4 Corners Festival Bringing Young People Together Through Sports

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The 2025 4 Corners Festival is set to bring young people from local communities across Belfast together through the medium of sport.

Now in its 13th year, the 4 Corners Festival was conceived as a way to inspire people from across the city to transform it for the peace and wellbeing of all.

The festival, which features a range of music, discussion, sport and faith-inspired events, will run from January 31 to February 9, 2025 in venues in all four corners of the city. 

One of the many activities taking place within the festival is the Game of 4 Corners on Wednesday February 5 from 6-9pm, which sees young people from all areas of Belfast brought together through the power of sports.

PeacePlayers NI are facilitating the event, open to all young people aged 11 to 14, of sport and team activities, focusing on positive lessons and outcomes, on and off the court.

Games such as Gaelic football, soccer, basketball and rugby will be played by integrated teams from Belfast as well as having on-site PeacePlayers Coaches and mentors to help participants throughout the 3-hour long event.

During the event the young people will hear inspiring stories from local sportsmen and women and be encouraged to consider how they can contribute to a positive culture on and off the pitch. 

Gareth Harper, PeacePlayers Managing Director, said he’s delighted to once again work with the 4 Corners Festival team to co-design an exciting and high energy event.  

He said: “PeacePlayers coaches will be on hand to lend their expertise of facilitating fun, engaging and inclusive peace building through sport activities, to exploring, through a sporting lens, this year’s theme of home.  

“We are super excited to support and to be a part of what will be an amazing event.”  

Pre-registration is required for this event which is open to individuals and youth groups from across Belfast. Visit the 4 Corners Festival website for details on how to register.

Ed Petersen of Clonard Monastery, representing the 4 Corners Festival, explained that the event is aimed at bringing young people from all communities, backgrounds and corners of the city together.

He 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.”

This year’s programme revolves around the central theme of HOME?, an exploration of the complex and multifaceted idea of a place which holds both connection and disjointedness.

According to the organisers 2025’s theme of HOME? is deeply rooted in Scripture, offering a spiritual dimension to the conversation, with passages like Psalm 68:6 and Revelation 21:3 forming an inspiring foundation for many of the festival’s events.

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.

For more information about the festival and to keep up to date with programme updates go to 4cornersfestival.com

TechFoundHer Successfully Pilots Programme To Empower Women Entrepreneurs To Build Tech Products

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Women in tech organisation TechFoundHer has successfully piloted the Innovation Labs programme – an inaugural, first of its kind initiative to advance 35 women founders from across the island to innovate with tech. 

Over the course of eight weeks, the programme has advanced women entrepreneurs to bring their tech ideas to life by developing tech and product skills to scope and build their solutions in practical workshops.  

A highlight of the programme was the Belfast workshop, hosted at Ulster Bank Coworking HQ, focused on using low-code and no-code tools to create AI-powered technology products. 

Facilitated by Laura Richards, a low code no code expert, the session demonstrated how founders can leverage available tools to build impactful tech solutions, even without a coding background. The workshop included hands-on activities, guiding participants through database design, building front-end screens, and creating their own AI-powered apps.

The final in-person workshop took place recently at Platform X, KPMG in Dublin and covered busting tech jargon, how to chart a product roadmap and an opportunity to craft and share product stories with funders and techies. 

A team of tech champions from KPMG participated in the workshop along with Áine Denn, Jenny Ervine, Evelyn Nomoyo and Niamh Donnelly with support from Breda O’Callaghan of KPMG. 

Speaking of the programme’s impact, Breda O’Callaghan, Managing Director at KPMG Ireland and head of KPMG’s Technology Enablement practice, said: “KPMG is passionate about supporting women in technology, both internally and externally. 

“As a partner to TechFoundHer, we are delighted to support these founders as they develop their ideas into practical realities. Hosting these labs and acting as champions for the participants is something we are incredibly proud of.”

TechFoundHer founder, Mairin Murray, said the feedback to the programme from the women has been incredible. 

“They don’t want it to end. The women have been sharing with me how the Innovation Labs programme has broken down barriers for them. Demystifying the process of building a tech solution and busting tech jargon has been huge for them. 

“The real game changer has been the realisation from founders that they can build their own prototype straight away and that nothing is holding them back.

“We’re supporting all women regardless of their tech background, and providing them with the tools they need to turn their ideas into usable products. 

“You don’t need to be a coder to create a tech solution service – low code and no code tools is a game changer and making creating tech products accessible for everyone.”

The TechFoundHer Innovation Labs Programme included in-person labs alternating between Dublin and Belfast, alongside online webinars and mentoring sessions.  It was supported by InterTradeIreland (In partnership with Invest Northern Ireland and  Enterprise Ireland) under the Shared Island Enterprise Scheme  –  with lead sponsor KPMG Ireland,

The virtual sessions covered a range of critical topics, from leveraging AI tools, bootstrapping to creating robust product roadmaps, and were facilitated by experts and women tech founders including Dr. Patricia Scanlon, Jenna Farrell, Jemma Simpson and Tina Calder. They provided participants with additional insights and practical guidance to complement their in-person learning experiences. The programme featured facilitators from TechFoundHer’s global faculty of trainers, including leading industry leaders.

With a focus on fostering collaboration, innovation, and confidence, the Innovation Labs programme has provided participants with the practical skills and network necessary to navigate the tech world and bring their ideas to life. The conclusion of the programme marks the beginning of the next chapter for these women founders as they continue their journey in tech innovation.

For more information go to techfoundher.com 

New Report Reveals Majority of NI Electrical Workers Suffer Electric Shocks

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An alarming 80% of electrical workers in Northern Ireland have experienced electric shocks on the job, with nearly three-quarters of incidents going unreported, according to a groundbreaking report by the Electrical Training Trust (ETT). 

The findings, unveiled at the organisation’s annual ‘Stay Connected’ event for the NI electrical industry at Galgorm Resort & Spa, shed light on critical safety failings within the industry, highlighting what ETT has termed a culture of ‘shock silence.’

The report summarises the findings of a survey completed by almost 350 electrical workers from across Northern Ireland, with 80% revealing they have experienced an electric shock at work and 40% at least three shocks in their careers to date. Of those who have experienced an electric shock, 89% sustained an injury and almost all (95%) required time off work.

Despite the frequency of electric shock incidents, almost three-quarters were not reported to employers. This trend of underreporting has been termed ‘shock silence’ by the organisation, with the survey finding company culture, ineffective reporting procedures, and time pressures as the three most common reasons staff failed to report an electric shock at work. 

Chief Executive of ETT NI, Charlotte Bamber, said: “The findings outlined in the Ending ‘Shock Silence’ report should serve as a wake-up call to the electrical industry, revealing disturbing statistics that simply cannot be ignored.  Electric shocks can lead to severe and life-changing injuries or fatalities. The figures in this report represent real people and real families. It’s time for the industry to act.”

Speaking at the report launch, the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland’s Deputy Chief Executive, Dr Bryan Monson, added: “HSENI is deeply concerned about the alarming number of electrical workers experiencing electric shocks and related injuries, as revealed by the findings of the Ending ‘Shock Silence’ report. HSENI fully supports the Electrical Training Trust in their vital work to highlight these dangers and implement strategies to prevent such incidents.”

The report has already sparked important conversations and actions. One of the key findings from the report is the failure to carry out safe isolation procedures using ‘lock-off’ kits – a key safety measure in electric shock prevention. As a result, the UK-based charity, Electrical Safety First (ESF), has partnered with ETT to provide free safe isolation ‘lock-off’ kits to all first year Level 3 Electrical Installation apprentices in NI. 

“As an industry, we must work towards creating a safety conscious culture where all electric shock incidents are reported, investigated, and prevented in the future. Every report of an electric shock is a step towards a safer working environment for everyone” said Charlotte.

“ETT aims to engage with industry to create an action plan to not only target underreporting, but to significantly reduce the number of electric shocks occurring in the first place. The Ending ‘Shock Silence’ report launch demonstrated the collective determination of our industry to prioritise safety and protect lives. Together, we can and must do better.”

To obtain a copy of the Ending ‘Shock Silence’ report, or to find out more about the industry-led working group developing the action plan, email info@ett-ni.org. 

4 Corners Festival Set To Return In 2025 With New Theme ‘HOME?’

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The annual 4 Corners Festival is back for another packed lineup of events next year.

The organising committee has announced its dates for 2025 and a new thought provoking theme HOME?

The festival, which will feature a range of art, music, discussion, sport and faith-inspired events, runs from January 31 to February 9, 2025 in venues across the city. 

Now in its 13th year, the festival was conceived as a way to inspire people from across the city to transform it for the peace and wellbeing of all.

The 2025 4 Corners Festival is once again set to inspire connection, reflection and community through a dynamic lineup of events spanning a wide range of disciplines, such as art, music, discussion, sport and other activities.

Held throughout the city, this year’s programme revolves around the central theme of HOME?, an exploration of the complex and multifaceted idea of a place which holds both connection and disjointedness.

According to the organisers 2025’s theme of HOME? is deeply rooted in Scripture, offering a spiritual dimension to the conversation, with passages like Psalm 68:6 and Revelation 21:3 forming an inspiring foundation for many of the festival’s events.

Speaking on what the upcoming theme means for the organisation, Steve Stockman, 4 Corners Festival co-founder, identified that the focus is rooted in Belfast and its community.

He said: “Home is a powerful metaphor, used by poets, preachers, politicians and others seeking to paint a picture of a sense of belonging to a place. 

“The idea is also used in various encouraging and challenging ways within the Old and New Testament scriptures, but not all homes are happy.

“From the beginning of the 4 Corners Festival we have aimed at encouraging people to get out of the physical corners of this city we call home, and to feel more at home in different parts of their own city; to realise that their home is bigger than they thought.

Fellow festival co-founder Father Martin Magill, hopes the theme of HOME? will bring awareness to the city’s residents, not just shedding light on the encouragement of tourists to the area.

Martin said: “The strapline for Belfast City Council’s current tourism strategy is ‘Make Yourself at Home’, with a laudable emphasis on inclusion. 

“But what about those who already call Belfast their home – be they people whose families have lived here from before it became a city, to those who have settled here from all over the world for all kinds of reasons; those who rarely leave their corner of the city, to those who left it years ago but love to come ‘home’ for special events, including the 4 Corners Festival; those who live in a comfortable home in a vibrant community, to those who are some of the many unseen homeless in our city, not just those who sleep on our streets; those who know every nook and cranny of our city and its complex history, to those who feel uneasy with the direction that the city seems to be heading in the future?”

4 Corners Festival will encompass a wide variety of talks, discussions, practical workshops and more, spreading the word of local and global contextual issues across its ten day run. 

Aimed at broadening perspectives and helping people to think about bigger issues, such as homelessness, the care of our common home, the earth, transport and accessibility within our home city, these heavy integral topics are interwoven together with lighthearted festivities like music, poetry, drama and the visual arts.

The event’s schedule of activities will also challenge attendees to step beyond the physical and psychological ‘corners’ of Belfast, discovering new parts of their city, fresh perspectives and meaningful connections.

4 Corners Festival has always sought to transform Belfast into a city of deeper connections and shared humanity, with part of the festival acting as a bridge to bring people together, facilitating a celebration of diversity and sparking essential conversations.

As always, all 4 Corners Festival events are free of charge, though advance booking is required and tickets will be available to book online via the website.

Reflecting on 4 Corners’ outreach and its intention, Father Magill added: “We want this festival to be a celebration of our home city.

“As ever, it is not an end in itself but seeks to highlight what is already happening in the 4 Corners of our city, and perhaps to initiate further creative conversations on how we might all contribute to making our home an even better place to live.”

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.

For more information about the festival and to keep up to date with programme updates go to 4cornersfestival.com

Winter Weekend Trio of Classical Concerts

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Join Michael McHale, his friends and BBC R3 for a Winter Weekend at Portico, Portaferry

Winter weekends in January can be bleak but, for a stunning and heartwarming winter treat, Portico has the answer: Ulster pianist Michael McHale is returning to Portaferry but this time with his friends, oboist Juliana Koch and clarinettist Michael Collins, for three recitals over two days, for BBC Radio 3.

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Come to all three, stay a night, enjoy all that Portaferry has to offer from picturesque shoreside accomodation to the freshest of seafood.

Michael McHale needs no introduction to Ulster audiences – in his stellar career he has given recitals in most of the major concert venues in Europe and much further afield but it is always a joy to welcome him back to Portico in his native Ulster. In his first recital on Friday 31 January, Michael will play Mozart, Barber, Brahms and, to finish, Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata.

On Saturday 1 February at 1pm he will be joined by Juliana Koch, Principal Oboe of the London Symphony Orchestra and Professor of Oboe at the Royal College of Music, London, for a lunchtime recital to include Britten and Prokofiev.

There’s time, then for a good walk along the shores of Strangford Lough and indulgent refreshment before returning in the evening when Michael will be joined by the international clarinettist Michael Collins, fresh from engagements with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, BBC Symphony Orchestra and the Zurich Chamber Orchestra. His astounding career has included stints with the Philharmonia, Minnesota, Swedish Chamber, Rheinische Philharmonie, Kyoto Symphony, BBC Concert and Kuopio Symphony Orchestras as well as tours in South Africa, Australia, Japan and Mexico. The two Michaels will play works by Finzi, Ferguson, Brahms and Poulenc.

Tickets are £17 per show or, for all 3 recitals the special price of £34. Portico’s specialist music programme is supported by National Lottery Good Causes through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. For more details and to purchase tickets visit www.porticoards.com

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 2-8 December

 

  1. The Argory Christmas Fair, Moy, County Armagh, 7-8 December: Christmas at The Argory is all about the excitement of reviving festive traditions and sharing precious moments with loved ones. The Christmas Fair will return to The Argory, bigger, better and more festive than ever before, with live music, food and craft stalls and plenty of opportunities to tick off that Christmas gift list with unique locally made finds. Soak up the wonderful atmosphere and see the house decorated for Christmas. Families will also have the chance to meet Santa and his elves in the grotto.
  2. Castlerock Christmas Market at Bertha’s Bar, Castlerock, County Londonderry 7-8 December. The Castlerock Christmas Market returns to Bertha’s Bar. Visitors can stroll through a variety of stalls offering locally crafted gifts, treats, and seasonal décor, perfect for holiday shopping. Set against Castlerock’s scenic coastal backdrop, this market creates a magical opportunity to support local artisans and embrace the Christmas spirit on the Causeway Coast.
  3. Cranfield Alpaca Christmasfest, Kilkeel, County Down, 7, 14 & 21 December. Enjoy a magical Alpaca Christmasfest Experience and revel in the joy of the season with festive crafts, a special visit from Santa in the festive barn, and the chance to meet, walk, and feed adorable alpacas. Capture memorable moments with Santa, who brings gifts for everyone! Savour delicious refreshments, including hot chocolate with fresh cream and marshmallows, festive punch, and sweet treats like mince pies.
  4. Causeway Christmas, Bushmills, County Antrim, 7 & 14 December. See the award-winning Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre beautifully transformed into a Christmas wonderland. Embark on a magical Christmas Trail to discover the secrets hidden around the Visitor Centre and get your face painted before enjoying some traditional family games or creating your very own decoration. The latest addition to the Causeway Christmas 2024 programme is the one and only ‘North Coast Circus’.
  5. A Christmas Sing-Along with Northern Ireland Opera, Belfast, 7 December. Come along for an hour of festive music with Northern Ireland Opera in The Hub, The Custom House in Belfast’s historic Custom House Square. Members of the Northern Ireland Opera Chorus will perform some much-loved Christmas music and then there’ll be an opportunity for the audience to join in with some favourite seasonal tunes and carols.
  6. A Christmas Twilight Tour with Celtic Grace, Strangford, County Down, 7 December. Step into the enchanting world of Georgian Christmas at Castle Ward with an evening tour designed to capture the spirit and splendour of the season. Begin your evening with a drinks reception, then embark on a twilight tour through the festively adorned house. The rooms will be draped in colourful garlands, with tables set with lavish foods and wines, filling the air with the rich scents of Christmas. Our living history performers will guide you through the halls, offering a glimpse into the lively Georgian traditions that once filled these rooms with mirth and jollity.
  7. Mrs Claus’s Cottage, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 7-8 December. Gather around the fire as Mrs Claus shares heartwarming festive stories, bringing the magic of Christmas to life. After story-time, children will join Mrs. Claus’s cheerful elves in their busy workshop to create their very own festive keepsake and decorate a delicious gingerbread man to take home. This enchanting experience is perfect for families looking to embrace the holiday spirit with crafts, sweet treats, and unforgettable memories.
  8. A Very Victorian Crafty Christmas at the Poorhouse, Belfast, 8 December. Escape the hustle and bustle, indulge in creativity, and relive the magic of a classic Victorian Christmas in an event tailored just for grown-ups. Hear more about the Christmas traditions in the house from experienced tour guides and make a traditional Victorian Christmas bauble to take home whilst enjoying some festive refreshments.
  9. Christmas at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, 6 December – 3 January. Step into a Christmas past, full of nostalgia and traditions, as you wander the wintry streets of the Folk Park. Take in the Christmas décor, smells and festive flavours as you wander the cobbled streets of olde Ulster and America. On weekends, there’ll be Christmas crafts for kids, mince pies and warmed apple punch from Mrs Claus’ Bakery, plus festive tunes and Christmas storytelling sessions. Mummer characters will entertain you and there are also horse and carriage rides.
  10. December Winter Walks at Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down, 1-4 December. Discover the hidden beauty of winter at Mount Stewart in this enchanting garden walk. Experience a secret world of stunning flowers, intricate bark, and striking stems that will inspire and elevate your own garden. Marvel at winter blooms and see how seasonal flowers like hellebores, snowdrops, and winter aconites bring colour and life to the cold months.

 

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

By

Here are ten exciting things to do 2-8 December

 

  1. The Argory Christmas Fair, Moy, County Armagh, 7-8 December: Christmas at The Argory is all about the excitement of reviving festive traditions and sharing precious moments with loved ones. The Christmas Fair will return to The Argory, bigger, better and more festive than ever before, with live music, food and craft stalls and plenty of opportunities to tick off that Christmas gift list with unique locally made finds. Soak up the wonderful atmosphere and see the house decorated for Christmas. Families will also have the chance to meet Santa and his elves in the grotto.
  2. Castlerock Christmas Market at Bertha’s Bar, Castlerock, County Londonderry 7-8 December. The Castlerock Christmas Market returns to Bertha’s Bar. Visitors can stroll through a variety of stalls offering locally crafted gifts, treats, and seasonal décor, perfect for holiday shopping. Set against Castlerock’s scenic coastal backdrop, this market creates a magical opportunity to support local artisans and embrace the Christmas spirit on the Causeway Coast.
  3. Cranfield Alpaca Christmasfest, Kilkeel, County Down, 7, 14 & 21 December. Enjoy a magical Alpaca Christmasfest Experience and revel in the joy of the season with festive crafts, a special visit from Santa in the festive barn, and the chance to meet, walk, and feed adorable alpacas. Capture memorable moments with Santa, who brings gifts for everyone! Savour delicious refreshments, including hot chocolate with fresh cream and marshmallows, festive punch, and sweet treats like mince pies.
  4. Causeway Christmas, Bushmills, County Antrim, 7 & 14 December. See the award-winning Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre beautifully transformed into a Christmas wonderland. Embark on a magical Christmas Trail to discover the secrets hidden around the Visitor Centre and get your face painted before enjoying some traditional family games or creating your very own decoration. The latest addition to the Causeway Christmas 2024 programme is the one and only ‘North Coast Circus’.
  5. A Christmas Sing-Along with Northern Ireland Opera, Belfast, 7 December. Come along for an hour of festive music with Northern Ireland Opera in The Hub, The Custom House in Belfast’s historic Custom House Square. Members of the Northern Ireland Opera Chorus will perform some much-loved Christmas music and then there’ll be an opportunity for the audience to join in with some favourite seasonal tunes and carols.
  6. A Christmas Twilight Tour with Celtic Grace, Strangford, County Down, 7 December. Step into the enchanting world of Georgian Christmas at Castle Ward with an evening tour designed to capture the spirit and splendour of the season. Begin your evening with a drinks reception, then embark on a twilight tour through the festively adorned house. The rooms will be draped in colourful garlands, with tables set with lavish foods and wines, filling the air with the rich scents of Christmas. Our living history performers will guide you through the halls, offering a glimpse into the lively Georgian traditions that once filled these rooms with mirth and jollity.
  7. Mrs Claus’s Cottage, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 7-8 December. Gather around the fire as Mrs Claus shares heartwarming festive stories, bringing the magic of Christmas to life. After story-time, children will join Mrs. Claus’s cheerful elves in their busy workshop to create their very own festive keepsake and decorate a delicious gingerbread man to take home. This enchanting experience is perfect for families looking to embrace the holiday spirit with crafts, sweet treats, and unforgettable memories.
  8. A Very Victorian Crafty Christmas at the Poorhouse, Belfast, 8 December. Escape the hustle and bustle, indulge in creativity, and relive the magic of a classic Victorian Christmas in an event tailored just for grown-ups. Hear more about the Christmas traditions in the house from experienced tour guides and make a traditional Victorian Christmas bauble to take home whilst enjoying some festive refreshments.
  9. Christmas at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, 6 December – 3 January. Step into a Christmas past, full of nostalgia and traditions, as you wander the wintry streets of the Folk Park. Take in the Christmas décor, smells and festive flavours as you wander the cobbled streets of olde Ulster and America. On weekends, there’ll be Christmas crafts for kids, mince pies and warmed apple punch from Mrs Claus’ Bakery, plus festive tunes and Christmas storytelling sessions. Mummer characters will entertain you and there are also horse and carriage rides.
  10. December Winter Walks at Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down, 1-4 December. Discover the hidden beauty of winter at Mount Stewart in this enchanting garden walk. Experience a secret world of stunning flowers, intricate bark, and striking stems that will inspire and elevate your own garden. Marvel at winter blooms and see how seasonal flowers like hellebores, snowdrops, and winter aconites bring colour and life to the cold months.

 

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com.

Elvis Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

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Written by and Starring Caroline Curran The MAC Belfast, 5th-31st December 2024

 “It’s now or never” for best mates Marty and Frankie who are die hard Elvis fans and all they want this Christmas is to go to their idols (tribute) concert In Las Vegas before one of them leaves “The Ghetto”. But will getting delayed at the airport have these two “Caught in a Trap” for Christmas?

Come and join the gang that brought you last years hit Are Yule Being Served? for a rocking new Christmas comedy and let us have you “All Shook Up” this Christmas!

Cast featuring Rhodri Lewis (Torchwood) and Patrick Buchanan (Hope Street)

Following on from her successful run of last years Christmas Comedy  Are Yule Being Served? Caroline is hoping to have audiences “shaking their pelvis like Elvis” at the Mac this Christmas.

Having written & co-written the Christmas shows at Theatre at the Mill for the 7 years, including her most recent Jingle All the Hairspray, Caroline is delighted to be back in The MAC Belfast, producing her own work for the second time. Caroline is inspired to create employment for actors and stage managers over Christmas, and bring a brand new comedy to her loyal audiences who have supported her since her days of playing beloved character Maggie Muff. (Who is also coming back!!)

With shows quickly selling out again, The MAC are about to announce additional shows being put on to give everyone a chance to see this hilarious Christmas show!

Embrace a giant festive season across Northern Ireland

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

 

It’s the most wonderful time of the year for a short break, day trip or new experience with extra sparkle. If you’re craving adventure or a relaxing retreat, Discover Northern Ireland has a ‘nice list’ of ideas for all your festive fun.

For the countdown to Christmas, Belfast becomes a magical place with twinkling lights and cosy pubs to escape into as the nights turn colder.

Tick off all your presents with a trip around Victoria Square shopping centre, before heading over to the famous Belfast Christmas Market or kick off the season of indulgence with a night of fine dining in one of the many restaurants, or cocktails in the plethora of bars and pubs.

Alternatively, make for the maiden city of Derry~Londonderry, and kick off your Christmas celebrations with a stroll along the Peace Bridge taking in the festive lights of the city or soak up some culture at The Playhouse or Millennium Forum.

From short break inspiration and activities to places to stay, amazing events, food and drink, this holiday season has everything you’d want and more. Check out our top events this Christmas season.

Belfast

  • Belfast Christmas Market, 16 November – 22 December: Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the award-winning Belfast Christmas Market is back with a nostalgic Victorian twist. On the third weekend (November 30th to December 1st), step into a charming Dickensian world as you stroll through the market, surrounded by iconic characters from Charles Dickens’ novels. Enjoy enchanting storytelling, lively performances, and the festive atmosphere of a bygone era along with the usual festive grotto and vintage Helter Skelter. With over 100 international and local traders, the market offers a delightful selection of handcrafted goods, artisan products and festive treats.

 

  • A Magical Christmas Experience at Titanic Belfast, 27 November – 23 December: Make memories at A Magical Christmas Experience with Titanic Belfast. Watch the excitement unfold as Father Christmas and his Elves count down to their favourite night of the year on a guided tour of their Magical Christmas Experience. Meet your Elf guide and take a journey as a group through the Enchanted Forest to make a wish by the Magical Wishing Tree, before stepping through the Old Curiosity Shop to enter the Elves’ Workshop.

 

  • Christmas at W5, 30 November – 23 December: Join Santa and his trusty elf-bot Bud-E at the Elf Academy and help save Christmas through fun games and challenges. Then, step into the magical world of With Every Christmas Card, where holiday scenes spring to life in an immersive walk-through experience. For some friendly competition, try Penguin Curling or join an epic indoor Snowball Fight—without the freezing fingers. Their massive Climbit structure is aglow with holiday cheer, and at the Jingle All the Way Café, you can warm up with seasonal treats and festive drinks.

 

County Armagh

  • Mission Santa at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, 23 November – 23 December: Join the E.L.F. crew for Mission Santa and blast off on a Christmas adventure in Space. Your out-of-this-world adventure will include admission to a full show in the dome theatre, a chance to help save Santa inside mission control during a live theatrical show, a visit to see Santa, a present for each child and a printed family photograph.

 

  • Santa at Long Meadow Farm, Portadown, 6 December – 21 December. Drive through this enchanting, star-lit orchard to the cosy Bramley Barn.  The elves will welcome you into Santa’s Grotto with a smile and festive cheer, and a Christmas story you will hearwhilst you sip on hot chocolate.

 

  • Winter Solstice Mindfulness Morning at Navan Centre and Fort, Armagh, 20 December (21 Dec sold out).Embrace the forthcoming year and celebrate the Winter Solstice. Follow a lantern lit processional walk to the top of Navan Fort/Emain Macha, where you will watch the sunrise. On returning to Navan Centre, you will be served breakfast where you can relax and enjoy live music.

 

County Fermanagh

  • Christmas Wonderland at Share Discovery Village, 6 – 23 December: Share Discovery Village has launched both an enchanting Christmas Wonderland and Fermanagh’s only festive roller-skating rink. The custom-built, 70-person roller skating rink transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Highlights of the immersive Christmas experience include a visit to Santa’s magical grotto, a winter roller rink session, meeting Santa’s donkeys, a dedicated teen games room, a bouncy castle and creative colouring station, interactive games and unique photo opportunities in Santa’s igloo.

 

  • Christmas at Marble Arch Caves, 1 December – 5 January: Visit Marble Arch Caves this Christmas and embrace the festive spirit with a variety of exciting events and experiences for everyone. Elf Escape Heroes vs Villains (2-21 December) is an elf-tastic quest – they could be in the high trees or hidden among the landscape. The Sensory Space is designed for those with access and sensory needs, this calming space offers low-lit blue lighting and interactive sensory stations, perfect for relaxed enjoyment. Up to eight visitors can follow a self-guided mini-trail, engage with gentle Elf activities, and even hunt for hidden elves with a special activity sheet.

 

  • Festive Fun Farm (Build a Bear) at Fermanagh Fun Farm, Lisbellaw, 30 November – 22 December. Don’t miss this family friendly experience that will bring a little bit of magic to your Christmas. Make sure to build your own bear with? the help of the elves in Santa’s workshop and join Mrs Claus for story time. Visit Santa and choose your very own gift and don’t forget to check out the 100+ resident animals on the farm.

 

County Tyrone

  • Winter Wonderland at Todd’s Leap Activity Centre, 1 – 22 December: This Christmas, Santa, Mrs. Claus, and those elves will be taking over Todds Leap again Following an incident on their Zip Line in 2014, Santa and his Elves set up home at Todds Leap and this year they’re BACK! Hop aboard Santa’s off-road sleigh, visit his post office and workshop and play for prizes in an exciting family quiz.

 

  • Christmas at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, 6 December – 3 January: Step into a Christmas past, full of nostalgia and traditions, as you wander the wintry streets of the Folk Park. Take in the Christmas décor, smells and festive flavours as you wander the cobbled streets of olde Ulster and America. On weekends, there’ll be Christmas crafts for kids, mince pies and warmed apple punch from Mrs Claus’ Bakery, plus festive tunes and Christmas storytelling sessions. Mummer characters will entertain you and there are also horse and carriage rides.

 

  • The Argory Christmas Fair, Moy, 7-8 December: Christmas at The Argory is all about the excitement of reviving festive traditions and sharing precious moments with loved ones. The Christmas Fair will return to The Argory, bigger, better and more festive than ever before, with live music, food and craft stalls and plenty of opportunities to tick off that Christmas gift list with unique locally made finds. Soak up the wonderful atmosphere and see the house decorated for Christmas. Families will also have the chance to meet Santa and his elves in the grotto.

 

County Antrim

  • Causeway Christmas, Bushmills, 7 and 14 December: See the award-winning Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre beautifully transformed into a Christmas wonderland. Embark on a magical Christmas Trail to discover the secrets hidden around the Visitor Centre and get your face painted before enjoying some traditional family games or creating your very own decoration. The latest addition to the Causeway Christmas 2024 programme is the one and only ‘North Coast Circus’.

 

  • Victorian Santa Experience at Whitehead Railway Museum, 1– 22 December: Enjoy a festive themed train ride in a heritage carriage adorned with Victorian style decorations and hauled by a steam engine at Whitehead Railway Museum. Enter the magical carriage shed where you will be greeted by Mrs Claus who will help you to find Santa. Don’t forget to post your letter to Santa in the chimney of one of the engines.

 

  • Enchanted Winter Garden at Antrim Castle Gardens, County Antrim, 29 November – 21 December: As the winter sun sets over Lough Neagh, Antrim Castle Gardens comes alive with lights and magic for the perfect Christmas experience suitable for everyone. Visit the fairies in Wonderland Wood, drop in and see Santa and meet the sprites in Pixieland who will help fill you with the Christmas spirit. There is a Big Wheel, rides and a Festive Fayre with local food and drink.

 

County Down

  • Christmas Movie Screenings with Strand Cinema at Ulster Transport Museum, 20 and 21 December: The Ulster Transport Museum has partnered with Strand Arts Centre for special screenings of two festive classics — A Wonderful Life and The Polar Express. Tickets includes access to the Rail Gallery at time of entry and a warm drink (hot chocolate at The Polar Express or a mulled wine at It’s a Wonderful Life). Also, from November 30 until December 1 see the Folk Museum decorated for the festive season. Settle in for a festive story and listen out for carol singers, plus festive sounds from a brass band and harpist. Post your letter to Santa at the Post Office, and make sure to say hello to the donkeys at the Marketplace.

 

  • Christmas at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, 23 November – 23 December: Explore the gardens adorned with dazzling decorations inspired by the 12 Days of Christmas and stay on the lookout for our polar bear in the pond and a giant Advent calendar! Families will love discovering hidden gems, from a secret grotto to a garden trail. Continue your journey inside the beautiful Castle, where twinkling lights and Christmas trees fill the grand State Rooms with festive cheer. On select December days, children can meet Santa himself and take home a special bag of reindeer food. Be sure to warm up with hot chocolate or mulled wine and with festive treats at the café, to round off a perfect day out for all the family.

 

  • Cranfield Alpaca Christmasfest, 7, 14 & 21 December: Enjoy a magical Alpaca Christmasfest Experience and revel in the joy of the season with festive crafts, a special visit from Santa in the festive barn, and the chance to meet, walk, and feed adorable alpacas. Capture memorable moments with Santa, who brings gifts for everyone! Savour delicious refreshments, including hot chocolate with fresh cream and marshmallows, festive punch, and sweet treats like mince pies.

 

County Londonderry

  • Walled City Brewery Carnival of Crafts, Derry~Londonderry, throughout December. Make your Christmas extra special with the Walled City Brewery’s Carnival of Crafts. This series of festive workshops will feature some of the finest craftspeople in the city. Each workshop has been tailored to create a truly immersive experience and includes a fabulous two-course dinner and drinks in multi award-winning restaurant.

 

  • Castlerock Christmas Market at Bertha’s Bar, 7 – 8 December. The Castlerock Christmas Market returns to Bertha’s Bar. Visitors can stroll through a variety of stalls offering locally crafted gifts, treats, and seasonal décor, perfect for holiday shopping. Set against Castlerock’s scenic coastal backdrop, this market creates a magical opportunity to support local artisans and embrace the Christmas spirit on the Causeway Coast.

 

  • Santa’s Grotto at the Bridewell, Magherafelt, select dates from 23 November – 21 December. Santa returns to the Bridewell this festive season. Experience the magic of Christmas at the Bridewell Grotto.  Post your letter to the North Pole and make your very own Christmas decoration. Visit Santa and his elf in his enchanting Christmas grotto, take your own family photos and receive a small gift.

 

Unmissable music and theatre across Northern Ireland

Enjoy extraordinary music, theatre and family entertainment this holiday season. To name a few, Peter Pan at Grand Opera House, Belfast; Ulster Orchestra at Christmas – The Snowman™ at Belfast Waterfront Hall; A Christmas Carol at the Lyric, Belfast; Beauty and The Beast at Waterfront Hall, Belfast; Aladdin at Millennium Forum, Derry; Rapunzel, at the Market Place Theatre, Armagh.

Whether you’re looking for enchanting light displays, heartwarming holiday markets, or special performances that capture the spirit of Christmas, you’ll find it in Northern Ireland. Check out our Christmas Supplement

https://discovernorthernireland.com/featured-pages/your-giant-guide-to-short-breaks-ni

Book your next festive break or day out and start planning for next year at discovernorthernireland.com

Cancer Fund for Children Twilight Concert – 21st November, Belfast Cathedral

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Local charity Cancer Fund for Children are inviting the public to their Twilight Concert in St Anne’s Cathedral Belfast Thursday 21st November.

 

It will not only feature the Cancer Fund for Children’s very own Carefree Choir ( made up of families supported by the charity, staff and volunteers) but performances from the wonderful ARCO String Quarter and Ireland’s premiere a cappella vocal band Ardú.

 

Cancer Fund for Children provides vital support to children, young people and families impacted by cancer and the special concert set in candlelight in the beautiful cathedral will raise money towards their services.

 

The event will also be hosted by award-winning journalist and presenter, Holly Hamilton.

 

Tickets are available via the charity’s website –

cancerfundforchildren.com and cost between £10 & £25.

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