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 (15 – 21 October)

 

1. West Coast Cooler Fashion Week, Belfast, 19 – 21 October. One of the busiest, most diverse programme of fashion events in the country and Ireland’s leading, bi-annual fashion event. Three days of fantastic fashion with nightly catwalk shows, daily style socials and many more exciting events to delve into.
2. The Stars Of Country Show, Lisburn, 19 October. Join six singers for the unmissable “A Night With the Country Stars” show featuring Frank McCaffrey, Joe Moore, Caitlin, Billy McFarland, Boxcar Brian and Matt Leavy, who will perform toe tapping Country hits in the company of the fabulous Keltic Storm at the Lagan Valley Island.
3. Saint Sister, Derry~Londonderry, 21 October. Saint Sister performing at Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin, is the creation of Morgan MacIntyre and Gemma Doherty. Their music draws from early Celtic harp traditions, 60s folk and electronic pop to create ‘atmosfolk’—a mix of soulful vocal harmonies, dreamy synth and electro-acoustic harp.
4. Emily Barker, Limavady, 20 October. Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre are delighted to welcome Emily back to Limavady after her outstanding concert with Ciaran Lavery in 2016. Perhaps best known as the writer/performer of the award-winning theme to BBC’s ‘Wallander’, starring Kenneth Branagh, Emily has released music as a solo artist as well as with various bands including The Red Clay Halo, Vena Portae and Applewood Road.
5. Fright Night, Magherafelt, 12 October – 3 November. This year’s Fright Night is going to be bigger, scarier and full of twists. Fright Night will see the return of the horrid and harrowing “Woodland Trail”. Unveiling two amazing new sets, a brand new haunting story, coupled with special effects, atmospheric lighting throughout and a creepy cast of wicked creatures. On top of this, four of last year’s scare attractions will also be returning with a few extra dimensions and a brand new attraction; The Slaughterhouse.
6. CRACKS, Newtownards, 20 October. In this darkly comical and deeply moving new play, at the Web theatre, an unsuccessful suicide attempt leaves young Leanne Dowd estranged and attempting to pick up the pieces of a life still shattered by mental illness.
7. Macbeth, Limavady, 17 October. A king’s mind is poisoned by prophecy, power, and paranoia. A nation is led to the slaughter. To protect their world, those who lose the most must rise the highest. Merely Theatre create energetic, crystal clear Shakespeare productions at Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre.
8. Belfast International Arts Festival 2018, Belfast, 16 October – 3 November. Belfast International Arts Festival brings an eclectic fusion of cutting edge performances to Belfast with world class theatre, dance, visual art, music, film, literature and talks. Full line up can be found on BelfastInternationalArtsFestival.com
9. Field of Screams, Limavady, 19 – 29 October Enjoy the scary experiences on offer at Carrowmena Activity Centre. This is a physical activity and not for the faint-hearted. Field of Screams runs in a 13 acre field, where you will be navigating around in the dark with lots of scary creatures jumping out when you least expect.
10. W5 Late, Belfast, 20 October. W5 Late is a strictly adults-only, after-hours evening at Northern Ireland’s award-winning science and discovery centre! Don your scariest costume for chills and thrills and explore over 250 interactive exhibits in four incredible exhibition areas.

 

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 (8 – 14 October)

 

1.       Fashion Fest 2018, Derry~Londonderry, 13 October. Taking place in one of the city’s most iconic landmark buildings, the Guildhall, this stylish celebration will showcase the very best in emerging and established designers.

2.       Kylie – Golden Tour, Belfast, 8 October. Kylie Minogue, currently on a high with her brand new track ‘Dancing’, will bring her extraordinary creativity as a live performer back to the SSE Arena this autumn on her headline UK and Ireland tour.

3.       Cinemagic International Film & Television Festival, Belfast, 2 October – 4 November. This award-winning festival, which is the largest film and television festival designed for, and by, young people in the UK and Ireland, boasts an ambitious and exciting programme of over 200 events including film screenings, masterclasses with film and television industry professionals, school workshops, Q&As, and young critics panels.

4.       Northern Ireland Potato Festival, Bushmills, 12 – 13 October. The NI Potato Festival celebrates the legacy of local man John Clarke OBE, a world renowned pioneer in potato breeding. The Festival line-up boasts a variety of attractions including Naturally North Coast and Glens artisan market with food and craft producers, cookery demonstrations and talks, bouncy castles, exhibitions and displays, potato inspired games and a petting farm.

5.       Evita, Derry~Londonderry, 9 – 13 October. Telling the story of Eva Peron, wife of former Argentine dictator Juan Peron, Evita follows Eva’s journey from humble beginnings through to extraordinary wealth, power and iconic status which ultimately lead her to be heralded

as the ‘spiritual leader of the nation’ by the Argentine people. Featuring some of the most iconic songs in musical theatre, including Don’t Cry For Me Argentina and You Must Love Me, this smash hit show truly promises to be the theatrical event at the Millennium Forum.

6.       Squirrel Walk & Talk, Cushendall, 13 October. Join the Glens Red Squirrel Group to celebrate ‘Squirreltober’ with a guided walk through Cottage Wood to see if you can spot the Red Squirrel, which is regularly seen here. The woodland also contains a range of native and non-native species of trees and shrubs such as Scots Pine, Elder, Holly and Ash.

7.       Jane Eyre, Coleraine, 10 October. The young, orphaned Jane meets with cruelty at the hands of her aunt and then at the school to which she is banished. She eventually finds her freedom and becomes governess to the daughter of the enigmatic Mr Rochester at Thornfield Hall. As Jane and Rochester’s relationship grows, it is over shadowed by doubt, dark shadows and terrible secrets and she must choose between passion and reason. Hotbuckle Productions bring their inventiveness, humour and unique magic to Charlotte Bronte’s compelling tale at the Riverside Theatre.

8.       Fright Night 2018, Magherafelt, 12 October – 3 November. This year’s Fright Night is going to be bigger, scarier and full of twists. Fright Night will see the return of the horrid and harrowing “Woodland Trail”. Unveiling two amazing new sets, a brand new haunting story, coupled with special effects, atmospheric lighting throughout and a creepy cast of wicked creatures. On top of this, four of last year’s scare attractions will also be returning with a few extra dimensions and a brand new attraction; The Slaughterhouse.

9.       Harvest Fair at The Ballance House, Crumlin, 13 October. Enjoy soup, sandwiches, traybakes and apple pie in the Ballance House tea barn and visit the craft market stalls with a great selection of local crafts and produce to purchase. There will be themed apple craft activities for the children, flower-arranging and wood-carving demos along with a bespoke Silent Auction featuring prizes ranging from restaurant vouchers to hampers which guests can bid on throughout the day.

10.   The Baby Bushka Dance Party, Belfast, 13 October. Eight female performers use four-part vocal harmonies and epic choreographed dancing to bring the spirit and sound of music legend, Kate Bush, to life. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Bush devotees and an amazing night out for lovers of choregraphed dancing, jumpsuits and all things 80’s. Afterwards DJ Emma-Rose Hollywood, will be playing 80’s dancefloor fillers from Bowie to Bananarama to have you dancing into the small hours.

 

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 (8 – 14 October)

 

1.       Fashion Fest 2018, Derry~Londonderry, 13 October. Taking place in one of the city’s most iconic landmark buildings, the Guildhall, this stylish celebration will showcase the very best in emerging and established designers.

2.       Kylie – Golden Tour, Belfast, 8 October. Kylie Minogue, currently on a high with her brand new track ‘Dancing’, will bring her extraordinary creativity as a live performer back to the SSE Arena this autumn on her headline UK and Ireland tour.

3.       Cinemagic International Film & Television Festival, Belfast, 2 October – 4 November. This award-winning festival, which is the largest film and television festival designed for, and by, young people in the UK and Ireland, boasts an ambitious and exciting programme of over 200 events including film screenings, masterclasses with film and television industry professionals, school workshops, Q&As, and young critics panels.

4.       Northern Ireland Potato Festival, Bushmills, 12 – 13 October. The NI Potato Festival celebrates the legacy of local man John Clarke OBE, a world renowned pioneer in potato breeding. The Festival line-up boasts a variety of attractions including Naturally North Coast and Glens artisan market with food and craft producers, cookery demonstrations and talks, bouncy castles, exhibitions and displays, potato inspired games and a petting farm.

5.       Evita, Derry~Londonderry, 9 – 13 October. Telling the story of Eva Peron, wife of former Argentine dictator Juan Peron, Evita follows Eva’s journey from humble beginnings through to extraordinary wealth, power and iconic status which ultimately lead her to be heralded

as the ‘spiritual leader of the nation’ by the Argentine people. Featuring some of the most iconic songs in musical theatre, including Don’t Cry For Me Argentina and You Must Love Me, this smash hit show truly promises to be the theatrical event at the Millennium Forum.

6.       Squirrel Walk & Talk, Cushendall, 13 October. Join the Glens Red Squirrel Group to celebrate ‘Squirreltober’ with a guided walk through Cottage Wood to see if you can spot the Red Squirrel, which is regularly seen here. The woodland also contains a range of native and non-native species of trees and shrubs such as Scots Pine, Elder, Holly and Ash.

7.       Jane Eyre, Coleraine, 10 October. The young, orphaned Jane meets with cruelty at the hands of her aunt and then at the school to which she is banished. She eventually finds her freedom and becomes governess to the daughter of the enigmatic Mr Rochester at Thornfield Hall. As Jane and Rochester’s relationship grows, it is over shadowed by doubt, dark shadows and terrible secrets and she must choose between passion and reason. Hotbuckle Productions bring their inventiveness, humour and unique magic to Charlotte Bronte’s compelling tale at the Riverside Theatre.

8.       Fright Night 2018, Magherafelt, 12 October – 3 November. This year’s Fright Night is going to be bigger, scarier and full of twists. Fright Night will see the return of the horrid and harrowing “Woodland Trail”. Unveiling two amazing new sets, a brand new haunting story, coupled with special effects, atmospheric lighting throughout and a creepy cast of wicked creatures. On top of this, four of last year’s scare attractions will also be returning with a few extra dimensions and a brand new attraction; The Slaughterhouse.

9.       Harvest Fair at The Ballance House, Crumlin, 13 October. Enjoy soup, sandwiches, traybakes and apple pie in the Ballance House tea barn and visit the craft market stalls with a great selection of local crafts and produce to purchase. There will be themed apple craft activities for the children, flower-arranging and wood-carving demos along with a bespoke Silent Auction featuring prizes ranging from restaurant vouchers to hampers which guests can bid on throughout the day.

10.   The Baby Bushka Dance Party, Belfast, 13 October. Eight female performers use four-part vocal harmonies and epic choreographed dancing to bring the spirit and sound of music legend, Kate Bush, to life. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Bush devotees and an amazing night out for lovers of choregraphed dancing, jumpsuits and all things 80’s. Afterwards DJ Emma-Rose Hollywood, will be playing 80’s dancefloor fillers from Bowie to Bananarama to have you dancing into the small hours.

 

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 (1 – 7 October)

 

1. HMS Caroline Beer and Cider Festival, Belfast, 6 October. Entry to the festival allows you access to HMS Caroline, the sole survivor of the Battle of Jutland in World War One. The drill hall will be alive with chatter with demonstrations on how to pour the perfect pint and tips on how to make the best beer and cider. Then unwind at the beer and cider bar as you listen to local artists and entertainers.
2. Enniskillen 100, Co. Fermanagh, 6 October. Motorcycle Racing returns to Fermanagh in the form of the Enniskillen 100 Revival – Ulster Superbike Championship Round 9. Sixteen races around the 1.2 mile airfield circuit provide non- stop action which will see Ulster championship titles being won.
3. Red Bull Foxhunt, Newry, 6 – 7 October. 550 riders will compete down Rostrevor’s downhill tracks, moorlands and forest roads in a bid to outride three all-star Foxes. Experience the thrill in the race village over the weekend and get up close to some of the riders, sample local artisan food and soak up the atmosphere.
4. A Disappearing Act, Belfast, 4 – 6 October. Join Philip’s family and friends at the Crescent Arts Theatre for one final disappearing act, an immersive comedy about the end of life. Combining cheesy magic, exuberant music and audience participation, A Disappearing Act is a witty, inventive and sometimes awkward exploration of our mortality, the rituals we use to accept it and say goodbye to the ones we love.
5. Zombie Run, Magherafelt, 6 – 7 October. Zombie Run is a 6K obstacle run with a fiendish Halloween twist. Cover treacherous terrain in your mission to evade the insatiable zombies. This year’s obstacles are bigger than ever before, with new obstacles including the exhilarating giant water slide. 2k and 5k kid’s runs are also available.
6. Waggy Races – The Mount Stewart 5k, Newtownards, 7 October. Waggy Races is a cross country fun run for you to compete in as a team with your dog/s. The 12th Waggy Races will take place on the shores of Strangford Lough at the beautiful National Trust Property Mount Stewart.
7. Cinemagic International Film and Television Festival, Belfast, 5 – 26 October. An action packed festival full of film screenings including special premieres, international feature films, documentaries, short films, foreign language films and education screenings. Throughout the festival Cinemagic will also be offering young people the opportunity to take part in practical events including industry workshops and exciting masterclasses.
8. Fashion Show & Sparkling Afternoon Tea, Derry~Londonderry, 7 October. Spend an afternoon in the elegant Northern Counties Ballroom at the stunning Bishop’s Gate Hotel for an afternoon of sweet treats, delicate finger sandwiches and a live showcase of some of the wonderful products in Tahlia Leathers range. A pop up shop will be available after the show to allow guests to purchase some of the items featured in the fashion showcase.
9. Yoga & Mindfulness Weekend, Omagh, 5 – 7 October. Head to An Creagán for a weekend of Yoga & Mindfulness. Their Autumn nurturing retreat gives you the chance to be nourished by the best that the Sperrins has to offer. The weekend includes yoga and mindful movement, activities and meditation all whilst surrounded by nature and beautiful landscapes.
10. Joanna Lumley – It’s All About Me, Belfast, 6 October. Joanna will regale fans with tales from her incredible career spanning more than four decades at the Waterfront Hall, recounting some never heard before stories. She will also be joined on stage by Clive Tulloh, who will put to Joanna questions from the audience that they’ve always wanted to ask, making the show a unique and hilarious night to remember.

 

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 September)

 

1. FEARmanagh, Derrygonnelly, 29 September. FEAR is a multi-sport competition consisting of three sporting disciplines cycling, trail running and kayaking. What better way to spend a Saturday morning than getting up close and personal with Fermanagh’s rugged and wild terrain. Feel the FEAR and do it anyway.
2. Belfast Championship Dog Show, Belfast, 29-30 September. Thousands of dogs will compete for titles at Ireland’s largest dog show and CRUFTS qualifier, the Belfast Championship Dog Show at Eikon Exhibition Centre. Whether you’re a competitor or just love dogs, this is the perfect opportunity to showcase man’s best friend and meet up with other enthusiasts.
3. The Nualas, Lisburn, 29 September. They dance like a butterfly and sing like a bee, they’ll have you flat out on the mat with laughter, they will literally punch you right in the kisser with their gloves of gags and gaiety at their new show Glam Slam. Don’t miss this slug fest of musical genius at Lagan Valley Island from Ireland’s First Ladies of Comedy.
4. Tea with the Lord Coach Tour, Newtownards, 29 September. Embrace this superb opportunity to visit Ballywalter House, the beautiful stately home of the Dunleath family for over 150 years.

Become a member of the gentry for the afternoon as the affable Lord Dunleath guides you around his remarkable home and joins you for a chat over tea in the historic conservatory.

5. Dippy on Tour, Belfast, from 28 September – January 2019. As part of a road trip across the UK, the Natural History museum’s iconic Diplodocus skeleton, Dippy, is venturing out of London for the first time since 1905. In September, he will visit the Ulster Museum and he’s on a mission to inspire five million natural history adventures, encouraging families to explore nature on their doorstep. Come and meet one of the largest animals ever to have walked the earth.
6. Seamus Heaney HomePlace and Landscape Tour, Bellaghy, 30 September. Enjoy afternoon tea at Ballyscullion House with breath-taking views over Lough Beg. Explore Seamus Heaney HomePlace and visit the Forge, with a few little extras along the way, ending with a meal, traditional music and poetry recitals in The Old Thatch Inn.
7. The Bohemian Bazaar, Belfast, 30 September. Around 50 exhibitors will be offering an inspirational range of services and products covering health and beauty, holistic and spiritual, food and drink, fashion and accessories, home and garden, as well as hobbies and play, rest and relaxation at Belfast Castle.
8. War Torn Children, Limavady, 5 September – 29 November. Delivered in partnership with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Museum Services, CAIN (Conflict Archive on the Internet) at Ulster University and the Linen Hall Library this moving exhibition of arpilleras, photographs and illustrations highlights the devastating impact of war on children, their families and communities.
9. Branta bernicla hrota by Adele Pound, Portaferry, 1-28 September. An exhibition showcasing the work of local illustrator Adele Pound. Adele has made numerous studies of Branta bernicla hrota, better known as the brent geese, whose arrival and departure marks the turning of the seasons. “As you look at these drawings, the Brent geese are making their epic 2700 mile journey from the Arctic to Strangford Lough”.
10. Rob Brydon – I Am Standing Up, Belfast, 28 September. Rob Brydon is perhaps best known for the television shows Gavin and Stacey, Would I Lie to You? and The Trip. His theatre credits include Future Conditional at The Old Vic and A Chorus of Disapproval at The Harold Pinter Theatre. I Am Standing Up represents Rob Brydon’s first stand up tour since his sell out national tour and West End run of 2009.

 

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 September)

 

1. Armagh Food & Cider Festival, Armagh, 20-23 September. In the heart of the Orchard County, this festival is brimming with fine foods, sharing plates, foraged lunches, artisan markets, art tuition, fiction and even a murder mystery. Combine all this with award winning ciders and stunning surroundings and you’re in for a harvest season treat.
2. Culture Night Belfast 2018, Belfast, 21 September. Culture Night is Belfast’s largest, most exciting and inclusive cultural celebration. This event brings together over 300 free events across 150 locations in Belfast City Centre in a single day, attracting over 100,000 visitors from Belfast, Northern Ireland and beyond.
3. Culture Night Derry~Londonderry 2018, Derry~Londonderry, 21 September. Enjoy a late night of free cultural events across the City and District on Culture Night. Culture Night is an annual public event that celebrates culture, creativity and the arts. Arts and cultural organisations open their doors until late with hundreds of free events, tours, talks and performances for you, your family and friends to enjoy.
4. Festival Lough Erne, Enniskillen, 22-23 September. Ireland’s only island town, Enniskillen, will host a celebration of the very best of local food and the Fermanagh Lakelands. The weekend will see a host of activity on and off the water with cookery demonstrations by celebrity chefs, local artisan food and drink producers and live entertainment all taking place at the newly refurbished Enniskillen Castle.
5. Deep RiverRock Belfast City Half Marathon, Belfast, 23 September. Over 4,000 participants are expected to set off on their 13.1 mile journey from Ormeau Park in a bid to complete the largest Half Marathon event in Northern Ireland, the 6th Deep RiverRock Belfast City Half Marathon. As spectators cheer on the runners they can enjoy plenty of food stalls, music and entertainment.
6. Giant Fondo, Newry, 23 September. A new cycling Sportive which follows a route through the beautiful Mourne Mountains region. Starting from Clonduff GAC, the total ride distance is 76.63 km, taking in challenging ascents and some of Northern Ireland’s most fabulous scenery.
7. Cocktail Mixology Workshop, Armagh, 20 September. Learn how to mix, muddle and shake at an interactive 90 minute masterclass with Uluru’s Bar Manager, Paul McElligott. You’ll learn some of the tricks of the trade as well as learning about some classic and contemporary cocktails.
8. Ramble with the Ranger, Castlerock, 22 September. Set on a windswept cliff-top, with fabulous views in all directions, the 360-acre Downhill Demesne offers an invigorating setting for a guided walk. A National Trust Ranger will lead you around the Demesne, as well as the neighbouring Downhill Forest.
9. Out of the Night, Into the Light, Newcastle, 22 September. See sunrise from the highest point in Northern Ireland to raise awareness of the work of Adopt NI. Be guided by marshals and the trail of glow-sticks clearly marking out the route, to the top where you will then view a magnificent sunrise and descend into the light.
10. Woodland and Whiskey Coach Tour, Newtownards, 22 September. This coach tour combinines a guided walk along trails in the estate farmland at Mount Stewart with a visit to Echlinville Distillery. Experience the fine art of whiskey making and taste a golden drop.

 

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 September)

 

1. Winterfell Festival, Downpatrick, 16 September. Game of Thrones® fans can step into the world of Westeros for the day at Castle Ward and join the residents of House of Stark at Winterfell. Meet the dire wolves, experience Kind Robert’s return with actor Mark Addy and face an ancient foe in the form of the White Walkers.
2. Autumn Fair 2018, Belfast, 15 – 16 September. Sit back and relax in the Botanic Gardens, with live music, an array of children’s activities, local food, award winning prize blooms, must-see street performers and more.
3. Finnebrogue Artisan Hans Sloane Chocolate & Fine Food Festival, Downpatrick, 14 – 16 September.  Held at Killyleagh Castle, thousands of chocoholics and enthusiastic foodies from Northern Ireland and beyond arrive to celebrate the best of local food and drink. The festival includes chocolatiers’ displays, market stalls, local artisan produce, family-friendly activities and entertainment.
4. Eco Creative Getaway, Omagh, 14 -16 September. Come and join An Creggan for an Autumnal craft retreat. The weekend combines natural dyeing, eco printing, wild foraging and local tours.
5. Mourne Mountain Marathon, Co. Down, 15 – 16 September. The Mourne Mountain Marathon is Ireland’s only two day endurance and navigation event held each year in the beautiful mountains of Mourne. A competitive event for teams of two, who can enter one of four categories, covering between 35km and 55km over two days, from walkers to elite runners.
6. Neon Night Maize Maze, Limavady, 15 September. Locals and visitors alike will be pleased to hear that the Neon Night Maize Maze is back by popular demand. Missed this unique event last year? This is your chance to experience a night out with a difference – fun for the whole family or with friends.
7. Foraging Sunday, Armagh, 16 September. Under expert guidance, learn to forage for food as the Celts did. Explore the wealth of edible delights in our countryside and sample dishes made with foraged foods like berries, apples, cherries and even nettles.
8. The Producers, Belfast, 11 – 15 September. This runaway hit was given the Broadway treatment in 2001 and is now coming to The Waterfront. Producers Max and Leo attempt to stage the worst show ever written and run away with their investors’ money, but their plan goes ridiculously awry. With toe-tapping tunes, loads of hilarious jokes and sharp satire, this big-time Broadway musical is pure side-splitting fun.
9. Who lives in a house like this?, Fivemiletown, 15 September. Enjoy this guided tour around Blessingbourne Estate. An historic 550 acre country estate, nestled in the heart of the woodlands and wildlife on the edge of the Clogher Valley and Fermanagh Lakelands – one of Northern Ireland’s most tranquil and magical locations.
10. Jersey Boys,  Belfast, 11 – 22 September. This smash hit musical comes to the Grand Opera House, having won 57 major awards worldwide, including the Olivier Award for Best New Musical. Jersey Boys tells the true life story of four boys from the wrong side of the tracks who wrote their own songs, invented their own unique sound, and sold 100 million records worldwide.

 

For more information on these events or to plan a short break 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 (3-9 September)

 

1. The 2018 Belfast Tattoo, Belfast, 7-8 September. A firmly established annual event for Belfast drawing in spectators from outside the city, this amazing production includes pipe, drum and flute bands from across the world.
2. European Heritage Open Days 2018, Across NI, 8-9 September. Over 360 heritage buildings and events throughout Northern Ireland are opening their doors to the public, free of charge. This weekend provides a taste of the value of the historic environment while exploring Northern Irish heritage.
3. Derry Walls Day, Derry~Londonderry, 8 September. Coinciding with the first day of Northern Ireland’s European Heritage Open Days weekend, making the Walled City an especially great place for a great day out. The day includes exhibitions, tours and treasure hunts.
4. Fawlty Towers, Belfast, 7 September. Basil, Sybil and Manuel will do their very best to look after you in their crazy style at Belfast Castle. Chaos and mayhem are served in large portions and very likely to interrupt the proceedings, but all should end well, as the stars of the hotel and catering management do everything they can to keep the evening on course.
5. Donaghadee Lights Up Festival, Donaghadee, 6-9 September. This festival provides something for all the family. Enjoy food, boat and walking tours, pipe bands and much more. On the Saturday evening, see Brian Kennedy and Eddi Reader in concert with a grand firework finale.
6. Neil Delamere, Belfast, 7-8 September. The Grand Opera House is delighted to announce the return of the master of mirth, Neil Delamere, with an all new show, Controlled Substance, which is set to be riotous stand-up comedy.
7. Moira Calling, Craigavon, 7-8 September. Family-friendly festival Moira Calling is back for 2018 and the line-up is sure to have something for everyone. The line-up includes Ryan Vail and Arco String Quartet, Joshua Burnside, Owen Denvir and many more.
8. Summer Family Fun, Portaferry, 8 September. Call in to Portaferry Visitor Information Centre just beside the castle between 14:00 and 16:00 on Saturdays and enjoy free family fun. This is the last Family Fun Saturday and offers Captain Jack Nautical Knot & Wonderful Wildlife Crafts and Planting Seeds Workshops.
9. Whiskey Social, Belfast, 8 September. A new festival celebrating Irish whiskey comes to Belfast Waterfront. This Whiskey Social Festival will expand to the city showcasing the best of old, new and experimental Irish whiskey.
10. History of the Peace (Accordin’ to my MA), Coleraine, 3 September. Satirical duo Grimes and McKee bring their brilliant sequel to The History of the Troubles (accordin’ to my Da) to the Riverside Theatre this September.

 

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 (27 August – 2 September)

 

1. 27th Bluegrass Music Festival 2018, Omagh, 31 August – 2 September. Three days of live music from some of the biggest names in bluegrass and old time music. Line-up includes the multi-award winning Bluegrass & Gospel duo Darin & Brooke Aldridge, acclaimed traditional music veterans Mike Compton and Joe Newberry and the Demolition String Band, to name but a few.
2. Air Waves Portrush 2018, Coleraine, 1 – 2 September.  From historic wartime aircraft to stunning planes at the cutting edge of technology, this event offers a weekend filled with spectacular flying displays against the beautiful backdrop of the East Strand Beach. On the ground, attractions include the hugely popular STEM Village, motor village, trade stalls and exhibitions.
3. Walking With Dinosaurs, Belfast, 31 August – 2 September. Based on the award-winning BBC television series, starring Michaela Strachan as ‘Huxley’ the palaeontologist, the incredible Walking with Dinosaurs comes to Belfast’s SSE Arena. The show depicts the dinosaurs’ evolution with almost cinematic realism.
4. Waterside Half Marathon, Derry~Londonderry, 2 September. The 37^th Waterside Half Marathon will start in Ebrington Square. The route will take runners across the river to the cityside, showcasing Derry’s parks, greenways and bridges before finishing at St Columb’s Park.
5. Mount Stewart Conversations Festival, Co. Down, 1 – 2 September. This unmissable weekend festival, which celebrates the arts, literature, music and big ideas, will centre on the theme of Women in Power. The festival offers a stellar line-up of acclaimed guests for an array of debates, talks and performances.
6. Carnival of Colours, Derry~Londonderry, 1 – 2 September. Two Big Top Circus Tents filled with international circus shows including Tumble Circus, Two’s a Crowd and Fancy Pants Circus. This event will host an outdoor cinema, workshops and music acts, including a Stendhal and Celtronic takeover on the Saturday night, where the big top will be transformed with festival vibes.
7. Cinema Day, Across Northern Ireland, 27 August. The theme of this year’s Cinema Day is “Home”, with 29 events taking place across the cinematic six counties. Highlights include a Full Moon Fest at the Black Box, where you are invited to dress up and singalong to the Wizard of Oz and Movie House cinemas across Northern Ireland will be showing the Disney classic, Lady and the Tramp.
8. Weaponry at Martello Tower, Limavady, 1 September.  Soldiers from Wellington’s army demonstrate their weapons and drill while patrolling their lookout against Napoleon at the well-known Martello tower. A marvellous re-enactment of a time between 1812 and 1817 during the French invasion.
9. Bangor Christian Heritage Walk, Bangor, 28 August. Learn about Christian Heritage as you trace the steps of Canons, Priests and Pilgrims. This tour includes visits to Bangor Abbey Church of Ireland, St Comgall’s Roman Catholic Church, First Bangor Presbyterian Church and the North Down Museum, which houses a life-size reconstruction of a monk’s cell.
10. Rare Breed Survival Trust Northern Ireland Support Group Annual Show and Sale, Armagh, 1 September. Enjoy a wonderful family day out at Northern Ireland’s Annual Rare Breed Show and Sale in Gosford Forest Park. The show rings will include native breed cattle, sheep and pigs that will be judged to determine which animals are the best representatives of their breed.

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 (20 – 26 August)

 

1. Belfast Mela 2018, Belfast, 26 August. Music, dance, arts and culture come together as the Mela transforms Belfast’s beautiful Botanic Gardens into a magical global garden filled with the sights, sounds and aromas of nations from around the world.
2. Hilden Beer and Music Festival 2018, Lisburn, 24 – 26 August. Held in the grounds of Hilden Brewery and Hilden House, this ever-popular three-day ale-tasting event proudly boasts all that is great in terms of craft beers and ciders from the UK and Ireland, gourmet food and a huge range of live musical acts.
3. Jika Jika! Festival, Derry~Londonderry, 25 – 26 August. Respected Irish promoters Jika Jika! promise to bring something new and exciting to Ebrington Square. Their first ever festival is set to feature stages curated by Denis Sulta and Green Velvet across two days, plus a cultured mix of talents including Octave One Live, Willow and Charlotte De Witte.
4. Shortcross Gin Blues Afternoon, Downpatrick, 26 August. A blistering summer afternoon of blues music and Shortcross Gin at Rademon Estate. The afternoon includes live entertainment, local food makers and a fully stocked Shortcross Gin bar.
5. Lap The Lough 2018, Dungannon, 26 August. Get off the typical tourist trail and explore some of Northern Ireland’s unique countryside, landscapes and attractions by joining 2500 other cyclists on a journey around Lough Neagh. Whether you’re participating or spectating this is a great way to round off the summer season.
6. The Auld Lammas Fair, Ballycastle, 26 – 28 August. Two days of trading, bartering, busking, amusements, street entertainment and competitions add to the atmosphere in the beautiful seaside town of Ballycastle. The fair hosts over 400 stalls offering local crafts and locally sourced produce and is free to attend
7. Maiden City Ink, Derry~Londonderry, 24 – 26 August. The biggest tattoo convention in Northern Ireland hosting award winning artists from all over the globe. Whether you’re looking to get inked, show off your body art or curb your curiosity, this is guaranteed to be a great weekend with a buzzing atmosphere.
8. Sideboard Sideshow, Newcastle, 25 August. Superbly silly, stunningly surreal and seriously stupid the world of Sideboard Sideshow comes to Newcastle Promenade. A blend of awesome skills including acrobatics, juggling and fire this high energy show is full of fun, laughter and unpredictability.
9. Flashdance the Musical, Belfast, 21 – 25 August. Coming to the Grand Opera House, Flashdance – The Musical is the inspiring and unforgettable story of Alex a determined welder who dreams of becoming a professional dancer. When a romance complicates her ambitions, she harnesses it to drive her dream of attending Shipley Dance Academy.
10. Foyle Pride Festival, Derry~Londonderry, 18 – 26 August. The aim of Foyle Pride Festival is to acknowledge, empower and celebrate the LGBT community. The festival features a week of workshops  held throughout the city and a parade on Saturday 25 August.

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