MARKET PLACE APPEARANCE FOR RYAN O’SHAUGHNESSY

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Ryan O’Shaughnessy takes to the stage at The Market Place Theatre in Armagh on 17 January.

Ryan has competed in TV shows such as The Voice of Ireland, Britain’s Got Talent and The Hit. He was signed to Sony RCA in the UK and produced his debut EP that reached No.1 in Ireland for two consecutive months. His latest album ‘Back to Square One’ shows a clear maturity in his songwriting and musical taste. Ryan is a YouTube sensation having received over 45 million hits for his self-penned song ‘No Name’.

Ryan previously played the character Mark Halpin in RTE’s long running TV soap Fair City.  But since then his music career has taken off and has seen him tour Ireland, UK, USA and Canada releasing his own music and working on collaborations with other artists.  He has just released his brand new single ‘Civil War’.

Ryan O’Shaughnessy will play at The Market Place on Thursday 17 January at 8.00pm. Tickets priced £15 each are available from the Theatre Box Office on [028] 3752 1821, or online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre. To keep up-to-date with the latest news at the Market Place Theatre, you can follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/marketplacearmagh) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/mptarmagh) where you will find all the latest information, special offers and video previews.

10 things to do in NI this week!

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DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are ten exciting things taking place this week (7 – 13 January)

  1. The Fureys, Belfast, 12 January.  See the The Fureys perform at the Waterfront Hall. Entertaining audiences worldwide for 41 years – including former Irish President Mary McAleese and the late Pope John Paul, while Tony Blair has publicly stated his favourite peace song of all time is The Furey’s ‘Green Fields of France.’
  2. Out to Lunch Festival, Belfast, 4 – 27 January. Now in its fourteenth year this festival specialises in lunch-based art solutions in the Cathedral Quarter and beyond. This year’s festival boasts a jam-packed lined-up including Britain’s Got Talent’s Lost Voice Guy and DJ Terri Hooley. To see the full line-up visit CQAF.com.
  3. Birds on the Bann Boat Trips, Coleraine, 6 and 20 January. Join Causeway Lass to explore the River Bann Estuary from Coleraine to the Barmouth. The trips are timed for low tide giving the best opportunity to see some of the 220 bird species recorded in the area and if you are lucky, the local seals and otters. There are two trips scheduled each day, at 10am and 1pm.
  4. Lisburn Light Festival, Lisburn, until 25 January.  Share the magic of the Season at Lisburn Light Festival. Over one million lights illuminate the City Centre with a spectacular light canopy, glimmering the length of Bow Street. Experience the dazzling 40-foot Christmas tree in Market Square and get into the festive spirit by dancing on the interactive light floor below glistening disco balls.
  5. Lyric Lounge: Miscast, Belfast, 12 January. Miscast Belfast are back for another night of Miscast madness at The Lyric. As usual, they (and you) will be performing a whole range of inappropriately cast numbers, open mic style.
  6. A Step Back In Time, Omagh, until 14 June 2019. This exhibition at the Ulster American Folk Park includes almost 100 objects, ranging in date from a medieval brooch to a contemporary diamante embroidered costume for solo dance. Embroidered costumes, medals, and certificates will tell the story of the development of dance schools and the governing bodies for Irish Dance.
  7. A Costume Cavalcade, Armagh, until 2 March 2019.  This exhibition at the Armagh County Museum tells the story of dress over the last three hundred years showcasing some of the most important examples in the collection.
  8. Close To Home, Limavady, until 25 January. Roe Valley Arts hosts this exhibition of work by artists of the Puffin Artists Group CIC co-ordinated by the lovely Puffin Gallery in Ballycastle and including works in ceramics, glass, paintings, jewellery and more.
  9. MAC International, Belfast, until 31 March. MAC International presents a snapshot of the most exciting and ambitious art practices from across the world. It is the largest arts prize in Ireland and one of the few major art prizes in the UK, offering artists from around the world an opportunity to exhibit at the MAC in Belfast.
  10. Mastodon, Belfast, 14 January. Grammy-Award-winning hard rock quartet Mastodon return to live action with an extensive tour of the U.K. and Europe beginning in Belfast at The Ulster Hall with special guests Kvelertak and Mutoid Man.

For more information on these events or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit www.DiscoverNorthernIreland.com.

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

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Mixed Feelings at Ards Arts Centre  is an exhibition of sculpture by Katrina Cobain, with glazed expressions, dysfunctional properties and stories to tell. By displaying a range of objects from various performances or contexts, in their own right, they communicate another time, place or narrative. These objects have a sense of error about them: there is something off-kilter, not quite right, that puts you off. Whether you laugh, smile or grimace – Mixed Feelings has something to show you. Runs until 26th January.

Armagh

Portadown Pantomime presents Sleeping Beauty at Portadown Town Hall.  Shows run from Thursday 10th January until Saturday 26th January.  Curtain up at 7.30pm with the show concluding at approximately 10.15pm.  Tickets cost only £8.

Fermanagh

Exhibition :  When the Wind Blows, A Decade of Fermanagh Photographs from the Kite. Enniskillen Castle, Enniskillen until 19th  January 2019.  This exhibition highlights a selection of chosen images by Fermanagh photographer Ciarán May.  For almost a decade, Ciarán has uniquely captured the beauty and charm of his native county using a Kite to lift a camera. The display showcases the beautiful idyllic settings in Fermanagh and it gives us an insight into the techniques used by Ciarán to capture the perfect image!

Tyrone

Singalong with Goldilocks and The Three Bears this Saturday afternoon at the Alley Theatre in Strabane.  The much loved fairytale returns to the stage in a live show of song and laughter.  With plenty of audience participation and action, perfect for all the family!   Tickets are priced at  £9 or £40 for a family of five.

Derry/Londonderry

Following on from the success of last year’s sell-out show, Anne Tracey and friends return to The Helicon at Heaney Homeplace Bellaghy to start the New Year with words, wit and warmth.  This Saturday afternoon join some of Mid-Ulster’s finest talent for an afternoon of song, music and poetry exploring the emotional pull of home. Words and music that spring from their home place promise nourishment for both heart and soul.

Antrim

Portrush Theatre Company presents The Wonderful Wizard of Oz for its January 2019 Pantomime from 11th to 19th January at Portrush Town Hall.   Join Dorothy and Aunt Em on their journey down the yellow brick road; sing along with the Lion, Tin man and Scarecrow as they join in the adventure; and help defeat the Wicked Witch of the West!  Tickets prices at £10.  (Matinees £7). Curtain up at 7.30pm.

Belfast

The Crescent Arts Centre present the incredible Charlton Wood’s Cabaret Cruises: Terminal Divertissement this Friday evening. Belly-ache, screaming, roaring, laughter. Never to be missed, the last show you’ll ever want to watch!  Having spent most of his life on cruises, Mr Woods is offering you the chance to see one of his famous cruise cabarets, on dry(ish) land.   Charlton offers his condolences and sincerely welcomes you to this, THE show. His satirical musings have sated the pleasure seeking appetites of Sultans, Noble Born, Kings, Celebrities, plebs and luddites. Drawing from a rich pool of human experience Charlton Woods will ponder, live, and ask you to do the same. Now finally you can join him, and be at peace, or whatever you find yourself doing.

NEW YEAR ENTERTAINMENT AT THE MARKET PLACE

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The Market Place Theatre in Armagh is keeping the excitement going with a range of fabulous entertainment throughout January.

Get ready for an upbeat night of solid gold 60s hits and 80s contemporary genius as Barry Steel celebrates the musical legacy of the Roy Orbison in ‘The Roy Orbinson Story’.  Barry has been stunning audiences with his uncanny ability to recreate the vocal talents of the legendary Roy Orbison, winning rave reviews across the globe.  Barry Steele will perform The Roy Orbinson Story on Saturday 11 January. 

On 17 January, Dublin-born Ryan O’Shaughnessy takes to the stage. After playing the character Mark Halpin in RTE’s long running TV soap Fair City, Ryan began a career in music, going on to compete in TV shows such as The Voice of Ireland, Britain’s Got Talent and The Hit. During this time, Ryan’s self-penned song ‘No Name’ accumulated over 45 million hits on YouTube. He was then signed to Sony RCA in the UK, where he worked on his debut EP that reached No.1 in Ireland for two consecutive month.  His latest album ‘Back to Square One’ shows a clear maturity in his songwriting and musical taste, and he has just released his brand new single ‘Civil War’.

New for 2019, we bring you the magic of the big screen with a series of monthly film screenings, starting off with Lost in Translation on 24 January. See website for details of upcoming film screenings.

On 25 January, Kabosh Productions presents The Box, which reveals the incredible story of Olive Swanzy, a nurse from Co. Down who served during World War I. During her time in service, Olive kept autograph books that documented her time and those she encountered.   Watch as ‘The Box’ comes to life and tells the story of the men and women who placed their thoughts, hopes and dreams in the care of Olive’s autograph books.

Then to end the month on a high note we have the acclaimed one-man show, Frank Carson:  Rebel without a Pause, written and performed by Dan Gordon. The show takes us on a journey with Frank from his Belfast boyhood – where life was so tough even the arms on the chairs had tattoos – through his adventures in the army, and into the world of showbiz where he entertained Royalty, delighted Pope John Paul II and never forgot where he came from. A whirlwind comedy drama celebrating the man, the myth and the mouth – it’s a cracker!

Further details of events can be found online at www.marketplacearmagh.com, and tickets can be booked at Box Office on [028] 3752 1821.

And to keep up-to-date with the latest news at the Market Place Theatre, you can follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/marketplacearmagh) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/mptarmagh) where you will find all the latest information, special offers and video previews.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are ten exciting things taking place this week (31 December – 6 January)

1.       The Governor’s NYE Ball, Belfast, 31 December. Celebrate your New Year’s Eve with fabulous food, fun and laughter at The Governor’s Ball in the Crumlin Road Gaol. The unique Victorian Era prison provides a stunning backdrop to your New Year’s Eve party which will kick off with a magical drinks reception, followed by a three course meal and entertainment from live five piece band Conspiracy.

2.       Vienna!, Derry~Londonderry, 6 January.  Vienna! Ah Vienna! Let the Ulster Orchestra and charismatic guest performers take you to the glittering world of Strauss for the waltz of your life at the Guildhall Square.

3.       New Year’s Eve, Belfast, 31 December. Enjoy a fabulous cocktail on arrival and a light supper at Titanic Belfast this New Year’s Eve, before dancing the night away in front of the stunning Titanic staircase

4.       Dippy on Tour, Belfast, 6 December – 6 January. As part of a road trip across the UK, Dippy is venturing out of London for the first time since 1905. He is currently in the Ulster Museum until 6 January 2019 – and he’s on a mission to inspire five million natural history adventures, encouraging families to explore nature on their doorstep.

5.       Winter Circus, Belfast, 14 December – 1 January. Following their run of sold out shows at this year’s Eastside Arts Festival, those wonderful, wacky folks down at Tumble Circus are back again with The Winter Circus Show at Writer’s Square.

6.       The Three Amigos, Belfast, 5 January.  Jimmy Buckley, Robert Mizell and Patrick Feeney have played a major part in the transformation of country music in Ireland. All three enjoy hugely successful solo careers and when they come together for this unique performance at the waterfront Hall, the chemistry and the magic generated on stage is truly very special.

7.       Homegrown, Derry~Londonderry, 4 January. Homegrown, the annual local music extravaganza, returns for its seventh year to the Millennium Forum. Featuring Paul Casey with his band, Paddy Nash and the Happy Enchiladas, PORTS, and newcomers ‘The Inside Out’ featuring George Hutton.

8.       Winter Skate at SSE Arena, Belfast, 15 December – 4 January. Skating sessions at the home of the Belfast Giants, the SSE Arena, take place this festive season. Enjoy a family day out by purchasing a site pass which allows access to skating, W5 and a Giant’s Game. Please note

9.       Vienna!, Ballymena,5 January. Vienna! Ah Vienna! The Ballymena concert is a special celebration of the music of Vienna, which instantly transports you to a bygone age of glitz and glamour that saw the Austrian capital become a hub for the composers and musicians of the day. Whether it’s the Merry Widow, The Blue Danube or the unforgettable Radetzky March, it’s a wonderful opportunity to welcome the new year with an uplifting celebration of live orchestral music.

10.   Gandeys Greatest Snowman Circus, Belfast, 20 December – 6 January. This one-hour show is packed full of comedy from Chico Rico – Europe’s superstar clown – and thrilling circus acts, which has been specially created, costumed and choreographed to be Belfast’s must see show this Christmas.

For more information on these events or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit www.DiscoverNorthernIreland.com.

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

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A weekly Saturday Market is held in Conway Square, Newtownards. This market caters for all your needs. A diverse range of stalls including local fruit and vegetables, seafood and meat; there are also tools, clothing and accessories, toys, flowers and plants, to name just a few. Something for all the family. Next date Saturday 5th January.

Armagh

Bagatelle have shared stages with legends like Bob Marley, John Denver, The Pogues, Duran Duran, Van Morrison, George Micheal, U2, Jose Feliciano and UB40. See them perform live on stage this Saturday 5th January at the Market Place Theatre in Armagh.

Fermanagh

Lose the January blues by getting out in the fresh air, helping the Rangers remove and burn the invasive rhododendron bushes at Crom Estate in Newtownbutler this Saturday, and finish the day off by toasting some delicious marshmallows on the fire.  Tools and training provided by the Rangers to ensure that you have fun in a safe environment. Suitable for children aged five and above. This is a free event and booking is not required. 10.00am to 3.30pm.

Tyrone

In his new show ‘Nobody Shouted Stop’ Jake O’Kane will be casting his caustic, comedy eye on the good, the bad and the very, very ugly.  If you have been before you will want to come again, if you haven’t seen Jake O’Kane live then the advice is to book early to see who everyone is talking about. Once again Jake will be joined by Terry McHugh one of Ireland’s finest young comedy talents.  Show contains adult reference for 16+ only. Strule Arts Centre, Omagh, Saturday 5th January.

Derry

Vienna! Ah Vienna! Let the Ulster Orchestra and charismatic guest performers take you to the glittering world of Strauss for the waltz of your life at the Millennium Forum this Sunday evening.  Welcome the New Year with an uplifting and enchanting evening of your much-loved Viennese music from the Merry Widow to the Blue Danube. Not forgetting that all-time favourite, the Radetzky March!

Antrim

Just returned from the USA to deliver his funniest and most incredible show yet, Mindreader David Meade, the first mentalist to win a Million dollars in a Las Vegas casino, will blow your mind as he does the impossible live on stage right in front of you.  Now performing all over the world, David is coming back to home soil to blow minds across the country.  His last record-breaking tour sold out everywhere, so grab your tickets now for the Old Courthouse Antrim this Friday 4th January, and look forward to a jaw dropping performance that your whole family of all ages will never forget.

Belfast

This Saturday The Crescent Arts Centre  welcomes one of Ireland’s greatest female jazz and blues singers, Mary Coughlan.  She is a true artist who has carved out a timeless and highly regarded career and a legion of devoted fans worldwide. Described as “Ireland’s Billie Holiday’ Mary has overcome trauma and addiction to become a musical force like no other.  Mary live is in a league of her own. Her glorious husky voice pulling every ounce of emotion from the music. This is the real thing, sung from the depths of a woman’s heart and soul, a survivor who (to paraphrase Leonard Cohen’s famous words) “was born with the gift of a golden voice.” This is why she is so loved.

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.  

Jacqueline

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are ten exciting things taking place this week (24 – 30 December)

  1. Turkey Run Rally, Limavady, 29 December. The annual Turkey Run Rally, organised by the Maiden City Motor Club, has risen in popularity over the last number of years, with visitors coming from all over the island of Ireland to both compete and spectate. Visitors to the Turkey Run Rally can expect to experience an exciting day out watching high-speed action. A fantastic family day out for over the festival holidays.
  2. Brian Kennedy Concert, Newcastle, 27 December. One of Northern Ireland’s favourite performers, singer-songwriter, Brian Kennedy will return to the Slieve Donard Resort & Spa for an unmissable concert this Christmas. Brian will perform his classic hits on the night including ‘You Raise Me Up’, ‘Danny Boy’, ‘Brown Eyed Girl’ and lots more.
  3. Christmas at St George’s Market, Belfast, 21 – 30 December. While Santa spreads his festive cheer, the traders will bear treats for one and all. From locally grown ingredients for that mouth-watering Christmas feast to one-of-a-kind handmade gifts for that perfect treat, all at St George’s Market this festive season.
  4. Christmas Ghost Stories with Ian McElhinney, Hillsborough, 28 December. Ian McElhinney is an actor and director from Northern Ireland. He has appeared in many theatre, film and television productions in a critically acclaimed career spanning more than thirty years; notable appearances include Taggart, Game of Thrones, Cold Feet and Derry Girls.
  5. Conal Gallen – Happy Head, Newry, 29 December. When it comes to comedians there is none better or funnier than the King himself, Conal Gallen. Conal is bringing his comedy show, “Happy Head” to the stage in Newry at the Canal Court Hotel.
  6. The Fureys, Derry~Londonderry, 27 December. Legends of Irish music and song The Furey’s, renowned for their hit songs ‘I will love you’, ‘When you were sweet 16’ and ‘The Green fields of France’, return to the Millennium Forum in their 40th Anniversary year.
  7. Abbamania, Limavady, 28 December. Abbamania’s widely acclaimed tribute to ABBA is a sensational two hour show featuring record breaking and timeless hits from Waterloo to Dancing Queen which will have you dancing in the aisles at the Roe Valley Arts Centre.
  8. Winter Circus, Belfast, 14 December – 1 January. Following their run of sold out shows at this year’s Eastside Arts Festival, those wonderful, wacky folks down at Tumble Circus are back again with The Winter Circus Show at Writer’s Square.
  9. Johnny Cash Tribute with June Carter, Belfast, 27 – 28 December. Just like Johnny Cash took the stage in his famous gig in Folsom Prison, he will perform some of his biggest hits live at Crumlin Road Gaol. Capturing the unmistakable sound of the ‘man in black’, and accompanied by June Carter and band, you will experience what it was like to be at a real Cash show.
  10. Dippy on Tour, Belfast, 6 December – 6 January. As part of a road trip across the UK, Dippy is venturing out of London for the first time since 1905. He is currently in the Ulster Museum until 6 January 2019 – and he’s on a mission to inspire five million natural history adventures, encouraging families to explore nature on their doorstep.

For more information on these events or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit www.DiscoverNorthernIreland.com.

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

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Newry Chamber Music presents its annual Christmas concert on Wednesday 19th December at the Sean Hollywood Arts Centre Newry. Joining NCM’s artistic directors David Quigley and Joanne Quigley McParland will be the celebrated Irish soprano Máire Flavin.  Expect a wonderful evening of classical and Christmas favourites. Early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.  If you wish to reserve tickets by telephone please call 02830 828 632.

Armagh

Celebrate the Winter Solstice with a lantern-lit walk to Navan Fort and take part in a solstice ritual of morning meditation reflecting on the past and welcoming the arrival of new light.  Appreciate the calmness and serenity of watching the sun rise over the sacred site of Emain Macha on the shortest day of the year, before returning to the centre for an optional breakfast.   Pre-booking is essential although tickets are free, with the option to purchase a breakfast ticket at just £4.00 per person. Friday 21st December.

Fermanagh

Everyone across Fermanagh, Tyrone and beyond will have the opportunity to support the great work of Air Ambulance NI by visiting their fund raising Christmas Tree Festival which will be held in the Bawnacre Centre, Irvinestown next week, from Tuesday 18th until Sunday 23rd December. The spectacular display will consist of over 60 decorated Christmas trees presented by local groups, clubs, schools and voluntary organizations to reflect their good work in the local area. All funds raised will be presented to Air Ambulance via their local Trustee Mr Rodney Connor. Everyone is warmly invited to visit the Festival next week anytime Tuesday to Friday between 10 am and 10 pm; Saturday 10 am to 5 pm or during the special opening on Sunday 23rd December between 2 pm and 5 pm. Complimentary refreshments will be provided and families can also visit Santa’s Grotto in the Bawnacre for a beautiful family photograph.

Tyrone

The Christmas Country Concert Tour comes to the Mellon Country Inn Omagh on Friday 21st December.  Doors open at 7.30 pm with the show beginning at 8.00 pm.  With Ray Lynam, Philomena Begley, Dominic Kirwan, Louise Morrisey, Colm Kirwan, Barry Kirwan, Aidan Quinn, Stacey Breen, Chrissy Mac, MC Brian Cunningham.  Dine & Dance/ Dine, Dance and Stay Packages Available!  Tickets £22.50.

Derry/Londonderry

This Friday evening enjoy a Christmas Carol Service in the atmospheric setting of Mussenden Temple. Mulled wine and mince pies will be served in the interval. Please note that booking is essential for this event.  Phone: 028 7084 8728 or email: downhilldemesne@nationaltrust.org.uk.  Unfortunately dogs are not welcome at this event.  Tickets : Adult: £7.50 | Child: £5.00 | Family: £20.00.

Antrim

A special screening of Frank Capra’s enduring and classic Christmas movie, It’s a Wonderful Life, will take place this Saturday afternoon at the Old Courthouse in Antrim.  George Bailey has so many problems he is thinking about ending it all – and it’s Christmas! As the angels discuss George, we see his life in flashback. As George is about to jump from a bridge, he ends up rescuing his guardian angel, Clarence – who then shows George what his town would have looked like if it hadn’t been for all his good deeds over the years. Christmas gift included in ticket price.

Belfast

“Do you wanna build a snowman?”  Join the Crescent Arts Centre this Saturday afternoon for an extra special Christmas treat and join Elsa, Anna and Olaf for an afternoon of sing-a-long cinema!  There will be music, singing, films and even snow!  The film will be shown with lyrics on a huge projector, blasting those famous tunes through the state of the art sound system.  There are cinema seats and even popcorn, and don’t forget to dress up as your favourite character!

 

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

Jacqueline McGonigle

OFFERS OF THE WEEK

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Northern Ireland boasts an irresistible collection of places to stay including beautiful B&Bs, luxurious spa hotels and great value self-catering properties. Discover NI has selected the best offers of the week to help you plan a short break.

 

  • Book six nights and enjoy the seventh night free, Co. Down, Cedar Cottage from £530 per stay

This charming 19th century cottage has recently been renovated to provide spacious, comfortable accommodation. The four-star self-catering property sleeps up to four people and   is within walking distance of Newry city centre, local shops and restaurants as well as the beach and promenade. It is also ideally located for visits to the Mourne Mountains and Cooley Peninsula. To book call 028 4175 2999. Offer available until 31 December 2018.

  • Here Come the Girls, Dobbins Inn, Carrickfergus from £100 per stay

The three-star Dobbins Inn is situated in the heart of Carrickfergus, offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere from the log fire in the bar lounge as well as quality service and top-class food in their new Landings restaurant. Its central location provides the opportunity to explore the nearby Carrickfergus Castle or take a stroll along the seafront. Offer includes one night’s bed and breakfast accommodation and afternoon tea for two with Prosecco. Price is based on two people sharing. To book call 028 9335 1905. Offer available until 31 March 2019.

  • One Night Wine and Dine, Westville Hotel, Co. Fermanagh from £148 per stay

Perfectly located in the heart of Enniskillen’s waterside historic quarter, the four-star Westville Hotel is a sophisticated, yet understated, boutique destination. Offer includes one night’s luxury accommodation, a three-course dinner in the evening with a bottle of house wine and a traditional Irish breakfast in the morning. To book call 028 6632 0333. Offer available until 30 June 2019.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are ten exciting things taking place this week (17 – 23 December)

 

  1. Daniel O’Donnell, Derry~Londonderry, 19 December. No stranger to the Millennium Forum stage, Daniel O’Donnell returns to delight his many local fans. It’s no surprise he is one of the best loved artistes of our time, both at home and abroad. After more than thirty years in the spotlight as an engaging entertainer, he is still in love with performing and with audiences the world over.
  2. Ulster v Munster, Belfast, 21 December. There will be a wide variety of food and drink options available, as well as live music from a local artist in the Clubhouse Bar. All topped off with an intense battle on the field as Munster descend on Kingspan Stadium.
  3. Gandeys Greatest Snowman Circus, Belfast, 23 November – 6 January. Gandeys, Britain’s largest circus company, comes to Belfast Winter Wonderland with an all-new show, The Greatest Snow Man Circus. This one-hour show features international circus artistes from Mexico, Ukraine, Switzerland and Europe. Packed full of comedy from Chico Rico – Europe’s superstar clown – and thrilling circus acts, it has been specially created, costumed and choreographed to be Belfast’s must see show this Christmas.
  4. The Hedgehog Prince, Limavady, 22 December. The Hedgehog Prince is based on an old traditional folktale and uses puppetry, object theatre and original music which will enchant young and old alike. The perfect Christmas outing for the family at the Roe Valley Arts Centre.
  5. Winter Solstice, Armagh, 21 December. Celebrate the Winter Solstice with a lantern-lit walk to Navan Fort and take part in a solstice ritual of morning meditation reflecting on the past and welcoming the arrival of new light. Appreciate the calmness and serenity of watching the sun rise over the sacred site of Emain Macha on the shortest day of the year, before returning to the centre for an optional breakfast.
  6. Lisburn Light Festival, Lisburn, 22 November – 25 January. Share the Magic of the Season at Lisburn Light Festival. Over one million lights will illuminate the City Centre with a spectacular Light Canopy, glimmering the length of Bow Street. Experience the dazzling 40 foot Christmas Tree in Market Square and get into the festive spirit as you dance on the interactive light floor below glistening disco balls.
  7. The Magic Of Christmas, Belfast, 19 December. Following its huge success last year, this magical concert is now a central part of the Ulster Orchestra’s annual festive offering. Playing all your favourite songs such as Winter Wonderland and Santa Claus is Coming to Town, it’ll definitely ‘look a lot like Christmas’ at the Waterfront Hall.
  8. Santa Claus is Coming to The Boulevard, Banbridge, 6 – 24 December. As the festive season begins to get under way, The Boulevard in Banbridge is the perfect place to take your little elves (and canine companions) along to meet Santa Claus, unwrap fantastic offers across stores and avail of late-night shopping.
  9. Winter Skate, Belfast, 15 December – 4 January. Skating sessions at the home of the Belfast Giants, the SSE Arena, take place this festive season. Enjoy a family day out by purchasing a site pass which allows access to skating, W5 and a Giant’s Game.
  10. Margaret Keys ‘The Gift of Christmas’, Derry~Londonderry, 21 December. Due to popular demand, chart-topping internationally renowned Irish Soprano Margaret Keys returns home once again to perform an exclusive evening of beautiful music this Christmas at the Waterside Theatre.

 

For more information on these events or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit www.DiscoverNorthernIreland.com.

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