAdam.

In A Longing for a Feeling I Cannot Remember, Patrick Hickey presents a new series of oil paintings and works on paper exploring queerness, masculinity, and identity through the depiction of the nude male figure in otherworldly landscapes.

Inspired by Irish mythology and the mythical island of Hy Brasil, Hickey reimagines a place of safety and openness for queer identities. Viewers will encounter stoic fishermen, dreamlike terrain, and abstract seascapes that reference mythological heroes like Cu Chulainn and Lugh. The exhibition opens in the Georgian Gallery on Thursday 13 November.

Bernie McAdam’s exhibition, I heard the footfall of the flower spring.. reflects an engagement with Greek mythology through the lens of personal trauma and loss, exploring how ancient narratives resonate with contemporary emotional landscapes.

Looking through the prism of these Greek sagas and characters, a vista is opened that explores the misrepresentations of women in particular who have been maligned and vilified by blinkered classicists with a patriarchal bias throughout the ages. Themes of injustice and betrayal emerge but values of kindness and humour also prevail. Bernie’s work

encompasses oil painting, cyanotype print, mixed-media drawing and writing. This exhibition opened in the Sunburst Gallery on Friday 31 October.

Both exhibitions will continue until Wednesday 3 December. Admission is free.

All are welcome to attend a Preview Event in Ards Arts Centre on Thursday 13 November at 7pm. As part of her exhibition, Bernie McAdam will give an informal Artist Talk on her current research and influences at Arts Centre on Thursday 13 November at 6.30pm. The talk is free to attend but pre-registration is required. For more information visit; www.andculture.org.uk

The magic of Christmas is set to roll into town once again as ‘Santa on Tour’ returns to Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough promising a sleigh-full (or should we say bus- full) of sparkle, community spirit and festive fun for all ages!

Launching today, Monday 3 November, the much-anticipated annual extravaganza sees Santa, Mrs Claus and their merry band of elves hit the road in their dazzling red bus. From Friday 14 November, ‘Santa on Tour’ will bring festive sights, sounds and smiles to towns and villages across the borough, officially switching on Christmas lights and delivering a magical roadshow of cheer to every corner of ABC.

Expect an action-packed stage show featuring local schools, community groups, artists and professional acts, alongside a sprinkle of spectacular walkabout entertainment from stilt walkers, jugglers, acrobats, and dazzling performers who are sure to light up the night.

Little ones can get crafty in the festive arts and crafts zone, enjoy face painting and balloon modelling, and of course, visit Santa in his grotto or snuggle up for a heartwarming Christmas tale from Mrs Claus herself. But beware – the Grinch might just try to throw a spanner in Santa’s shiny red bus with some cheeky mischief!

Adding even more festive flavour this year, the Artisan Food & Craft Markets will pop up at the town switch ons, bringing a winter wonderland of local produce, handmade crafts and delicious treats. It’s the perfect opportunity to eat, shop and be merry while supporting talented local makers and producers.

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Stephen Moutray, said: “It’s fantastic to see ‘Santa on Tour’ return for another year bringing families and friends together across our borough to celebrate the true spirit of Christmas. These events are all about community, enjoying great entertainment, supporting local traders, and creating special memories that last a lifetime. I’d encourage everyone to come along, join the fun, and make the most of everything our city, towns and villages have to offer this festive season.”

Yet, the festive fun doesn’t stop there! Armagh City will once again don its Georgian finery for the ever-enchanting Armagh Georgian Festival, running from Thursday 27 November to Sunday 30 November. Expect the impressive light show, living history, street performers and the irresistible charm of a bygone Christmas.

The much-loved ‘Relaxed Christmas Sessions’ will also return to Bleary Business and Community Centre from Friday 5 December offering children with autism and special educational needs the chance to meet Santa and Mrs Claus in a calm, magical and supportive environment. Free tickets will be available from Friday 21 November at santaontourabc.com.

Then, if you’re on the lookout for the perfect present that keeps on giving, why not wrap up local with a Shop ABC Gift Card? A brilliant way to support local businesses while spreading a little extra joy to friends and family this Christmas.

With so much to see, do and enjoy, ‘Santa on Tour’ promises to make this Christmas truly tree-mendous. So hop on board, follow the jingling bells, and join Santa as he brings his bus-load of festive cheer to towns and villages across Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon!

For full event details, visit santaontourabc.com and follow the Council’s social media pages.

The countdown is on for Big Screen Ballymoney, with an action-packed weekend of cinema in Ballymoney Town Hall.

Audiences get ready to enjoy a line-up packed with classics, local stories, and family favourites organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Arts Service, and running from 6th – 8th November.

Things kick off in swashbuckling style with The Princess Bride on Thursday 6th November at 7pm – a cult fairytale adventure filled with pirates, giants, and true love.

From there, the weekend offers something for everyone, from heartfelt documentaries to iconic musical moments and timeless romance.

Other Highlights include:

• Road (Fri 7th Nov, 7pm): A powerful documentary narrated by Liam Neeson, telling the moving story of the Dunlop family – Ballymoney’s own motorcycling legends.

• Singin’ in the Rain (Fri 7th Nov, 10.30am): A free dementia-friendly screening of the classic musical. This screening will include soft lighting, slightly lower volume and a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. Carers, companions and anyone who enjoys a slower pace are warmly welcome.

• Primary School Choice: Paddington (Sat 8th Nov, 10.30am): A special family screening sponsored by Into Film, sharing the much-loved story of the marmalade-loving bear from Peru and his adventures in London.

• Dirty Dancing (Sat 8th Nov, 7pm): Nobody puts this 80s favourite in the corner –expect romance, music, and iconic dance moves.

With laughter, nostalgia, and plenty of movie magic on offer, it’s set to be a brilliant weekend celebrating the power of film and the community that loves it.

Tickets are priced at £5 per screening or £15 for a family/group of four, with the dementia-friendly screening of Singin’ in the Rain and the family Screening of Paddington offered free of charge (booking essential for all screenings).

Emma Thorpe, Community Arts Development Officer, said: “Big Screen Ballymoney is all about bringing people together through cinema. We can’t wait to welcome families and film lovers to enjoy a weekend of magical screenings in Ballymoney Town Hall.”

Tickets for all screenings can be booked https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/films-in-ballymoney-town-hall-4638173 or through Flowerfield Arts Centre.

Call Flowerfield Reception on 028 7083 1400 or visit Flowerfield.org.

Belfast’s most magical market returns this November when St George’s Market will be transformed into a festive wonderland for the Christmas Twilight Market, launching the city’s Christmas celebrations with two sparkling evenings of food, crafts, and entertainment.

Taking place on Tuesday 25 and Wednesday 26 November, the market will open its historic doors from 4pm to 10pm, offering something for everyone to enjoy – from families and friends to late-night shoppers.

Seasonal drinks from McEnaney’s Bar will be available throughout the two day event with the final hour, from 9pm onwards, reserved for adults, to soak up the festive atmosphere and live music, while savouring artisan treats.

With over 120 traders showcasing the very best of local produce, handmade gifts, gourmet street food, and artisan crafts, under twinkling lights, the Christmas Twilight Market promises to be a magical start to the festive season. From mulled wine and mince pies to unique stocking fillers and festive florals, there’s plenty to explore as Belfast begins its countdown to Christmas.

Christine Cousins, Market Organiser of Sonic Events, said: “The Christmas Twilight Market is one of the highlights of the year for both traders and visitors. As St George’s comes alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of Christmas, it’s a truly magical experience. This year’s event will feature more than 120 incredible local traders, festive food and drink and entertainment for all ages. I would encourage visitors to come out and support our local traders as this market will be the perfect opportunity to embrace Belfast’s Christmas celebrations in style.”

Some of the 120 traders participating in the market are Chowder Up serving seafood; Tapitas, famous for their Paella; Lagan Ribs cooking up ribs and sauces; Twisted Bakes offering coffee and tasty baked goods. For arts focused gifts you can choose from Foss Art and Riccie Drew a Piccie; The Hatman has amazing hats for every occasion; and Irish Goldsmith will be showcasing jewellery by Joel M Smyth. Local food and drink producers include Copeland Gin; Glens of Antrim Crisps; Aunt Sandras Sweet Shop and Sporeshore Mushrooms.

So save these two enchanting evening dates in your diary, wrap up warm, grab a hot chocolate or mulled wine, and step into the magic of Christmas in the heart of Belfast city centre at St George’s Market this 25 and 26 November.

This spooky season is filled with frightfully fun events you won’t want to miss

Northern Ireland comes alive at Halloween with traditions, celebrations, and an irresistible atmosphere of mischief and merriment.

Rooted in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, for over 2,000 years, stories and rituals have marked this turning of the seasons, and today those echoes are felt in celebrations that are both timeless and thrillingly alive.

Nowhere is this spirit more vibrant than at Europe’s largest Halloween festival in Derry~Londonderry, where parades, performances and creativity fill the streets.

But the celebrations don’t stop there. Across Northern Ireland, you’ll find family-friendly workshops, festive foodie-experiences, lively gatherings and seasonal fun to spark the imagination.

Whether you’re joining the magic in Derry~Londonderry or uncovering folklore where history lingers in the shadows, Halloween is all about fun and unforgettable moments.

Discover Northern Ireland has put together a list of more than 30 exciting events to haunt your calendar this October.

• Hallowe’en Torchlight Tours, 24^th and 25^th October and Hallowe’en at Ulster American Folk Park, 29^th-31^st October, Omagh, County Tyrone. Delve into the history of our spookiest season and discover how the people of rural Ulster celebrated Halloween traditions centuries ago.
• Halloween Dungannon, 24^th October, Halloween Coalisland, 31^st October and Halloween Cookstown, 25^th October, various locations in County Tyrone. Join for some frightful fun and excitement this Halloween across County Tyrone. From rides to face painters and fire jugglers, treats, crafts and not-too-scary thrills – Halloween fun for the whole family.
• Harvest Fair at National Trust’s Florence Court, 25^th and 26^th October, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh. Florence Court’s fabulous Harvest Fair returns this autumn with even more on offer. Savour the flavours of the season at their artisan food and craft market in collaboration with Tully Mill. With over 40 vendors bursting with farm fresh produce, homemade treats, and local delicacies there is something for everyone to enjoy.
• The Vanishing – Family Halloween Event at Marble Arch Caves, 25^th, 26^th, 30^th and 31^st October, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh. Prepare for a world of enchantment, mystery, and Halloween fun this autumn as the woodland trail at Cladagh Glen transforms into a magical, interactive adventure for all the family.
• Pumpkin Patch on Castle Island, 25^th–29^th October, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh. Experience the magic of Halloween with a visit to the Pumpkin Patch and hear spooky stories for families. Take a quick boat trip over, spend a couple of hours enjoying the spooky island and be as scared as you like. Activities include storytelling, games from the past, pumpkin creations and a Halloween-themed photo area.
• Halloween Fireworks in Enniskillen, 31^st October, County Fermanagh. Get ready for a spook-tacular evening in Enniskillen. Organised by Enniskillen BID and proudly sponsored by Encirc, this much-loved annual event promises fun, food, and fireworks for all the family.
• Beyond The Wall: First Light and Beyond The Wall: After Dark – Halloween at Game of Thrones Studio Tour, 31^st October –1^st November, Banbridge, County Down. This Halloween, families can embark on a thrilling adventure at the Game of Thrones Studio Tour with Beyond The Wall: First Light. Or for Beyond The Wall: After Dark, as night falls across Westeros, the Studio Tour becomes a darker, more dangerous realm where ancient stories stir and shadows stretch across the frozen North.
• Samhain – Halloween at Ulster Folk Museum, 29^th-31^st October, Cultra, County Down. Long before fireworks and trick-or-treating, there was Samhain, where Halloween truly began. This October, experience Halloween for real at the Ulster Folk Museum. Discover the origins and traditions of Samhain, meet suspicious characters and encounter their uncanny tales.
• Halloween at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, 25^th October – 2^nd November, Royal Hillsborough, County Down. This October break enjoy a spellbinding day out for all the family packed with spooky surprises and autumnal adventures. Explore 100 acres of enchanting gardens, navigate their Halloween maze and unleash your creativity at a pumpkin carving workshop.
• Halloween at Montalto Estate, 25^th-30^th October, (ASD/ Inclusion Sessions 26^th-27^th October) Ballynahinch, County Down. Something strange is happening at Montalto Estate … the moon has vanished from the night sky. Set off on a magical quest through mysterious realms and whispering woods, where you’ll encounter spooky scenes and ghoulish games. Brave young explorers must collect the missing words of an ancient spell to reverse the curse and bring back the moon.
• Pumpkin Patch and Halloween Spook Event at Ballyburren Outdoor Escapes, 25^th – 31^st October, Ballynahinch, County Down. Join a spooktacular adventure filled with frightful fun, pumpkin picking, and unforgettable memories.
• Halloween Half Term at National Trust’s Mount Stewart, 25^th October – 2^nd November, Newtownards, County Down. As the fog rolls in and the trees cast long, twisted shadows, venture deep into the heart of Mount Stewart for spooky fun. Halloween at Mount Stewart is suitable for all ages. Dress up is encouraged but also you may need wellies depending on the weather.
• Halloween Trail at National Trust’s Rowallane Garden, 20^th October – 2^nd November, Saintfield, County Down. Strange creatures have taken over Rowallane Garden—dare you walk the haunted trails this Halloween and face the nightmares that await?
• Hallowe’en Trail at National Trust’s Castle Ward, 25^th October – 2^nd November, Downpatrick, County Down. There’s been a few spooky goings on around Castle Ward – visit to walk the Halloween trail and test your bravery along the way. The trail runs along Laurel Walk and has some indoor spaces and places to get creative and take home a few Halloween themed crafts.
• Super Natural October WWT Castle Espie, 27^th-31^st October and The Mystery of Ollie the Otter, 30^th-31^st October, Comber, County Down. Get ready for a fun-filled Halloween, bubbling over with magical activities for the whole family to enjoy. Or enjoy the thrill of this animal nature based ‘whodunnit’ for Halloween.
• Footsteps in the Forest at Slieve Gullion Forest Park, 20^th – 26^th October, Killeavy, County Armagh. As the crisp autumn air settles in, the Footsteps in the Forest festival at Slieve Gullion Forest Park offers a perfect Halloween adventure. This extended festival celebrates the ancient festival of Samhain with eerie entertainment, tantalising treats, and immersive storytelling.
• Halloween Science: Doom it Yourself Live Science Workshop at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, 28^th-31st October, Armagh, County Armagh. The Armagh ‘Planetscarium’ has been taken over by Madam Mayhem, the supervillain to the stars and using Armagh as a base, join her as she tries to create a Doomsday Device that will help her to take over the world. Check the website for more Halloween activities.
• Little Spooks at Navan Centre and Fort, 25^th-31^st October, Armagh, County Armagh. The Navan Centre & Fort transforms into the spookiest spot in town—calling all ghosts, goblins, witches, and wizards to join the frightfully fun festivities
• Hallowe’en Ghost Tour of Armagh, 31^st October – 2^nd November, County Armagh. An evening of Ghosts and Ghouls – be sure to book a place on the Hallowe’en Walking tours of Armagh.
• Jail of Horror at Crumlin Road Gaol, 17^th-30^th October, Belfast. Step inside the Victorian Jail and face your darkest fears on an intense scare-after-scare journey with only one way out.
• Halloween at W5, 11^th October – 2^nd November, Belfast. W5 transforms into a world of magic, mystery, and spine-tingling fun. From ancient forests and ghostly encounters in the immersive Enchanted Hollow, to thrilling science experiments led by wizards and witches in Pumpkins and Potions, there’s something to captivate every curious mind.
• Let’s Go Hydro’s Drive-In Cinema, 16th – 19th October, 23rd October – 2nd November and Pumpkin Patch & Spookfest, 17th – 19th, 24th – 31st October, Belfast. Get ready for a spine-tingling Halloween at Let’s Go Hydro, Northern Ireland’s premier outdoor adventure destination. The Drive In Cinema brings classic horror, spooky family films, and Halloween favourites straight to your car. Or join them for a pumpkin patch and cosy autumn vibes at their lakeside venue.
• Death, Tragedy & Betrayal: The Darker Side of Clifton Street Cemetery (Tour), 24^th, 25^th and 31^st October, 1^st November, Belfast. Opened in 1797 as the ‘New Burying Ground’ there are many tales to be told here, with Death, Tragedy & Betrayal focussing on the ‘darker side’ of the cemetery’s history.
• Fear Forest at Colin Glen, 17^th October – 1^st November and the Pumpkin Forest & Gruffalo Walk at Colin Glen Forest Park, 12^th – 31^st October, Belfast. The forest will transform into a terrifying landscape filled with spine-chilling Halloween characters lurking in the shadows, ready to haunt your every step, or enjoy an autumn family adventure where you can explore a world of magic, story, and pumpkins.
• Hallowena @ The People’s Park in Ballymena, 30^th October and Halloween Hooley @ Larne Town Park, 31^st October, various locations across County Antrim. Join for some frightful fun and excitement this Halloween across County Antrim.
• Wings & Whistles at Whitehead Railway, 31^st October, Whitehead, County Antrim. A fun-filled Halloween day out with steam trains and birds of prey.
• Derry Halloween 2025, 28^th-31^st October, Derry~Londonderry. Be part of Europe’s largest Halloween Festival as the Walled City welcomes the spirit of Samhain through its historic gates for a festival like no other.
• Halloween Maghera, 31st October, Maghera, County Londonderry. Mini ghouls and goblins welcome. A safe and spooky event for all ages. Halloween Hooley returns to Maghera Leisure Centre with family friendly activities including funfair rides, toy set/carousel, trampolines, bumper cars, music/DJ, jump jiggle and jive dance, face painting, magic show, soft play, bouncy castle and games.
• Fright Night at The Jungle NI, 16^th-31st October and Hallowee’uns at Jungle NI, 18^th-31^st October, Moneymore, County Londonderry. Whether you’re a veteran victim or a first-time runner, this year’s Fright Night will test your nerve and twist your mind. Or the Jungle NI also comes alive with spooky magic and autumn mischief for Northern Ireland’s ultimate family Halloween day out.
• Kids Halloween Chocolate Making Experience at The Chocolate Manor, 31^st October, Castlerock, County Londonderry. In this one-hour kids only experience, children will be guided by their resident ‘shockolatier’ to make three spooktacular Halloween themed chocolate creations.

Get ready for more thrills and chills at www.discovernorthernireland.com and plan a spooktacular short break this Halloween. Activities and events are subject to availability.

By the pricking of my thumbs, something spooky this way comes… the Downpatrick and County Down Railway has had its fair share of ghosts and ghouls over the years, but nothing quite like its latest arrival – Dr Frankenstein himself.

Strange lights and noises have been reported around the heritage railway’s museum yard in recent weeks, and it seems the chaos of Halloween night has left the good Doctor with a problem. Several of his creations appear to have escaped into the County Down countryside, and he is now calling on the public to help him round them up.

“I had to flee my castle in Transylvania and was looking for somewhere I could conduct my experiments in peace,” the Doctor explained when we caught up with him this week. “Somewhere with lots of space and a ready supply of fresh parts.”

Asked if he meant the locomotives and machinery at the museum, he paused. “No, I don’t mean… well, maybe a little. Yes, there are some very useful bodies around the place. I could do with a strong man for my next project. I’ve had my eye on a volunteer or two.”

Pressed on what sort of doctor he actually is, Frankenstein was quick to defend his reputation. “There are some who call me mad, but I’m not. I suppose I’m part biologist, part surgeon. I’m always trying to push the boundaries of what we can do with life. Death does not need to be the end.”

The Doctor admits that some of his experiments may have wandered off during the Halloween night activities, and he needs help to track them down. He’s now summoning brave members of the public to join his recovery effort on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 November, when The Curse of the Phantom Flyer takes over the Downpatrick and County Down Railway.

“Whatever you do, don’t get too close to them,” he warned. “They look a lot like you and me, only I think I might have left them a bit long before we dug them up. I made the perfect couple – if only they’d do what they’re told. Darn things got sentient and I think they’re trying to set up home near the river.”

“I need a crowd of people,” he said. “Wear your best and most frightening costume and let’s scare them into submission.”

This year’s show marks Avalard Productions’ third Halloween event at the railway, featuring a new storyline and characters inspired by Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. The kid-friendly immersive performance, suitable for all ages, blends classic horror with comedy and audience participation, taking visitors through the historic railway site and on board a heritage train into the dark County Down countryside.

Avalard’s director Robert JE Simpson leads the cast as Dr Frankenstein, joined by Geoff Hatt, Marcus Keeley, and Debbie McCormack. “Every year we build something new,” Simpson said. “By staging this after Halloween, families get one last chance to enjoy the season. It’s a Halloween encore before winter truly sets in.”

Performances run at 3.00 pm, 4.15 pm, 5.30 pm on both days. Tickets are £17 per person or £60 for a family. Infants under 12 months travel free. Children’s tickets include face-painting by Kaz-a-Doodle.

Tickets and full details are available at www.downrail.co.uk

The 6th Annual Northern Ireland Country Music Awards Voted by the Public.

Monday 2nd February 2026