Category: NITB

 

Here are ten exciting things to do 8 – 14 June

 

1. Belsonic, Belfast, 12 June-1 July. A firm favourite in the gig guide, Belsonic returns to the idyllic setting at Ormeau Park. Featuring ten days of international acts including Pitbull, Kings of Leon, Def Leppard, The Cure and Michael Buble, the popular Farmer’s Bash opens the string of concerts with in demand Garron Noone, Whistlin’ Donkeys and Mark McCabe all announced.
2. Home & Garden Show Ireland, Antrim, County Antrim, 12-14 June. Home and Garden Show Ireland returns to Antrim Castle Gardens, offering a vibrant and inspiring experience for visitors of all ages. Guests can enjoy expert talks and live demonstrations from ambassadors David Domoney and Suzanne Garuda, alongside special guests sharing practical tips, creative ideas, and gardening inspiration.
3. The Royal Landing 2026, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, 13 June. The historic town of Carrickfergus is once again preparing to host one of the most anticipated events in the cultural calendar, as The Royal Landing returns with a vibrant, family-friendly festival that showcases history, heritage and community spirit, attracting thousands of visitors from across Northern Ireland and beyond.
4. Armagh City Summer Walking Tours, County Armagh, visit website for dates and times. One of the best ways to discover more about the story of Armagh and its citizens from the pre-Christian era up to modern times is to book a guided walking tour. This leisurely tour will take you through the city centre, stopping off at various locations on a route of approximately 1 km.
5. Nature Day at Ulster Folk Museum, Holywood, County Down, 13 June. During Nature Day, you’ll have the chance to explore rich natural spaces and connect with the passionate people involved in growing, conservation, and scientific research at the Ulster Folk Museum. With a variety of hands-on activities, guided walks, and experiences tailored for all ages and interests, there’s something for everyone.
6. USA 250: Showbusiness, Culture and the Causeway Coast Exhibition, Coleraine, County Londonderry, until 29 August. From local cinemas and dance halls to theatre and the rise of rock ‘n’ roll, USA 250: Showbusiness, Culture and the Causeway Coast highlights how American culture has shaped entertainment and everyday life in the region. Set within Coleraine Town Hall, discover stories of Ulster migrants, the influence of Hollywood and popular culture, and the ways in which American showbusiness captured the imagination of generations.
7. Hidden Heritage – Dungannon Town Walking Tour at Hill of The O’Neill & Ranfurly House, County Tyrone, 13 June. Step into the rich history of Dungannon on a guided walking tour through the heart of this historic Ulster town, central to Ireland’s story. As you explore its streets, your guide will bring centuries of heritage to life, from ancient times through to the powerful legacy of the O’Neill dynasty.
8. The Battle of Ballynahinch Walking Tour at Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch, County Down, 14 June. Celebrate the 228th anniversary of The Battle of Ballynahinch by taking a walking tour with historian, Ken Dawson, through Montalto Estate. Inhale the scents of these beautiful gardens and hear the crunch of gravel underfoot as you are transported back in time to hear the stories of not only the battle, but the estate itself.
9. Let’s Talk Trees at the Marble Arch Caves, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 13 June. Step into the heart of nature with Dr Kate Crane, the Marble Arch Caves Ranger, on an unforgettable walk at Cladagh Glen National Nature Reserve. Explore the ancient woodland and discover the diverse species of trees that thrive in this breathtaking landscape. Kate will guide you through the wonders of these important green spaces, sharing fascinating insights into the area’s rich biodiversity and explaining why Cladagh Glen has been recognised as both a National Nature Reserve and an Area of Special Scientific Interest.
10. Willow and Lore Heritage Farm Walking Tour, Newtowncrommelin, County Antrim, 10 June (more dates available). Discover the myth and folklore rooted in the land and how they now care for it on Willow and Lore Heritage Farm. Start with a traditional country welcome, a hot drink and a light bite and select your preferred walking farm tour from the following: local lore through the words of published local poets; traditional heritage farming and modern regenerative farming hand in hand; or Glenravel, two millennia of history: High Kings of Ireland to iron ore mining in the Industrial Revolution.

 

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

 

Subject to availabilities with select dates.

Here are ten exciting things to do 1-7 June

 

1. Cultra Motorsport Festival, Holywood, County Down, 6 June. Hosted in partnership with the Thoroughbred Sports Car Club NI and Porsche Centre Belfast, this is an action-packed day with vintage, classic and modern cars on display at Cultra Manor, including gems from the Ulster Transport Museum collection, released from the Ulster Transport Museum’s private stores just for this event.
2. Every Voice Festival, Derry~Londonderry, 6 – 14 June. The Every Voice Festival celebrates the transformative power of singing together. From powerful sacred music and inspiring youth performances to community choirs, workplace singers, care home concerts and spectacular gala performances. Whether you love choral music, storytelling, live performance or simply celebrating community spirit – there’s something for everyone.
3. Long Meadow Cider Orchard/Cider Tour Experience with Tastings, Tea/Coffee, Apple Tart & Fresh Cream, Portadown, County Armagh, 6 June. Enjoy a fully immersive orchard/cider experience in the company of the McKeever family. Enjoy an orchard walk explaining the various orchard plantations in place. Visitors can experience the apple blossom in May or the trees laden with fruit from June-October. And, of course, no visit with the McKeever family would be complete without tasting their award-winning craft ciders and apple juice.
4. The Benjamin Franklin Dining Room at Hillsborough Castle, Royal Hillsborough, County Down, visit website for dates and times. Step into a fascinating chapter of transatlantic history at Hillsborough Castle, where visitors can explore the castle’s remarkable connection to America’s founding story. To mark the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence, the magnificent State Dining Room has been transformed into the Benjamin Franklin Dining Room, showcasing a unique collection of historic objects linked to the celebrated statesman.
5. Celtic Heart at Belfast Waterfront, Belfast, visit website for dates and times. Created in collaboration with The Music Yard, Celtic Heart is a locally produced show celebrating Belfast’s rich storytelling, traditional music and homegrown talent. Transporting audiences to the industrial heart of early-1900s working class Belfast, Celtic Heart is an intimate and powerful storytelling experience brought vividly to life through the spoken word, live traditional music, captivating vocals, and breathtaking dance choreography.
6. Titanic Belfast Curates… Northern Threads, Belfast, visit website for dates and times. A celebration of style, creativity and contemporary design in Northern Ireland. The exhibition showcases how fashion and textile design is bold, expressive and deeply connected to place. It’s about what’s being created now and the ideas, stories and influences shaping it. At the heart of Northern Threads are Gráinne Maher, Hope Macaulay, Kindred of Ireland by Amy Anderson and Éadach by Sara O’Neill.
7. Under the Hawthorn Tree at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, visit website for dates and times. A powerful story of hardship, loss and survival, this exhibition brings Marita Conlon-McKenna’s much-loved children’s novel, Under the Hawthorn Tree, to life. The exhibition uses objects, sounds, smells, interactives and illustrations to tell the story, inviting visitors, young and old, to experience the story in a new and immersive way.
8. Viking Village at Fermanagh Fun Farm, Lisbellaw, County Fermanagh, 6-7 June. Step back in time at the Viking Event at Fermanagh Fun Farm. With live battle re-enactments, interactive warrior demonstrations and a fully set up Viking village to explore, there’s plenty to see and experience.
9. Little Construction Club at Millennium Forum, Derry~Londonderry, 4 June (more dates available). Little Construction Club is a pop-up construction-themed play experience for toddlers and young children. Children can explore a fully themed mini construction site featuring ride-on diggers and dumper trucks, build zones, sensory play, dress-up stations, roadworks roleplay, ball pit fun and interactive play areas designed to encourage imagination, creativity and active play.
10. The Gobbins, Islandmagee, County Antrim, visit website for dates and times. Experience a thrilling world where bridges will carry you over crashing waves to sunken caves and sheer cliff faces. On the thrilling Gobbins Experience, nature isn’t content to just sit back and be admired. It completely engulfs you: from the all-enveloping Irish Sea winds and the dolphins dancing off the coastline, to the squawking native sea birds and the salty air as it hits your lips.

 

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

 

Subject to availabilities with select dates.

Here are ten exciting things to do 25 – 31 May

 

 Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne Guided Tour, Castlerock, County Londonderry, 25 May. Join the team at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne on a guided historical tour around the Earl Bishop Hervey’s Estate – one of the true jewels of the Causeway Coast.

1. Sizzle, Sips & Sounds at Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch, County Down, 25 May. Visit the stunning and exclusive Walled Garden at Montalto Estate on Bank Holiday Monday for a day full of entertainment and food in perfect surroundings. From 11am – 4pm, grab a bite to eat at their BBQ station, along with a cold, refreshing drink while enjoying live music by local musicians.
2. W5 Space, Belfast, 23 May – 31 August. Step into an immersive training mission at the Space Explorer Academy, where young astronauts are recruited to embark on a journey beyond the stars. Take on cosmic challenges, test your skills through hands-on missions, and discover what it takes to become a true explorer of the universe. From countdown to launch, to interstellar discoveries, every experience is designed to ignite curiosity and fuel imagination.
3. Birdwatch morning at WWT Castle Espie, Comber, County Down, 27 May. Join the experts for a relaxed and informative birdwatching walk across the reserve, timed to catch the birds at their most active. It’s perfect for all experience levels – whether you’re just getting started or a seasoned spotter, our team will help you identify species, understand behaviour, and make the most of the wetland’s seasonal highlights.
4. From Blossom to Bottle Tour with Armagh Cider Company, Portadown, County Armagh, 27 May. Come and learn about the history of Ballinteggart and how it has become the home of Armagh cider. With a welcome drink in the mature grounds, discover the history of the area, farm and family. You’ll enjoy sampling their range of drinks produced from their own spring water and take time to dander through their traditional orchards.
5. Royal Hillsborough Farmers Market, County Down, 30 May. The popular Royal Hillsborough Farmers Market returns to the historic village for three markets on the last Saturday of May, June and July. The market is set along the Dark Walk and extending into the grounds of Hillsborough Fort. It makes a lovely day out, especially when combined with a browse of the eclectic mix of independent shops and eateries in the village.
6. Glenravel International Furnace Festival & Forge In, Newtowncrommelin, County Antrim, 30 – 31 May. Expert smelters and blacksmiths from around the world are gathering in the small mining area of Glenravel in the Antrim hills to bring traditional iron skills back to life.
7. Timeless Tastes – The Fermanagh Experience, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, visit website for open dates and times. Begin your adventure deep underground at the Marble Arch Caves, where the Owenbrean River Cave Tour leads you through an ancient limestone labyrinth. Hear the echoes of rushing water, feel the cool cave air on your skin, and marvel at breath-taking underground formations sculpted over millennia. Then, return to the surface and indulge in the craft of spirit making with a guided tour of Boatyard Distillery on the tranquil banks of Lough Erne.
8. Magherafelt Speciality Market, Magherafelt, County Londonderry, 30 May. Find and support independent businesses while enjoying a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. From artisan produce, gifts, art and craft to delicious street food. It’s the perfect base to explore the vibrant Magherafelt town.
9. The Garden Fair at Corick House Hotel and Spa, Clogher, County Tyrone, 24 – 25 May. Enjoy the seasonal changes at Corick House Hotel & Spa with their Garden Fair – a vibrant two-day celebration taking place within the stunning surroundings of their countryside estate.

 

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

 

Subject to availabilities with select dates.

 

Here are ten exciting things to do 27 April – 3 May

 

1. Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival, Belfast, 29 April – 10 May. Recognised as one of the top things to do in Belfast in May, the festival brings more than 100 events to venues across Belfast’s historic cultural quarter. From atmospheric concerts to thought‑provoking talks and unforgettable late‑night shows, CQAF offers something for every curious visitor.
2. City of Derry Jazz & Big Band Festival, Derry~Londonderry, 29 April – 4 May. Celebrate the 25th anniversary with an unforgettable event, drawing over 100,000 music lovers to experience world-class performers.
3. Enniskillen TradFest 2026, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 1 – 4 May. Over four days, Enniskillen will host a series of traditional music sessions featuring talented local musicians alongside visiting performers. Pubs across the town will open their doors to the sound of fiddles, flutes, accordions and bodhráns, creating the warm and energetic atmosphere that makes trad sessions so special.
4. Among the Apple Blossom at Long Meadow: Orchard Cooking & Cider Stories, Portadown, County Armagh, 3 May. Enjoy a relaxed coach tour from Armagh City to Long Meadow Cider Co., guided by Donna Fox and hosted by the McKeever family. This relaxed, participatory experience includes a guided walk through a working cider orchard in full bloom. You’ll hear family stories of generations of apple growing and insights into how their business has evolved into one of Armagh’s best known cider producers, before being introduced to their award-winning cider and juice range.
5. International Dawn Chorus Day Guided Walk at Downhill Demesne, Castlerock, County Londonderry, 3 May. Celebrate International Dawn Chorus Day with a guided, early-morning walk through the beautiful Downhill Demesne and Forest. Join a National Trust Regional Ecologist to learn the basics of identifying birds by their song and enjoy the rich variety of calls that fill the air at sunrise.
6. Magnificent May Weekend at Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch, County Down, 3-4 May. Come along to Montalto Estate for their Magnificent May Weekend – the perfect family day out filled with exciting activities for all ages. Bask in the spring sunshine inside the stunning Walled Garden, relax with live entertainment, and indulge in a mouth-watering BBQ, delicious ice cream, and more.
7. Eco Boat Tours of Strangford Lough, Killinchy, County Down, 2 May. Learn about Strangford Lough’s world renowned eco system, become a sustainable user of our coasts, and take in the stunning and peaceful scenery. Partnering with Sam, a marine biologist from Coastal Catchups, this new experience focuses on the wildlife of Strangford Lough.
8. Specialist Plant Fair at Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down, 2 May. A vibrant array of specialist nurseries and garden-themed traders will join Mount Stewart’s passionate Garden Team to take over Front of House for a special event dedicated to the celebration of all things horticulture.
9. Festival of Fools, Belfast, 2 – 4 May. Festival of Fools is a jam-packed weekend of circus performances, featuring breathtaking acrobatics, gut-busting comedy and jaw-dropping juggling. The festival is the largest comedy, circus and outdoor arts festival on the island of Ireland, with over 70 performances taking place on the streets of Belfast City Centre and Cathedral Quarter.
10. Under the Hawthorn Tree at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, until 31 March 2027. A powerful story of hardship, loss and survival, this exhibition brings to life Marita Conlon-McKenna’s much-loved children’s novel, Under the Hawthorn Tree. The exhibition uses objects, sounds, smells, interactives and illustrations to tell the story, inviting visitors, young and old, to experience the story in a new and immersive way.

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

 

Subject to availabilities with select dates.

 

Here are ten exciting things to do 13 – 19 April

 

1. Ards International Guitar Festival 2026, Newtownards, County Down, 15 – 19 April. The Ards International Guitar Festival is back with a bang in April 2026 celebrating 30 years of guitar inspired gigs and free fringe events. Expect a jam-packed line-up of blues, folk, rock, bluegrass and classical and contemporary music for guitar aficionados across Newtownards.
2. A Night to Remember at Titanic Belfast, Belfast, 14 April. Join this special commemorative evening and retrace Titanic’s story through the voices of those whose lives were forever changed by her journey. During this 90-minute experience, guests will be guided through key locations within Titanic Belfast. They will hear poignant monologues, stirring musical performances, and stories shared by the knowledgeable crew. Guests are welcome to stay for the duration of the event and take part in the candle-lighting ceremony at 11:40 PM on the slipways, marking the exact moment Titanic struck the iceberg.
3. Garden Bites at Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch, County Down, 19 April. Step a little deeper into the story of these gardens with a guided mini tour of either the Lost Garden or the Walled Garden, included with your standard Trails and Gardens admission ticket. These relaxed, informal tours invite you to look a little closer, uncovering hidden details, seasonal highlights and the unique character of each space.
4. Golden Hour Alpaca Trekking Experience, Ballynahinch, County Down, check website for dates and times. This unique experience combines the serene beauty of a guided alpaca trek with the gourmet delight of a specially curated charcuterie board all set against the enchanting backdrop of golden hour. This is the perfect time to embark on a tranquil trek with the friendly alpacas in this experience that has been exclusively designed for adults.
5. Art on Your Doorstep, various locations across Derry~Londonderry, until 30 September. The National Gallery: Art On Your Doorstep is a programme that shares masterpieces from the collection with communities. Derry City and Strabane District Council is one of twelve partners that will be exhibiting stunning reproductions from the National Gallery during 2026 and 2027. The Council’s museum team has selected eighteen artworks for six sites, from familiar pieces by artists such as Renoir and Van Gogh, alongside art that engages us with nature, food and times of celebration.
6. Visit Marble Arch Caves, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, visit website for open dates and times. On a guided cave tour their carefully constructed paths enable you to comfortably traverse the Marble Arch Caves whilst discrete lighting displays the cave features and delicate cave formations. Their enthusiastic guides will lead you through awe-inspiring passages and further enhance your experience by interpreting the stories of this wonderous show cave.
7. Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, visit website for open dates and times. Wander well-trodden pathways and explore traditional farmhouses as you learn what life was like in rural Ulster. Step on board the full-scale emigrant ship, experience what the cramped quarters were like on the dangerous journey to America and find out how Ulster peoples’ emigration had a lasting impact through North America. To make the most of your visit they recommend you give yourself between two and three hours to explore all that the museum has to offer, including the ‘Under the Hawthorn Tree’ exhibition.
8. Navan Centre and Fort, Armagh, County Armagh, visit website for open dates and times. Step back in time by 2,000 years with a visit to the Iron Age area (open April-September), here you’ll meet the Celts going about their daily routines and bringing our historic past to life. Discover how the clan survived and thrived as you engage with this highly interactive & unique experience. After meeting real life warriors, learn more about the stories of the bravest of them all – Cú Chulainn and the Red Branch Knights.
9. Scarva Band Concerts, Scarva, County Down, until 27 September. Scarva Bandstand concerts will take place at the Bandstand, Scarva each Sunday from 3-4pm starting Sunday, 12 April, and running weekly until Sunday, 27 September. Admission is free and limited seating will be provided. It is advisable to bring your own fold up seat. Enjoy a varied programme of musical entertainment.
10. The Truffle Shuffle at The Chocolate Manor, Castlerock, County Londonderry, 18 April. The Truffle Shuffle Experience with Chief Chocolatier at The Chocolate Manor, Geri Martin, will guide you through making moulded and hand-rolled truffles. You will craft ganache and flavour your own truffles with maybe even a nip of your favourite tipple, if you wish.

 

 

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

 

Subject to availabilities with select dates.

 

Here are ten exciting things to do 30 March – 5 April

 

1. The Easter Eggspress at Downpatrick & County Down Railway, Downpatrick, County Down, 5 and 6 April. The Easter Bunny is visiting the Downpatrick & County Down Railway on Easter Sunday and Monday, and his goal is simple: make sure all the children have a great day with their trains and come away with a chocolate Easter Egg. There’s also a fun word hunt, and face painting in the station included in your ticket price.
2. Easter at the Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 5 – 7 April. Discover Easter traditions like the custom of cross-roads dancing, learn about the history of the Easter egg, and leave a message on the Easter Tree. Listen to live music in rural Ulster and America, and take part in traditional games including the classic egg and spoon race. Take a horse and carriage ride and watch an exciting magic show. Try tasty samples of barnbrack and hot-cross buns, plus get some Easter treats from the café.
3. Easter at the Ulster Folk Museum, Cultra, County Down, 5 – 7 April. Discover Easter traditions, have a go at nature-based activities and meet their talented makers as they demonstrate heritage skills – including Easter card making in the Print Shop. Get involved with traditional games, watch baking and butter making demos, try tasty cake samples and listen to traditional music. Meet costumed characters and learn all about the history of egg production in Ireland and the connections to the Easter traditions we know today.
4. Easter at Glenarm Castle, Glenarm, County Antrim, 5 and 6 April. Join Glenarm Castle for a fun-filled adventure in the fresh spring air. Explore the Walled Garden and Woodland Walk, let the kids burn off some energy in the Woodland Adventure Play Area, or hop into the driver’s seat with the Mini Land Rover Experience. Take part in their much-loved Easter Eye Spy & activity sheet while exploring the estate and enjoy great food, shopping, and even a dedicated dog park for your four-legged friends.
5. Slow Art Sunday at Ulster Museum, Belfast, 5 April. Join the Ulster Museum on the first Sunday of every month for Slow Art Sunday, an opportunity to explore their art collections in more detail. Explore the influences and inspirations that contributed to the artwork and find out the guide’s favourite pieces. Feel free to sketch or bring your own interpretations as the guides bring the artwork to life.
6. Easter at Florence Court, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 30 March – 7 April. Join in on Easter Monday for the annual Easter celebration at Florence Court. With lots of activities for kids to enjoy, live music, treats and of course the ‘Grand Tour’ Easter trail to explore, you are sure for a fun filled day out.
7. Easter Adventures at WWT Castle Espie, Comber, County Down, 31 March – 12 April. Spring has arrived and there is plenty of family fun waiting for you at WWT Castle Espie this Easter. Have fun at the Easter Egg Trail, Pond Dipping Adventures and Easter themed arts and crafts sessions.
8. Easter Trail at The Jungle NI, Moneymore, County Londonderry, 4 –7 April. Join this Easter for a fun-filled outdoor adventure, where families can follow a woodland Easter Trail, meet colourful characters, enjoy marshmallow toasting, and dance along at our lively Easter disco.
9. Easter Adventures At The Argory, Moy, County Armagh, 30 March – 7 April. Explore the stunning grounds of The Argory as you follow the ten points of the Easter Activity Trail. The trail takes you through the beautiful River Walk, offering scenic views and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy nature in full bloom. Join for a fun-filled, family-friendly day out with plenty of activities for all ages to enjoy together.
10. A Puffin Rock Easter at W5, Belfast, 1 – 11 April. Calling all little explorers and grown-ups. Now is your chance to join the Puffin Rock inhabitants and discover more from this beautiful island. Puffin Rock activities are free with general admission to W5.

 

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

 

Subject to availabilities with select dates.

Here are ten exciting things to do 30 March – 5 April

 

1. The Easter Eggspress at Downpatrick & County Down Railway, Downpatrick, County Down, 5 and 6 April. The Easter Bunny is visiting the Downpatrick & County Down Railway on Easter Sunday and Monday, and his goal is simple: make sure all the children have a great day with their trains and come away with a chocolate Easter Egg. There’s also a fun word hunt, and face painting in the station included in your ticket price.
2. Easter at the Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 5 – 7 April. Discover Easter traditions like the custom of cross-roads dancing, learn about the history of the Easter egg, and leave a message on the Easter Tree. Listen to live music in rural Ulster and America, and take part in traditional games including the classic egg and spoon race. Take a horse and carriage ride and watch an exciting magic show. Try tasty samples of barnbrack and hot-cross buns, plus get some Easter treats from the café.
3. Easter at the Ulster Folk Museum, Cultra, County Down, 5 – 7 April. Discover Easter traditions, have a go at nature-based activities and meet their talented makers as they demonstrate heritage skills – including Easter card making in the Print Shop. Get involved with traditional games, watch baking and butter making demos, try tasty cake samples and listen to traditional music. Meet costumed characters and learn all about the history of egg production in Ireland and the connections to the Easter traditions we know today.
4. Easter at Glenarm Castle, Glenarm, County Antrim, 5 and 6 April. Join Glenarm Castle for a fun-filled adventure in the fresh spring air. Explore the Walled Garden and Woodland Walk, let the kids burn off some energy in the Woodland Adventure Play Area, or hop into the driver’s seat with the Mini Land Rover Experience. Take part in their much-loved Easter Eye Spy & activity sheet while exploring the estate and enjoy great food, shopping, and even a dedicated dog park for your four-legged friends.
5. Slow Art Sunday at Ulster Museum, Belfast, 5 April. Join the Ulster Museum on the first Sunday of every month for Slow Art Sunday, an opportunity to explore their art collections in more detail. Explore the influences and inspirations that contributed to the artwork and find out the guide’s favourite pieces. Feel free to sketch or bring your own interpretations as the guides bring the artwork to life.
6. Easter at Florence Court, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 30 March – 7 April. Join in on Easter Monday for the annual Easter celebration at Florence Court. With lots of activities for kids to enjoy, live music, treats and of course the ‘Grand Tour’ Easter trail to explore, you are sure for a fun filled day out.
7. Easter Adventures at WWT Castle Espie, Comber, County Down, 31 March – 12 April. Spring has arrived and there is plenty of family fun waiting for you at WWT Castle Espie this Easter. Have fun at the Easter Egg Trail, Pond Dipping Adventures and Easter themed arts and crafts sessions.
8. Easter Trail at The Jungle NI, Moneymore, County Londonderry, 4 –7 April. Join this Easter for a fun-filled outdoor adventure, where families can follow a woodland Easter Trail, meet colourful characters, enjoy marshmallow toasting, and dance along at our lively Easter disco.
9. Easter Adventures At The Argory, Moy, County Armagh, 30 March – 7 April. Explore the stunning grounds of The Argory as you follow the ten points of the Easter Activity Trail. The trail takes you through the beautiful River Walk, offering scenic views and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy nature in full bloom. Join for a fun-filled, family-friendly day out with plenty of activities for all ages to enjoy together.
10. A Puffin Rock Easter at W5, Belfast, 1 – 11 April. Calling all little explorers and grown-ups. Now is your chance to join the Puffin Rock inhabitants and discover more from this beautiful island. Puffin Rock activities are free with general admission to W5.

 

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

 

Subject to availabilities with select dates.

 

Here are ten exciting things to do 16 – 22 March

 

1. St Patrick’s Day at Slemish, Broughshane, County Antrim, 17 March. Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in spectacular style with a memorable trek up Slemish – the legendary mountain where Ireland’s patron saint once tended sheep. This iconic annual tradition invites you to conquer the 1.5 kilometre round walk to the summit and take in the breathtaking panoramic views.
2. St Patrick’s Day Spring Carnival 2026, Derry~Londonderry, 17 March. Savour mouth-watering food from local vendors, explore the charm of traditional Irish music and be part of the magic as the St Patrick’s Day parade winds through the streets, showcasing dazzling displays of colour, creativity, and culture. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Spring in Derry~Londonderry.
3. St Patrick’s Day Parade, Belfast, 17 March. A dazzling display of costume, music, dance and circus will bring the streets of Belfast alive this St Patrick’s Day. The annual parade will weave its way through the city centre. With colourful live performance and a high energy soundtrack, this year’s parade will include some new elements to celebrate the legends of St Patrick.
4. St Patrick’s Day at Ulster Folk Museum, Cultra, County Down, 17 March. Join them for a family day filled with music, storytelling and hands-on activities that bring Ireland’s past to life. There’ll be traditional music performances and Irish dancing displays, plus folklore tales of legends and lore. Try Irish language taster sessions, sample colcannon and get hands-on with their family craft station.
5. St Patrick’s Day Parade in Newry City, and St Patrick’s Day Parade in Downpatrick, County Down, 17 March. St Patrick’s Day parades will be the centre of celebrations in Newry City and Downpatrick. Led by Saint Patrick himself, the St Patrick’s Day parade will offer a feast for eyes and ears as swirling dancers, community floats and costumed characters entertain the crowds.
6. St Patrick’s Day Omagh: Music and Mythology, Omagh, County Tyrone, 17 March. The streets of Omagh will come alive at this year’s St Patrick’s weekend with a vibrant celebration of music, mythology, dance and carnival parade. Delivered by Urban Events NI under the theme Music & Mythology, this year’s programme brings together an exciting blend of traditional musicians, dancers, performers and local groups to create an unforgettable festival experience.
7. St Patrick’s Day at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 17 March. Enjoy a day of Irish heritage and celebration as you explore the history of the shamrock, accompanied by the sounds of traditional Irish music across Ulster and America. Watch Irish dance performances and see traditional craft demonstrations like basket weaving throughout the day. Stop by the Mellon House where the table will be filled with customary foods like colcannon and apple tart, taste samples of fruit brack and follow the ‘Shamrock Selfie Trail.’
8. St Patrick’s Day Parade in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 17 Match. From Castle to Castle, the traditional parade will snake through the heart of Enniskillen, crossing its iconic bridges and celebrating the unique geography of the island town. The celebrations continue with an extended free fun day at Enniskillen Castle and the Broadmeadow, featuring family entertainment, activities and special guest appearances throughout the early afternoon.
9. Sunrise at Navan Centre and Fort, Armagh, County Armagh, 17 March. What made Emain Macha so special to the ancient people of Ulster? Why was this site so steeped in history and wonder that it drew St Patrick to the area to build his first church? Celebrate St Patrick’s morning with St Patrick himself and the ancient people of Ulster. This year bear witness, through drama, to the story of a bull which attempted to stop the building of Patrick’s church and participate in a ceremony by the sacred pool. Afterwards, have breakfast with them, to the sound of live music.
10. Sperrins Festival, Gortin, County Tyrone, 20 –22 March. Sperrins Festival is a three-day celebration of landscape, heritage, and community, taking place across Sperrin Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). It aims to strengthen connections between people and place, support sustainable tourism, and provide new opportunities to learn, explore, and celebrate the area’s rich and diverse heritage and culture.

 

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

 

Subject to availabilities with select dates.

 

Here are ten exciting things to do 9 – 15 March

 

1. St Patrick’s Weekend at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, Royal Hillsborough, County Down, 15 March. Visit Hillsborough Castle and Gardens for a fun-filled family day out with stories, music and celebration in honour of St. Patrick’s Day. Immerse yourself in the magic of traditional Irish storytelling with renowned storyteller Eamonn Keenan, accompanied by the captivating music of Aodan MacSeafriadh.
2. Homes In Focus: Tea Lane at Ulster Folk Museum, Holywood, County Down, 14 March. Join Victoria Millar, Senior Curator of History, for a talk on the Tea Lane Houses. Discover what life was like for those who lived here and explore the research happening behind the scenes. Originally located off Sandy Row in Belfast, the houses were built for workers in the nearby textile mills and brickfields in Sandy Row. They are believed to be amongst the earliest surviving examples of industrial housing in Belfast.
3. Leprechaun Treasure Trail at Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch, County Down, 14 – 17 March. Can you track down Montalto’s mischievous Leprechauns? Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a fun-filled treasure trail style adventure through the beautiful Trails & Gardens at Montalto Estate.
4. St Patrick’s Day at Antrim Castle Gardens, Antrim, County Antrim, 14 March. Bring the whole family along for a day of fun in the stunning gardens. Enjoy live music, Irish and Ulster-Scots dancing and plenty of family-friendly activities as the gardens come alive with the spirit of St Patrick’s Day.
5. Belfast St Patrick’s Music Festival, Belfast, 13 – 17 March. Belfast St Patrick’s Music Festival returns with five days of concerts, workshops, dance, pipe bands and a free Festival Village in the Cathedral Quarter of Belfast, UNESCO City of Music. At the heart of the festival is a diverse, cross-cultural celebration of traditional arts in honour of St Patrick.
6. Wild Caving at Marble Arch Caves, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 14 March. Delve off the beaten track with our experienced and qualified Cave Leader to explore “wild caving” in the depths of the Marble Arch Caves system. Your group of ten will explore wild cave passages, negotiate boulder chambers and clamber through the well-known flyover to emerge into the public tour area of the show cave before navigating your way out through the wild chambers.
7. Walled City Music Festival 2026, Derry~Londonderry, 12 – 15 March. Derry~Londonderry is set for a serious musical takeover this March as the Walled City Music Festival returns with a razor-sharp programme built for everyone – the seasoned concertgoer, the curious first timer, and anyone who simply wants to feel something live. Expect powerhouse piano, high-voltage violin and richly coloured chamber music, performed by world-class artists in the heart of the city.
8. Ashes to Fashion at Ulster Museum, Belfast, until 13 September. A collection reborn through significant acquisitions, a future-proof collecting policy and generous donations, making it one of the most important collections in Western Europe. ‘Ashes to Fashion’ marks this extraordinary milestone with a stunning showcase of fashion from the eighteenth century to today, from historic garments to contemporary pieces by Chanel and Versace.
9. Home of St Patrick Festival 2026, Armagh, County Armagh, 8 – 18 March. The Home of St Patrick Festival celebrates St. Patrick’s life through music, art, theatre, film, and dance. This is a chance to reflect on the legacy of St Patrick and have fun celebrating his influence on history and culture.
10. Visit Gortin Glen Forest Park, County Tyrone, visit website for open dates and times. Gortin Glen Forest Park is made up of a network of 5 waymarked trails of varying lengths that start from the Trailhead close to the main car park. All trails are colour coded and return back to the car park. Each of the trails give the visitor the opportunity to enjoy the woodland, nestled nicely in the Sperrin Mountains.

 

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

 

Subject to availabilities with select dates.

Here are ten exciting things to do 2 – 8 March

 

1. Home of St Patrick Festival 2026, Armagh, County Armagh, 8 – 18 March. The Home of St Patrick Festival celebrates St. Patrick’s life through music, art, theatre, film, and dance. This is a chance to reflect on the legacy of St Patrick and have fun celebrating his influence on history and culture.
2. Belfast Children’s Festival, 5 – 14 March. Over 10 days, enjoy hand-picked incredible shows, performances, events, activities and creative experiences for everyone, including a range of inclusive shows specially created for those with additional needs. They have shows from across the world, as well as some of the very best of performances for young audiences being made right here in Belfast, from festival favourites to world premieres and, of course, the Festival Family Day Out.
3. Taste Mid Ulster Restaurant Week, Mid Ulster, 7 – 13 March. Get ready to tantalise your taste buds and embark on a gastronomic journey like no other. Discover culinary delights in Mid Ulster as participating restaurants across the district roll out the red carpet to showcase their finest culinary creations. From gourmet delicacies to classic comfort foods, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Indulge in specially curated menus that offer a taste of Mid Ulster.
4. Ranger Led Tour of Antrim Castle Gardens, Antrim, County Antrim, 7 – 28 March. The Ranger led guided tour of Antrim Castle Gardens takes approximately 1 hour and involves an easy walk over flat ground. The tour focusses on the general history of the 350-year-old gardens alongside the remnants of the Massereene family dynasty, dating back to 1573. You will hear many interesting facts, stories and tales of the colourful characters making up the family history.
5. Carrickfergus Castle & Islandmagee Witches Walking Tour (with Haunted Tours NI), Carrickfergus, County Antrim, check website for availabilities. Perfect for history buffs, true crime fans, lovers of the supernatural, and those curious about the infamous Islandmagee witch trial – this is the only tour company that tells the real story of Ireland’s last witches, inspired by the book ‘Possessed by the Devil’ by Dr. Andrew Sneddon.
6. Bronze Age Connections: Smoked Fired Pottery, Bushmills, County Antrim, 7 March. The incredible landscape of the Causeway Coast is made up of layers of limestone, basalt and red ochre. People have a long history of using ochre for body paint, cave paintings and decorating pots. Join this workshop to decorate two incense pots.
7. Earth Yoga – In The Heart Of The Marble Arch Caves, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 8 March. Join in a unique experience as you get in touch with your inner yogi in a beginner-friendly 60 minutes yoga session in the depths of the Marble Arch Caves. Relax body and mind as you connect to nature inside the cave with an inviting and inspiring class suitable for all levels.
8. Wild River Dipping at Tollymore Forest Park, Newcastle County Down, 7 March. Hike to the secret spots and immerse in the rivers of the Mourne Mountains. The activity explores the trending cold water and wild swimming craze and including hiking, wild dipping, forest bathing and cold water therapy. Their trained and highly experienced mountain leaders and cold water specialists guide you into the hidden landscapes of the Mourne Mountains to the spots we love the most.
9. The Derry Girls Experience at Tower Museum, Derry~Londonderry, visit website for open dates and times. Visit the home of Derry Girls and discover where it all began. See original memorabilia from the hit show, like Erin’s diary, Aunt Sarah’s famous pyjamas and Ma Mary’s Woolworths sweater, not to mention the infamous Spice Girls costumes. Step into the set of the Quinn’s household and feel like one of the family.
10. Hill of The O’Neill & Ranfurly House, Dungannon, County Tyrone, visit website for open dates, times, and events. Ranfurly House is an impressive Victorian building located in Dungannon and gateway to the ancient site of Hill of The O’Neill. This location has been the site of castles, barracks, and seats of power for thousands of years. It is from this very hilltop that the O’Neill dynasty, perhaps one of the greatest of the Irish clans ruled for more than 300 years.

 

 

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

 

Subject to availabilities with select dates.