Author: whatsonni

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is encouraging visitors to explore spectacular walking routes in Ballycastle and the Glens of Antrim during the upcoming Walking Festival 2024 from Friday March 15 – Sunday March 17.

Local activity providers, Far and Wild will deliver the festival – now in its 4^th year – over a variety of stunning forest, mountain and clifftop trails, highlighting the unique history, heritage and mythology surrounding this location.

Launching the event, the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Steven Callaghan said: “The quality and variety of walking trails within our Borough is unsurpassed and the Causeway Coast and Glens Walking Festival provides a valuable opportunity for visitors to the destination and residents of the borough to discover the beauty of our mountain trails and coastal paths.

“I am delighted to welcome walking enthusiasts to discover our magnificent landscape and scenery, both on popular routes and lesser-known paths.”

Kerrie McGonigle, Council’s Destination Tourism Manager added: “The Causeway Coast and Glens Walking Festival 2024 further enriches the superb walking product available to visitors in the Borough and adds to the world class visitor experience that the Causeway Coastal Route offers.”

The Walking Festival begins on March 15, with ‘Fairy Lore and the Glens’, a moderate looped way marked walk on Ronan’s Way, taking in the historic landscape of one of the nine Glens of Antrim, Glendun.

This walk showcases the environmental and human heritage of the Glens and how local lore governs the ways native populations have interacted with landscape down the ages.

The second day of the Festival on March 16 explores ‘The Living Edge: Where the Land Meets the Sea’, along the dramatic cliff-scape at Fairhead and Murlough Bay, overlooking the Sea of Moyle.

This walk will illuminate the connection with Rathlin Island and the Scottish western seaboard through the ages, from the pre-Christian period to the modern era.

The final walk of the Causeway Coast and Glens Walking Festival on March 17 will take place on open country, trails and minor roads, on the challenging ascent to the summit of Lurigethan Mountain.

With ancient remains dating from neolithic times and beyond, ‘Settlement in an Iconic Landscape’ entwines history with glacial geology in a breathtaking location overlooking Waterfoot Bay and Cushendall.

Accompanied children over 12 years can be accommodated on these walks, but the adjacent high cliffs and steepness of the ascent should be noted by parents.

These walks are suitable for everyone with good fitness levels and walkers with prior hillwalking experience.

Waterproofs and hiking boots are required and a packed lunch with at least one litre of water is recommended.

The nature of the landscape determines that unfortunately dogs cannot be accommodated on these walks.

Each walk is £10 per person, including refreshments, and bookings can be made via https://www.farandwild.org/causeway-coast-and-glens-walking-festival.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Jennifer Gilmour, officially opened Dementia NI’s unique art exhibition at Ards Art Centre last week.

The Real Lives: The Art Of Living With Dementia exhibition is free to visit and runs until 24 February. It explores what it is like living with dementia in Northern Ireland while challenging widespread stigma about the condition.

The exhibition features pieces created by members of the Dementia NI charity, all of whom live with a diagnosis of dementia, and showcases captivating photography and striking patchwork quilts.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Jennifer Gilmour, said:

“There are over 20,000 people living with dementia across Northern Ireland, many of whom live in our Borough, and Age UK’s statistics suggest this could rise to 60,000 by 2050. Years of stigma and misunderstanding have led to common misconceptions about what it means to live with dementia but this exhibition sets out to challenge these misconceptions, transforming how people view the condition and starting conversations through the medium of art.”

The exhibition features patchwork quilts created during an online project organised by Dementia NI and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, to help local people with dementia stay active during lockdown. Working with Arts Council art tutors, Dementia NI members were encouraged to make their own heirloom quilts which tell the story of their lives.

Dementia NI member, Allison Batchelor, is exhibiting her patchwork quilt which she created to represent what is important in her life. She said:

“When you receive a diagnosis of dementia you believe your life is over and that it’s impossible to learn new skills. However, this isn’t the case. During lockdown, Dementia NI developed this amazing art project which was run via Zoom. Through this we learnt many new skills and produced first class artwork. We are challenging the public’s perception of what dementia looks like and are constantly endeavouring to break down stigma and barriers. This art project was so enjoyable, and I am very glad to have been involved.”

Claire-Rose Canavan, Dementia NI Empowerment Facilitator, said:

“This exhibition is really special to our members, and we are so thrilled they permitted us share it with the public. It shares a message of hope that many people with dementia are still able to enjoy life in the same way as before their diagnosis and live well with dementia. We warmly invite everyone to come along and view it for themselves.”

The free-to-attend exhibition is open Tuesdays to Fridays (10am – 4pm) and Saturdays (10am – 1pm) until 24 February. For more information, visit andculture.org.uk.

Join James Huish and his band for a romantic evening of swing and jazz this Valentine’s Day!

Songs from Sinatra, Michael Bublé, Dean Martin and Elvis Presley etc, in the new iconic Avenue Arts Centre on the Lisburn Road in Belfast. A beautiful building full of character, formerly an old church now transformed in to a stunning theatre space.

Immerse yourself in the timeless melodies and toe-tapping rhythms that defined an era. With his smooth and velvety voice, James and his 10 piece band will transport you back to the golden age of jazz, serenading you with soulful renditions of love songs that will make your heart flutter.

Whether you’re looking to impress your date or simply want to indulge in an enchanting musical experience, this concert is the perfect way to celebrate the most romantic day of the year. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable evening filled with passion, charm, and the irresistible magic of swing jazz. Book your tickets now and let James Huish and his band sweep you off your feet this Valentine’s Day!

Book your tickets now  at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/theavenueartscentre/t-jzmrnqo

Date:12th February 2024

Venue: The Avenue Arts Centre. Belfast.

Time: 8.00pm

Running time approx 2 hours

Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre is delighted to partner again with the Steinbeck Festival in 2024 to host a captivating program of events that celebrate the legacy of John Steinbeck through art, music, storytelling, and spoken word.

The festival promises a wonderful blend of cultural experiences for attendees of all ages, inviting them to immerse themselves in the literary world of Steinbeck.

The Steinbeck Festival 2024 kicks off with two engaging exhibitions: a display of book covers created by local primary school students and The Dustbowl Photography exhibition, which this year explores the theme ‘People’.

The timeless appeal of John Steinbeck’s works and his profound impact on the world of arts and culture will also be celebrated with a diverse range of live events, bringing together literature, film, music, and community engagement.

Mark Carruthers will engage in a thought-provoking conversation on Nobel Peace Prize laureate John Hume, with former BBC Journalist, and author of John Hume – The Persuader, Stephen Walker (2 Feb). Then, the Swingtime Starlets will transport the audience to the golden era of the 40s and 50s with an exceptional night of music on 24^th February.  Tickets for both these events can be booked at roevalleyarts.com

There will also be a number of free events, including a live link up with the National Steinbeck Center, Salinas, California where attendees will have the opportunity to view some of the centre’s East of Eden related articles. Following this Dr Linda McKeown (QUB) will discuss East of Eden in its social context and consider Steinbeck’s thinking behind writing the novel.

On 8^th February, come along for a captivating evening of verbal art by local poets and storytellers. Then, award-winning Northern Ireland film producer and screenwriter, Greer Ellison will give an illustration talk on 22^nd February, offering insights into his illustrious career, sharing clips from his latest film, providing a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of film and media.  Meanwhile, the Steinbeck Cafe in Drumceatt Square will host a lively Book Club discussion focused on Cannery Row on 27^th February.

Secondary school GCSE groups are invited to a special programme of exploration and learning, delving into the literary masterpiece Of Mice and Men. Following the discussion, participants will have the opportunity to enjoy a screening of the 1992 film adaptation and an introduction to the live music of the era by Allan Nicholl (21 and 22 Feb).

All bookings for events can be made online at roevalleyarts.com or by calling the box office on 028 7776 0650. Book is essential for free events.

The Arts Centre galleries are open throughout the festival as follows:

• Monday: CLOSED
• Tuesday: 9:30am – 5pm
• Wednesday: 9:30am – 5pm and 7pm – 9pm
• Thursday: 9:30am – 5pm and 7pm – 9pm
• Friday: 9:30am – 5pm
• Saturday: 10am – 1pm

For further information visit www.roevalleyarts.com

Dobbins Inn, County Antrim

This cosy Inn is one of the town’s oldest buildings. You can simply relax by the open log fire or explore the town’s Norman Castle that has dominated this part of Belfast Lough since the 12^th century. There’s lots to do in the area, from exploring the Causeway Coast, visiting the waterfall at Glenoe, or taking a walk to the Blackhead Lighthouse near Whitehead. Great food and a warm welcome await in the quaint Landings Restaurant. Avail of an overnight stay and a one course meal, with a hearty breakfast the next morning from £50 pp. Visit https://dobbinsinn.co.uk for more information.

Walsh’s Hotel, County Derry~Londonderry

Nestled at the foot of the Sperrins in the town of Maghera, this hotel is a great base to explore the lovely scenery of Mid-Ulster and County Derry~Londonderry. The hotel is offering a Children’s Adventure Package where you can spend the day at the nearby Jungle NI watching your little treasures have the time of their lives at the Treetop Adventure before heading back to the cosy comfort of the hotel’s Helena’s Bistro, where the kids can eat free. Then enjoy a great family breakfast the next morning.  From £256 based on two adults and two children. Visit https://www.walshshotel.com for more information.

Lough Erne Resort, County Fermanagh

Escape to this five-star resort, located minutes from the island town of Enniskillen. Nestled on a 600-acre peninsula between Castle Hume Lough and Lower Lough Erne, it has spectacular views of the Fermanagh Lakelands and The Faldo Course. This hotel has welcomed many a celebrity and world leader. Why not feel special and pamper yourself at The Thermal Suite and Infinity pool at the Thai Spa, complimentary for all hotel guests. Then tuck into a delicious meal at the Loughside Grill. There is a wonderful Irish breakfast to enjoy the next morning, paired with memorable views. You can stay in a lodge or suite as part of this Stay and Dine deal for £269 per room based on two people sharing (Sun- Thurs). Visit https://www.lougherneresort.com for more information.

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

-Fun For All the Family this February at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium –

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium has announced a number of events to take place from Thursday 15^th until Sunday 25^th of February as part of NI Science Festival 2024.

These will include:

Experience the Calver Telescope tour, which will run at various times on Thursday 15^th February. The event will see Armagh Observatory and Planetarium open its largest telescope dome to the public. The organisation has been conducting astronomical research for over 200 years, and these amazing telescopes are something to behold. Discover the difference between historic and modern telescopes during this unique event.

The Data Visualisation Laboratory (DVL) tour, for which public drop-in sessions will occur throughout Thursday 15^th and Friday 16^th of February. The Data Visualisation Lab brings the immersive experience of the planetarium dome to you, providing tools for the visualisation of three-dimensional data sets.

Check out the event’s public demonstrations, where you can talk with an astronomer while embarking on tours of the Cosmos using Armagh Observatory and Planetarium’s panoramic display and the Digistar computer that it uses to generate the planetarium’s shows.

The Ultimate Bubble Show event, which runs at various times throughout Friday 16^th and Saturday 17^th February. Experience the best in soap bubble entertainment! Join Ray, International Bubbleologist and Guinness World Record Holder, and help him in his quest to complete the bubble game and create the ultimate square bubble.

This is a fast-paced, energetic show that’s full of surprises, with Ray using various different gases to create incredible bubble sculptures, effects and magical displays. Watch in amazement as he creates a volcano bubble, a soap bubble carousel, a bubble ghost and even a tornado inside a bubble!

This month in Astronomy: Director’s Cut dome show, which runs at 2pm on Friday 16^th February. Join the Director of Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, Professor Michael Burton, for a live planetarium show where he discusses the latest in astronomy.

Go on a guided tour of the Cosmos, taking in the planets, stars, and galaxies. Take a look at interesting objects in the night sky and examine the latest news in astronomy. The show will also feature a Question and Answer session, so feel free to ask Michael any burning questions.

Little Astronomers event, which runs at 10am on Friday 23^rd February and is suitable for children under 5 years old. Transport your Little Astronomers into the exciting world of science!

Start with the toddler dome show, Astronaut George, followed by hands on activities and explore Armagh Observatory and Planetarium’s state of the art sensory room. During the full dome show, George investigates the best planet to live on and the dangers lurking on the surface of other planets in our Solar System. But will he find any alien friends to play with? Find out in this inter-planetary adventure!

Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon Music Dome Show, which runs on Saturday 24^th February at 4pm. The album was 50 last year and has sold 50 million copies since its launch in 1973.

Celebrate the anniversary by experiencing the album set to stunning 360 degree visuals of our Solar System and beyond in this brand-new full dome show.

Our World from Space Saturday Club, which runs on Saturday 24^th February at 10am and is perfect for Key Stage 2 children. Embark on a captivating journey through the wonders of our home planet, as seen from space, at this family friendly event.

Explore the vital roles of satellites in monitoring the Earth’s ever-changing surface and learn together with your child at this fun and interesting club!

CapCom Go! Dome Show, which runs on Sunday 25^th February at 4pm. Translated into British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language, CapCom Go is an immersive, historical documentary that showcases the achievements of the Apollo programme and what it took to put the first human on the Moon.

It introduces a new generation to the immense challenges that were overcome and aims to inspire the STEM leaders of the future!

Sinead Mackle, Education and Outreach Manager at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, says, “At Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, we deliver internationally-recognised research in astronomy and related sciences and vibrant educational and outreach programmes for all ages.

“We have been engaging with the NI Science Festival since it began and it is a pleasure to take part again in 2024.

“This year’s programme of events will showcase some of our most popular dome shows and experiences, along with new events, such as our Calver Telescope tour and the This Month in Astronomy: Director’s Cut with Professor Michael Burton.

“We hope that these events will help to inspire the STEM leaders of tomorrow and look forward to welcoming visitors to this exciting, family friendly calendar of events.”

To book tickets for these events, visit: https://armaghobservatoryplanetarium.ticketsolve.com