Category: NITB

DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are ten exciting things taking place this week (21 – 27 January)

1.       Out to Lunch Festival, Belfast, 4 – 27 January. Now in its fourteenth year this festival specialises in lunch-based art solutions in the Cathedral Quarter and beyond. This year’s festival boasts a jam-packed line-up including Britain’s Got Talent’s Lost Voice Guy and DJ Terri Hooley. To see the full line-up visit CQAF.com.

2.       Foil Arms & Hog, Derry~Londonderry, 24 January. Former children and regular eaters Foil Arms and Hog are back with their new show Craicling. Best known for their YouTube videos, with over 100 million online hits, their live show is what they are most proud of and it will be performed at the Millennium Forum.

3.       Four Last Songs, Belfast, 24 January. Four Last Songs was completed the year before Strauss died, but he did not live long enough to hear its premiere. Inspired by the poets Josef von Eichendorff and Herman Hesse, the Four Last Songs tackles the subject of death with serenity and acceptance, written with Strauss’s characteristic Romantic orchestration and inspired lyricism for soprano voice, with which he had a life-long love affair, performed at the Waterfront Hall.

4.       IMBOLC International Music Festival, Derry~Londonderry, 27 January – 10 February. Taking place in Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin, this is one of Ireland’s leading folk and world music festivals. Whilst still firmly rooted in the musical cultures of this island, the festival has grown in depth and breadth and now encompasses music genres ranging from folk, traditional and roots to jazz, contemporary and world music.

5.       Mairead Duffy Art Exhibition, Armagh, 2 January – 28 February. Craftswirl at Armagh Visitor Information Centre are delighted to welcome this exhibition of work by local artist Máiréad Duffy from Middletown in County Armagh.

6.       Coming Home: Art and the Great Hunger, Derry~Londonderry, 19 January – 16 March. Coming Home: Art and the Great Hunger, the acclaimed Famine art collection, currently on loan from Ireland’s Great Hunger Museum at Quinnipiac University, has been touring the island of Ireland this year.

7.       A Costume Cavalcade, Armagh, until 2 March 2019.  This exhibition at the Armagh County Museum tells the story of dress over the last three hundred years showcasing some of the most important examples in the collection.

8.       Close To Home, Limavady, until 25 January. Roe Valley Arts hosts this exhibition of work by artists of the Puffin Artists Group CIC co-ordinated by the lovely Puffin Gallery in Ballycastle and including works in ceramics, glass, paintings, jewellery and more.

9.       MAC International, Belfast, until 31 March. MAC International presents a snapshot of the most exciting and ambitious art practices from across the world. It is the largest arts prize in Ireland and one of the few major art prizes in the UK, offering artists from around the world an opportunity to exhibit at the MAC in Belfast.

10.   A Step Back In Time, Omagh, until 14 June 2019. This exhibition at the Ulster American Folk Park includes almost 100 objects, ranging in date from a medieval brooch to a contemporary diamante embroidered costume for solo dance. Embroidered costumes, medals, and certificates will tell the story of the development of dance schools and the governing bodies for Irish Dance.

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

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are ten exciting things taking place this week (14 – 20 January)

1.       Out to Lunch Festival, Belfast, 4 – 27 January. Now in its fourteenth year this festival specialises in lunch-based art solutions in the Cathedral Quarter and beyond. This year’s festival boasts a jam-packed line-up including Britain’s Got Talent’s Lost Voice Guy and DJ Terri Hooley. To see the full line-up visit CQAF.com.

2.       Tutored Whiskey Tasting Evening, Belfast, 17 January. Learn more about Northern Ireland’s oldest whiskey producer Bushmills with a tutored tasting session at the Crown Bar, sampling Old Bushmills original, Black Bush, 10yr single malt, 16yr single malt and 21yr single malt as well as their latest whiskey The Sexton. 

3.       Art in the Orchard, Portadown, 19 January. Join professional visual artist Deborah Malcomson for a unique day of creativity at Long Meadow Farm. This will be a unique opportunity to get out into the orchards and enjoy the challenge of producing your own creative response to the surrounding apple trees.

4.       Coming Home: Art and the Great Hunger, Derry~Londonderry, 19 January – 16 March. Coming Home: Art and the Great Hunger, the acclaimed Famine art collection, currently on loan from Ireland’s Great Hunger Museum at Quinnipiac University will be on display at Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin.

5.       ‘If You Can Find Me’ : A celebration of the music of Stephen Sondheim, Newry, 17 January.  A celebration of the music of Stephen Sondheim. Newry Chamber Music continues its 2018/19 season with a concert featuring rising stars from the Northern Ireland Opera Studio Artists programme.

6.       Brahms’s 2nd Piano Concerto, Belfast, 18 January. Performed by soloist pianist Boris Giltburg, Brahms’s Second Piano Concerto opens gently, but as it unfolds and expands it brings the impressive concert to a richly romantic close at the Ulster Hall.

7.       I Love Burns Night!, Belfast, 19 January. Join the Ulster Orchestra and friends at the Waterfront Hall for a ceilidh’s-worth of toe-tapping jigs, reels and, of course, the songs and poetry of ‘The Bard’ himself, Robert Burns! The Orchestra’s annual Burns Night concert is the ultimate celebration of the cultural links between Scotland and Northern Ireland.

8.       Traditional Irish Bread Making, Killinchy, 19 January. Join NI Food Tours in an 18th century thatched cottage on the shores of Strangford Lough for a truly authentic traditional Irish bread making experience.

9.       A Costume Cavalcade, Armagh, until 2 March 2019.  This exhibition at the Armagh County Museum tells the story of dress over the last three hundred years showcasing some of the most important examples in the collection.

10.   Close To Home, Limavady, until 25 January. Roe Valley Arts hosts this exhibition of work by artists of the Puffin Artists Group CIC co-ordinated by the lovely Puffin Gallery in Ballycastle and including works in ceramics, glass, paintings, jewellery and more.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are ten exciting things taking place this week (10 – 16 December)

 

1. Christmas Twilight Market, Belfast, 11 – 12 December. Sample local food, drink and craft stalls, and enjoy a programme of live entertainment and cookery demonstrations against a spectacular backdrop of twinkling twilights at St. George’s Market.
2. Enchanted Winter Garden, Antrim, 7 – 17 December. Antrim Castle Gardens are transformed into the Enchanted Winter Garden, creating a magical Christmas experience for family and friends. Bigger and better than before, the Enchanted Gardens includes a Festive Fayre, a 35m Ferris Wheel, a Victorian Helter Skelter, street theatre and much more.
3. Christmas Winterland Markets, Derry~Londondery, 13 – 16 December. The popular Christmas Winterland Markets in Guildhall Square welcomes the best of artisan traders, offering visitors a family friendly shopping experience with a wide selection of specialty Christmas foods and handcrafted products.
4. Brass On Your Doorstep, Bangor, 14 December. The Ulster Orchestra’s brass section presents an informal concert at Bangor Abbey that mixes seasonal classical music from across five centuries, with carols and popular tunes from the Great American Christmas Songbook.
5. Winter Circus, Belfast, 14 December – 1 January. The wonderful, wacky folk at Tumble Circus are back again with The Winter Circus Show in the fantastic, central location of Writer’s Square. Never ones to conform, the Tumble Circus troop will treat you and your family and friends to a winter extravaganza unlike anything else on offer in Belfast.
6. Festive Vintage Afternoon Tea, Holywood, 16 December. Set at the very heart of the Ulster Folk & Transport Museum, Cultra Manor retains much of its traditional architectural splendour. Experience the Edwardian ritual of afternoon tea with your nearest and dearest this festive season.
7. Family Festive Film, Limavady, 15 December. Join Roe Valley Arts Centre for the modern classic Christmas film Elf, starring Will Ferrell as Buddy, an elf who discovers he’s human and sets off on an adventure to find his real family. Heartwarming and hilarious.
8. Santa’s Magical Kingdom, Dungannon, 6 – 16 December. Santa and Mrs Claus are looking forward to meeting all the good boys and girls this Christmas when they return to The Argory. Listen to a festive tale from Mrs Claus and meet some elves before you pop in to see Santa.
9. Christmas Wonderland, Magherafelt, 1 – 23 December. This festive family event, at The Jungle, is unique in its offerings. Not only can visitors share a meet and greet with Santa, but they can also have a giggle with his colourful Elves, enjoy exciting adventure activities, get creative with a spot of arts and crafts or grab a cuddle with the curious creatures in the Woodland Petting Farm.
10. Days of Christmas Past, Omagh, 8 – 16 December. This Christmas celebrate the yuletide season at the Ulster American Folk Park at the Days of Christmas Past event. With a range of traditional festive activities, including fireside story readings, sing-a-longs, seasonal treats and visits to Santa and Mrs Claus, it offers something for all the family.

 

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

DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are ten exciting things taking place this week (3 – 9 December)

 

1. The Twilight Emporium, Larne, 7 December. Celebrating the wealth of talented artisan producers the country has to offer, the Twilight Emporium is a must visit event for fans of locally produced crafts and artisan food, and a great place to begin the festive season.
2. Enchanted Winter Garden, Antrim, 7 – 18 December. Antrim Castle Gardens are transformed into the Enchanted Winter Garden, creating a magical Christmas experience for family and friends. Bigger and better than before, the Enchanted Gardens includes a festive fayre, a Ferris Wheel, a Victorian Helter Skelter, street theatre and much more.
3. Skate with Santa, Dundonald, 1 – 22 December. Take to the ice every Saturday in December and enjoy a jolly skate with Santa himself at Dundonald Ice Bowl. Glide and twirl under twinkling lights to the very best festive music for a truly magical experience.
4. Les McKeown’s Bay City Rollers, Belfast, 6 December. Les McKeown’s Bay City Rollers is a unique voyage back to the 1970s, when Les and his legendary band ruled the world’s pop charts and The Bay City Rollers’ music became the soundtrack for a generation of teenagers. Les brings back all the thrill and excitement of Rollermania in this unique show at the Ulster Hall.
5. The Greatest Snowman, Limavady, 6 – 8 December. Enjoy a fun-filled show for all the family at the Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre this December.  Limavady Drama Club present their 2018 pantomime – The Greatest Snowman. Based on popular family favourites and hits from The Greatest Showman, the pantomime promises to be a magical experience for all the family.
6. A Yuletide Evening in with the Celts, Armagh, 7 December. Experience a peaceful Mid Winter’s evening with the Celts during this period of ritual, reflection and renewal at the Navan Centre and Fort. Listen to stories and learn of Celtic customs associated with this time of year before the customary fire cleansing.
7. The Carol Ship on Strangford Lough, Newtownards, 7 – 8 December. Hear Christmas music from choirs and bands ring out across Strangford Lough as choirs and musicians sing and play on each ferry sailing. See the Strangford ferry decorated with Christmas lights as she sails back and forwards on Europe’s oldest continuous ferry crossing.
8. Ulster Orchestra – Handel’s Messiah – On Your Doorstep series, Derry~Londonderry, 6 December.  A true gift of musical and spiritual expression, Handel’s Messiah is the most single performed piece of classical music, year-on-year, than any other. If you’ve never heard it, don’t miss the opportunity to experience all the glory, celebration and joy of this timeless, inspirational masterpiece at The Guildhall this festive period.
9. Days of Christmas Past, Omagh, 8 – 9 December. This Christmas celebrate the yuletide season at the Ulster American Folk Park at the Days of Christmas Past event. With a range of traditional festive activities, including fireside story readings, sing-a-longs, seasonal treats and visits to Santa and Mrs Claus, it offers something for all the family.
10. Snow Patrol, Belfast, 7 December. Since their 1998 debut, Snow Patrol has racked up an impressive number of critical and commercial accolades, including 15 million global album sales, 1+ billion global track streams, five UK Platinum Albums, and are Grammy, BRIT Award and Mercury Music Prize nominated. Originally from Bangor, hear this incredible band perform live at the SSE arena.

 

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

DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are ten exciting things taking place this week (26 November – 2 December)

 

1. Basketball Hall of Fame Belfast Classic, Belfast, 29 November – 1 December. This year’s Belfast Classic will welcome eight NCAA Division I college basketball teams – University at Albany, University at Buffalo, Dartmouth College, LIU Brooklyn, Marist College, University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee, University of San Francisco, and Stephen F. Austin State University – to the SSE Arena as they go head-to-head in eight fast-paced games over the three-day tournament.
2. Fleadh Feirste: The Gaeltacht Quarter Festival, Belfast, 28 November – 2 December. Enjoy traditional music, art exhibitions, poetry events and activities for children. Line-up includes critically acclaimed production Aisling?, traditional musicians Robbie Hannan and Paddy Glackin and singer/guitarist SÍOMHA.
3. Comber Christmas Fair in the Square, Comber, 29 November. Come along and visit Santa’s Grotto, meet Santa’s little helpers, and see him arrive on his sleigh pulled by real reindeers. With over 60 stalls with local food, arts and crafts along with music and carol singing – this event is festive fun for all the family. The Christmas lights will be switched on at 7pm.
4. The Elves have Taken Over Todds Leap, Dungannon, 1 December. This Christmas, Santa’s mischievous little elves have taken over Todds Leap. Come along and you’ll be transported to a winter wonderland where all the magic happens. Visit Santa, post your letter, tour the elves classroom and visit Ms Claus in her kitchen.
5. Belfast Christmas Market, Belfast, 17 November – 22 December. The popular Christmas Market returns to Belfast City Hall and offers an authentic feast of quality international cuisine alongside a carefully curated mix of handcrafted goods and bespoke artisan products.
6. Ballycastle Christmas Lights Switch On, Ballycastle, 29 November. Preparations are well under way for the Christmas lights switch on. Come along and help celebrate the arrival of the festive season with lots of family friendly entertainment. Santa Claus is due to make a very special appearance along with the Mayor, arriving by horse drawn carriage.
7. The Christmassy Christmas Show, Bangor, 1 December. Stuffed stocking of seasonal surprises crammed with puppets, songs and comedy, and overflowing with crazy characters, silly slapstick, tall tales and fantastic facts – all presented in that unique Squashbox style at Studio 1A.
8. Christmas Fair, Dungannon, 1 – 2 December.  The festive period is not complete without a visit to the Argory’s Christmas Fair, featuring craft, food and drink stalls, as well as traditional festive entertainment. Soak up the wonderful atmosphere and see the house decorated for the season.
9. Ladies Retreat Weekend, Omagh, 30 November – 2 December. The Ladies Retreat Weekend at An Creagán offers the chance to be pampered by the best that the Sperrins has to offer, including high tea, ladies night, candle making and walks in the beautiful landscape.
10. Creative Peninsula Christmas Fair, Newtownards,  30 November – 1 December. Be inspired to purchase the perfect, unique, handcrafted Christmas gift in the opulent festive setting of the Georgian and Sunburst galleries of Ards Arts Centre. Seasonal interludes, complimentary gift wrapping and festive refreshments combine to make Christmas shopping a pleasure.

 

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

DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are ten exciting things taking place this week (19 – 25 November)

 

1. The Guildhall Craft & Artisan Food Fair, Derry~Londonderry, 23 – 25 November. Offering a unique Christmas shopping experience with over 40 crafters to choose from, ranging from ceramics, leather, glass and jewellery. With a dedicated Food Fayre located within the ground floor of the Guildhall, this event has something for everyone.
2. Kirkistown Point to Point, Portavogie, 24 November. Kirkistown point-to-point is the perfect day out for all the family, where you will get to witness the future stars of the racing industry make their introduction into competitive racing.
3. Armagh Georgian Festival, Armagh, 22 – 25 November. Historic buildings open their doors allowing visitors a true insight into life in Armagh City during the Georgian era. This festival includes a Georgian banquet, Georgian costumed figures, street entertainment and festive market stalls, carriage rides, live music, talks and tours.
4. Pete Tong Presents Ibiza Classics, Belfast, 25 November. This union of classical music and iconic dance tracks is another bold, brilliant move from one of the most influential figures in dance music performed at the SSE Arena.
5. Elf The Musical, Belfast, 23 – 24 November. Elf The Musical is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. Elf The Musical, performed at the Waterfront, is packed full of songs that will have you humming all through Christmas.
6. Foyle Film Festival, Derry~Londonderry, 16 – 25 November. Showcasing a range of contemporary, classic, cultural and new cinema, the Foyle Film Festival presents a fantastic line-up to suit any film fan. For full line-up, visit FoyleFilmFestival.org.
7. Studio Symphony Orchestra Christmas Concert, Lisburn, 24 November. The Studio Symphony Orchestra returns to the Lagan Valley Island for a Christmas concert guaranteed to get everyone in the festive spirit. This will be a special fun concert, as the orchestra performs a beautiful selection of music with a seasonal theme, from popular Christmas favourites to much-loved orchestral music.
8. NCAA Friendship Four Ice Hockey Tournament, Belfast, 23 – 24 November. The Friendship Four tournament is a unique opportunity to watch the only NCAA College Hockey tournament to be held outside of the United States. This four game tournament will feature elite athletes from Boston University, Yale University, The University of Connecticut and Union College all competing to lift the Belpot trophy for their University at the SSE Arena.
9. Cookstown Christmas Lights Switch On, Cookstown, 23 November. With several trees and lights decked along its long main street, combined with stunning views of the Sperrin Mountains in the distance, Cookstown’s Christmas lights are some of the prettiest in Northern Ireland and are truly a sight to behold. With a range of activities for the kids, local vendors supplying tasty food and an appearance from Santa Claus himself, this promises to be a fun night for all the family.
10. Jimmy Buckley – Live in Concert, Coleraine, 21 November. Jimmy possess a very rare talent, not only as a phenomenal singer but also as a hilarious mimic of other major stars. Jimmy’s show contains a wide variety of material, Country, Big Ballads and tribute medleys to the greats of country music such as Hank Williams & Charlie Pride performed at the Riverside Theatre.

 

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