Author: whatsonni

The much-anticipated Ballymoney Spring Fair makes its return on Friday 19th and Saturday 20th April

Enjoy two days of free live music, including special guests Ritchie Remo and Hugo Duncan, with lots of family-friendly activities to enjoy across the weekend.

Organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council and sponsored by KRD Credit Union with support from Ballymoney Chamber of Commerce and FUSE FM, 2024 will bring the biggest and best fair to date.

This year, many venues are hosting activities in the town centre and there will be an even bigger choice of have-a-go activities on offer in Seymour Street. Council is also introducing a showcase of traditional maypole dancing at the fair for the first time ever.

Deputy Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Councillor Margaret Anne McKillop, who is looking forward to the fair said: “Ballymoney Spring Fair is a yearly event we all look forward to and it’s fantastic to hear that this year’s event will feature maypole dancing.

“This event has grown from year to year, and I know the businesses in the town always look forward to an event that really showcases what Ballymoney town centre has to offer for locals and visitors.

“I’d encourage you to bring friends and family along to what no doubt promises to be a fun filled 2 days this April.”

On Friday, the town will host the fantastic Hugo Duncan, who will be broadcasting his BBC Radio Ulster show live from Castlecroft Square. Before Hugo kicks off at 1.30pm, the Spring Fair Tea Dance will provide some old favourites with Steve Farlow in Ballymoney Town Hall from 11am. No need to book, just turn up with your dancing shoes on!

FUSE FM Ballymoney and CJ Entertainments will also be providing live music and entertainment in Castlecroft Square from 11am – 4pm.

The Visitor Information Centre will host a taste sampling session of award-winning local artisan products from 10.30am – 4pm on Friday, while Council’s Museums Service will have fun activities for the little ones to enjoy in their new children’s area.

On Saturday, look out for vintage cars, live music, dance displays and a showcase of the best artisan produce at Naturally North Coast & Glens Artisan Market. The market will be located at Castlecroft Square in the town centre from 11am – 4pm on Friday and Saturday and a pop-up market will be on Church Street on Saturday.

Quiet Time Activities will be running on Church Street and Seymour Street 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.

Castlecroft Square will be the hub of entertainment from 12-4pm with special guest Ritchie Remo. Opening the fair will be Kelly Neill Dance Company performing their own dances and a special new for 2024 maypole dance performance! FUSE FM and CJ entertainments will keep you entertained until Ritchie graces the stage at 12.30pm.

As Ritchie gets people up on their feet in Castlecroft, Ravara Obedience and Agility Club will be getting the pups off their feet and over obstacles in Taggarts Yard. Bring your dog along if you think they can finish the obstacle tests, or just sit back in amazement at the very clever dogs the club has trained.

Head down to Seymour Street where a variety of free fun rides and carnival games await you and the family – who will master mini golf or win a prize at a carnival game?

Setting off from the Town Hall and travelling along High Street, Main Street and Meeting House Street, the carnival parade and vintage car cavalcade will commence at 3.30pm.

Old time cars will join the spring-themed spectacle of floats, kids, music, and colour, with a wealth of independent boutiques and businesses in the town offering Spring Fair special offers. You can also treat yourself to some retail therapy.

Don’t forget to be ready to find the special rocks hidden around the town as Ballymoney Rocks have a special treasure rock hunt, pick up an entry form from the Visitor Information Centre.

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

12 partner charities, Pieta and Electric Ireland are joined by Sunrise Social founder Caroline McKenna to launch Darkness into Light 2024

Organised walks to take place at 15 locations across Northern Ireland as the sun rises on Saturday, 11^th May.

Darkness Into Light, Pieta’s annual fundraising event which raises vital funds for local mental health partner charities, is back. Proudly supported by Electric Ireland, this year’s event will take place as the sun rises on Saturday, 11^th May and will see thousands of participants take part in the 15 official walks across Northern Ireland.

At last night’s launch in Belfast City Centre [Tuesday, 26 March], Pieta and Electric Ireland were joined by representatives from 12 local mental health charities and Darkness Into Light 2024 ambassador Caroline McKenna, to invite people across Northern Ireland to sign up and take part in this year’s fundraising event.

Speaking at the launch, DIL 2024 ambassador and founder of Sunrise Social Caroline McKenna, said, “I am honoured to be an ambassador for Darkness Into Light. It is an event I have supported for many years, and I am honoured to have come on board this year in a more official capacity. Darkness Into Light is a truly special event. Beginning in darkness and continuing through to dawn, the 5km walk symbolises the journey from despair to hope. It is an opportunity for communities to come together, foster the sense of hope and raise crucial funds to support people in the community who need it most. So please, sign up and join us for the most important sunrise of the year and see the difference your support makes to local communities across Northern Ireland.”

In the past decade, Darkness Into Light has raised over £1 million for Northern Ireland partner charities and Pieta to help with issues of suicide, self-harm, and mental health.

This year, people in every county in Northern Ireland are encouraged to sign up to participate in one of 15 organised walks, or to take part in their own way, and in doing so support the charities in their local area that are providing vital services to those in need.

Stephanie Manahan, CEO, Pieta, said, “Darkness Into Light is not just an event; it is a beacon of hope, guiding us towards a future where every individual feels supported and valued. Together, with Electric Ireland’s support and the collective efforts of our participants, volunteer committees and communities across the Island of Ireland, we can continue to shine a light on the importance of mental wellbeing and provide support to those in crisis.

Bill Coyle, NI Residential Manager, Electric Ireland, commented, “Electric Ireland is very proud of our ongoing support for Pieta and Darkness Into Light over the last twelve years of our partnership. Each year, we work with Pieta to create marketing and fundraising campaigns to promote awareness of this incredible event and encourage as many people as possible to participate and support. The power of Darkness Into Light is in its ability to bring hope and consolation to communities across the country and to raise much needed funds for the vital services provided by Pieta and partner charities in Northern Ireland. This movement reflects our values as an organisation and our determination to make the world brighter for our customers, staff and the communities we serve.”

The 12 partner charities across Northern Ireland provide easily accessible, free of charge services, which are available online, by phone or in person. Darkness Into Light plays a crucial role in enabling Pieta’s partner charities in Northern Ireland to uphold their commitment to providing suicide prevention, intervention, and bereavement support services to individuals of all ages throughout Northern Ireland, ensuring that help is always within reach when it’s needed most.

Sign up today at www.darknessintolight.com

 

#DIL2024

Renowned Irish comedian, Conal Gallen, is back on tour this year with his hilarious one-man stand-up show. Conal is well known for his hilarious humour and has been entertaining audiences worldwide for over 30 years.

He’s even had the pleasure of performing in front of the Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales, and several other well-known English pubs!

Don’t miss your chance to see the master of comedy at work as Conal Gallen brings his Funny Business to the stage this year. Book your seats now to secure your place at a night filled with unforgettable laughter.

Conal Gallen will be on stage at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre on Friday 5^th and Saturday 6^th April at 8p. Tickets are priced at £25

Tickets for all shows can be booked online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre or through the Box Office on 03300 561 025.

 

 

Discover NI’s giant guide to heart racing activities in Northern Ireland

Adventure seeking families looking for unique experiences to get hearts racing are discovering the world class, adrenaline inducing activities on offer in Northern Ireland.

Action-pack adventures no longer require us to travel abroad, there are plenty of thrills and spills to be had, right here, on our doorstep.

In Northern Ireland, you’re always just a small step from a giant adventure and Discover NI has put together the following list of amazing activities that will ensure you scream if you want to go faster.

Aerosports Paragliding, County Antrim

• If you dream of flying high and defying gravity then take to the skies of Ballynure in a tandem paraglide at Aerosports Paragliding. Suitable for those aged 14+, strap into a harness attached to a parachute like wing and run off the side of a hill. Travelling at speeds of approximately 20mph, all flights take place under the supervision of Chief Flying Instructor Ken McConnell who has thousands of hours of paragliding experience.

Tollymore National Outdoor Centre, County Down

• As Northern Ireland’s National Centre for Mountaineering and Canoeing Activities, Tullymore National Outdoor Centre offers thrill seekers a range of courses in mountaineering, rock climbing, paddlesports and mountain biking. The centre is also home to the Hotrock climbing wall and a bouldering area with routes suitable for beginners, and others that are sure to challenge ever the most experienced climbers.

Share Discovery Village, County Fermanagh

• An inclusive facility, Share Discovery Village allows all to participate in a wide range of exciting outdoor activities including canoeing, banana boating, mountain biking and windsurfing. You can also test your aim with outdoor laser-tag, see how high you can climb with a 30ft indoor climbing wall and make a splash as you traverse the rock slide and wiggle bridge at Wibit Water Park.

Todds Leap, County Tyrone

• Days at Todds Leap are all about adrenaline filled activities. Experience momentary weightlessness as you swing from a trembling height over a cliff edge, scream as you reach speeds of 40mph as your hurtle down the 150m long Tayto ‘BigYella’ slide and strengthen your family bond as you take turns driving a Land Rover Defender blindfolded while the rest of your family help you navigate the off-road obstacle course.

Limitless Adventure Centre, County Londonderry

• Adrenaline junkines will love the thrilling experiences on offer at Limitless Adventure Centre. At Northern Ireland’s only hovercrafting adventure centre, you’ll pilot a hovercraft travelling at speeds in excess of 30mph across purpose built grass tracks. Then, take control of a Powerturn Buggy and effortlessly break out the wheelies, 360 degree turns and more as you – and your co-pilot – battle to control this ATV.

Craigavon Golf & Ski, County Armagh

• Challenge your limits as you ski and snowboard on a 300ft slope at Craigavon Golf and Ski Centre. Home to the only artifical ski slope in Northern Ireland, the centre also features a Poma tow lift, nursery slope and snow-tubing facilities. Suitable for both beginners and advanced skiers/snowboarders, there is also an 18 hole par 72 golf course, a 15 hole par three golf course and a 18 hole par three footgolf course on site.

For more thrilling experiences in Northern Ireland visit https://discovernorthernireland.com

Flowerfield Arts Centre and Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre have a fantastic programme of workshops and events for the whole family this Easter. From creative workshops for adults and kids, to intimate live music and incredible art exhibitions, there is plenty on offer.

Currently on show at Flowerfield Arts Centre, First They Ignore You is an exhibition by Shiela Chakravarti, a socially engaged photographer, educator and activist.

Curated by Belfast Exposed, it centres around her own experiences of racism in Northern Ireland. Admission is free and it runs until 20 April.

Also at Flowerfield, designer Natasha Duddy will be hosting a glass painting workshop on 27 March for parents with children under the age of one. This series of creative workshops is specifically designed for new parents with immobile infants, allowing them to tap into their creativity, relax, and practice mindfulness.

Young artists will love getting creative at Flowerfield Arts Centre with Crafty Kids Nature Monoprinting on 23 March and Weekend Wonders Easter-themed sessions led by Linda Mullholland on 23 and 30 March. Over at Roe Valley Arts Centre Easter Art Club on 30 March, Sarah Barfoot will work with children aged between five and seven years, making mini easter gardens, while Christina Smyth will be making wooden Easter Bunnies for children aged between eight and 11.

On Saturday 23 March, Nodlaig Ní Bhrollaigh and guest musicians will perform at Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre to mark the launch of Nodlaig’s second solo album, Cuimhní rúnda. This compilation of original works aims to enhance our understanding of place and heritage. Nodlaig will be joined by talented musicians from across the North West – Martin O’Kane on fiddle, Paul Gillespie on cello and Uilleann pipes, Lasairfhíona Nic Ruairí on the Fiddle and whistles, Carra Nic an Bhaird on Harp and Gerard McChrystal on Saxophone. Tickets are £15 (£12 concession).

Further Info:

For further information on opening hours, or to book workshops or events, visit flowerfield.org or roevalleyarts.co.uk.  Save Your Seat | SAT 23 MARCH

A special evening of music, song and words, inspired in part by the Belfast Harpers’ Assembly of 1792, will take place at the Ulster Hall on Saturday 13 April to mark the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy’s year in office.

Croí na Cathrach – Heart of the City – will see many of the city’s emerging and traditional musicians coming together to perform a selection of pieces, reflecting Belfast’s rich and diverse shared heritage. 

A limited number of tickets for the free event are available from ulsterhall.co.uk  on a first-come, first-served basis (maximum of two per person).

Curated by renowned composer Neil Martin and presented by acclaimed broadcaster Lynette Fay, the show will open with a piece, led by Neil Martin, which evokes the spirit of the Belfast Harpers’ Assembly, while Oscar-nominated actor Stephen Rea will perform a selection of readings throughout the evening.

There will be a collaboration between Glengormley School of Traditional Music and Ards Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, members of Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band will perform solo pipe pieces and there will also be two special renditions from the 1st Old Boys’ Brass Band.

There will also be a unique performance of Slumdog Millionaire favourite Jai Ho from Mukesh Sharma and ArtsEkta, along with contributions from singers Gráinne Holland and Maurice Leyden.

TG4 Gradam Ceoil Bursary recipients Catriona Gribben, Ciara McGuire and Brendan Kerr will showcase their skills, before a special finale featuring soprano Petra Wells and her take on the classic Ae Fond Kiss, followed by an ensemble rendition of The Minstrel Boy.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy, said: “In what is a very special year for Belfast, I wanted to do my part to show how music, and culture in general, can be used positively to bring communities together and celebrate the ties that bind us.

“The Belfast Harpers’ Assembly was a fantastic opportunity back in 1792 not just for musicians to show off their skills, but also for Belfast to invite people here – to our city – to experience the amazing talent we have here.

“My hope is that my Croí na Cathrach – Heart of the City – event will do the same, celebrating our wealth of musical talent and showing how music can unite us in what promises to be a really fun and enjoyable evening for everyone who attends.”

To book tickets for Croí na Cathrach – Heart of the City – visit ulsterhall.co.uk from 9am on Friday 22 March.

Spring Fest is returning to Malone House and Barnett Demesne on Saturday 27 April and Sunday 28 April.

Organised by Belfast City Council, there’s a lot to see and do at this top free seasonal event.

Take a walk around the Spring Flower Show and view hundreds of prize blooms on display.

Enjoy live music and entertainment and a range of crafts and food stalls. There’ll be spring wreath-making, sunflower seed planting and foraging workshops to take part in.

Families can also bring their little ones to see the farmyard animals, enjoy a fairground or safari train ride as well as face-painting, a climbing wall and more.

The event will run from 1.30pm to 5.30pm on both days.

Launching the event at Barnett Demesne, Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy, said: “Spring Fest is always a wonderful outdoor family event in our parks to mark the season of spring – bringing thousands of people, of all ages, through the gates.

“I’m delighted it will be returning here in just a month’s time and hope everyone can get along to enjoy what’s on offer over the two days – and the best thing is that it’s a free event!”

There will be no parking on site during the event, but a free park and ride service will operate from nearby Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park. The first bus to leave Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park is at 1pm and the last bus to leave Barnett Demesne is at 5.45pm.

You can also take the Translink service bus from Donegall Square East in the city centre every 10 minutes on Saturday (Metro Bus 8A or 8B) and on Sunday every 30 minutes (Metro 8A). Check Translink website for more information at www.translink.co.uk

Dogs will not be permitted into the event area, with the exception of assistance dogs.  

Further information about the event is available on our website at www.belfastcity.gov.uk/events

Discover NI’s ultimate guide to Easter getaways in Northern Ireland

With the Easter holidays firmly on the horizon, families looking for unique ways to spend quality time together are hatching plans for the perfect break.

Easter Sunday falls on 31^st March this year and, with schools out for more than a week, it’s the ideal time to hop to it and make giants memories to last a lifetime.

In Northern Ireland, you’re always just a small step from a giant adventure. So, to help you plan your perfect Easter holiday, Discover NI has put together a few egg-citing ideas.

Be amazed in County Armagh

• Experience the wonders of the Universe and touch one of the largest meteroites at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium. Walk in the footsteps of ancient warriors and join Drippy the Dragon on the great dragon egg hunt at Navan Centre & Fort or, seek out fairies, spells and music in Slieve Gullion Forest Park. After a busy day egg-sploring, relax and enjoy the style, comfort and panoramic views found at Armagh City Hotel.

Dive in to County Down

• Make a splash this Easter and prepare to get wet at Lets Go Hydro Resort & Spa at Knockbracken Reservoir. Explore Castle Ward, its secret shore nature trail and the Georgian farmyard that doubled as Winterfell in the TV phenomenon Game of Thrones® or, put your survival skills to the test at Finnebrogue Woods. Rest and recharge in an enchanting underground cottage at Fairy River Glamping.

Find fun in County Fermanagh

• Hop on an e-bike, get off the beaten track and discover hidden tombs in your Electric Escape. Embrace the cosy comfort of an Island Discovery tour of Lough Erne, track down the eggs hidden by the Easter Bunny at Fermanagh Fun Farm and marvel at the cascading waterfall toppling down a 12m limestone cliff at Pollnagollum Cave in Belmore Forest. After a busy day, unwind at the luxurious Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel and Lodges.

Trek the trails of County Tyrone

• Have a cracking time as you climb the Hill of the O’Neill and Ranfurly House and immerse yourself in pivotal events that shaped the history of this island. Trek to Harry Avery’s 632 year-old castle and get your heart racing as you tackle the exhilarating and technical mountain bike trails at Blessingbourne Estate. Slow down and step back in time at the charming, self-catering thatched cottage Rosehill House.

Live it up in County Londonderry

• Every bunny will enjoy a hop along the Maiden city’s 400 year old Walls and a visit to the Tower Museum. Set sail on Northern Ireland’s longest riverboat – the M. V. Kingfisher – and explore the Best of the Bann or step into the inspirational Seamus Heany HomePlace. Rest your weary head at one of the city’s coolest boutique spots – The Shipquay Hotel.

Enjoy an adventure in County Antrim

• Check out the iconic ruin of Dunluce Castle, embrace panoramic views of the Causeway Coastal Route from Magheracross View Point or race down the dunes at Whiterocks Beach. Enjoy enchanting walks through ‘Historic Houses 2023 Garden of the Year’ at Glenarm Castle and embrace a rustic stay at Ballylagan Organic Farm Guesthouse. Alternatively, wake up to sea views with a stay at the historic Blackhead Lightkeeper’s House at Belfast Lough.

For more fantastic experiences in Northern Ireland that are perfect for your Easter getaway, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com