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 (25 February – 3 March)

1.       BMS International Festival of Chamber Music, Belfast, 1 – 3 March. The International Festival of Chamber Music is Northern Ireland’s premier chamber music event, presenting top international classical musicians alongside outstanding local artists in three days of world-class concerts and recitals at the Crescent Arts Centre.

2.       Frank Carson – Rebel Without A Pause, Newry, 27 February. In this acclaimed one–man show at the Sean Hollywood Arts Centre, we journey with Frank from his Belfast boyhood – where life was so tough even the arms on the chairs had tattoos – through his adventures in the army, and into the world of showbiz where he entertained Royalty, delighted Pope John Paul II and never forgot where he came from.

3.       World Seniors Snooker World Championship, Belfast, 3 March. Players including Jimmy White, Ken Doherty and Stephen Hendry go head to head in a bid to lift the world crown at the Waterfront Hall. 

4.       Red Hot Chilli Pipers, Belfast, 1 March.  From their formation in 2002 and a cameo appearance at T in the Park in 2004 to opening the main stage in their own right in 2014, the past sixteen years have seen the Red Hot Chilli Pipers become the most famous bagpipe band on the planet. They perform this March at the SSE Arena.

5.       Cherishing Mythology, Armagh, 1 March – 6 April. Armagh Art Club’s Biennial Exhibition takes a journey through Mythology, linking with many of the myths and legends familiar to all. From their individual approaches and variety of skills and techniques, the artists open up the inspirational world of make believe and imagination, woven though by threads of reality.

6.       W5 and Giants Joint Ticket, Belfast, 3 March.  Discover over 250 interactive exhibits at the award-winning Science and Discovery Centre and then watch NI’s professional ice-hockey team hit the ice to take on Manchester Storm in The SSE Arena.

7.       Long Meadow Farm Tour, Craigavon, 2 – 22 March. Visit Long Meadow Farm for an unforgettable, fully guided tour in the heart of the Orchard County. Traverse bountiful orchards, explore the cider-making facilities and sample award-winning Irish ciders all in the good company of the friendly and welcoming farm patrons, the McKeever family.

8.       A Vision of Elvis, Belfast, 2 March. Starring Rob Kingsley, winner of The National Tribute Music Awards ‘Official Elvis Show’ and ‘Number One Male Tribute’, A Vision of Elvis is internationally renowned as ‘the best Elvis Presley tribute concert touring the world today’ and is coming to the Waterfront Hall.

9.       Tim Peake Spacecraft and VR Experience, Holywood, 20 February – 11 May. Tim Peake’s Spacecraft, presented by Samsung and the Science Museum Group, is touring the UK and will land at the Ulster Transport Museum on 20 February. The display of the iconic craft will be accompanied by Space Descent VR supported by Samsung, a unique virtual reality adventure narrated by Tim Peake himself.

10.   Pizza and Pottery Night, Bangor, 28 February. Loaf Pottery’s popular pizza and pottery nights begin with a pottery class where their potter will give a demo of throwing a pot on the wheel before teaching a hand building class.

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 (18 – 24 February)

1.       Accidental Comedy Club, Belfast, 22 February. With topics ranging from politics to relationships and everything in between, the Accidental Theatre’s comics will weave a tapestry of social commentary and absurd observation for your laughing pleasure.

2.       My Sweetheart And Me, Lisburn, 21-22 February. This uplifting romantic comedy, performed at Lagan Valley Island, is set during the summer of 1967. Seen through a nostalgic lens, the story centres around two single lovestruck thirtysomethings, as they haphazardly struggle against all the odds.

3.       Celtic Mindfulness, Armagh, 23 – 24 February. Celtic Mindfulness offers a unique healing experience at Navan Centre and Fort. Music, myth and meditation will be used to awaken your Celtic Soul creating positive mindfulness.

4.       Harmonic Bridges Concert, Belfast, 21 February. The premier ensemble of New York’s Scarsdale High School will join with Belfast’s own Northern Ireland Concert Band for a night of music celebrating the great music of both countries at the Ulster Hall.

5.       Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto, Armagh, 21 February. Catch a full symphony orchestra in the intimate surroundings of the Marketplace Theatre, with world-class soloists, guest conductors and, of course, the full Ulster Orchestra as they perform Schumann’s tempestuous Symphony No.2 and Manfred: Overture alongside Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto.

6.       `Is That Too Hot`, Newry, 18 February. Is ‘That Too Hot’ is the hilarious sequel to the hit play ‘I’ll Tell My Ma’ by Patricia Gormley performed at the Sean Hollywood Arts Centre. Follow the antics of your favourite characters Granny Eileen, Davina Carina and Chelsea Marie as they stumble their way through another year in their turbulent lives.

7.       Titanic Taster Photography Tour, Belfast, 23 February. Photography is the art of the physics of light, learn how to use it to create stunning images and the power of magnification at our very own giant optic lenses. Stops include the Historic Slipways, the Great Light and Titanic’s Dock and Pump-House. Includes refreshment stop at Titanic’s Dock and Pump-House.

8.       Fly Me to the Moon, Derry~Londonderry, 20 February. Patrick Talbot Productions and Rathmore Productions present Fly Me to the Moon coming to the Millennium Forum. Francis and Loretta are community care visitors. Davey, one of their elderly charges, has had a significant win on the horses, but he doesn’t know. When the cash-strapped women learn that Davey will not be around for a considerable time they are faced with a mouth-watering dilemma.

9.       NI Science Festival, Across NI, 14 – 24 February. With over 180 events across 50+ venues, the NI Science Festival offers a stimulating and wide range of events focusing on the wonders of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. For full line-up, visit NIScienceFestival.com.

10.   Chrvches, Belfast, 19 February. Scottish synth-pop band Chvrches are pleased to perform at the Ulster Hall. Hear them perform hit songs such as Miracle, Get Out and My Enemy.

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 (11 – 17 February)

1. Valentine’s Up Cinema, Belfast, 14 February. Alibi will be showing the movie ‘Ghost’ on the big screen. This special Valentine’s event costs £30 per couple includes a one hour clay/pottery workshop, movie tickets, two pizzas and a bottle of prosecco. Plus all you can eat popcorn.
2. Exhibition: The Echlinville Distillery, Newtownards, 2 – 21 February. A ‘field to glass’ distillery, Echlinville’s new-make spirits are distilled from barley grown and harvested from their own fields and floor malted on their distillery farm. Their story is one of provenance, pride in their roots in the Ards Peninsula and devotion to the ancient art of distilling.
3. Valentine’s Roller Disco, Belfast, 14 – 15 February. Back by popular demand to the MAC, access to the rink will be organised in sessions. When the skating session is over, stay and enjoy the party with dancing all night, or rest those weary limbs and watch your friends from the viewing gallery.
4. NI Science Festival, Across NI, 14 – 24 February. With over 180 events across 50+ venues, the NI Science Festival offers a stimulating and wide range of events focusing on the wonders of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. For full line-up visit NIScienceFestival.com.
5. MARVEL-OUS Mid-Term Madness, Limavady, 15 – 19 February. Are your little ones a Captain America, Thor or Iron Man. Come to Carrowmena Activity Centre this Half Term and they can climb, zip, leap and shoot like their favourite Marvel characters before going on a marvellous hunt to find them.
6. Czech Selection, Belfast, 14 February. Enjoy a delightful afternoon of Czech music, conducted by Czech Jiři Rožeň at the Ulster Hall. Including Suk’s Meditation on the Old Czech Chorale St Wenceslas and Kabelác’s Symphony No.4 Camerata.
7. Music in The Chamber – David C. Clements, Bangor, 15 February. Performing at Bangor Castle, David Clements is an alternative folk singer with swelling melodies and vocals touched with the ache of experience, retelling tales that feel at once both insightful and familiar.
8. Gradam Ceoil, Belfast, 17 February. This gala award ceremony at the Waterfront Hall will feature traditional music, song and dance covering a wide array of talent from home and abroad including Tríona Ní Dhomhnaill, Conor Connolly and Catherine McEvoy.
9. Ice Bowl Valentine’s Day, Dundonald, 14 February. Score a strike this Valentine’s Day at Dundonald Ice Bowl. With valentine inspired music and spot prizes throughout the night, book a date  this Valentine’s Day and enjoy a special Xtreme Bowling session in the valentine’s themed bowling centre.
10. Anthony Toner, Belfast, 17 February. Since the release of the hugely popular single ‘Sailortown’ ten years ago, Anthony has been constantly in forward motion, releasing a string of popular albums and playing countless live performances. Expect an evening of peerless musicianship, great stories and songs old and new at the Lyric 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 (28 January – 3 February) 

1.       Roy Orbison Reborn, Belfast, 31 January. Superstar Roy Orbison was one of the world’s greatest and most successful rock’n’roll music legends of all time. The present day sees Dean Bourne and his musicians perform the ultimate tribute to ‘The Big O’, showcasing all his massive hits together at the Ulster Hall.  

2.       Birdwatch Morning , Newtownards, 30 January. One of the experts at Castle Espie will lead you around the stunning Reserve and Woodland. You are recommended to bring along a pair of binoculars and sensible footwear.  

3.       Tommy Fleming, Belfast, 1 February. Tommy is one of Ireland’s top entertainers with over 6.5 million YouTube hits and over 3.5 million album sales worldwide. The ‘Voice of Hope II’ tour coming to the Ulster Hall, brings you a special collection of spiritual inspirational music together with a selection of his most popular songs. 

4.       The Bog Couple, Derry~Londonderry, 30 January – 2 February. Starring local actors Pat Lynch and Gerry Doherty, The Playhouse production performed at the Millennium Forum introduces us to Oscar Meenan and Felix Young – both “Bogside men” – one a Catholic and one a Protestant; one is an easy-going, slob and one an obsessive perfectionist preoccupied with neatness. 

5.       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.  

6.       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. 

7.       The Old Firm Casuals, Belfast, 31 January. US street punk band,’The Old Firm Casuals’ fronted by Lars Frederiksen from ska-punk stalwarts Rancid perform at The Empire. Joining the band on the night for a stellar line-up are The Defects and United Bottles. 

8.       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.  

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 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. 

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 (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.