Author: whatsonni

NEW TOUR EXPERIENCE UNLOCKS BELFAST’S UNTOLD STORIES AND MELODIES

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A pioneering travel company, set up by a father on his paternity leave, is launching its inaugural tour promising to uncover a side of Belfast rarely found in tourist books.

The brainchild of Gareth Maguire, Unheard Adventures was conceived and built by the Belfast native after the birth of his first child in 2022 when he took five weeks paternity leave from his role in tech.  Gareth’s focus is on curating hidden gems and vibrant cultural experiences for travellers seeking immersive and unique experiences.

The Belfast Traditional Music Trail is a unique way to experience Irish music. With two professional musicians as your guides you will be treated to a performance of traditional tunes, songs and stories, all of which make up your own personal ‘session’.

The company’s first tour is “Belfast- the then and now” a two-part experience taking place on Saturday July 8th which promises an unforgettable journey through Belfast’s rich history and vibrant cultural and traditional musical scene.

The tour begins with a Belfast political history tour, led by knowledgeable locals who lived, worked and fought during the turbulent Troubles from the 1960s through to the late 90s. Men and women will share their personal stories and explain how religion, rebellion, politics, and conflict shaped their experiences and the cityscape, uncovering the intriguing murals that narrate the area’s local history and culture.

Following a stop for lunch in Belfast’s trendy and vibrant Cathedral quarter, participants then embark on the Belfast Traditional Music trail, with two professional musicians as guides.

Here they will be treated to a performance of captivating Irish tunes, songs and stories, as they walk through cobbled alleyways, past iconic landmarks and on to three different bars housed in some of the city’s oldest buildings, where they can enjoy a local beer, cider, whiskey or Guinness.

Each pub visit unveils a new musical dimension, with different instruments taking the spotlight, offering a unique insight into the similarities and differences between Belfast and Scottish music, as well as the distinctiveness of Irish melodies from various regions.

The tour, which costs £80 per person, will commence at 10:30am beside the famous Europa Hotel on Great Victoria Street, concluding at 5:30 pm.

Participants can prolong their stay with a special overnight rate at the Europa or Grand Central hotel from £100 per night on both Friday and Saturday.

“In 2022, while on paternity leave, I approached my friend, Matt Lynch to develop the idea for Unheard Adventures. We both share a passion for storytelling and for our hometown, Belfast, despite residing in different parts of the world – Dublin and Dubai,” says Gareth.

“Our aim is to create unforgettable memories and invite travellers to embark on off-the-beaten-path journeys that go beyond the ordinary. Our inaugural tour on Saturday July 8th promises something very different to what’s available right now in a city bursting with history and culture.”

You can reserve your spot by visiting www.unheardadventures.com/product/belfast/

 

Walled City Music brings 35 pianists to Derry for 2023 International Piano Festival

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Walled City Music will be welcoming over 30 pianists to Derry on Sunday, for the 2023 edition of its International Piano Festival. Festival Director Derry-born Cathal Breslin, acclaimed concert pianist and professor at Arizona State University, will be joined by an international faculty of tutors at Ulster University, Magee, as they lead 25 piano students through a packed schedule of masterclasses, workshops and concerts from July 10-17, 2023.

The Festival’s student body represents the world’s up and coming generation of young pianists, bringing talent together from nationalities including Ireland, UK, Europe, USA, Taiwan, China, Iran, the Philippines, New Zealand and Korea. Over the 8 days of the Festival, these young artists will be provided with an immersive and inspiring environment in the Magee campus of Ulster University.

The international faculty, who will deliver the Festival’s series of masterclasses, workshops and interviews, includes Professors Thérèse Fahy (Royal Irish Academy of Music), Chu-Fang Huang (Ameri-China International Music Association), Chih-Long Hu (University of Tennessee), Svetozar Ivanov (University of South Florida), Pei-Chun Liao (University of Taipei) and Cahill Smith (Utah State University).

Throughout the week, exciting variety concerts by the faculty and students will be open to the public, with multiple pianists performing solo piano works and works for 4, 6 and 8 hands, as well as two days of performances at the Festival’s International Competition. Look out on the Walled CIty Music website and social media for the schedule of concerts.

Professor Cathal Breslin said, “I am delighted to bring such an exciting international piano festival and competition to Derry for the 4th year. It is an amazing opportunity to welcome these talented young stars of the future to our city, from so many different countries, and to work and refine their musical skills with some of the greatest pianists in the world. The concerts are going to be a big highlight for me, as it is very rare to see multiple pianists on stage together performing. Come along and see the excitement for yourself!”

In addition to its core support from Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Derry and Strabane District Council, the 2023 Festival is sponsored by Yamaha and local taxi company City Cabs. The Festival takes place in partnership with Ulster University, Contemporary Music Centre Ireland and Christ Church.

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Silverbirch Hotel, Omagh, Co. Tyrone

Treat yourself to a delicious four course afternoon tea and overnight stay in a stylish room at the Silverbirch Hotel from £155 per room. You’ll enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches followed by scrumptious cakes and scones, of course served with fresh cream and delicious local jam. Visit https://www.silverbirchhotel.com/  for more information.

Ardtara Country House, Maghera, Co. Fermanagh

The Ardtara Country House is offering a Cocktail, Dinner B&B Break package from £135pps. Enjoy a one-night B&B stay, a two-course dinner with a choice of cocktail. This stunning 19th century country house is the ideal cosy getaway located near the quaint Maghera village. Visit https://www.ardtara.com/ for more information.

Roe Park Resort, Limavady, Co. Londonderry

The Roe Park Resort is offering a Friday Wine & Stay Package from £95. This offer includes an overnight stay in a luxurious room, a complimentary bottle of wine on arrival, and use of the Health Suite including indoor heated pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and gym. Explore the Roe Valley Country Park adjacent to the hotel, which offers miles of stunning woodland walks. Visit https://www.roeparkresort.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 3 – 9 July

  1. Stendhal Festival, Limavady, County Londonderry, 6-8 July. Roll up to the amazing Stendhal Festival, Northern Ireland’s biggest independent music and arts festival since 2011. Enjoy music, comedy, poetry, a dedicated family programme and a host of visual arts. This year’s line-up consists of legendary reggae band The Wailers, Irish rockers Bell X1, Ivor Novello, award winning jazz musician, Yazz Ahmed, the Roe Valley’s own Cara Dillon, and many more.
  2. The Derry Girls Experience, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 4 July. Visit the home of Derry Girls and discover where it all began. The Tower Museum is showcasing original memorabilia from the hit show, like Erin’s diary, Aunt Sarah’s famous pyjamas and Ma Mary’s Woolworths sweater, not to mention the infamous Spice Girls costumes. Step into the set of the Quinn’s household and feel like one of the family. Sister Michael fan? Don’t miss your chance to sit on her chair and roll your eyes at anyone who crosses your path.
  3. Open-Air Theatre: The Secret Garden, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 4 July. Chapterhouse Theatre Company is proud to present The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. Picnic with friends and family and enjoy this enchanting story, loved by children and adults alike. Relive this tale of secrecy and curiosity in what will be one of the highlights of the summer. The Secret Garden will be performed in the grounds of Enniskillen Castle, a stunning open-air venue for a wonderful evening of theatre under the stars.
  4. Benone Artisan Market, Limavady, County Londonderry, 9 July. This free artisan market by Naturally North Coast and Glens is an excellent showcase of local food, culture, heritage, and traditions, and it is an ideal destination for anyone looking for an authentic experience. Benone offers visitors an enticing mix of a coastal location with the beautiful backdrop of Binevenagh Mountain. This market aims to keep things authentic, providing an opportunity to meet some of Northern Ireland’s excellent producers and creative small businesses.
  5. Family Fun at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, Armagh, County Armagh, 4-9 July. Visit the Armagh Planetarium this summer and have fun with science and nature. Jurassic Ark Encounters will be bringing their reptile friends to meet you. Get up close and personal with some of nature’s most fascinating and amazing animals, like snakes, lizards, tortoises and many more. This is an educational learning session about nature’s most fascinating family, the reptiles.
  6. Comber Farmers’ Market, Comber, Down, 6 July. Come on down to the award-winning Comber Farmers’ Market. There are over 24 regular traders selling artisan food and plants. This market provides a wide range of local produce including breads, cheeses, vegetables, fruit, cakes, traybakes, jams, flowers, chocolates and many more. In addition, the ladies of the church catering committee will be providing morning tea, coffee and homemade scones, buns and biscuits in the church hall.
  7. Secret Garden, Belfast, County Antrim, 7 July. Enjoy an evening stroll through Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, famous for the International Rose Garden. This walk will focus on some of the less well-known aspects of the grounds and the local history of the park. The beautiful Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park is comprised of rolling meadows, woodland, riverside fields and formal gardens. The City of Belfast International Rose Garden has made the park world famous, containing over 20,000 blooms in the summer. Don’t miss out on seeing the wonderful blooms!
  8. Hannah Starkey, Principled & Revolutionary: Northern Ireland’s Peace Women, Belfast, County Antrim, 3-9 July. The National Museums NI has partnered with Belfast Photo Festival to present their newly commissioned body of work by renowned photographer, Hannah Starkey at the Ulster Museum. This co-curated exhibition celebrates and honours the women who helped bring peace to Northern Ireland and pays tribute to their efforts in social and political work. The 21 portraits in this exhibition highlight some of the many women who have been pivotal to peace building and community activism in this country through their work in the political, cultural and social sphere.
  9. Conleth McGeary The Homecoming Tour, Dungannon, County Tyrone, 7 July. Conleth McGeary will be performing at Ranfurly House Arts & Visitor Centre to share some original music. The ‘Liverpool Irish phenomenon’ (Liverpool Echo) has been quietly penning new music and crafting his new sound in the UAE away from everybody. The Tyrone born singer has taken himself out of the local scene in Liverpool where he resides, to work on his original music which he holds close to his heart and is planning his return with a bang. His Irish ‘Homecoming Tour’ will give you a glimpse as to why he has been reluctant to share his new songs until now.
  10. DRAGONS at W5, Belfast, County Antrim. Are you ready to come face-to-face with DRAGONS at W5? For centuries one mythical creature has fascinated and enthralled young and old more than any other. This summer, an epic adventure awaits at W5 as you enter a world of Dragons. This thrilling new experience will bring to life these awe-inspiring creatures using large scale animatronics, puppetry, projections, immersive soundscape technology and fully themed environments. Encounter a range of moving, roaring, smoke breathing beasts.

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/

 

Here are ten exciting things to do 26th – 2 July

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Here are 10 things to do Across Northern Ireland

  1. Ballycastle Seafront Artisan Market, Ballycastle, County Antrim, 2 July. Come on down to the free flagship artisan market by Naturally North Coast & Glens on the beautiful Ballycastle Seafront. This is an excellent showcase of local food, culture, heritage, and traditions, and it is an ideal destination for anyone looking for an authentic experience. This Ballycastle market is a perfect stopping point on a day out along the Causeway Coast, with its proximity to Ballycastle Beach, and many more iconic attractions in the area.
  2. Meet the Warriors Tour, Armagh, County Armagh, 1-2 July. Immerse yourself in life as a Celt, as you meet our Iron Age warriors. This family-oriented tour provides the opportunity to become a central part of the clan! Transform into a Celtic Warrior, as you have your face painted and wear one of our authentic costumes. Enjoy storytelling around the fire, as the bard tells the tales of the great heroes associated with the Navan Fort, and discover the skills required to succeed in battle. You will also have the chance to learn the art of ancient Celtic writing as you spell out your clan name using Ogham!
  3. Enniskillen Community Market , Enniskillen, Fermanagh, 1 July. Treat yourself to something delicious from one of the food stalls, and discover local handmade crafts, you might just find that perfect gift you’ve been looking for. Check out the work of our 2 Special Interest tables. Have a rummage through the second-hand stalls, one man’s trash is indeed another person’s treasure. From clothing to vinyl. Try your luck at the Tombola, with everything from a boat trip, gift vouchers, hampers and more.
  4. Tyrone Farmer’s Market, Food and Craft markets, Dungannon, County Tyrone, 1 July. Come down and explore the talent of Tyrone at the Tyrone Food and Craft Farmer’s Market this Saturday. Get a taste of local produce and bespoke crafts. There are many sweet treats and trinkets to see, with 30 stalls selling artisan food and hand-crafted gifts and homewares, from local producers!
  5. Dungannon Comedy Festival, Dungannon, County Tyrone, 1 July. There is going to be a lot to laugh at in Dungannon this July, at the town’s first Comedy Festival at Hill of the O’Neill on Saturday 1st July. The seated event at Hill of The O’Neill marquee space will include the cream of Northern Ireland’s burgeoning comedy circuit headlined by Paddy McDonnell and Micky Bartlett alongside other up-and-coming stand-ups. The revered Sean Hegarty will be on MC duties on the night.
  6. The Spirit of the Bann, Coleraine, County Londonderry, 1 July. The Causeway Coast Foodie Tours’ ‘Spirit of the Bann’ river whiskey tasting experience is an ideal and unique opportunity to slowly savour distinctive colours and flavours, enjoy a warm glow and celebrate the beautiful blend of natural & man-made wonders our stunning Causeway Coast has to offer!

Dive into history as you retrace the voyages of our ancestors who settled here some 9,000 years ago. Their onboard Bushmills whiskey guide will introduce you to a selection of whiskies produced by Old Bushmills Distillery and companied by a hand-picked selection of award-winning local produce.

  1. Kids’ Bushcraft at Montalto, Ballynahinch, County Down, 1 July. Uncover the secrets of Montalto Estate at The Montalto Estate Forestry School. Kids will navigate their way through the woods, pick the perfect site to build their shelter and forage for plants and trees to make medicine and food. After exploring, cosy up around the campfire to toast some delicious marshmallows!
  2. A Century of Style, Belfast, County Antrim , 26 June. Visit the Ulster Museum and explore the world of fashion at the free exhibit from the National Portrait Gallery Collection. This exhibition brings together some of the most famous fashion photographers and models (sitters) to showcase the art of fashion photography. Through themes including Designers, Model, Maker and Muse, and Art and Fashion, the exhibition examines the role fashion photography has played in defining style, imagery and contemporary culture. The exhibition also focuses on the work of probably the most celebrated fashion photographer of the 20th Century, Cecil Beaton.
  3. Mind Of Sound – In The Heart Of The Cave, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 2 July. Get in tune with your mind within the Marble Arch Caves. The Sound Bath in the Cave is a powerful and transformative experience allowing you to explore the hidden depths of therapeutic sound. The event features a 28 inch Chao gong and a 36 inch Feng gong, Shaman- style drumming and harmonic singing. Andy Tyler is a gifted musician, singer and soundscape artist who brings a contemporary approach to gongs and rhythmic entrainment. He cultivates dynamic and harmonically beautiful meditative sessions that are deeply relaxing and memorable.
  4. Mourne Alpacas Cria Watch, Dromara, County Down , 26 June. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the latest arrivals to the alpaca herd! As the largest breeding farm for Alpacas on the island of Ireland, Mourne Alpacas offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience the CRIA WATCH (meeting the new Alpaca babies). Experience the magic, the pronking and general Cria capers in the nursery paddocks – from a cria protective spectator distance. As part of your CRIA Watch experience, you will learn about alpaca families, and all their unique behaviour before heading out to the nursery paddocks to watch the new curious and energetic arrivals, protected by their very proud mums.

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/blog/read/2023/04/bank-holiday-ideas-for-families-b262

 

Get Set for the Armoy Road Races –  Launch of 2023 Races at Bayview Hotel

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THE village of Armoy is gearing up for this year’s Armoy Road Races Bayview Hotel Race of Legends as it prepares for a weekend of world class road racing over the 28th and 29th July 2023.

On Wednesday afternoon, members from Armoy Motorcycling Road Racing Club (AMRRC) launched this year’s event at the Bayview Hotel in Portballintrae.

Road racers, sponsors and invited guests including the new Mayor of the Causeway Coast and Glens, Cllr Steven Callaghan, had the opportunity to come together to mark the launch and countdown to the days to the races.

Hosted by title sponsor, Trevor Kane, owner of the Bayview Hotel, guests heard from the Chairman and Clerk of the Course of AMRRC, William Munnis as he outlined the race schedule for 2023 and the club’s relief that this year’s meet was able to go ahead following the uncertainty that faced them earlier in the year regarding associated costs.

Guests also had the opportunity to meet and greet some of this year’s riders including local men Paul Jordan, riding for PreZ Racing, Adam McClean who continues his new 2023 partnership with JMcC Roofing and Neil Kernohan from Kernohan Racing.

Following the launch, the Club’s Chairman William Munnis said, “Preparations are well under way for this year’s Armoy Road Races.  This is our fourteenth year of holding the event and we are indebted to all the riders and loyal fans who continue to support us each year.

“Race entries are due to close on Monday 26th June 2023 and in addition to the strong local entries we’ve received, we also have riders from USA, France, England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland and the Isle of Man.  This year promises to be another exciting weekend of racing for all our fans and sponsors.

“Today’s launch gives us the opportunity to come together and thank our many sponsors as without their financial help and support we would not be able to stage the races.  Trevor Kane from the Bayview Hotel has once again committed his support to the Armoy Road Races with his continued sponsorship of the Race of Legends.

“Our returning sponsors include Hilton Car Sales, James McKillop, Ian Hickinson, Steadplan Sales, MJF Builders, Diamond Bar and the Mermaid Club, Roadside Garages, Park Electrical Services, David Chambers from Brap Moto, Fay Stewart along with the Bayview Hotel.  I’m also delighted to see new sponsors, Causeway Geotech, EMA Building and Civils, Taggart’s Barn, McNally&Co and Raymond Hodges and TT Racing join us and I’m sure they will enjoy the race experience!”

In the lead up to the races, the Club hosts a popular Bike Week which runs from Sunday 23rd July until Saturday 29th July with all events listed on the club’s Facebook and Twitter pages. The Armoy Road Races event is enabled by funding from Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.

For more information on Armoy Road Races, visit www.armoyroadraces.com or search for ‘AMRRC’ on Facebook or follow on twitter @ArmoyRoadRaces.

FEARLESS TRADITIONAL MUSIC AT ARMAGH’S MARKET PLACE THEATRE

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Scottish trad outfit Kinnaris Quintet will make their Northern Ireland tour debut this summer, performing in Armagh’s Market Place Theatre on 1 July.

Kinnaris Quintet burst onto the scene in 2017 with a unique, highly emotive, energetic, and powerful sound. Their music has been described as ‘euphoric’ and combines Scottish and Irish traditional music with Bluegrass, Classical, Scandinavian and Appalachian influences.

Kinnaris Quintet have produced the perfect concoction of remaining faithful to their traditional roots, whilst delicately pushing the boundaries of tradition, bringing it to the forefront of exciting and modern music. Unable to hide their joy at making music together, the quintet perform with an enthusiasm that is infectious as anyone who has seen them live will attest.

Hailed as the folk band to see the group regularly perform to sell-out shows at Celtic Connections, appear at most other major folk festivals, and have received a number of prestigious music award nominations.

Uplifting, fresh, honest, powerful music is guaranteed, and early booking is advised!

The Kinnaris Quintet will perform for one evening only at The Market Place Theatre on Saturday 1 July at 8.00pm. Tickets are priced £15 and £13 (concession), and can be booked online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre or through the Box Office on 03300 561 025.

 

Call goes out for volunteers to give a giant welcome to future leaders at the upcoming One Young World Summit

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With the world’s largest gathering of young leaders taking place in Belfast this October, the call has gone out for volunteers to help roll out a giant welcome to Northern Ireland.

Welcoming more than 2,000 young leaders from over 190 countries, the One Young World Belfast Summit (2nd – 5th October) will represent four life-changing days of knowledge-sharing and networking, where young delegates will be counselled by some of the most influential political, business and humanitarian leaders in the world.

Belfast City Council are assembling groups of volunteers who will be charged with everything from welcoming delegates, hosting VIPs, being ‘accessibility buddies’ through to assisting at the opening and closing ceremonies.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy said: “Feedback from previous high profile international events hosted in Belfast has confirmed that our volunteers play a crucial role in making visitors feel welcome through their enthusiasm, friendliness and pride in representing our city.

“One Young World provides another exciting opportunity to showcase Belfast and its people to an audience from across the globe, so I would encourage anyone interested to find out more, get involved and play your part in ensuring that this event is a huge success.”

Volunteer Now Chief Executive, Denise Hayward says Northern Ireland has a rich tradition of excelling in hosting international events.

She said: “From the World Police and Fire Games through to the Giro d’Italia and The Open Championship, Volunteer Now has provided volunteers for some of the biggest events to take place in Northern Ireland.

“The feedback from the organisers of these events always praises the quality of our volunteers as well as the warmth of the welcome they provide to visitors from other countries.

“Organisers of the World Police and Fire Games in 2013 described them as the friendliest Games they had ever run while the R&A said the volunteers at the 148th Open at Portrush were second to none.

“People from Northern Ireland are naturally welcoming and friendly, and we want people coming here to have a really good experience.

“From the perspective of our volunteers, we want to ensure their experience is meaningful and enjoyable. Training will be given, and you will be fully supported by the Volunteer Now team.”

Denise hopes that the One Young World Summit will leave a legacy of encouraging more people to get involved in volunteering.

She added: “We want our volunteers’ experience of the One Young World Summit to be really positive. We want them to be excited about volunteering and for them to continue their journey with us.”

The One Young World community has grown to a network of over 13,500 Ambassadors, whose projects have gone on to impact 35.8 million people worldwide.

 

Following the opening ceremony, which will take place at the SSE Arena, delegates and returning Ambassadors will spend three days at the award-winning ICC Belfast for an action-packed agenda of speeches, panels, workshops and networking events.

 

Positions will be available from Saturday September 30 until Friday October 6; however, volunteers may be required to work past these dates. Applicants must be over 18, be fluent in English (written and spoken), flexible, reliable, friendly and polite.

 

To find out how you could volunteer at the One Young World Belfast Summit 2023, visit www.volunteernow.co.uk/volunteering/event-volunteering/one-young-world-summit-belfast/

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

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Antrim

Larne Museum & Arts Centre will be open on Saturday 24th June 2023 from 10.00am – 4.00pm.  There will be an interactive Storytime session for primary school children from 10.30am – 11.30am.
Find out more HERE

Armagh

Unearth Hidden Gems with Armagh Guided Walking Tours.  Grab your trainers and learn more about the City which runs each Thursday – Saturday at 11am and Sunday at 2pm from Thursday 15 June until Sunday 10 September 2023.

Find out more and book your tour today HERE

Belfast

A cake dance with Edwina Guckian – for children and adults. In this unique dance workshop, the class take turns dancing with the piper and then they all vote for their favourite two dancers on paper. University of Ulster.

Find out more HERE

Down

The annual Comber Earlies Food Festival is a wonderful day out filled with family fun, cookery demos in the Festival Kitchen and activities that celebrate the Comber Earlies potato which holds PGI Status.

Find out more HERE

Fermanagh

Get in touch with your inner yogi in a beginner-friendly 60 minutes yoga session in the depths of the Marble Arch Caves.

Find out more HERE

Derry/Londonderry

Roe Valley Reels present SONG OF THE SEA Saturday 24 June, 2pm.  This enchanting Irish award-winning animation tells the story of Ben and his little sister Saoirse – the last Seal-child – who embark on a fantastic journey across a fading world of ancient legend and magic.

Find out more HERE

Tyrone

Welcome to Curtain Call at the Burnavon Theatre Cookstown. Dancers from Caroline Creggan Dance School will be performing routines from some of the best known musicals & movies.

Find out more and book your tickets HERE

 

 

10 Things to do Across NI

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 Here are ten exciting things to do 19th – 25th June

  1. Belsonic, Belfast, County Antrim, 19-30 June. Join the party for the return of the popular music festival, Belsonic. This year’s festival will bring a host of international headline acts to the idyllic Ormeau Park in the city throughout the month. The line-up includes iconic artists such as Lionel Richie, George Ezra, David Guetta, Paolo Nutini and Sam Fender.
  2. Summer Solstice Sunset Armagh, County Armagh, 20-21 June. Celebrate the Summer Solstice with a new evening event of music, meditation, movement and drumming at the Navan Centre & Fort. Join this dynamic, uplifting celebration, connecting with the sunset of the summer solstice. Renew and discover links with your Celtic soul and unite with others to create magic on this special summer’s evening.
  3. Making Marks: Rock Art Workshop, Belfast, County Antrim, 21 June. Visit the Ulster Museum for free and learn about the mystery of prehistoric rock art. Thousands of years ago people made their mark on the landscape of Ireland, the motifs they carved have left many unanswered questions. After exploring the history of Irish carvings, you can have a go at creating your very own rock art motif.
  4. A Taste of Mussenden, Castlerock, County Londonderry, 21 June. Join a luxury dining experience inside Mussenden Temple, celebrating everything this iconic landmark has to offer and the best local food. Enjoy a fully guided experience and an exclusive and unique opportunity that is only available to a small number of individuals per year. This event features a five-course taster menu and a range of locally sourced products.
  5. Comber Earlies Food Festival, Comber, County Down, 24 June. The annual Comber Earlies Food Festival is a wonderful day out filled with family fun, cookery demos in the Festival Kitchen and activities that celebrate the Comber Earlies potato which holds PGI Status. Enjoy a wealth of artisan food and drink stalls, celebrity chef demos by Paula McIntyre, children’s entertainment and lots more foodie favourites at this free family event!
  6. Painting Breaks with Dermot Cavanagh, Moy, County Tyrone, see website for opening times. Join Dermot Cavanagh on one of his painting breaks and unleash your creativity. Dermot’s painting courses cater for all levels of artistic ability including absolute beginners. Dermot will build your confidence, remove the mystery around painting and have you creating work to be proud of in no time. All professional quality painting materials are provided for use throughout your course.
  7. Open-Air Theatre: The Importance of Being Earnest, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 24 June. Picnic with friends and family and enjoy the exquisite new production of Wilde’s hilarious tale of doubles lives and mistaken identities presented in full period costume. The Importance of Being Earnest will be performed in the grounds of Enniskillen Castle, a stunning open-air venue for a wonderful evening of theatre under the stars.
  8. Gortin Family Fun Day, Gortin, County Tyrone, 24 June. The Gortin Community Centre is hosting a Family Fun Day, free for all to attend. There’ll be something to do for the whole family including face painting, live music and a mobile fun farm. You will also have the chance to meet some friendly alpacas, enjoy storytelling time and indulge in some delicious pizza.
  9. Buskfest, Banbridge, Banbridge, County Down, 24 June. The annual Buskfest outdoor busking competition is back! Join the buzz in Banbridge as multitude of musicians, singers, bands, solo artists and street performers take to the streets to compete for a portion of the total £3,000 prize pot. Participants will compete in a number of categories including Best Individual, Best Band, Best Junior, Best Performance, Spirit of Buskfest and overall Winner.
  10. Traditional Skills Festival 2023, Newtown Crommelin, County Antrim, 24-25 June. Don’t miss the opportunity to reclaim your ancestral skills with the guided support of some hugely talented local crafters, makers & artists. Explore traditional skills through basket weaving, wool spinning, dry stone wall building and quilting workshops. Watch live demonstrations and learn from a variety of traditional crafters, makers and artists.

 

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/blog/read/2023/04/bank-holiday-ideas-for-families-b262

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