The countdown is on for Big Screen Ballymoney, with an action-packed weekend of cinema in Ballymoney Town Hall.

Audiences get ready to enjoy a line-up packed with classics, local stories, and family favourites organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Arts Service, and running from 6th – 8th November.

Things kick off in swashbuckling style with The Princess Bride on Thursday 6th November at 7pm – a cult fairytale adventure filled with pirates, giants, and true love.

From there, the weekend offers something for everyone, from heartfelt documentaries to iconic musical moments and timeless romance.

Other Highlights include:

• Road (Fri 7th Nov, 7pm): A powerful documentary narrated by Liam Neeson, telling the moving story of the Dunlop family – Ballymoney’s own motorcycling legends.

• Singin’ in the Rain (Fri 7th Nov, 10.30am): A free dementia-friendly screening of the classic musical. This screening will include soft lighting, slightly lower volume and a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. Carers, companions and anyone who enjoys a slower pace are warmly welcome.

• Primary School Choice: Paddington (Sat 8th Nov, 10.30am): A special family screening sponsored by Into Film, sharing the much-loved story of the marmalade-loving bear from Peru and his adventures in London.

• Dirty Dancing (Sat 8th Nov, 7pm): Nobody puts this 80s favourite in the corner –expect romance, music, and iconic dance moves.

With laughter, nostalgia, and plenty of movie magic on offer, it’s set to be a brilliant weekend celebrating the power of film and the community that loves it.

Tickets are priced at £5 per screening or £15 for a family/group of four, with the dementia-friendly screening of Singin’ in the Rain and the family Screening of Paddington offered free of charge (booking essential for all screenings).

Emma Thorpe, Community Arts Development Officer, said: “Big Screen Ballymoney is all about bringing people together through cinema. We can’t wait to welcome families and film lovers to enjoy a weekend of magical screenings in Ballymoney Town Hall.”

Tickets for all screenings can be booked https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/films-in-ballymoney-town-hall-4638173 or through Flowerfield Arts Centre.

Call Flowerfield Reception on 028 7083 1400 or visit Flowerfield.org.

Belfast’s most magical market returns this November when St George’s Market will be transformed into a festive wonderland for the Christmas Twilight Market, launching the city’s Christmas celebrations with two sparkling evenings of food, crafts, and entertainment.

Taking place on Tuesday 25 and Wednesday 26 November, the market will open its historic doors from 4pm to 10pm, offering something for everyone to enjoy – from families and friends to late-night shoppers.

Seasonal drinks from McEnaney’s Bar will be available throughout the two day event with the final hour, from 9pm onwards, reserved for adults, to soak up the festive atmosphere and live music, while savouring artisan treats.

With over 120 traders showcasing the very best of local produce, handmade gifts, gourmet street food, and artisan crafts, under twinkling lights, the Christmas Twilight Market promises to be a magical start to the festive season. From mulled wine and mince pies to unique stocking fillers and festive florals, there’s plenty to explore as Belfast begins its countdown to Christmas.

Christine Cousins, Market Organiser of Sonic Events, said: “The Christmas Twilight Market is one of the highlights of the year for both traders and visitors. As St George’s comes alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of Christmas, it’s a truly magical experience. This year’s event will feature more than 120 incredible local traders, festive food and drink and entertainment for all ages. I would encourage visitors to come out and support our local traders as this market will be the perfect opportunity to embrace Belfast’s Christmas celebrations in style.”

Some of the 120 traders participating in the market are Chowder Up serving seafood; Tapitas, famous for their Paella; Lagan Ribs cooking up ribs and sauces; Twisted Bakes offering coffee and tasty baked goods. For arts focused gifts you can choose from Foss Art and Riccie Drew a Piccie; The Hatman has amazing hats for every occasion; and Irish Goldsmith will be showcasing jewellery by Joel M Smyth. Local food and drink producers include Copeland Gin; Glens of Antrim Crisps; Aunt Sandras Sweet Shop and Sporeshore Mushrooms.

So save these two enchanting evening dates in your diary, wrap up warm, grab a hot chocolate or mulled wine, and step into the magic of Christmas in the heart of Belfast city centre at St George’s Market this 25 and 26 November.

This spooky season is filled with frightfully fun events you won’t want to miss

Northern Ireland comes alive at Halloween with traditions, celebrations, and an irresistible atmosphere of mischief and merriment.

Rooted in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, for over 2,000 years, stories and rituals have marked this turning of the seasons, and today those echoes are felt in celebrations that are both timeless and thrillingly alive.

Nowhere is this spirit more vibrant than at Europe’s largest Halloween festival in Derry~Londonderry, where parades, performances and creativity fill the streets.

But the celebrations don’t stop there. Across Northern Ireland, you’ll find family-friendly workshops, festive foodie-experiences, lively gatherings and seasonal fun to spark the imagination.

Whether you’re joining the magic in Derry~Londonderry or uncovering folklore where history lingers in the shadows, Halloween is all about fun and unforgettable moments.

Discover Northern Ireland has put together a list of more than 30 exciting events to haunt your calendar this October.

• Hallowe’en Torchlight Tours, 24^th and 25^th October and Hallowe’en at Ulster American Folk Park, 29^th-31^st October, Omagh, County Tyrone. Delve into the history of our spookiest season and discover how the people of rural Ulster celebrated Halloween traditions centuries ago.
• Halloween Dungannon, 24^th October, Halloween Coalisland, 31^st October and Halloween Cookstown, 25^th October, various locations in County Tyrone. Join for some frightful fun and excitement this Halloween across County Tyrone. From rides to face painters and fire jugglers, treats, crafts and not-too-scary thrills – Halloween fun for the whole family.
• Harvest Fair at National Trust’s Florence Court, 25^th and 26^th October, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh. Florence Court’s fabulous Harvest Fair returns this autumn with even more on offer. Savour the flavours of the season at their artisan food and craft market in collaboration with Tully Mill. With over 40 vendors bursting with farm fresh produce, homemade treats, and local delicacies there is something for everyone to enjoy.
• The Vanishing – Family Halloween Event at Marble Arch Caves, 25^th, 26^th, 30^th and 31^st October, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh. Prepare for a world of enchantment, mystery, and Halloween fun this autumn as the woodland trail at Cladagh Glen transforms into a magical, interactive adventure for all the family.
• Pumpkin Patch on Castle Island, 25^th–29^th October, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh. Experience the magic of Halloween with a visit to the Pumpkin Patch and hear spooky stories for families. Take a quick boat trip over, spend a couple of hours enjoying the spooky island and be as scared as you like. Activities include storytelling, games from the past, pumpkin creations and a Halloween-themed photo area.
• Halloween Fireworks in Enniskillen, 31^st October, County Fermanagh. Get ready for a spook-tacular evening in Enniskillen. Organised by Enniskillen BID and proudly sponsored by Encirc, this much-loved annual event promises fun, food, and fireworks for all the family.
• Beyond The Wall: First Light and Beyond The Wall: After Dark – Halloween at Game of Thrones Studio Tour, 31^st October –1^st November, Banbridge, County Down. This Halloween, families can embark on a thrilling adventure at the Game of Thrones Studio Tour with Beyond The Wall: First Light. Or for Beyond The Wall: After Dark, as night falls across Westeros, the Studio Tour becomes a darker, more dangerous realm where ancient stories stir and shadows stretch across the frozen North.
• Samhain – Halloween at Ulster Folk Museum, 29^th-31^st October, Cultra, County Down. Long before fireworks and trick-or-treating, there was Samhain, where Halloween truly began. This October, experience Halloween for real at the Ulster Folk Museum. Discover the origins and traditions of Samhain, meet suspicious characters and encounter their uncanny tales.
• Halloween at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, 25^th October – 2^nd November, Royal Hillsborough, County Down. This October break enjoy a spellbinding day out for all the family packed with spooky surprises and autumnal adventures. Explore 100 acres of enchanting gardens, navigate their Halloween maze and unleash your creativity at a pumpkin carving workshop.
• Halloween at Montalto Estate, 25^th-30^th October, (ASD/ Inclusion Sessions 26^th-27^th October) Ballynahinch, County Down. Something strange is happening at Montalto Estate … the moon has vanished from the night sky. Set off on a magical quest through mysterious realms and whispering woods, where you’ll encounter spooky scenes and ghoulish games. Brave young explorers must collect the missing words of an ancient spell to reverse the curse and bring back the moon.
• Pumpkin Patch and Halloween Spook Event at Ballyburren Outdoor Escapes, 25^th – 31^st October, Ballynahinch, County Down. Join a spooktacular adventure filled with frightful fun, pumpkin picking, and unforgettable memories.
• Halloween Half Term at National Trust’s Mount Stewart, 25^th October – 2^nd November, Newtownards, County Down. As the fog rolls in and the trees cast long, twisted shadows, venture deep into the heart of Mount Stewart for spooky fun. Halloween at Mount Stewart is suitable for all ages. Dress up is encouraged but also you may need wellies depending on the weather.
• Halloween Trail at National Trust’s Rowallane Garden, 20^th October – 2^nd November, Saintfield, County Down. Strange creatures have taken over Rowallane Garden—dare you walk the haunted trails this Halloween and face the nightmares that await?
• Hallowe’en Trail at National Trust’s Castle Ward, 25^th October – 2^nd November, Downpatrick, County Down. There’s been a few spooky goings on around Castle Ward – visit to walk the Halloween trail and test your bravery along the way. The trail runs along Laurel Walk and has some indoor spaces and places to get creative and take home a few Halloween themed crafts.
• Super Natural October WWT Castle Espie, 27^th-31^st October and The Mystery of Ollie the Otter, 30^th-31^st October, Comber, County Down. Get ready for a fun-filled Halloween, bubbling over with magical activities for the whole family to enjoy. Or enjoy the thrill of this animal nature based ‘whodunnit’ for Halloween.
• Footsteps in the Forest at Slieve Gullion Forest Park, 20^th – 26^th October, Killeavy, County Armagh. As the crisp autumn air settles in, the Footsteps in the Forest festival at Slieve Gullion Forest Park offers a perfect Halloween adventure. This extended festival celebrates the ancient festival of Samhain with eerie entertainment, tantalising treats, and immersive storytelling.
• Halloween Science: Doom it Yourself Live Science Workshop at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, 28^th-31st October, Armagh, County Armagh. The Armagh ‘Planetscarium’ has been taken over by Madam Mayhem, the supervillain to the stars and using Armagh as a base, join her as she tries to create a Doomsday Device that will help her to take over the world. Check the website for more Halloween activities.
• Little Spooks at Navan Centre and Fort, 25^th-31^st October, Armagh, County Armagh. The Navan Centre & Fort transforms into the spookiest spot in town—calling all ghosts, goblins, witches, and wizards to join the frightfully fun festivities
• Hallowe’en Ghost Tour of Armagh, 31^st October – 2^nd November, County Armagh. An evening of Ghosts and Ghouls – be sure to book a place on the Hallowe’en Walking tours of Armagh.
• Jail of Horror at Crumlin Road Gaol, 17^th-30^th October, Belfast. Step inside the Victorian Jail and face your darkest fears on an intense scare-after-scare journey with only one way out.
• Halloween at W5, 11^th October – 2^nd November, Belfast. W5 transforms into a world of magic, mystery, and spine-tingling fun. From ancient forests and ghostly encounters in the immersive Enchanted Hollow, to thrilling science experiments led by wizards and witches in Pumpkins and Potions, there’s something to captivate every curious mind.
• Let’s Go Hydro’s Drive-In Cinema, 16th – 19th October, 23rd October – 2nd November and Pumpkin Patch & Spookfest, 17th – 19th, 24th – 31st October, Belfast. Get ready for a spine-tingling Halloween at Let’s Go Hydro, Northern Ireland’s premier outdoor adventure destination. The Drive In Cinema brings classic horror, spooky family films, and Halloween favourites straight to your car. Or join them for a pumpkin patch and cosy autumn vibes at their lakeside venue.
• Death, Tragedy & Betrayal: The Darker Side of Clifton Street Cemetery (Tour), 24^th, 25^th and 31^st October, 1^st November, Belfast. Opened in 1797 as the ‘New Burying Ground’ there are many tales to be told here, with Death, Tragedy & Betrayal focussing on the ‘darker side’ of the cemetery’s history.
• Fear Forest at Colin Glen, 17^th October – 1^st November and the Pumpkin Forest & Gruffalo Walk at Colin Glen Forest Park, 12^th – 31^st October, Belfast. The forest will transform into a terrifying landscape filled with spine-chilling Halloween characters lurking in the shadows, ready to haunt your every step, or enjoy an autumn family adventure where you can explore a world of magic, story, and pumpkins.
• Hallowena @ The People’s Park in Ballymena, 30^th October and Halloween Hooley @ Larne Town Park, 31^st October, various locations across County Antrim. Join for some frightful fun and excitement this Halloween across County Antrim.
• Wings & Whistles at Whitehead Railway, 31^st October, Whitehead, County Antrim. A fun-filled Halloween day out with steam trains and birds of prey.
• Derry Halloween 2025, 28^th-31^st October, Derry~Londonderry. Be part of Europe’s largest Halloween Festival as the Walled City welcomes the spirit of Samhain through its historic gates for a festival like no other.
• Halloween Maghera, 31st October, Maghera, County Londonderry. Mini ghouls and goblins welcome. A safe and spooky event for all ages. Halloween Hooley returns to Maghera Leisure Centre with family friendly activities including funfair rides, toy set/carousel, trampolines, bumper cars, music/DJ, jump jiggle and jive dance, face painting, magic show, soft play, bouncy castle and games.
• Fright Night at The Jungle NI, 16^th-31st October and Hallowee’uns at Jungle NI, 18^th-31^st October, Moneymore, County Londonderry. Whether you’re a veteran victim or a first-time runner, this year’s Fright Night will test your nerve and twist your mind. Or the Jungle NI also comes alive with spooky magic and autumn mischief for Northern Ireland’s ultimate family Halloween day out.
• Kids Halloween Chocolate Making Experience at The Chocolate Manor, 31^st October, Castlerock, County Londonderry. In this one-hour kids only experience, children will be guided by their resident ‘shockolatier’ to make three spooktacular Halloween themed chocolate creations.

Get ready for more thrills and chills at www.discovernorthernireland.com and plan a spooktacular short break this Halloween. Activities and events are subject to availability.

By the pricking of my thumbs, something spooky this way comes… the Downpatrick and County Down Railway has had its fair share of ghosts and ghouls over the years, but nothing quite like its latest arrival – Dr Frankenstein himself.

Strange lights and noises have been reported around the heritage railway’s museum yard in recent weeks, and it seems the chaos of Halloween night has left the good Doctor with a problem. Several of his creations appear to have escaped into the County Down countryside, and he is now calling on the public to help him round them up.

“I had to flee my castle in Transylvania and was looking for somewhere I could conduct my experiments in peace,” the Doctor explained when we caught up with him this week. “Somewhere with lots of space and a ready supply of fresh parts.”

Asked if he meant the locomotives and machinery at the museum, he paused. “No, I don’t mean… well, maybe a little. Yes, there are some very useful bodies around the place. I could do with a strong man for my next project. I’ve had my eye on a volunteer or two.”

Pressed on what sort of doctor he actually is, Frankenstein was quick to defend his reputation. “There are some who call me mad, but I’m not. I suppose I’m part biologist, part surgeon. I’m always trying to push the boundaries of what we can do with life. Death does not need to be the end.”

The Doctor admits that some of his experiments may have wandered off during the Halloween night activities, and he needs help to track them down. He’s now summoning brave members of the public to join his recovery effort on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 November, when The Curse of the Phantom Flyer takes over the Downpatrick and County Down Railway.

“Whatever you do, don’t get too close to them,” he warned. “They look a lot like you and me, only I think I might have left them a bit long before we dug them up. I made the perfect couple – if only they’d do what they’re told. Darn things got sentient and I think they’re trying to set up home near the river.”

“I need a crowd of people,” he said. “Wear your best and most frightening costume and let’s scare them into submission.”

This year’s show marks Avalard Productions’ third Halloween event at the railway, featuring a new storyline and characters inspired by Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. The kid-friendly immersive performance, suitable for all ages, blends classic horror with comedy and audience participation, taking visitors through the historic railway site and on board a heritage train into the dark County Down countryside.

Avalard’s director Robert JE Simpson leads the cast as Dr Frankenstein, joined by Geoff Hatt, Marcus Keeley, and Debbie McCormack. “Every year we build something new,” Simpson said. “By staging this after Halloween, families get one last chance to enjoy the season. It’s a Halloween encore before winter truly sets in.”

Performances run at 3.00 pm, 4.15 pm, 5.30 pm on both days. Tickets are £17 per person or £60 for a family. Infants under 12 months travel free. Children’s tickets include face-painting by Kaz-a-Doodle.

Tickets and full details are available at www.downrail.co.uk

The 6th Annual Northern Ireland Country Music Awards Voted by the Public.

Monday 2nd February 2026

Exciting Racing Action on East Strand Portrush – 25th & 26th October 2025

The Knock Motorcycle Club Beach Race is set to make an exciting return to Portrush in 2025, bringing two action-packed days of motorsport competition to the sands of the North Coast.

This much-anticipated annual event will be held on Saturday, 25th October and Sunday, 26th October 2025, with racing scheduled from 11:00 to 15:00 each day.

Spectators are invited to enjoy the event free of charge, with a complimentary programme available to guide you through the weekend’s schedule.

Whether you’re a seasoned motorsport enthusiast or simply looking for an unforgettable day out by the sea, the Knock Club Beach Race promises an electrifying atmosphere for all ages.

As the engines roar and the competitors battle it out on the sand, take advantage of the vibrant local hospitality and soak up the thrilling action from prime vantage points.

With the stunning backdrop of Portrush East Strand, this is an event not to be missed—mark your calendar, invite your friends, and be part of an iconic weekend celebrating speed, community spirit, and the beauty of Northern Ireland’s coastline.

Location

Portrush East Strand, County Antrim, Northern Ireland. Easily accessible and renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery, Portrush offers the perfect setting for high-adrenaline beach racing.

Schedule

·  Both Days Practice runs & 4 races per day per class

Please note that race timings and additional activities will be published closer to the event date.

Spectators entrance is free along with a complementary programme everyone welcome and encouraged to join the excitement on Portrush Beach.

North Belfast childcare specialists Wee Chicks are celebrating 10 years serving the local community by inviting the community together for a fun-packed afternoon at their Autumn Craft & Wellbeing Fair.

The creche and afterschool care social enterprise and charity moved on to the site of Currie Primary at the bottom of the Limestone Road earlier this year.

And founder Kelly Molloy is keen to encourage families in the local community to pop in to see the facilities and meet their neighbours.

The 10th birthday celebrations will take place at the back of Currie Primary on October 29th from 4pm, for what Kelly and the team say will be an afternoon of laughter, fun and games.

Building on the Wee Chicks ethos of promoting and encouraging a positive mindset and community spirit, childcare expert Kelly said the event isn’t just celebrating the business’ success, but also the children and parents who have contributed to the success over the years.

“Our craft and wellbeing fair is about a community coming together to enjoy the fun, creativity and positivity of our children, parents and families,” she said.

“There will be local craft stalls showcasing handmade goods and creative businesses.”

As well as that, in keeping with the Wee Chicks ethos, there will be a wellbeing zone with mindfulness demos, holistic therapies, and parent wellbeing resources.

“We believe that we can all work together to support our children and families,” said Kelly. “Bringing together this birthday celebration is about giving back to the community.”

There will also be community information from local support groups, as well as children’s activities such as face painting, crafts and interactive play, as well as a community ballot.

“Everyone from the community right across North Belfast is welcome to join us. It will be a great opportunity to see the Wee Chicks facilities at the back of Currie Primary School.

“Of course, we’ll also have cake to celebrate 10 years with the North Belfast community,” said Kelly.

“It’s a milestone for our social enterprise. I hope everyone can come together to celebrate our commitment to positive support for children and families, and a chance to meet and chat to the Wee Chicks team.”

The Wee Chicks birthday celebration starts at 4pm on October 29 at Currie Primary School, Limestone Road, Belfast.

To find out more about Wee Chicks, go to weechicks.com.