Author: whatsonni

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 20-27 November

  1. Armagh Georgian Weekend, Armagh, County Armagh, 24-26 November. Step back in time as the Georgian Festival returns to this elegant city of saints and scholars. Delve into the city’s history through the buildings, characters, and customs of the 18th Century. Hear the clip clop on horses’ hooves on the mall, listen to musicians and meander through the streets filled with the smell of spices and chestnuts. There’ll be an array of sumptuous food, wonderful crafts, and street entertainment, all set against the elegant backdrop of Armagh.
  1. RUA Annual Exhibition, Belfast, County Antrim, 20-27 November. Come along to the Ulster Museum and see the wealth of local and global talent on offer. The Royal Ulster Academy is back and has over 300 pieces of art all using a diverse range of materials to inspire. You can even buy a work that takes your fancy as a truly exclusive Christmas gift! Free to attend and no booking necessary.
  2. C.S. Lewis Festival, Belfast, County Antrim, 24-26 November. Celebrate the legacy of this beloved author C.S Lewis as The Square named in his honour will be transformed into a winter wonderland, hosting a delightful array of family-friendly Narnia and Christmas-themed activities. There’ll be an outdoor screening of The Polar Express, and an enchanting market, storytelling from the White Witch, sensory play sessions and much more. The nearby St. Mark’s Church in Dundela, where the author was christened by his grandfather will commemorate the 60th anniversary of Lewis’ death with a free tour of the church.
  3. Mind Of Sound – In the Heart of The Cave, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 25 November. This wellness experience in the fabulous Marble Arch Caves is truly memorable. This sound bath is a powerful and transformative experience using a gong, drumming, and harmonic singing. Musician Andy Tyler is a member of the UK College of Sound Healing and brings a contemporary approach to rhythmic entrainment with meditative sessions that are deeply relaxing and memorable. Check website for availability.
  4. Mission Santa, Armagh, County Armagh, 25 November- December. Prepare to blast off on a Christmas adventure at the Armagh Planetarium and Observatory. Join the E.L.F crew for an immersive Christmas Experience which includes admission to ‘The Alien Who stole Christmas’ full-dome show, a visit to see Santa and a gift for each child. Take away a family photograph as a memento. Each mission will last up to two hours with selected late-night availability. Booking essential. Check website for availability.
  1. Enchanted Winter Garden, Antrim, County Antrim, 17-19 November. As the winter sun sets over Lough Neagh, Antrim Castle Gardens comes to life with a magical Christmas experience for all the family. Visit the Wonderland Wood with twinkling lights, drop in to see Santa, enjoy the rides and attractions and mouth-watering Christmas fayre. Check website for availability.
  1. Sloe Gin and Soda Farl Making, Bellaghy, County Londonderry, 24 November. In this immersive class you will make your own griddled soda farls before making your own individual jar of infused sloe gin. The sloes have been locally foraged in and around Bellaghy. Take home what you make after enjoying a light supper of Irish stew. Booking essential, only available for over 18’s.
  2. Columbanus Community Folk Festival 2023, Bangor, County Down, 25 November. A festival of workshops in various locations across Bangor will celebrate the Irish missionary who hailed from the town. Learn about the story of Columbanus, poetry and writings of the monastic scribes, and join a session of foot tapping, traditional Irish music provided by special guests Ards CCE musicians. Booking essential for all events.
  1. Santa’s Island Adventure, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 25 November- December. Located on an enchanting island in the heart of Enniskillen. Hop onboard the water sleigh at Broadmeadow Enniskillen and prepare for a festive experience for all to enjoy! Help the elves before joining Santa in his enchanting Nordic Grotto. Decorate your own Christmas Bauble, and trek along the North Pole Walk. Enjoy the magical lights and Christmas views and maybe even call into the coffee shop for a wee treat before heading home with a host of memories. Allow two hours of this experience. Check website for availability.
  2. Vintage & Handmade Christmas Fair, Omagh, County Tyrone, 26 November. Come along to the Silverbirch Hotel for Tyrone’s biggest indoor Christmas Vintage & Handmade Fair. There’ll be all sorts of collectables, retro clothing, records, handmade crafts, antiques, and jewellery. There’ll also be great food on offer to fuel hungry shoppers! A lovely venue for lovers of begone treasures and curios.

 

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

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Glenavon House Hotel, County Tyrone

This three-star hotel on the edge of Cookstown offers a haven for happy holiday makers. Set in nine acres of mature grounds overlooking the Ballinderry River, it’s a great place to explore Northern Ireland, or to just relax and avail of its leisure facilities and pool. Spoil yourself this Sunday with a seasonal getaway. From £85 per person sharing a double room B&B with a £20 per person dinner allowance in the Cellar restaurant. Visit https://glenavonhotel.com/ for more information.

Belmore Court and Motel, County Fermanagh

Escape to Enniskillen and enjoy this four-star guest accommodation. As part of a two-night stay, you can explore the delights of this area from its castle and caves to the famous Stairway to Heaven. There is no bar or restaurant onsite, but this allows you to experience the eateries and bars that are all within walking distance.  As part of the Taste the Island experience, you can enjoy a hot buffet each morning and one evening meal per person in a choice of the town’s top restaurants – WV bar, The Firehouse, The Crowes Nest, The Horseshoe and Saddlers Bar and Grill. From £109 per person sharing. Visit https://www.motel.co.uk/ for more information.

The Orchard, County Down

This newly opened, four bed room self-catering property is nestled in the heart of Newcastle and offers the last word in comfort. The property includes comfortable beds, luxury linen, and rain showers complete with top end toiletries. The professional grade kitchen will be adored by the chef in the group. Additional touches include crystal glassware and a Nespresso coffee machine. Set in the heart of the magical Mournes, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Book three nights and get one night half price. Visit https://www.staymourne.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/

BELFAST CHRISTMAS MARKET MAKES A WELCOME RETURN AND  CELEBRATES ITS 18TH YEAR AT CITY HALL

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The gates to Belfast’s largest festive event will open at 12noon on Saturday the 18th of November

With over 1million visitors expected from across the UK and Ireland, the Belfast Christmas Market has become a significant contributor to the local economy, regularly generating an economic impact in the city in excess of £80m, demonstrating the citywide benefit of the award-winning event.

Allan Hartwell, Managing Director of Market Place Europe Ltd said:

‘As we celebrate our 18th year in Belfast, we have been looking back at the relationships we have built, the charities we have supported and the 1000’s of children we have welcomed on our free school tours. We and our traders have long held Belfast in high regard, and we are very excited  to be returning to the city to deliver this very special event.’

With international and local traders in the annually built festive village, the event offers something for everyone and is one of the most diverse markets in the UK. Traders representing up to 30 nationalities from across the globe offer a variety of authentic cuisines such as bite-size Dutch pancakes, delicious vegan Greek gyros and delicious hand-crafted chocolates and sweet treats. Carefully curated handcrafted goods and bespoke artisan products provide great choice for those hopeful of ticking off that all-important Christmas shopping list. Visitors can also wind down and treat themselves in one of the bars serving local and continental drinks, or with a tasty hot glühwein from Kochem’s in the food court, a great place to people watch and take in the magical sights, smells and sounds of the market.

As part of the 18th birthday celebrations, the food court will be home to a bespoke designed Q Radio DJ booth, with local DJ’s broadcasting live across Northern Ireland with live music, chat and festive tunes.

The much-loved carousel will provide a memorable treat for young children and parents and vintage Helter Skelter returns, offering breathtaking views across the market and a thrilling slide back to street level for those who dare!

With an increase in local offering at this year’s market, support for local food and craft continues with several popular St George’s Market traders joining in the festive fun. Some local favorites will also be returning including Pappas Minerals and Tapitas, Rossi’s Ice Cream and the Toasted Marshmallow stall.

This year Belfast Christmas Market is proud to be supporting one of the Lord Mayor’s charities, Kids Together Belfast. The charity works tirelessly on behalf of children with severe to moderate disabilities, as well as providing emotional and financial support to their families and carers. Operating Santa’s Grotto, Kids Together Belfast, will be working closely with local charity, Friends of St Gerards and Belfast Christmas Market to deliver a Quiet Room within the market. The Quiet Room will offer a calming sensory space for those who need a momentary escape from festive overstimulation and the hustle and bustle of the market. Visitors can request use of this calm space by visiting the management office.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy said:

‘For many people from Belfast and beyond, no visit to the city centre is complete at

Christmas without a stop by City Hall for a bite to eat or a browse through the Belfast

Christmas Market stalls.

I’m so pleased that one of my charities, Kids Together Belfast, will be further enhancing this year’s visitor experience through their Santa’s Grotto and the addition of a safe, quiet space for families, while the mix of local and international traders combines to deliver a great offering for both shoppers and visitors.  With the return of our own Christmas lights switch-on event at City Hall once again on Saturday 18 November, along with seasonal events planned for our 2 Royal Avenue venue, there’ll be plenty to see and do in Belfast this festive season.

“The market is hugely popular and its arrival always heralds the start of the festive season for the city. It’s lovely to take a stroll through the stalls, soaking up the atmosphere and taking in all those delicious smells. And every weekend in the run-up to Christmas, we’ll have lots of free festive fun for families so, young or old, if you’re coming in to visit the market, shopping, having a bite to eat or just to see the Christmas lights, there’ll be plenty to see and do.”

This year’s winners of the popular young business competition Jolly Big Business Boost, Bathe Botanicals, will be making the most of their free chalet at the market to offer unique artisan soap, bath and body products with a Northern Irish twist. These refreshing, fun soaps are made using popular tipples such as Buckfast, Irish stout, beer, cider and Irish coffee. Bathe Botanical owner, Christine McCaughey, uses natural ingredients such as essential oils and coconut milk to create soothing, cruelty-free, vegan products.

To keep track of Christmas Market news, and the ever-important weather updates, follow the official Facebook, Instagram and TikTok page at Belfast Continental Christmas Market. Keep an eye out for our fabulous social media activity in conjunction with our media partners Q Radio, who will be offering spot prizes and lots of opportunities to engage.

Belfast Christmas Market will open in the gardens of Belfast City Hall at 12noon on Saturday 18 November and run until 6pm on Friday 22 December.

Opening hours are:

Monday – Wednesday 10am – 8pm

Thursday – Saturday 10am – 10pm

Sunday 12noon – 6pm

BELFAST AUTHOR DEBUTS NOVEL

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Belfast Author Clare Gallagher has debuted her first novel. A moving story of friendship across the miles. ‘Birds of a Feather Flock Together’ takes readers from one side of the Atlantic to the other as the main character Cat embarks on a year of study in a US college.

Speaking at the launch of the novel, Clare Gallagher, said: “I’m a passionate writer and I’ve always thought that one day I would write a book. It’s been burning in me for years. Then during lockdown I decided to put pen to paper and here we are. I’ve launched my first novel and it’s been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life.”

Clare Gallagher Author is pictured at the launch of her debut novel, Birds of a Feather Flock Together. Available now from Amazon.

‘Birds of a Feather Flock Together’ is inspired by Clare’s own experience of meeting a lifelong friend at the tender age of 20 and despite the miles between them, the two have remained firm friends for more than 20 years.

Clare added: “I was inspired from my own experiences for the book’s main character Cat to find a friend for life. Someone who she would share a fun year in college with but someone who would be there for her throughout her life. I think I’ve achieved that as her relationship with her college roommate Alex blossoms into something extremely special for both of them.”

There’s fun, humour, chaos and flirting but at the heart of the novel is the tale of a deep friendship. The story centres around Cat, a fun-loving, free-spirited Dubliner who enjoys pints with the lads and is very much a city girl but has never experienced America before. And Alex, an all-American, blonde-haired Californian, who lives in a small town just outside San Francisco who has never been out of her own county before. Both are living away from home for the first time, and they enjoy their college experience to the fullest and all the drama that goes with it.

Cat and Alex begin a hilarious adventure which sees them navigate college life, sticking together through thick and thin, highs and lows, good times and bad times. They are always there for each other and come to realise the value of a true friendship that will last a lifetime.

‘Birds of a Feather Flock Together’ has already received rave reviews since going on sale on November 1. To purchase your copy, please visit https://www.amazon.co.uk/Birds-Feather-Flock-Together-Gallagher/dp/1739481194

 

Offers of the Week

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La Mon Hotel and Country Club, County Down.

This wonderful four-star venue is perfectly located near the city and the stunning countryside of County Down. There is plenty of guest parking, lovely gardens to wander around and a great spa with a 15 ft pool, gym, and steam room. You can choose from either the Mill Restaurant or Charlie’s Bistro and lounge which both use the best of fresh local produce with a modern twist. From £200 per room B&B with a £25 dining credit per person. You can also enjoy a complimentary liqueur coffee and shortbread, just to round things off nicely. Visit https://www.lamon.co.uk/ for more information.

The Adair Arms Hotel, County Antrim.

Located in the bustling heart of Ballymena, this beautiful building was designed by the Queen’s University architect, Charles Lanyon. There is a range of wonderful rooms on offer to choose from. You can get stocked up on your Christmas shopping and then relax with a lovely three course dinner at the Adair Bar and Grill, which is included in the price. Finish your stay with a hearty Irish breakfast the next morning. From £199 B&B per room per night with a three-course meal for two. Visit https://www.adairarms.com/ for more information.

Ardtara Country House Hotel, County Derry~Londonderry.

Built by the linen mill owner Harry Clark, this beautiful county house in the lovely setting of the Upperlands villages exudes quiet elegance. Relax into the winter with a Sunday night stay complete with a two-course dinner paired with wine, a delicious Irish breakfast served until 11 am, coupled with a late checkout. Visit https://www.ardtara.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/

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 13-19 November

  1. Belfast Christmas Market, Belfast, County Antrim, 18 November. This festive village makes a welcome return to the City Hall. It’s 18 years since it first added extra sparkle to the city’s skyline. Traders, representing up to 30 nationalities from across the globe, offer a variety of authentic international food, everything from Greek gyros to bite-size Dutch pancakes. There is an array of handcrafted goods and artisan products which will cover many a wish list! Visitors can spend the day or wind down after work with a glühwein, hot chocolate or local brew. A wonderful way to take in the magic of a Belfast Christmas.
  1. Foyle Film Festival, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 17-26 November.  Established in 1987, this event brings the best of cinema and industry players to venues across the city. Over ten days the festival will bring together all the expertise of the local Nerve Centre in film, music, creative learning, and culture, in a unique celebration of local, national, and international cinematic excellence.
  2. The Magical Christmas Shop & Experience, Coalisland, County Tyrone, throughout November. Enjoy the Magical Grotto experience which is great fun for adults and children alike. Full of fantastic props, sets and special effects, including a wonderful, simulated train journey and theatre shows including animatronic elves. Then, get the chance to meet Santa in his courtyard. There’s also a wonderful Christmas shop with decorations from around the globe. Check website for availability.
  3. Festive Fair, County Antrim, 14-15 November. Get yourself in the mood for all things festive from unique handmade crafts to delicious homemade treats. This event will be held in the drawing room and ballroom of the Magheramourne Estate, creating the perfect ambiance for a delightful Christmas experience. Discover the perfect gifts for your loved ones or treat yourself to something special while supporting local businesses. Enjoy live Christmas entertainment and fabulous festive food from Jane’s Kitchen pop-up café.  Check website for availability.
  4. Indigenous History Month: Curator-led Tour, Omagh, County Tyrone, 19 November. Want to find out more about the link between Ireland, Irish migrants, and Indigenous Native Americans? The Ulster American Folk Park will give you lots of answers with this curator lead talk and tour to mark Indigenous History Month. There will also be the chance to look at the Murmuration’s art piece which was created in part with help Indigenous Native Americans.
  1. Guildhall Craft Fair, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 17-19 November. Celebrating its 29th anniversary, this event showcases an exquisite range of bespoke craft and artisan food producers from across the island. This is the perfect way to get the creative and present giving juices flowing before the festive season gets into full swing!
  1. The William Kennedy Piping Festival, Armagh, County Armagh, November 16. An international festival of bagpipe-based traditional music which celebrates the legacy of a blind craftsman from Tandragee, near Armagh. William Kennedy, who died in early 19th made several important innovations in the design of uilleann pipes. Beginning as a one-off event in the early 1990’s it is now a firm fixture in the city’s autumn calendar.
  2. Boutinot Wine Evening at Culloden Estate, Holywood, County Down, 16 November. This special event will be held at The Culloden Estate & Spa alongside Julien Dugas, winemaker at Boutinot Winery. A drink’s reception will kick off the evening followed by a sumptuous six course tasting menu using locally sourced produce which will be accompanied by specially paired wines. Cooked by Executive Head Chef Mark Begley and served in the opulent surroundings of the Vespers restaurant.
  3. Clement McAleer Exhibition, Banbridge, County Down, throughout November. The F.E. McWilliam Gallery is presenting a major exhibition of Northern Irish painter, Clement McAleer. Born in County Tyrone, McAleer studied in Belfast, Canterbury and the Royal College of Art and was based in Liverpool for 25 years before returning to Northern Ireland. Don’t miss the chance to view the wonderful works of art inspired by the landscapes of the Irish coast.
  1. Lough Navar Magho Cliffs, Derrygonnelly, County Fermanagh. Part of Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark this walk is demanding but well worth the effort! This steep climb of around 700 feet consists of 370 steps. Take advantage of the benches on the way to rest and enjoy the beautiful woodland scenery. This limestone escarpment overlooks the western reaches of Lower Lough Erne and offers wonderful panoramic views as far as Donegal. A great way to blow away the cobwebs!

 

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

Council set to mark Ulster-Scots Language Week 2023 with music, poetry and chat

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Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is set to host a series of events to mark Ulster-Scots Language Week from 20-24 November, 2023

Coordinated by the Ulster Scots Agency, ‘Ulster Scotch Leid Week’ aims to promote greater awareness of the Ulster Scots language and celebrate the contribution which Ulster Scots makes to our local area and communities.

The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Steven Callaghan said: “This year’s programme of events to mark Ulster Scots Language Week highlights the importance of the Ulster-Scots in our local culture, heritage and tradition. Ulster-Scots tradition can be heard in towns, shops and cafes across our Borough.  It is highly important to local people, helping to give them a sense of belonging and place.”

The week of activities commences on Monday, 20 November at 7pm in The Fuse Centre Ballymoney, with an evening of poems, verses and stories from Chalie Gillen, Councillor Ivor Wallace and Alan Millar.

On Tuesday, 21 November at 7pm in Tilly Molloy Centre, Liam Logan, a native Ulster-Scots speaker and an enthusiast promoter of Ulster-Scots, will give a talk on Ulster Scots and explore how it is an integral part of our shared linguistic and cultural heritage. There will be tunes and music from renowned local musician Dick Glasgow.

Then on Thursday, 23 November in Kilrea, there will be more tunes, stories and songs featuring Dick Glasgow and friends, with a talk by Liam Logan. This will be held in Kilrea Orange Hall, New Row, Kilrea at 7.30pm with light refreshments served.

Gerard McIlroy, Good Relations Officer at Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council said: “As part of the Hear Here project, we are delighted to run these events to mark Ulster Scots Week. This project aims to promote the use of the Ulster-Scots language across the Borough.  We hope that many will take the opportunity to come to these events and explore Ulster Scots and the range of talent we have in our community.”

For those who were unable to attend the events, Fuse FM will have coverage over live on their radio station. Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council will also be adding information across their social media channels.

The events received financial support from The Executive Office as part of the District Councils Good Relations Programme and supports the T:BUC strategy (Together Building a United Community).

Celebrate Christmas with Festive Arts Events in Ards and North Down

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Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Arts and Heritage Service has some fantastic festive events on offer this Christmas season.

Shoppers are invited to two unique festive shopping experiences where they can browse and purchase beautiful, handcrafted products created by local artists and makers. The special events which will be located in North Down Museum, Bangor and Ards Arts Centre, Newtownards are sure to offer ideal Christmas gifts.

North Down Museum’s Pop-Up Christmas Shop takes place from Wednesday 22 November to Sunday 7 January. The museum’s galleries with be festively decorated and filled with stunning, hand-made products, the perfect place to get that special gift whilst supporting local artists. The shop is free to explore during museum opening hours.

On Thursday 30 November, the museum is hosting a special Late Night Shopping Event where visitors can browse the galleries and buy unique presents in a completely different way. The event will also feature live music and artists demonstrations.

The Creative Peninsula Christmas Fayre makes a welcome return to Ards Arts Centre on Friday 1 and Saturday 2 December, exclusively featuring artwork and handcrafted produce made by the Creative Peninsula Artists. For a unique shopping experience, visitors can browse the artworks and be inspired to purchase a wonderful, handcrafted Christmas gift, made in the borough of Ards and North Down. Seasonal interludes, complimentary gift wrapping and festive refreshments will also be on offer. The Christmas Fayre is on 4pm – 8pm on Friday 1 and 10am – 4pm on Saturday 2 December. Admission is free.

Kids will love Little Miss Muffet’s Christmas Adventure at the Queen’s Hall, Newtownards on Saturday 9 December at 2pm and 6.30pm. Presented by Centre Stage Company, this hilarious Christmas tale with catchy songs and simple effects is guaranteed to have children shrieking with delighted. Tickets are on sale now and cost £8.

A Christmas Night at the Movies will be an enchanting evening of Christmas and movie favourites, taking place in the beautiful Chamber Room in Bangor Castle on Thursday 14 December. Performed and hosted by one of Northern Ireland’s finest vocalists and Bangor’s own Michelle Baird, the concert will feature much loved hits and themes from popular films including Elf, Love Actually and Home Alone as well as West End and chart favourites and Christmas classics. Joining Michelle will be the talented pianist Steve Barnett, along with Stephen McClenahan on guitar and other guest performers. Tickets cost £15 including festive refreshments.

Speaking about the events, Emily Crawford, Arts and Heritage Manager for Ards and North Down Borough Council said: We have something for everyone this Christmas with opportunities to purchase unique handcrafted gifts, festive fun for all the family at our Christmas show with Centre Stage Theatre Company and an atmospheric evening of music at Bangor Castle with the wonderful Michelle Baird that’s guaranteed to get you into the seasonal spirit!

For more information to book tickets visit: www.andculture.org.uk

The award-winning Maxwell Quartet performing at The Playhouse Theatre this month

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Hailing from Scotland, the award-winning Maxwell Quartet will perform across NI for the first time this November, with a performance at the Playhouse Theatre Derry on Thursday 23rd November.

Now firmly regarded as one of the finest young string quartets around, Maxwell Quartet are a group in high demand. Performing regularly across the UK, Europe and the USA, the quartet have wide-ranging projects and programmes, constantly expanding the string quartet repertoire. With a strong connection to their folk music heritage, the Maxwell Quartet sound is instantly recognisable.

The concert programme will feature Haydn’s String Quartet in E flat no.1, Beethoven’s String Quartet in C sharp minor, Op 131 and ‘Gather’, a selection of Scottish folk music arrangements from their most recent album.

The quartet’s performances have garnered rave reviews from The Guardian, The Strad, New York Times, Gramophone, BBC Radio 3 to name a few. This promises to be a wonderful concert of chamber music, celebrating two giants of the string quartet medium and the connections their music has to folk music.

Tickets are £15/10 concession and available from www.derryplayhouse.co.uk or 02871 268027

 

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 6-12 November

  1. ONÓIR, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 11 November. Experience the exceptional Donegal musicians; Tom McHugh, Declan Gaughan, Deane Connaghan, and Diarmaid McGee harmonising live from The Playhouse. These talented musicians with distinctive vocal styles are setting new standards with incredible musical arrangements and harmonies that make them so unique. From their new take on traditional Irish ballads all the way through to up-tempo modern Irish classics. Enjoy the onstage chemistry, excitement, and banter in a show not to be missed!
  1. Sound of Belfast, Belfast, County Antrim, 9-12 November.  This annual celebration turns the spotlight on what this UNESCO City of Music has to offer. Belfast is one of only three in the UK! This festival is bursting at the seams with a mixture of collaborative, independent and partnership events hosted by Belfast’s musicians, creatives and artists. You can take in a show (or several), support your local music venue and artists, take part in a workshop, join a conversation, or learn more about the music business. There is something at Sound of Belfast for all musical tastes, curiosities, and interests.
  2. Traditional Irish Breadmaking, Killinchy, County Down, 11 November. Join Tracey in her kitchen on the shores of breathtaking Strangford Lough in County Down. You’ll be welcomed into her home with the aroma of homemade Fruit Soda Bannock as it comes out of the oven. You’ll enjoy this sweet treat with some award-winning Irish butter.  Then it’s time for some Griddle Bread making! Aprons on and you’ll make traditional breads – Soda breads, Wheaten and Potato, all made the traditional way.
  3. Fermanagh Pride Drag Weekend Extravaganza, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh,10-11 November. Fermanagh Pride has organised a two night drag weekend fundraising extravaganza. This weekend is packed with fabulous events including a drag cabaret and disco by local John Hamilton as drag ‘Viva La Diva’ and his Bar Pop team all way from Canal St, Manchester. There will also be appearances from the iconic Manchester drag queen ‘Gypsy Darling’. Gypsy along with the Brian Boru Ceili Dancers will be welcoming beginners to join in on the Big Gay Ceili on Saturday night.
  4. Wild Atlantic Distillery Gin School & Distillery Tour, Castlederg, County Tyrone, 10-11 November. Learn the craft of making a spirit under the guidance of award-winning master distillers and discover the origins of the botanicals including kelp and dillisk, that are hand harvested from the Wild Atlantic Ocean. Over a light meal, savour a gin and tonic served with a lunch of artisan breads, cheeses, and charcuterie. Indulge in artisan gin, great local food, the wild surroundings, and a story or two along the way.
  1. Two Stacks Whiskey – Premium Blending Experience, Newry, County Armagh, 11 November. Discover what makes Two Stacks Irish Whiskey so unique. On this tour you will learn the history of blending and bonding in Ireland, the art of blending whiskey, and how to use Two Stacks in your favourite drinks at home. Enjoy a combination of informative discussion, hands-on whiskey blending experience, and sample some delicious whiskey cocktails.
  1. Autumn Woodland Walk, Comber, County Down, 11-12 November. Join an expert guide for a delightful dander in the woodland this weekend. Take in the fresh autumnal air and discover some of the woodland’s secrets from the life of the trees to the multitude of creatures both big and small who call this woodland home. This tour will begin in the Wild Wood play area.
  2. The Ark Open Farm, Newtownards, County Down, throughout November. The Ark Open Farm is a fantastic family day out set in 40 acres of beautiful countryside between Newtownards and Bangor. This family run farm has been open for over 30 years and promises to be a fun-filled family day out for all. Enjoy a wide range of farm animals and exotic residents, indoor and outdoor play areas, nature trails, cafe, and gift shop. There is something for everyone!
  3. Loving Cup Arrives at Titanic Belfast, Belfast, County Antrim, 6 November. Don’t miss the opportunity to see ‘one of the most iconic objects relating to the Titanic disaster’, The Loving Cup, at Titanic Belfast. The Loving Cup was presented to Arthur Rostron, the Captain of RMS Carpathia, which came to the rescue of over 700 surviving passengers and crew the night of Titanic’s sinking on May 29th, 1912. This limited time artifact will be display in the atrium, completely free for all to experience.
  1. Film as Art: Brian Desmond Hurst, Film Director exhibition, Belfast, County Antrim, throughout November. As Northern Ireland’s film industry thrives and continues to attract investment and creativity, now is an apt time to celebrate the life and work of a man who is often hailed as one of Northern Ireland’s best film directors, Brian Desmond Hurst (1895-1986). This exhibition will display film posters, invitations, lobby cards, original press clippings from Hurst’s own scrapbooks, film footage and photographs. Don’t miss this showcase of Hurst’s remarkable achievements.

Booking is essential for most activities. 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/

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