Down

Join the ranger team at National Trust Mount Stewart on Saturday 14th January for a day of tree planting to save the native red squirrel. Bring a packed lunch and be prepared for some physical work! Suitable clothing and footwear essential.  Meet at The Lookout, Mount Stewart. Please note that booking is essential.

Armagh

Antique ,Vintage and collectables fair, St. Marks Parish Church Armagh, Saturday 14th January 2017. Doors are open for to the public from 10am through to 4pm.  There will be a large variety of items available from model vehicles to militaria, jewellery to china and crystal, silver, antique oil lamps, clocks and furniture. Admission £1.

Fermanagh

Join the RSPB NI Fermanagh team this Saturday at Drumgay Lough to watch the wildlife which calls Drumgay Lough home.  You’ll see swans, geese and ducks – some of which have undertaken enormous journeys from Iceland, Scandinavia and western Russia – enjoying the winter weather in Fermanagh.  You’ll learn how to separate the divers from the dabblers, female ducks of different species and maybe hear buzzards overhead. If luck is really on our side, a chance encounter with an otter is possible! Binoculars and telescopes will be provided. Suitable outdoor clothing and footwear are necessary.

Tyrone

Hold your breath, make a wish, count to three……let Stewartstown Amateur Dramatic Society take you to a land of pure imagination in Willy Wonka’s Pantomime this Friday and Saturday at the Burnavon Theatre Cookstown.  Based on themes from Roald Dahl’s magical Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, this year’s box of delights follows the story of Charlie Bucket and the search for the golden ticket that could give him the chance to finally see inside Willy Wonka’s amazing chocolate factory. Willy Wonka’s Pantomime is packed full of song, dance, hilarity and of course…chocolate!

Derry

For the first time ever the classic nursery Rhyme Humpty Dumpty is brought to the stage at the Roe Valley Arts Centre this Saturday afternoon in this wonderful live interactive all singing and dancing production.  Humpty is going on a big adventure to climb the highest wall in the Kingdom, but Humpty needs your help!  Sing along; solve puzzles, and meet lots of famous children’s charters along the way including, The Three Little Pigs, Little Bo Peep and all the animals on Old MacDonald’s Farm and many more! With amazing costumes, dazzling stage sets and a host of colourful characters to bring you on the journey of a lifetime.  When Humpty climbs the highest wall in the Kingdom, who knows what might happen next?

Antrim

Portrush Theatre Company are delighted to be returning to Portrush Town Hall in 2017 with Dick Whittington. There will be eight shows between 13th-14th and 18th-21st January which includes a sensory performance on the 18th.  This rags to riches story follows a young man as he travels to London to seek his fortune. Things are never easy though as the evil Queen Rat is determined to take over the city and tries to stop Dick on his road to success.  Packed with great songs and hilarious comedy this is a show for all the family to enjoy!  Tickets are priced at £10 and available from Jingles, Portrush.

Belfast

Is there something you have always wanted to try but haven’t found the time to do it? This New Year why not Try Something New at the Crescent Arts Centre?  Based in the heart of South Belfast, the Crescent Arts Centre offers a variety of classes and workshops in a variety of art forms and we are delighted to launch our latest jam-programme for the forthcoming term starting in January!  This term choose from 48 new classes and workshops to the programme along with all your firm favourites for adults and children alike!

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.

Have a creative start to 2017, check out Ards and North Down Borough Council’s brand new programme of art and creative classes starting up this January and taking place through to April.

Don’t miss the chance to learn a new skill and create your own artwork in the process.

Ards Arts Centre is offering an incredible range of longer courses (6-10 weeks) for the Winter/Spring season and it’s an ideal time to get to grips with an art or craft activity, to work with experienced artists, and to come away with your own creations.

As always it’s a wonderful programme offering something for every taste with many of the very popular courses back including Patchwork, Parchment, Illustration, Crochet, Drawing Skills, Calligraphy, Digital Photography, Jewellery-making, Floral Art and Guitar classes for adults and children.

Fancy trying something different? Ards Arts Centre are offering some exciting new classes this season. Try out weaving. Rosemary McCartney is inviting beginners and improvers and try a range of weaving techniques. Expand your visual art techniques with courses in both ‘Watercolour and Ink’ and ‘Acrylic and Oil Painting’ facilitated by Brigh Strawbridge-O’Hagan. Get to grips with printmaking in an exciting new course with Alice Burns.

Get a taste of creativity with Ards Arts Centre’s one day workshops. This season you can sample Sculptural Ceramics, explore your imagination with Drawing and Monotype Printing, make your own Stacking Rings, create beautiful Easter themed projects using the art of parchment!

Let the kids release their inner artist when Saturday Art Club returns on the 28 January, facilitated by Bernice Anderson, assisted by Judith Moore. Followed by a round the world ceramic tour on the programme for 6-12 year olds on Saturday afternoon, with Sandra Robinson as tour guide, assisted by Judith Moore. This ten-week adventure will help your children become skilled little potters and leave them fired up for more!

There’s so much on offer and the majority of classes suit beginners. With so much on offer, don’t miss enrolment day for all classes on Wednesday, 11^th January from 9pm-5pm at Ards Arts Centre, Conway Square, Newtownards.

To find out more, call Ards Arts Centre on 028 9181 0803 or visit ardsarts.com

The north coast based artist Louise McLean (of Atlantic Craft NI) recreates her interpretation of the rugged landscape and dramatic coastlines of Ireland through basketry this January at the Burnavon, Cookstown.

In this stunning exhibition, every basket hand-woven by Louise is unique, gathering its individual momentum and flow, resulting in dramatically sweeping organic shapes that echo bog-land, branches and beaches from the landscapes and coastlines that have inspired Louise.

Discussing her work, Louise says, “Every creation has evolved from traditional basket weaving techniques, the use of oxides, aged and dyed materials combined with various weaves, each unique in construction and form, each telling its own story. The materials I’ve used in each basket also reflect the uncertainty and passage of time as some materials have been connected to the earth growing for longer, while some elements within the baskets are found and gathered, these include pebbles, driftwood, kelp and rope, and who knows how long and far these have travelled.”

Visitors to the exhibition will see the bare branches of the Willow that Louise uses in her weaving, symbolising nature and the changing seasons, while bark, bogwood and beach combed baskets all evoking thoughts and memories of the diversity and rich heritage within our landscape.

The exhibition is on display from Tuesday 3rd – Tuesday 31st January, with free entry, and is open 9am – 5pm daily and 1 hour before scheduled performances. For more information contact the Burnavon Box Office on 028 8676 9949.

Free Golden Tickets Up For Grabs for Locals

Having been crowned the ‘World’s Leading Tourist Attraction’ at the prestigious World Travel Awards in the Maldives, Titanic Belfast, to say thank you for the support in 2016, is giving away complimentary tickets for local residents to the Titanic Experience for the 8^th January 2017.

Titanic Belfast’s NI Citizens Day event on 8^th January will provide the opportunity for locals to visit or re-visit the world-class landmark right on their doorstep, which tells the story of the Titanic, from her conception in Belfast in the early 1900s, through her construction and launch, to her famous maiden voyage and tragic end, free-of-charge.
With over 1 million votes cast from over 216 countries in the awards, known as the ‘Tourism Oscars’, it beat off stiff competition from eight global finalists, including Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and the Las Vegas Strip, USA, to become the World’s Leading Tourist Attraction.  Titanic Belfast recognises the key role Northern Ireland locals had to play in making Titanic Belfast ‘King of the World’ and will be issuing tickets for locals on its website on 4^th and 5^th January 2017.
Tim Husbands MBE, Chief Executive of Titanic Belfast, said, “Home is where the heart is for Titanic Belfast. We recognise that the Northern Ireland got behind us in our bid to become ‘King of the World’, from the public, industry partners, well-known personalities, politicians, sports stars and businesses. It was because of them and the hard work of our staff that we were voted on par with previous winners such as the Taj Mahal, Las Vegas Strip and the Pyramids of Egypt. To say thank you for your support in 2016 and to show our appreciation, we are throwing our doors open for locals on 8^th January to encourage those who have or haven’t visited to come down and enjoy the world-class experience on their doorstep!”

Described by The Guardian as “an inspiring testament to the Titanic and the city that built it”, more than three million people from around the world have already visited Titanic Belfast since opening in 2012. The Experience continues to go from strength to strength and has added the SS Nomadic, the world’s largest Titanic artefact to its offering over the last year.

Tickets will be released on www.titanicbelfast.com/citizensday at noon on Wednesday 4^th January with a second release at noon on Thursday 5^th January.  To bag one of these one-off golden tickets to beat the January blues and experience the World’s Leading Tourist Attraction, use promotion TBTHANKSNI when booking tickets.

For more information, visit www.titanicbelfast.com/citizensday.

Wedding show has been nominated as a finalist in the 2017 Northern Ireland Wedding Awards.

What better way to start planning your big day or to help you both put those special finishing touches in place than a visit to the Lagan Valley Island Wedding Fayre on Sunday 29^th January from 2 – 5pm.

Organised by Perfect Bliss Wedding Events, the show promises to be bigger and better than ever before. Couples can expect to be introduced to over 40 top local suppliers who can provide a wealth of knowledge and expertise you would expect to find from the finest in the wedding industry that will help create their dream day. There will also be live performances from wedding bands, a catwalk extravaganza at 4pm to enjoy, free entry and free car parking.

The Wedding Fayre is a great opportunity to view the stunning wedding facilities for up to 220 guests at Lagan Valley Island. Choose from the fantastic packages on offer e.g. book your reception for 60 guests for less than £1750. This includes room hire, a four course wedding banquet, chair covers, centrepieces, fairy light backdrop and much more. Tours of the stunning wedding facilities will be provided throughout the day of the event.

Those in attendance can meet with Lagan Valley Island’s experienced Registrars, wedding co-ordinators and catering team to take the first steps towards planning that special day. Check outhttps://www.laganvalleyisland.co.uk/weddingvenuesnorthernireland for more information on holding your wedding at Lagan Valley Island.

Entry to the Wedding Fayre is free and there is free car-parking onsite.

For more information on attending or to book a stand at the Wedding Fayre, contact Perfect Bliss Wedding Events on 07845 357339 or email: info@perfectblissweddingevents.com

Our Christmas Story at The Market Place Theatre, Armagh continues with the highly-acclaimed show, ‘Christmas Country Showtime’, returning on Friday 30^th December after another sold-out performance last year.

Topping the bill this year will be Ireland’s top country and gospel recording start Trudi Lalor, all the way from Tipperary. The line-up also features the true voice of country Joe Moore, the fabulous train whistle sounds of ‘Boxcar Brian’, the glamorous Olivia Douglas, sensational thirteen-year-old singing wonder Owen Mac along with his dad Dessie Mac, plus Jordan Mogey singing the old, traditional hits of Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard and Hank Williams. Backing band for the night is ‘Country Harmony’ and all compered by ‘Mr Country’ himself, Sean Wallace. Tickets are priced £16.50 each.

Then providing the entertainment on New Year’s Eve are top Gospel band ‘Live Issue’ invites you to join them in celebrating the arrival of 2017 with an evening of quality Gospel music. The members of ‘Live Issue’ are marking their 10th anniversary since reforming in 2006 and in that time the group has toured regularly throughout the British Isles, Europe and America. ‘Live Issue’ is also noted as being one of the few bands from Ireland to grace the stage of the famous Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. Joining ‘Live Issue’ on New Year’s Eve will be a host of special guests, making this evening of praise an event not to be missed. Tickets are priced £15 each.

Tickets for all performances can be booked through the Box Office on [028] 3752 1821, or online at www.marketplacearmagh.com 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. For information on Christmas In Armagh visit www.ourstoryofchristmas.com | #ourstoryofchristmas

Northern Ireland boasts a unique collection of irresistible places to stay including quirky B&Bs, luxurious spa hotels and hidden gem properties for an ideal short break and Discover NI has selected the best offers of the week for you to choose from.

• New Year’s Eve Getaway, Lough Erne Resort & Spa, Co. Fermanagh, from £199pps. Welcome 2017 in style with a luxurious break in Fermanagh. Nestled on a 600-acre peninsula, Lough Erne is one of four five-star hotels in Northern Ireland offering world-class luxury. This special New Year’s Eve package includes a sparkling tasting menu in The Catalina Restaurant followed by Champagne and live entertainment in The Blaney Bar to bring in the New Year. Package also includes full Irish breakfast the next morning. Valid 31 December. Pre booking essential. To book 028 (66) 323230
• Heritage Break, Bishop’s Gate Hotel, Derry~Londonderry, from £135pps The exquisite Grade B1 listed Bishop’s Gate Hotel is perfectly positioned within the historic city walls in the heart of Derry City’s Cathedral Quarter. With its opulent heritage and historic grandeur, the recently restored hotel is the perfect base for combining history and culture. The Heritage Break includes luxurious accommodation for two nights, full Irish breakfast each morning, a gourmet dinner in ‘The Gown Restaurant’ on one evening, walking tour of the historic city with Martin McCrossan City Tours and a visit to the Tower Museum or the new Siege Museum.  Valid until 31 December. Pre booking essential. To book 028 (71) 140300

• Winter Warmer, Bayview Hotel, Co. Antrim, from £65pps The Bayview Hotel, is situated at the heart of the picturesque village of Portballintrae, one mile from Bushmills, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and close to the Giants Causeway, Old Bushmills Distillery and Dunluce Castle. Enjoy one night’s bed and breakfast with an Irish coffee or hotel chocolate on arrival, four-course Table d’Hote Dinner and a discount voucher for Bushmills Distillery. Valid Sunday – Thursday nights only. Pre booking essential.  To book call 028 (20) 734100

For further information log on to www.discovernorthernireland.com/offers.

*All offers are subject to availability.

The Winterland Express departs on selected dates from Tuesday 27 December 2016 – 29 January 2017.

Take a journey to the fairytale world of Winterland with a trip on the Winterland Express, our magical miniature train ride. Travel through the enchanted forest into the icy cavern to emerge in the courtyard of Winterland Castle! The Winterland Express is a short train ride – FREE with admission to W5!

Please note, tickets are allocated on a first come first serve basis at our ticket desk. Visit www.w5online.co.uk for information.

Dates & Times

Tuesday 27 December: 12.15 – 5.15pm

Wednesday 28 – Saturday 31 December: 10.15am – 5.15pm

Sunday 1 January: 12.15 – 5.15pm

Monday 2 – Friday 6 January: 10.15am – 5.15pm

Weekends from 7 – 28 January: 12.15 – 5.15pm

Friday 16 – Thursday 22 December

Until Friday 23 December, Christmas at Ulster Folk and Transport Museum

Ulster Folk and Transport Museum, Cultra

Various themed events taking place over the Christmas season. For more info and booking details contact the Museum.

Info: (028) 9042 8428, nmni.com/uftm

Friday 16 December, Festive Swing with Swingabella
The Queen’s Hall, West Street, Newtownards

£12, includes mulled wine and mince pies

8pm
A close-harmony vocal trio bringing back the sassy sound of the ‘30s and ‘40s – the Swing era.

Info: ardsarts.com, 028 9181 0803

Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 December, Christmas at the Ark Open Farm

The Ark Open Farm, Bangor Road, Newtownards

11am – 4pm

Santa will be at the Farm every weekend in December. Hand feed the reindeer and meet Santa’s elves or visit the lambs and donkeys in the Stables Nativity scene.  Special late night opening Thursday and Friday nights from 8 December – please book for late nights.

Info: (028) 9182 0445, thearkopenfarm.co.uk

Sunday 18 December, Santa Train rides at Drumawhey Junction

Drumawhey Junction Railway, Four Road Ends

£8.50 child (includes gift); £2.50 adult

12 noon – 4pm

A great afternoon out for all the family as this miniature railway gets into the Christmas spirit.

Info: bcdmrs.org.uk

Exhibitions

Exhibition: All Wrapped Up for Christmas exhibition

Until Saturday 24 December

Ards Crafts, 31 Regent Street, Newtownards

A showcase of handcrafted gifts and ideas for Christmas at this free to visit exhibition.

Exhibition: Juniper

Until Saturday 21 January

Ards Arts Centre, Conway Square, Newtownards

A series of atmospheric richly detailed and fantastical illustrations depicting the story of Juniper and her companions.

Exhibition: Absorption

Until Saturday 21 January 2017

Sunburst Gallery, Ards Arts Centre, Conway Square, Newtownards

A solo exhibition of unique, textured and colourful sculptures by Ellie Niblock.

Exhibition: Toy Stories

Until Sunday 29 January

Long Gallery, North Down Museum, Bangor

This fun exhibition will look back at toys enjoyed by all from across the decades.