Major milestones, new hotels and a global festival as 2026 gets set for take-off in Northern Ireland

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Northern Ireland is set for an unforgettable 2026, packed full of major events, landmark milestones and exciting new visitor experiences.

 

From Belfast hosting the world’s largest celebration of traditional Irish music at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann (August), to Derry marking 40 years of its world-famous Halloween festival (October), Northern Ireland is gearing to embrace a giant year of events.

A new direct flight from Dublin to Derry is also planned, while Fermanagh’s stunning lakes, waterways and natural landscapes have become part of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.

Belfast is celebrating being named as European City of Sport 2026 while other significant milestones include the Lyric Theatre celebrating 75 years along with Ulster Orchestra (60).

The Ulster American Folk Park in County Tyrone will toast 40 years in conjunction with its American connections and the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Fleadh Cheoil comes to Belfast in August for the first time

The world’s biggest celebration of traditional Irish music and culture is coming to Belfast. The city will host the 2026 Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann from 2-9 August, marking the Comhaltas’s 75th year, with Ards CCÉ also celebrating their 50th year. Events range from large concerts and big name acts to street performances, pop-up gigs and community céilís, while competitions in music, song and dance range from local county and regional level to provincial and All-Ireland titles.

Over 400 events, including 230 championships, were delivered in 2024 over eight days, attracting more than 650,000 and delivering an economic value of around €70 million (approx. £58.5 million) to last year’s host region of Wexford.

New Experiences

  • Finn Lough is developing a new spa village featuring a glass dome spa pool, surrounded by planting and relaxation space. The new spa will also include loughshore hot tubs, a central courtyard designed as a rain garden, and a secret garden with treatment rooms. Finn Lough is set to introduce Europe’s first electric hydrofoiling experience using the cutting-edge Vessev VS–9, offering guests a smooth, silent and environmentally friendly way to explore Lower Lough Erne.
  • Castlewellan Arboretum: Annesley Gardens and Arboretum are nestled within Castlewellan Forest Park, County Down. The walled Garden provides a central focal point for the Arboretum and a £2.7m investment will restore the historical nature of the planting. The Grange will be developed into a vibrant visitor core, featuring the establishment of a welcome centre, community space, café facilities and open event area.
  • Conquer the Skies: Dragon Ride: A breathtaking new chapter is about to unfold at the Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge. Get ready to soar through the skies of Westeros on Dragon Ride – an epic, state-of-the-art experience that will bring you closer than ever to the world of ice and fire.

Hotel Developments

2026 will be a very different year with a lot of new openings including Aloft and Residence Inn, Belfast, (228 rooms), Adagio aparthotel, Belfast (136 rooms), Premier Inn, Belfast International Airport (80 Rooms), Yotel, Belfast (165 rooms) and Tempo by Hilton, Belfast (144 rooms).

Extensions also feature in hoteliers plans with The Ebrington, Andras House Group and several others planning to increase their room numbers. The likelihood is that around 800 new rooms will come to market in 2026.

  • The historic Scottish Mutual Building in Belfast’s Linen Quarter is being transformed into the Bedford Hotel, opening early Spring 2026. The multi-million pound project will feature 82 stylish bedrooms, a destination restaurant, private dining spaces, and a café bar. Renowned chef Noel McMeel, famed for creating the G8 Summit menu, will lead the culinary team.
  • Derry’s hospitality scene is thriving with the opening of two major new hotels in late 2025 on Strand Road. The Maiden City Hotel offers 43 stylish rooms, a residents’ lounge, Olive Room restaurant and Spire Bar. Nearby, the Walled City Hotel is within the beautifully restored 1920s former Bank of Ireland building, opening with 40 rooms and expanding to 72 by 2027, marking a major investment in the city’s tourism and heritage.
  • This follows a series of major announcements including a £7 million investment in Derry’s City Hotel, soon to be rebranded as DoubleTree by Hilton, major refurbishment of Da Vinci’s Hotel (due February 2026) and the Galgorm Group’s acquisition of Roe Park Resort in Limavady. Construction has also begun on a new £15m venue dedicated to the city’s maritime and social history, the DNA Museum, due to open in 2027.

Whether you’re planning a relaxing retreat or an unforgettable adventure, Northern Ireland has it all. Start planning your perfect escape in 2026 at discovernorthernireland.com.

 

Wonderful Wander Goes Station To Station During 4 Corners Festival 2026

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The 4 Corners Festival Wonderful Wander is back for this year’s festival and this time the guided city walk will explore how transport has shaped the city of Belfast.

Kicking off at Lanyon Station to the new Grand Central Station on Saturday February 7 storytellers Jim Deeds, David Campton and Mylie Brennan will take participants along the Lagan Tow Path and through Belfast’s historic centre.

Speaking of what people can expect this year David said: “With the theme of this year’s festival being ‘Journey’ it seemed obvious that the wander should explore some of the features of transport to, from and within Belfast, past and present, finishing at the iconic new transport hub that will potentially be a game-changer for our city.”

Celebrating the rich history of the city through stories, poems and songs the Wonderful Wander is just one of a number of events taking place across the city as part of the wider 4 Corners Festival from January 30 to February 8

The route this year is about 1 ½ miles long, on the level, and should take around 2 hours. If you stick with us to the end we hope that there will be a special surprise awaiting! 

This year’s theme ‘Journey’ reflects the idea that everyone is shaped by the paths they take through life, both outward journeys across places and inward journeys of change, reflection and growth. 

Mylie said: “The Wander is a fantastic way to learn more about our beautiful city, whether you’re new to Belfast or if you’ve been here your whole life. 

“As a professional tour guide, I’m excited to wander around with my pals, David and Jim, talking about our history and the people who shaped it. We all love Belfast, telling stories, and having a laugh, so our guests can expect to learn something new and have a bit of fun along the way.”

The 4 Corners Festival is a faith-based initiative delivered across venues in all four corners of the city, with events designed to encourage people to step beyond the physical and psychological “corners” of Belfast and encounter new perspectives, new ideas and new connections.

The 4 Corners Festival is supported by The Executive Office’s Central Good Relations Fund, The Department of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation Fund and Belfast City Council Good Relations Fund, St Anne’s Cathedral Sitout and Linen Quarter BID.

All events are free to attend. To find out the full lineup of the festival and to book your tickets go to 4cornersfestival.com

Young People Set To Take Centre Stage As 4 Corners Festival 2026 Events Announced

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Young people and youth-led conversations will take centre stage at the 4 Corners Festival 2026, which returns to Belfast from January 30 to February 8 with the theme Journey.

The festival is a faith-based initiative delivered across venues in all four corners of the city, with events designed to encourage people to step beyond the physical and psychological “corners” of Belfast and encounter new perspectives, new ideas and new connections.

The 2026 youth programme includes schools-based activity, sports and friendship-building, student discussion, youth travel and peacebuilding, and space for honest conversation about masculinity and non-violence.

A key youth event, Passports Ready! takes place at QUB PEC, Botanic Park, Stranmillis at 10am on February 4, bringing primary school pupils from four Belfast schools together with Peace Players NI for a day focused on sports skills and building connections, celebrating friendship and support on the sports field and in life.

The programme also includes a Youth Action-led workshop, Exploring Masculinity With Young Men in Schools, which takes place at Youth Action, 14 College Square North, on the morning of February 4, creating space for honest conversation with young men aged 13 to 18 about how masculinity is shaped and expressed in everyday life, including pressures of proving oneself, gender roles, positive male influences, non-violence and empathy.

A second Youth Action session, Reimagining Masculinity, takes place at 1.15pm on February 4 and is aimed at youth practitioners, educators and community leaders, focusing on young men’s perspectives and how to support respect, non-violence and authentic masculinities.

Students are also specifically included in the 2026 schedule through Out To Lunch With Dr Jemar Tisby at Fitzroy Presbyterian Church, University Street, at 12.30pm on February 5, where students from Queen’s and Ulster Universities will gather for a lunchtime conversation with the activist, historian and author, challenging students to think critically about Christianity, race, faith and justice.

Youth travel and global connection is reflected in A Youth Journey From Belfast To Katanga at Knock Methodist Centre, 17 Knock Road, at 7.30pm on January 31. The event centres on a November 2025 journey by five young people from South Belfast Alternatives who travelled to Kampala, Uganda to explore how youth use vision and resilience to change their communities. Emmanuel Trinity, Founder and CEO of era92 Group, and peacebuilder Tony Macaulay will share how the idea developed and will interview the young participants.

The programme also includes All Aboard at Methodist College’s Whitla Hall, Malone Road, at 7pm on February 5, where Play it by Ear will take audiences on “the journey of a lifetime” with the help of children from some local schools.

The festival’s final day includes Our Corner of Creation at Forthspring Inter-Community Group, 373 to 375 Springfield Road, at 1.30pm on February 8, bringing young people from across Belfast together to explore environmental care and community stewardship of the earth’s resources, with discussion in mixed groups on both the beauty and brokenness of the city and realistic steps that can address the challenges it faces.

Speaking about the importance of youth participation within the festival’s wider ethos, Ed Petersen of Clonard Monastery, representing the 4 Corners Festival, said: “I love the overall ethos of the 4 Corners Festival to encourage all of us to get out of our corner of the city, not only just the geographical corner of the city to experience other parts of Belfast but also just around other ideas and opportunities. 

“Young people can meet new people and explore various different subject matters together with people from different areas of Belfast or even beyond.”

The 4 Corners Festival is supported by The Executive Office’s Central Good Relations Fund, The Department of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation Fund and Belfast City Council Good Relations Fund, St Anne’s Cathedral Sitout and Linen Quarter BID.

All events are free to attend. To find out the full lineup of the festival and to book your tickets go to 4cornersfestival.com

4 Corners Festival Returns To Belfast For 2026 With Latest Theme: Journey

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The 4 Corners Festival is set to return to venues across Belfast from January 30 to February 8, 2026, with a programme built around its new theme, ‘Journey’.

Now established as an annual festival in the city, 4 Corners was conceived as a way to inspire people from across Belfast to transform it for the peace and wellbeing of all, encouraging people to step beyond the physical and psychological “corners” of the city through events that bring new places, new perspectives and new connections.

The 2026 programme includes events spanning conversation, music, comedy, drama, exhibitions, workshops, schools and sport, with all events free of charge. 

According to organisers this year’s theme ‘Journey’ reflects the idea that everyone is shaped by the paths they take through life, both outward journeys across places and inward journeys of change, reflection and growth. 

Speaking at the recent launch Rev Steve Stockman, 4 Corners Festival co-founder explained what makes the festival different in Belfast’s festival calendar, and how the team thinks about the festival’s reach beyond church walls. 

He said: “I think I’d like to think that the festival has this blend between the sacred and the secular that not many other festivals have. We’re very conscious that we’re all Christians, and we want to make that contribution, but we’re not frightened of going outside the walls of the church and having some really good connections and partnerships with those who don’t have a faith or have another faith. 

“I think in that sense, it probably crosses more boundaries than just the four corners. I like that idea, and I think that’s unique to the festival.”

Fellow festival co-founder Father Martin Magill, said one objective of the festival is to encourage people to explore Belfast and meet across divides, with a strong emphasis on welcome and friendship. 

He said: “The background to our city is shaped by the legacy of the Troubles, so part of what we do is encourage people to get to know the whole city and to meet one another, and build friendships across the various divides. Another key element is churches working together, using the arts to communicate an important message — and that message is about building friendships.”

Now in its 14th year, the forthcoming festival will explore how encounters with people, ideas, faith and community can challenge perspectives and deepen understanding. Through shared experiences across the city, ‘Journey’ will invite people to reflect on how change, personal and collective, can lead to renewal for individuals, communities and Belfast itself.

On the theme itself, Father Martin said: “For me, journey is on so many levels. It is really a journey towards a greater maturity in body, mind and spirit. Coming from a Christian Catholic faith perspective, the journey, for me, is also about becoming more like the one I follow, becoming more like Jesus. That, for me, is the primary  journey”.

While Father Martin spoke of the inner and spiritual dimensions of journey, Rev Stockman focused on how the theme connects individual experience with wider social and communal journeys.

He said: “For me, journey is something we are all on. We’re on spiritual journeys, whether we admit it or not. We’re on journeys of peacebuilding, journeys that take people to other countries, and journeys where lives take turns geographically, spiritually and socially. 

“It’s a very wide theme, but I hope that, at the end of the day, the festival helps us journey towards understanding, respect and tolerance and towards becoming a better society.”

The festival will open in late January with invitation-only events, followed by a city-centre exhibition and a full run of public events across Belfast through to the closing Sunday on February 8.

The programme includes Beyond Boundaries, an invitation-only event delivered in partnership with Ulster University for sixth form pupils from across Belfast, facilitated by playwright and broadcaster Nuala McKeever, focused on exploring how to face change and difference with openness rather than fear.

A public exhibition, Journeying To Resilience, will be launched at 2 Royal Avenue on January 30 and will run daily from January 31 to February 8, showcasing photography from Westcourt Camera Club following creative writing workshops with individuals on paths of personal transformation.

A cross-city Glider event, Come Glide With Me, will travel West to East from St John’s Church on the Falls Road to Stormont Presbyterian, and East to West on the return, featuring live music, spoken word, poetry, reflections from a tour guide and a community relations gathering while the opening weekend includes A Youth Journey From Belfast To Katanga, sharing a November 2025 journey by young people from South Belfast Alternatives to Kampala, Uganda, and exploring how youth use vision and resilience to change their communities.

The festival’s annual broadcast service will take place at the Agápê Centre on February 1, broadcast on BBC Radio Ulster, exploring Journey with Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin.

That evening, The Journey So Far will feature Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin speaking on her journey from Montego Bay to Kent, with music by the Pro Bono Choir, a Belfast ensemble of lawyers who perform for charitable causes.

Other programme highlights include Winning Through Uncertainty with Sam Goodwin at St Comgall’s Centre on February 2; The Good Journey, an evening of conversation about the life and ministry of Rev Dr Harold Good at Jennymount Methodist on February 3; and Stories from the Road, a night of music and comedy at the Oh Yeah Centre on February 4.

On February 4, Youth Action will host two workshops: Exploring Masculinity With Young Men In Schools for young men aged 13 to 18, and Reimagining Masculinity, an afternoon session for those working with young men in schools, youth work, community or faith settings.

It will be followed on February 5 with an Out To Lunch With Dr Jemar Tisby at Fitzroy Presbyterian Church where university students will have an opportunity to attend a closed event where the historian and author will be challenging students to think critically about Christianity, race, faith and justice. 

The festival’s closing event, The Journey Toward Reconciliation, takes place on Racial Justice Sunday at St Peter’s Cathedral on February 8, with Dr Jemar Tisby speaking on racial reconciliation within the Church and practical steps to fight discrimination and journey together toward peace.

The 4 Corners Festival is supported by The Executive Office’s Central Good Relations Fund, The Department of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation Fund, Belfast City Council’s Good Relations Fund, St Anne’s Cathedral Sitout and Linen Quarter BID.

All events are free to attend. To find out the full lineup of the festival and to book your tickets go to 4cornersfestival.com

Festive Fun and Shopping in Coleraine This Saturday as Christmas Countdown Continues

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As the final Saturday before Christmas approaches, Coleraine town centre is set to come alive with festive entertainment and the perfect opportunities to wrap up your shopping in style.

On Saturday, 20th December, from 9am–4pm, the ever-popular Causeway Speciality Market returns to the town centre, offering a fantastic range of artisan produce, ideal for those looking for that special something.

There is also plenty of free family fun throughout the day:

The Snow Globe returns from 12–3pm for those perfect festive photo moments Express Face Painting and Balloon Modelling will keep younger visitors entertained from 1–3pm

The festive characters will roam the town centre, ready for selfies, laughter and some Naughty-or-Nice List checking. Enjoy live music performances from the brilliant Aaron Jamieson, adding a festive soundtrack to your shopping.

Look out for Riley, the juggling, unicycling elf, and a fine festive stilt walker bringing fun and spectacle to the streets from 1–3 pm.

Also running throughout the day is the must-see Christmas Experience in the Diamond Centre. Families can meet Santa, Mrs Claus, the Snow Queen, and the hardworking elves in the magical Toy Mine.

Booking is essential for The Christmas Experience. Tickets are available from Community Rescue Service shops in Coleraine or online at www.communityrescue.org.

Explore everything Coleraine town centre has to offer. From independent stores full of fashion, jewellery and unique gifts, to a range of well-loved high street retailers, there’s something for every type of shopper. And when it’s time to take a break? There’s no shortage of cafés, restaurants and bars, all just a short stroll from the action, perfect for warming up and soaking in the festive atmosphere.

Wrap up warm, bring the whole family, and enjoy a final festive Saturday in Coleraine.

 

 

Embrace a giant festive season across Northern Ireland

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Delight in the sparkle, cheer and magic of our Christmas events

 

Whether it’s a short break with loved ones, a day out or a giant experience, Northern Ireland has everything you need to make this year’s Christmas merry and bright.

From classic pantos to candlelit concerts and mindfulness mornings to artisan markets, there’s a packed programme of events taking place across Northern Ireland sure to get you into the spirit of the season and help you make memories that will last a lifetime.

 

Discover Northern Ireland has compiled an enchanting list of events to make your festive season truly unforgettable, and you’ll find even more fun to explore in our Festive Guide: https://discovernorthernireland.com/featured-pages/your-giant-guide-to-short-breaks-ni

 

Belfast

  • Christmas by Candlelight, Ulster Hall – 16 December – Step into the spirit of the season with an unforgettable evening of beloved Christmas classics performed live by candlelight. From timeless favourites like White Christmas and Let It Snow to the enchanting melodies of O Holy Night and Winter Wonderland, this is a celebration of music and magic you won’t want to miss.
  • The Elf Inspectors, The Mac – until 24 December – Oh no – the magic of Christmas has disappeared. Step into a world of wonder and join the Elf Inspectors on a mission to bring it back. This interactive theatre adventure, created by the award-winning Replay, promises festive fun for all ages.
  • Festive Fables, W5 – until 23 December – This Christmas, little ones are invited to pull up a log, snuggle in and step into a world of festive wonder. W5’s Festive Fables storytime brings Christmas to life in a cosy, imaginative setting, where twinkling lights and winter wonder fill the air. From playful elves to daring reindeer, sparkling snowflakes and enchanted forests, storytellers make Christmas come alive with every word.
  • A Magical Christmas Experience, Titanic Belfast – until 23 December – Make memories at A Magical Christmas Experience. Watch the excitement unfold as Father Christmas and his Elves count down to their favourite night of the year. Meet your Elf guide and travel as a group on a new immersive journey to the North Pole. You’ll visit the Enchanted Forest, make a wish by the Magical Wishing Tree and take some time to explore the Elves’ Workshop.

 

County Antrim

  • Enchanted Winter Garden, Antrim Castle Gardens – until 30 December – Antrim Castle Gardens will be transformed into a glistening, festive wonderland once again. The resident fairies have a few new ideas of how to make Enchanted Winter Garden more magical than ever before. But the true magic? You’ll have to come and see for yourself.
  • All Aboard for Christmas, Whitehead Railway Museum – until 22 December – Step into the magic of Christmas at Whitehead Railway Museum. Hop aboard a short steam train ride, pen a letter to Santa, make food for the reindeers, decorate gingerbread men and meet Santa in his grotto.
  • Lisburn Light Trail at Castle Gardens – until 22 December – Step into a world of pure festive magic this Christmas as the Christmas Light Trail makes a return to Castle Gardens. Come along and take in the wonderful sights of the light show and visit the mini Christmas Market. The Light Trail is the perfect final stop on your festive day out in Lisburn after doing some Christmas shopping. 

 

County Armagh

County Down

 

County Fermanagh

 

County Londonderry

County Tyrone

  • Santa Trail, Glenpark Estate – until 22 December – Enjoy a magical festive day out with twinkling lights, delicious treats and lots of joyful moments. Meet Santa in his cosy grotto and create cherished Christmas memories with the whole family.
  • Christmas at the Ulster American Folk Park – until 22 December – Experience Christmas as it was celebrated in rural Ulster centuries ago, from a single-room cabin to the festive Campbell House. Meet Mrs. Mellon and sample her traditional Christmas cake. Explore the wintery streets of America, enjoy festive décor and flavours and see how European settlers shaped the American Christmas. Write a letter to Father Christmas, take a photo at the sleigh and let the kids discover the Christmas tree trail.
  • Little Bo Peep’s Christmas Mix Up at Strule Arts Centre – 16 and 17 December – Join Little Bo Peep and her pet Baa-Baa the Black Sheep on a festive adventure. When Bo Peep’s sheep go missing just before the Christmas Fair, chaos unfolds. With help from the audience, can they find the flock, foil a witch’s wicked dinner plans and save Santa’s Christmas Jumper? Filled with laughs, songs and Christmas cheer, you’re in for a wooly good time at this fun-filled family show.

For a winter stay with tonnes of great value, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com. You’ll find even more information on the best places for food and drink, local Christmas markets, snug and cosy accommodation and of course… festive shopping.

Events are subject to availability.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 15 – 21 December

 

  1. Santa Cruise with Strangford Lough Activity Centre, Killinchy, County Down, until 21 December. Join Santa for a hair-raising sleigh ride around the islands aboard their fast speed boat, Black Jacket. Hold onto your Santa hats as you fly through the waters of Strangford Lough. You will be carol singing all the way, listening to some Christmas tunes whilst riding the waves back to Santa’s Grotto.
  2. Winter Circus by Tumble Circus, Belfast, until 4 January. Tumble Circus welcomes you to the ninth annual Winter Circus – a high skill, all-human and all-thrill circus featuring hardcore acrobats, eye-popping jugglers and hilarious comedy acts.
  3. Papa Elf is Coming to Castle Espie, Comber, County Down, 11,12,18, 19 December. All the way from the snowy mountainous regions somewhere between Bavaria and Uzbekistan, Papa Elf is making his final festive visit to WWT Castle Espie. Join for a joyful Christmas story time filled with laughs, wonder, then maybe some more wonder, and a pigeonhole cabinet full of festive spirit for the whole family.
  4. Christmas at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 13,14,18,19 December. Wander through the wintery, cobbled streets of Ulster decorated for the festive season, from the humble surroundings of a single-room cabin to the indulgent Christmas of the Campbell House. Children can get hands-on with festive crafts, play with wooden toys, follow the Christmas bauble trail and write a letter to Father Christmas. There are marshmallows to toast, popcorn chains to make and a festive sleigh – perfect for a family photo.
  5. Winter Solstice in the Woods at Slieve Gullion Forest Park, Killeavy, County Armagh, 20 December. This is the perfect chance to stop and connect with the Winter Solstice light on sacred Slieve Gullion mountain. Your forest experience will end with a tea ceremony including organic winter berry cordial and shortbread from a local bakery.
  6. A Cappella Christmas at Titanic Belfast, Belfast, 21 December. Experience the magic of Christmas in perfect harmony at Titanic Belfast with a festive evening of music and celebration. Following the success of Some Distant Shore in June 2024, Titanic Belfast is delighted to once again partner with Cappella Caeciliana for a special Christmas performance.
  7. Christmas Wonderland at The Jungle NI, Moneymore, County Londonderry, 11 – 14, 16 – 23 December. The Jungle NI becomes a twinkling world of festive wonder, where every path sparkles and every corner hides a little Christmas cheer. Families can wander through the enchanted woodland, meet Santa and his merry elves, and soak up the glow of dazzling lights and joyful laughter.
  8. Mrs Claus’s Cottage, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 13 – 14 and 18 – 23 December. Families are invited to step inside Mrs Claus’s cosy cottage where they will meet the kind-hearted Mrs Claus herself and explore her charming festive home. Join her for a magical experience filled with warmth and cheer as she shares heartwarming holiday tales. Be captivated by this enchanting festive adventure, where children can also join the elves in their workshop to create special keepsakes.
  9. Christmas at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, Royal Hillsborough, until 4 January. This festive season, step into a world of Christmas magic as The Snowman™ and The Snowdog come to life at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. Wander through 100 acres of wintry wonder on a charming outdoor trail featuring beautifully hand-painted Snowdogs. Discover sculptures and one iconic Snowman™, inspired by the beloved animated film.
  10. Christmas at the Ulster Folk Museum, Cultra, County Down, 13,14, 20, 21 and 22 December. Explore authentic cottages and exhibit buildings decorated for the season, with lights, wreaths and cosy fires. There’ll be traditional Christmas crafts for all ages, plus willow star making in the Weaving Shed. Take in the scents of nut roasting, make cinnamon toast over the open fire, taste traditional Christmas cake and warm up with a festive drink. Meet heritage makers as they demonstrate age-old crafts, say hello to the donkeys, and pick up last-minute Christmas gifts in the museum shop.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit: discovernorthernireland.com. And for more fun this season, check out our Festive Guide: https://discovernorthernireland.com/featured-pages/your-giant-guide-to-short-breaks-ni

 

Subject to availabilities with select dates.

 

Ards and North Down Unveil Vibrant Spring Arts and Heritage Programme

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Ards and North Down Borough Council has launched its Spring Arts and Heritage Programme, offering an inspiring selection of events, concerts, exhibitions, and creative opportunities taking place across the Borough from January to April 2026.

Music takes centre stage this season with the return of the Ards International Guitar Festival in April. Celebrating its 30th year, the packed programme features an exciting mix of gigs, free fringe activity, and a rock exhibition.

Friday Night Live also returns to Ards Arts Centre with performances by The High Lonesome, Ben Reel and Glass Half Full. Ards CCÉ will open this year’s Music in the Chamber series at Bangor Castle on 19 February with a celebration of Irish traditional music. Opera fans will enjoy Spring Solstice with NI Opera on 20 March, a beautifully curated lunchtime concert featuring much-loved seasonal favourites.

Theatre lovers have two standout productions to enjoy at Studio 1A Theatre in Bangor. On 10 April, Jak-In-The-Box Pop-Up Theatre presents The Bench, a warm and witty exploration of the quirky characters who pass through a local park, performed by Julie Kinsella and Maria Quinn. Later in the month, on 29 April, Isosceles Theatre Company brings the powerful drama The Man Who Left the Titanic to the stage, revisiting the fateful 1912 voyage and examining the legacy of J. Bruce Ismay.

Families can look forward to the return of Young Aspects from 27 February to 1 March, offering workshops, storytelling sessions and author events designed to ignite young imaginations. Writers will also be pleased to see the return of Aspects Festival Club, with monthly events offering writers and audiences alike the chance to share and celebrate new writing.

Those seeking a new hobby can choose from a wide range of creative classes and workshops in ceramics, illustration, calligraphy and more, delivered at Ards Arts Centre and venues throughout the Borough.

At North Down Museum, the ever-popular Arts Night at the Museum takes place on Friday 20 March, offering a free evening of hands-on creative activity for all ages. The Little Historians workshop returns at Easter along with the ever-popular Easter Trail for children and families. The museum will also present new exhibitions exploring The Birth of Irish Motor Racing and Boat Building at Ballyholme.

Arts and Heritage Manager Emily Crawford commented: “Our Spring programme is bursting with activity! From hands-on creative sessions to the Ards International Guitar Festival, Young Aspects, exhibitions, theatre and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Visit our website or pick up a guide to explore the full line-up.”

Online booking for all music and theatre events, as well as class and workshop enrolment, opens Thursday 11 December.

 

View the full Spring Programme and book at: andculture.org.uk/whats-on

Make a break for it in Northern Ireland this Christmas

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Festive getaways filled with holiday joy for everyone!

Create unforgettable memories this Christmas with a short break in Northern Ireland.

Whether you’re planning a trip with little ones, a romantic escape or a festive break with friends and family, there is something special for everyone this festive season.

Take a look at some of the fantastic accommodation options waiting for you to book now. And for more short break inspiration, check out our Festive Guide: https://discovernorthernireland.com/featured-pages/your-giant-guide-to-short-breaks-ni

  • The Merchant Hotel, Belfast – An overnight stay starting at £358 per room with a delicious festive three-course evening meal in Bert’s Jazz Bar, breakfast in The Great Room restaurant, luxury evening turndown service and a leisurely 12pm checkout. Expires December 18, 2025.
  • Killeavy Castle Estate, Killeavy, County Armagh – From £179 for two people sharing per room, enjoy a winter getaway with thermal spa access. This luxury B&B offer is available midweek. Expires December 30, 2025.
  • Corick House Hotel and Spa, Clogher, County Tyrone – From £275 per room in December on select dates, enjoy their 10% off sparkle and spa package with an overnight stay, full Irish Breakfast, welcome drink, three course evening meal, 30-minute treatment per person and 60-minute thermal suite access. Expires at the end of December.
  • The Harbourview Hotel, Carnlough, County Antrim – From £169 per room based on two people sharing, get wrapped up in the festive spirit with a hot toddie or mulled wine with a mince pie by the fire – the perfect start to your stay. Then, unwind in elegant accommodation and wake up to a full Irish breakfast, cooked to order. Late check-out of 12 noon. Expires December 30, 2025.
  • Clandeboye Lodge, Bangor, County Down – One night B&B from £234 for two guests, including a three-course dinner and a Christmas festive cocktail. Expires December 30, 2025
  • The Everglades Hotel, Derry~Londonderry – Enjoy overnight accommodation from £175 per room, a main course from the á la carte menu in The Grill restaurant with a glass of wine, beer or a soft drink and a full Irish breakfast each morning. Expires January 6, 2026.
  • Manor House Country Hotel, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh – From £160 per room, enjoy one night bed and breakfast with festive cocktails, canapes and catch-ups. Expires December 23, 2025.
  • Canal Court Hotel, Newry, County Down – Overnight stays from £149 per room based on two sharing, with a full Irish breakfast, a festive cocktail in the Granary Bar and access to the health and leisure centre. Expires December 23, 2025.

For a winter stay with tonnes of great value, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com. You’ll find even more information on the best places for food and drink, local Christmas markets, snug and cosy accommodation and of course… festive shopping.

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

 

 

 

GIVE YOUR PARTNER THE GIFT OF YOUR TIME WITH HASTINGS HOTELS

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LASTING memories are the ultimate present and Hastings Hotels is encouraging people to spend quality time with their partner and gift an experience to remember this Christmas.

 

Northern Ireland’s leading collection of hotels has a fabulous array of gift experiences for couples to enjoy and has put together some festive inspiration:

 

  • Treat that special someone to a romantic overnight stay in one of the six luxurious hotels from as little as £120 for two people – book a city break in Belfast to take in a theatre date night or the bustling nightlife and stay at Europa Hotel, Grand Central Hotel or Stormont Hotel; escape to enjoy the ultimate 5-star luxury at the  Culloden Estate & Spa;  spend the afternoon exploring the Walled City and stay at the Everglades Hotel in Derry-Londonderry or get cosy and enjoy a break along the scenic Antrim coast at Ballygally Castle.
  • After Christmas, there is no better time to relax and enjoy some quality time together than an afternoon being pampered. The Spa at Culloden is an oasis of tranquillity with relaxation rooms, swimming pool, heat experiences and an extensive selection of ESPA treatments including the Sequoia Couples Serenity package which includes a back, neck and shoulder massage, marma points to the feet & a lower leg massage, personalised facial and scalp treatment.
  • Indulge your senses and enjoy a romantic meal for two with menus carefully designed by the chefs at Hastings Hotels using the very best of local, seasonal produce.
  • Treating your loved one to Afternoon Tea is a decadent way to enjoy quality time together. Enjoy cups of the finest steaming tea or coffee, finger sandwiches and an array of delectable treats! For the most exquisite Afternoon Tea, visit the Observatory on the 23rd floor of the 5-star Grand Central Hotel where you can enjoy the best views of Belfast and beyond.
  • And if that special person in your life likes to choose their own present – a Hastings Hotels Monetary Gift Card is ideal! It can be used in the six hotels, magnificent spa and any of the group’s restaurants or bars. It’s the ideal gift that lets people choose the perfect present – be it a special night out, a luxury weekend, an afternoon tea, a spa treatment or even a round of drinks at the bar! Every budget is catered for, with cards available from just £20!

 

For further information go to www.hastingshotels.com/Christmasgifts or call 028 9047 1066.

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