Author: whatsonni

10 Things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 6 – 12 October

 

  1. Forage & Feast with Paul Cunningham in the Walled Garden, Helen’s Bay, County Down, 9 October. Join an unforgettable evening at Forage and Feast with Paul Cunningham in the Walled Garden, Helen’s Bay. This is a unique dining experience rooted in the land and inspired by nature’s wild pantry. Hosted in the Walled Garden, this exclusive event brings together the best of seasonal, locally sourced, and foraged ingredients in a truly immersive celebration of County Down’s culinary heritage.
  2. Titanic By The Glass, Belfast, 11 and 17 October. Celebrate Belfast’s ambition and achievement as you experience Titanic Belfast like never before. In collaboration with leading drinks experience, The Spirit Circle, Titanic by the Glass will take you on an immersive journey through part of the Titanic Experience with brand new incredible audiovisual installations telling stories of Belfast, its people, its past and its drinks.
  3. The Truffle Shuffle at The Chocolate Manor, Castlerock, County Londonderry, 11 October. The Truffle Shuffle Experience with Chief Chocolatier at The Chocolate Manor, Geri Martin, will guide you through making moulded and hand-rolled truffles. You will craft ganache, and flavour your own truffles, maybe even with a nip of your favourite tipple, if you wish.
  4. Textile Takeover at the Ulster Folk Museum, Holywood, County Down, 11 October. Explore the world of textiles and sustainability this autumn at the Textile Takeover. Try embroidery, watch weaving and rag work demonstrations and see a showcase of works by the Belfast School of Art Textile Students. Listen to talks from Rathlin Wool Project, Mallon Linen and Fibreshed Ireland, and learn about patchworking from the Northern Ireland Patchwork Guild.
  5. National Trust’s Florence Court, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, visit website for open dates and times. Surrounded by lush parkland and thick woodland with Benaughlin Mountain rising in the background, Florence Court enjoys a majestic countryside setting in West Fermanagh. There is something for everyone to enjoy at this extensive and welcoming place.
  6. Apple Sundays at Ardress, Annaghmore, County Armagh, 12 October. Set in the middle of the Orchard County, this is the ideal location to hear all about Armagh’s famous apples and have some family fun. Have a go on the apple press and taste some local cider. You will also have the chance to pick some apples from the local orchard (limited availability).
  7. Zombie Run at The Jungle NI, Moneymore, County Londonderry, 11 October. The ‘undead’ return to The Jungle NI for a terrifying 6K obstacle run. Your mission? Outrun the horde, keep your lives, and conquer the course. Armed with three lives tied at your waist, you’ll dodge, weave, and battle through infected zones swarming with zombies determined to steal them all.
  8. The Bjorn Identity – Thank ABBA for the Music Tour at the Burnavon Theatre, Cookstown, County Tyrone, 11 October. World-class, International Tribute to ABBA – The Bjorn Identity return to Burnavon Theatre, to thank ABBA for the music. As one of the most exciting and authentic ABBA tribute bands across UK and Europe, The Bjorn Identity are ready to bring their record-breaking, sell-out show back to Cookstown.
  9. Live Music Nights at the Bushmills Inn, Bushmills, County Antrim, 10 – 11 October, and more dates. If you’re looking for somewhere to let your hair down and enjoy some live music, the Gas Bar at The Bushmills Inn is a perfect choice. Catch up with old friends by the open peat fire and relax in a comfortable chair as you listen to some great tunes over a drink.
  10. Ardglass Golf Club – Open Competitions, Ardglass, County Down, 9, 13 October and more dates. Experience the thrill of competitive golf in a stunning coastal setting at Ardglass Golf Club’s Open Competitions. Open to golfers of all skill levels, these events offer the perfect blend of challenge and camaraderie. With dramatic views of the Irish Sea, a historic 14th-century clubhouse, and immaculately maintained fairways, Ardglass promises a memorable day of golf and warm hospitality.

 

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.

Limavady Museum launches ‘The Daintifyt Years’ Exhibition at Roe Valley Arts Centre

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Limavady Museum has proudly launched its new exhibition, ‘The Daintifyt Years’ at the Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre.

The event was officially opened by Councillor Steven Callaghan, who highlighted the vital role the factory played in Limavady’s economy and community, and paid tribute to all those who worked there.

The launch evening was warmly attended by former employees of the factory, making for a wonderful night of reminiscing, sharing stories, and enjoying refreshments together.

The Daintifyt Years exhibition pays tribute to one of Limavady’s most iconic factories, which opened its doors in October 1953. Within its first 10 months, the factory employed nearly 250 people and was known for producing the elegant English Rose line of bras and corselettes.

But beyond being a workplace, Daintifyt was a vibrant hub of social activity, fostering strong community spirit through football teams, darts clubs, beauty contests, and the Northgate Ladies Choir.

Although the factory closed in 2004, ending 185 jobs, its legacy lives on. This exhibition celebrates those memories through photographs, artefacts, and a complimentary publication, preserving the rich history of Daintifyt for future generations.

The Daintifyt Years exhibition will be on display until Saturday 28th February 2026. Admission is free and all are welcome to visit.

For further information or to RSVP to upcoming events, please contact: museums@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk.

Crafted on the Coastline – A Special Exhibition this November

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This autumn, step inside the Courthouse Bushmills for a very special exhibition – celebrating the craft and creativity of makers from across the Causeway Coast and Donegal.

On Saturday 22nd November, 11am–3pm, explore a vibrant exhibition featuring nine exceptional makers, each bringing a unique perspective and skill:

  • Lisa McGill – evocative seascapes capturing the drama and beauty of the Atlantic coast.
  • Siobhan Gillespie – colourful, joyful paintings inspired by Donegal’s landscapes.
  • Moira McHugh – sustainable art transforming everyday materials into striking creations.
  • Sandra Smith – family-run screen printing studio celebrating local heritage with hands-on workshops.
  • Amy Campbell – minimalist silver jewellery influenced by the North Coast.
  • Samantha Toussaint – sculptural work weaving natural materials with folklore and storytelling.
  • Patsy – Rathlin sustainable knitwear, decorative items, and community-inspired yarn art.
  • Yvonne Moore – bold abstract paintings exploring emotion and the human experience.
  • Simon Hogg – handcrafted gins celebrating local botanicals and heritage.

Families are especially welcome, with a Mini Makers section where children of all ages can take part in drop-in creative activities – no booking required, free to attend and in the same room as the makers.

Visitors can also enjoy tea, coffee and delicious treats on the day, available to purchase.

Beyond the exhibition, The Courthouse offers a host of treasures to make it a real day out! Enjoy The Bistro for a meal, The Designerie for Christmas gifts and artisan treats, and explore the Leap Spaces on the middle floor, showcasing even more creatives.

Dating back to 1834, The Courthouse combines history with a contemporary creative hub, making every visit an engaging and inspiring experience.

This family-friendly event promises a day of discovery, inspiration and hands-on fun!

Event Details

Saturday 22nd November

11am – 3pm

The Courthouse, 75 Main Street, Bushmills, BT57 8QB

Free Entry

 

This event has been supported by the International Fund for Ireland, through the cross-border Connecting Communities project.

For more information, visit: https://www.enterprisecauseway.co.uk/2025/10/06/crafted-on-the-coastline-a-celebration-of-craft-at-the-courthouse-bushmills/

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

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Antrim

MAMMA MIA! World-class, International Tribute to ABBA – The Bjorn Identity, return to Theatre at The Mill to thank ABBA for the music.

Find out more HERE

Armagh

BAFTA and Perrier award-winning comedian Dylan Moran is bringing his brand new stand-up show ‘DOLLA HO’ to his homeland this autumn with choice servings of his thoughts on everything and anything – delivered with his trademark poetic panache.

Find out more HERE

Belfast

Join Hastings Hotels at the Europa Hotel for a gourmet 3 course dinner paired with Jawbox Gin cocktails. An evening of bold flavours, botanical flair, and Belfast spirit.

Find out more HERE

Down

Shorelife Festival. Enjoy events celebrating the stunning nature and wildlife inhabiting the local shoreline and official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Strangford Lough, with free entry to explore both locations, fascinating talks, and fun activities for all ages and everyone who loves nature.

Fermanagh

Back by popular demand, the Superstar Wrestling 2025 tour is back with a brand new show.  It promises to be an evening of non-stop action when all of your favourite heroes and villains of Superstar Wrestling! It’s every man for himself. Friend against friend and foe against foe. Anything goes as the wrestlers battle for supremacy. One thing is for sure, it will be sensational!   Expect to see all the action and drama as the top stars of wrestling fight it out to be the king of the ring.

Find out more HERE

Derry/Londonderry

Nature Boy: A Journey of Birdsong and Belonging, Seamus Heaney HomePlace. Expect laughter, expect tears and expect the unexpected – you will never look at the world around you in the same way again.

Find out more HERE

Tyrone

Food Festival Carrickmore – a fun filled day of flavours, music and family entertainment in the heart of Mid-Tyrone. Sample delicious local and international cuisine, enjoy live music and performances and visit our interactive petting zoo. A perfect day out for all ages.

Find out more HERE

Offers of the Week

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Everglades Hotel, Derry~Londonderry

 

Escape to the Everglades Hotel for a delightful two-night break in the heart of Derry~Londonderry. From £170 per room, indulge in a delicious three-course evening meal in the Grill restaurant on your first evening along with one drink per guest, followed by two nights of comfort in their exclusive Cloud Beds with a full Irish breakfast each morning. Offer valid until 31 December. Visit www.evergladeshotelderry.com/offers/ for more information.

 

Belmore Court & Motel, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh        

 

Escape to luxury this autumn and winter with this exceptional Lakelands Getaway B&B package – your perfect retreat in the heart of Fermanagh’s countryside. For just £78 per person sharing a Superior Quad Room or £101.50 per person sharing a Superior Double Room, indulge in two blissful nights where you’ll wake each morning to locally sourced breakfast. Your package includes a complimentary bottle of prosecco, a £50 dining credit to explore local restaurants and a 1pm late checkout to extend your relaxation. Offer available until 28th February 2026. Visit www.motel.co.uk for more information.

 

 

For more inspiration or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com.

 

Offers are correct at the time of publication and are subject to availability and change without notice. Terms and Conditions apply to each offer and can be viewed on the individual provider’s websites. Tourism NI acts as a promoter of third-party offers and accepts no responsibility for any changes, withdrawals, or inaccuracies made by providers. 

 

10 Things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 29 September – 5 October

 

  1. Bushmills Salmon & Whiskey Festival, Bushmills, County Antrim, 3 – 5 October. Bushmills Salmon & Whiskey Festival will make a welcome return this autumn to celebrate the food, drink and local heritage of the area. The programme includes a wide variety of activities and events such as fantastic food and drink samplings and cookery demonstrations from local chefs and celebrity chefs – The Hungry Hooker and Suzie Lee. There will be hosted foodie experiences, heritage walking tours, live music throughout the town, street entertainment, a range of fun kid’s activities, artisan market, craft activities and workshops, fly casting/tying and much more.
  2. Shorelife Celebration – Mount Stewart and Castle Espie, Newtownards & Comber, County Down, 4 October. The Shorelife Celebration event offers a rare chance to experience the wonders of the Ards and North Down Shoreline. The day will be filled with fun activities, engaging talks and tours, and live music. Lots of extra entertainment, kids’ crafts, and activities for families and nature lovers alike.
  3. National Poetry Day at Ulster Museum, Belfast, 2 October. Let your imagination run free in Discover Art on Level 5. Read poems inspired by the natural world and explore the wonders that shaped them in Discover Nature on Level 3. Connect with the past through poetry and have fun with traditional toys and games in Discover History on Level 1.
  4. Curator Tour: Ulster Emigration and Black History at the Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 5 October. Join Liam Corry, Curator of Emigration, as he delves into the marginalised histories of enslaved people of African descent. You’ll finish the tour at the Rogan House, one of their most important exhibit buildings and home of the Rogan family who developed a Tennessee plantation after emigrating from Co. Tyrone.
  5. Fermanagh Live | FLive, various venues, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 30 September – 5 October. Enjoy Fermanagh Live Arts Festival, an annual gathering of music, literature and laughs by the lakes. Set across an array of local venues, the festival showcases both local talent and international acts.
  6. Portrush Beer Festival, County Antrim, 3 – 4 October. The festival will feature a number of local breweries showcasing some of their best ales and beers. Browse your way around the bar areas sampling through the beer list and selecting your favourites. The festival will also have food available featuring local traders who will serve a range of dishes to enjoy with your beer.
  7. Seamus Heaney Exhibition at Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Bellaghy, County Londonderry, visit website for open dates and times. Immerse yourself in the extraordinary world of Seamus Heaney and explore through his words and imagination, the people and place that so inspired him.
  8. Tyrone Farmer’s Market, Food and Craft Markets, Dungannon, County Tyrone, 4 October. 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.
  9. The Witches are BACK! at The Market Place Theatre and Arts Centre, Armagh, County Armagh, 4 October. Join them this Halloween, light the cursed Black Flame Candle and breathe new life into the old. This Salem Trio is up to no good once again. Join them (with caution) as they use their most powerful magic to become young and beautiful forever. Can you stop them? Suitable for children aged 3+. This event will take place in the studio theatre with an unreserved, tiered seating layout.
  10. Wild about Poetry, Slieve Gullion Forest Park – Forest Activities, Killeavy, County Armagh, 4 October. Celebrate National Poetry Week and World Animal Day by joining in some exciting creative writing activities led by local poet, Arlene Pattison. Unleash your creativity and allow your imagination to run wild.

 

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.

Call out for local makers and craft business owners to take part in Knit + Stitch Show

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UK’s largest textile craft event heading back to Northern Ireland for second year 

The organisers of the UK’s largest craft show have issued an invite to Irish makers and businesses to take part in this year’s event.

The Knit + Stitch Show will take place from November 13-16 at the The Eikon Exhibition Centre outside Lisburn, the epicentre of Northern Ireland’s once thriving linen heartland.

Responding to feedback from last year’s inaugural show, organisers are introducing bespoke platforms to enable artisan makers and textile craft businesses to take part and showcase their work.

New for this year will be the Knit Lounge, hosted by Inspiring Yarns, and a dedicated Yarn Village promoting independent yarn dyers and producers.  Organisers are keen for local yarn companies and wool providers to get in touch to secure their place in this dedicated feature.

There is also still time to enter the Christmas Jumper Competition, another new feature for 2025 in place of the dressmaking competition. Deadline for entries is 11.50pm (GMT) on October 6 with finalists displayed at the show and modelled on the catwalk

Organisers are asking knitters and crocheters to create a Christmas themed jumper bursting at the seams with festive cheer – the more creative, the better!

In addition to more than 100 craft exhibitors and over 150 workshops, there will be an enhanced focus on knitting and crocheting with 14 knitting exhibitors already signed up to attend. Other new exhibitors this year include Black Sheep, Fantastic Ribbons, Italian Buttons and What The Fabric.

Following the success of last year’s show, organisers are confident the 2025 event will be bigger and better. They’ve even installed a Prosecco Bar so visitors can raise a glass and enjoy a good ‘yarn’.

Visit https://www.knitandstitchshow.co.uk/northernireland/whats-on-pr/ to find out how you can take part in this year’s show and to enter the Christmas Jumper competition.

BELFAST FLAVOURS FOOD & DRINK COLLECTIVE FACILITATES EXCITING COLLABORATION FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES AND INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE

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As World Tourism Day 2025 is celebrated around the globe under the banner of “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”, Belfast Flavours members are celebrating serving sustainability and authenticity on World Tourism Day and every day by seizing the moment to showcase how its food, drink, and hospitality scene is leading the way in reimagining tourism for a more authentic future.

One example of how collaborative partnerships, and eco-conscious choices can redefine the visitor experience, is that of a new partnership between Pan and Pour and Boundary Brewery.

Andrew Dougan, Co-Chair of Belfast Flavours said: “I’m a firm believer in the circular economy and sustainability is in our DNA at Pan and Pour and Yellow Door. As a member of Belfast Flavours, our business has benefited from the connectivity of our membership with our new and exclusive creation for ICC Belfast between Pan and Pour and Boundary Brewery. This exciting opportunity underpins our relationship with the team at ICC Belfast and their belief in us as a local business to serve their international audiences on a global stage.”

Belfast Flavours facilitated a meeting which resulted in an IPA being exclusively produced for ICC Belfast, Waterfront Hall and Ulster Hall which has subsequently been named by its team. The ‘Encore’ beer joins other products being served to visitors of the venues, made and produced locally on our doorstep. This partnership symbolises the kind of authentic and sustainable opportunities that Belfast Flavours exists to champion between producers, venues, and the people who bring the city’s culture to life.

Andrew added: “For me, sustainability isn’t a slogan. It’s a responsibility. I’m committed to buying the best locally and reinvesting locally. I don’t think business should be about sucking the profits out of Northern Ireland but about keeping the value here and making it sustainable for businesses, for the local economy and the local community.

“This ethos comes to life in Encore. Brewed less than a mile from the purpose-built International Convention Centre, the beer represents a break from globalised supply chains dominated by multinational food and drink manufacturers. Instead, it gives international delegates a taste of Belfast, made by Belfast and with a flavour shaped by local creativity and pride.

“It’s an honour and a privilege to trade in a building that was built by the people of Northern Ireland, for the people of Northern Ireland. The fact that the ICC Belfast team named the IPA themselves shows the strength of connection between the venue, the producers, and the community it serves.”

That sense of connection runs throughout Belfast Flavours members and their tourism offering. Whether through storytelling-led walking tours or farm-to-table dining, Belfast Flavours members ensure visitors leave with memories that go beyond the plate or glass.

Belfast Flavours is a celebration of the city’s vibrant culinary culture and a network that connects chefs, producers, venues, and guides. More than a showcase, Belfast Flavours is proving that collaboration and authenticity can transform how visitors experience the city.

To become a member of Belfast Flavours visit www.belfastflavours.com/membership.  Follow Belfast Flavours Food & Drink Collective on social media.

Belfast Flavours Food and Drink Collective is supported by DAERA via the NI Regional Food Programme.

Have a Boo-Tastic Halloween in Antrim and Newtownabbey

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Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is set to deliver a frightfully fun programme of events this Halloween, with something for all ages to enjoy. Residents and visitors are invited to join in a spook-tacular line-up of activities across the Borough.

 

Kicking off on Thursday 24 October and running until Saturday 15 November, the celebrations will include family favourites, spectacular fireworks, live theatre shows and more.

 

Event Highlights:

 

Screams and Tricks Fun-Fair at V36, The Valley (Attraction charges may apply)

Thursday 24 October – Sunday 2 November

Thrilling rides and fairground fun for all the family.

 

Spooked Out at V36, The Valley (£2.50 booking fee, 50p of which is donated to the Mayor’s Charities)

Saturday 25 October

A dazzling firework display, a best-dressed competition and more.

 

Indoor Pumpkin Patch at Mossley Mill (£8 per ticket)

Saturday 25 – Friday 31 October

A magical indoor pumpkin-picking experience where little ones can choose and carve their own pumpkin.

 

Halloween Roller Disco at The Courtyard Theatre in Ballyearl (£8.50 per ticket)

Saturday 1 November

Skate the night away in your best spooky costume. There will be both a family friendly and adult only session.

 

There will also be a great line up of family friendly theatre shows in Theatre at The Mill, The Courtyard Theatre and The Old Courthouse including:

 

Frank n Stein’s Teddy and Carnacki the Ghost Finder on Saturday 25 October, The Sanderson Sisters on Friday 31 October and Sunday 2 November and The Addams Family on Friday 14 and Saturday 15 November.

 

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, said:

“Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year for families across our Borough. This year, we are pleased to offer a packed programme of events that will entertain audiences of all ages. I encourage everyone to come along, get dressed up and enjoy the celebrations.”

 

With a fantastic choice of events, from family-friendly fun to eerie theatre and spectacular fireworks, Antrim and Newtownabbey is the place to be this Halloween.

 

For more information and to book tickets, visit: antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/halloween

Grand Opera House Serves Up Unique Dining & Entertainment Celebration to Mark its 130th Anniversary

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Shamrock Tenors and many more local artists announced for the special evening in November

Belfast’s Grand Opera House will mark its 130th anniversary with a unique and intimate dining and entertainment experience, On Stage Tonight!.

For one night only in November, over 40 talented performers will surrender the stage to the audience who will, for the first time ever, get to enjoy the night from their exclusive seats on the Theatre’s iconic stage. With the tables turned the opulent auditorium will instead become the backdrop for the various performances throughout the evening.

The audience of only 150 people will enjoy a champagne reception and a three-course meal as they are entertained by a stellar line-up of Northern Ireland talent from the worlds of theatre, music, opera, and comedy, along with a selection of today’s emerging talent.

As the only remaining theatre from Victorian Belfast, the auditorium’s glorious architecture and extravagant decoration earn it an accolade as the finest, most captivating, and awe-inspiring theatre of the many that leading architect Frank Matcham created.

The performers at this exclusive event include the Emmy award-winning Shamrock Tenors, who appear direct from their Australian tour and performance at Sydney Opera House, and The O’Hara Sisters – Jolene & Philippa – the hugely talented siblings who have amazed audiences all over the world with their stunning vocals.

They will be joined by actor and playwright Dan Gordon, comedian Diona Doherty, following her recent appearance at the Edinburgh Fringe, and the talented broadcaster, actress and singer Lata Sharma.

The cast also includes sopranos Mary McCabe & Jenny Bourke, actor-musician Chris Kane, the chorus of Northern Ireland Opera, and radio and TV personality Pete Snodden will MC the special evening.

Completing the bill are some of the young stars of the Grand Opera House’s 2025 sell-out Summer Youth Production of Grease who will step into the spotlight to perform together for one last time, a string quartet from The City of Belfast Youth Orchestra, and the Laura McGrath Trio.

Ian Wilson, Chief Executive of the Grand Opera House said: “Later this year, Northern Ireland’s Premier Theatre, and Belfast’s foremost cultural asset, will celebrate its 130th anniversary. To mark this special occasion, and to recognise the indelible mark the Grand Opera House has made on the history and heritage of UK and Irish theatre, we are producing this one-off event that promises to be an exceptional and truly memorable evening showcasing local talent and good food. The fact that the audience will view the performances from a very different perspective on-stage with the auditorium as the backdrop will truly make it a night to remember.

“Each year, we welcome over 300,000 people to enjoy a busy, diverse and rich programme of shows and events. On Stage Tonight! will commemorate Northern Ireland’s oldest Theatre in an evening to honour a building that has inspired generations and truly stood the test of time.”

Raymond Walsh from Shamrock Tenors added: “We are delighted to return to the Grand Opera House after two sell-out shows at the Theatre in 2024. We have no doubt that audiences will enjoy a magical night with music, laughter and memories to last a lifetime. Celebrating with over 40 other artists, this one-off event will most definitely strike a chord with the performers, audiences and all involved.”

On Stage Tonight! is produced by the Grand Opera House in partnership with Northern Ireland Opera, and Posh Nosh, whose previous sell-out entertainment and dining shows, Arias & Three Courses, and Cocktails & Cabaret, were staged in the Theatre’s Studio.

Tickets for On Stage Tonight! on Friday 14 November 2025 are priced at £190 per person which includes a champagne reception, three course dinner and the full entertainment programme. For more information, or to book tickets, visit www.goh.co.uk

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