DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are 10 exciting things taking place this week (August 21-27)

 

1. Belfast Mela 2017, Botanic Gardens, 27 August. The Belfast Mela Festival will transform the park into an exotic magical garden filled with the sights, sounds and aromas from a wealth of nations. A lively multi-cultured parade through the gardens will get the party started, creating the famously heady, good humoured atmosphere of this unique event which annually brings the world into the heart of Belfast.
2. Women’s Rugby World Cup 2017, Belfast, 22-26 August. Ireland is hosting the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2017, with the semi-finals and finals taking place in Belfast on Tuesday 22 and Saturday 26 August at Kingspan Stadium and Queen’s Sport. Tickets give you access to an entire day’s play – three matches. Prices start from just £7 for children, £12 for adults and £36 for families.
3. Lughnasa International Friel Festival, Derry~Londonderry, 17-27 August. An annual multi-arts festival celebrating Ireland’s foremost playwright of the last 50 years, the late Brian Friel. The festival will include theatre (headlining play ‘Making History’ by Brian Friel), music, talks and discussions, dramatic readings, dance, film and will take place in many of the city’s iconic historical sites.
4. Harvest Foraging at the Navan Centre and Fort, Armagh, 27 August. Learn about foraging for food and the wealth of foods available around the countryside. Take a walk around Navan, under the guidance of an expert, and collect food to bring to prepare for cooking. Sample some fayre made with foraged foods like berries, vegetables, apples and even nettles.
5. Vintage Family Weekend, Hillsborough, 27-28 August. Come along with all the family to Hillsborough Castle to enjoy activities inspired by the 1950s. Watch a traditional Punch and Judy show, try your hand at some vintage craft and games, or venture out on a gardens trail to discover what was happening at the Castle during the 1950s.
6. Harvest 2017 – Country Music Festival, Enniskillen, 26-27 August. Two days of live entertainment featuring over 30 acts performing across three music stages. For country music fans who want to enjoy the full festival experience a food village, boutique camping and campervan facilities, family friendly zones and dedicated dancing sessions will be on offer.
7. Naturally North Coast & Glens Artisan Market, Ballycastle, 27-28 August. Market visitors will have every sense tantalised through the colourful art and crafts, the delicious smell and taste of fresh food produce and the sound of musicians providing a backdrop to the buzz of traders and customers chatting and laughing.
8. Belfast Vital: Muse & Tiesto, 23 & 26 August. The annual Vital Festival returns to Belfast’s Boucher Road Playing Fields with a number of phenomenal headline acts. Muse are joined by Biffy Clyro and Nothing but Thieves, and Tiësto will be supported by special guests, Clean Bandit.
9. Causeway Coast Mini Club Mini Weekend, Portrush, 26-27 August. Watch minis “Dash” from Bushmills Distillery to Portstewart on Saturday evening, this starts at approx. 7pm and follows the A2 coast road to Portstewart. On Sunday experience the super static show at West Bay, Portrush, where trade stands, auto jumble and family entertainment will amuse the whole family.
10. Walled City Pro-Am, Derry~Londonderry, 26-27 August. This golf tournament at City of Derry Golf Club and Foyle International Golf Centre attracts top Irish PGA professionals to compete for the title and €15,000. A large number of competitors will have the opportunity to put their skills to the test, teams of amateurs will compete alongside the professionals.

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 10 exciting things taking place Aug 14-20.

 

1. Children’s Summer Street Theatre with the Raven Sisters, Portstewart, 18 August. Entertaining for children and adults alike, the Raven Sisters bring their unique brand of cabaret to the seaside towns of Portrush and Portstewart. Evocative of a bygone era of sideshow circus and the silver screen, brought sharply into the 21st century by these dextrous damsels and their fancy footwork. Showtimes 1.30pm and 4pm.
2. 2017 UEFA Women’s Under -19 Championship, Belfast, until 20 August. Eight national teams, including Northern Ireland as hosts, will participate in the prestigious tournament. Showcasing Northern Ireland at its best, including our football, our facilities, our culture, our history, our fans and our unconditional love of the game. Semi-finals are on 17 August with the final on Sunday 20 August.
3. The Charles Wood Festival & Summer School, Armagh, 20-27 August. World-renowned choral composer, John Rutter will conduct a special “come and sing” evening. The festival will also embrace jazz with a residency by leading British jazz composer, Will Todd. A gala concert will feature his popular setting of the Latin mass, Mass in Blue, and he’ll also deliver a special jazz workshop.
4. Meditation and Mindfulness Retreat, Holywood, 18-20 August. Retreat to Lorne Estate, a 21 acre estate overlooking Belfast Lough, situated eight miles from Belfast and a mere five minute walk from the sea. Relaxed schedules and guidance from experienced teachers amid a beautiful, peaceful and relaxing setting combine to make an ideal opportunity for finding inner peace.
5. Causeway Coast Truck Fest, Portstewart, 20 August. This truck show and family fun day starts at 10am at the NW200 Pits, followed by a truck convoy around the NW200 circuit at 4pm. The festival includes 300+ show trucks with prizes for the best trucks and fleet, local food, trade and craft village along with live entertainment for all the family to enjoy.
6. Ulster Rally, Derry~Londonderry, 18-19 August. Stages feature the full breadth of Counties Londonderry and Tyrone with two regroups, one in Derry~Londonderry’s Guildhall Square on Friday and Strabane town centre on Saturday. The city and town areas all allow close public access to drivers, cars and autograph sessions.
7. On the trail of Martel wild caving expedition, Enniskillen, 16 August. Delve off the beaten track to explore wild caving, deep inside the Marble Arch Caves system. Meander through cave passages, climb through boulder chambers and squeeze though the famous flyover to emerge into the Marble Arch showcave. Expedition leaves reception at 2pm.
8. Making Waves Onboard HMS Caroline, Belfast, 16 August. Join artist Julie Greenlee for this craft family workshop onboard HMS Caroline and learn how to weave using peg looms. Use a variety of wool and fabric strips to create ‘waves’, which will then be joined together and suspended from the ceiling creating a colourful display of gently flowing waves.
9. Lughnasa International Friel Festival, Derry~Londonderry, 17-27 August. An annual multi-arts festival celebrating Ireland’s foremost playwright of the last 50 years, the late Brian Friel. The festival will include theatre (headlining play ‘Making History’ by Brian Friel), music, talks and discussions, dramatic readings, dance, film and will take place in many of the city’s iconic historical sites.
10. 1st Birthday Party Celebrations at Exploris Aquarium, Portaferry, 15 August. Swim on down to Exploris to celebrate the aquarium’s first birthday since the re-opening last year. Strap on your pirate eye patch or your dazzling mermaid tail to be in with a chance to win the best-dressed competition.

 

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 10 exciting things taking place this week (August 7-13).

 

1. Northern Ireland Open, Galgorm Castle, Ballymena, 10-13 August.  The Northern Ireland Open, Northern Ireland’s annual national professional tournament returns to Galgorm Castle, Ballymena from Thursday 10 – Sunday 13 August 2017. The NI Open is not just a golf event, rather a Golf Tournament for all the Family.
2. 2017 UEFA Women’s Under -19 Championship, 8-20 August. Eight national teams, including Northern Ireland as hosts, will participate in the prestigious 16-day tournament. Showcasing Northern Ireland at its best, including our football, our facilities, our culture, our history, our fans and our unconditional love of the game.
3. Féile, Belfast, 7-13 August.  Ireland’s biggest community arts festival and summer school returns from 3 – 13 August. The festival is renowned for attracting top entertainers including top comedy acts, headlining DJ’s and UB40 will be playing on 11 August.
4. Ulster Grand Prix, Dundrod, 6-12 August.  A spectacular week of road racing, key dates of this event are practice sessions on Wednesday 9 August and the Dundrod 150 national races on Thursday 10 August with the the main event, the MCE Ulster Grand Prix on Saturday 12 August.
5. Heart of the Glens Festival, Cushendall, 7-13 August. One of the most successful community festivals in Northern Ireland 2017 delivers a variety of events is as offering something for all the family. The festival will open with fireworks and throughout the week there will the Lurig Run, vintage family fun day, dance workshops etc.
6. Food and Cider Tour, Armagh, 12 August. A guided culinary coach tour where you can discover the history of the area and its many award-winning foodie wonders. Have a chance to sample some of the best local produce and hear about its provenance. Coach departs Palace Demesne, Armagh at 9.45am.
7. Stendhal Festival, Limavady, 11-13 August. This music and arts festival is held in the beautifully scenic Roe Valley, offering visitors a creative and immersive cultural escape. Celebrating the very best in local, national and international talent.
8. Lunasa Spirit of Folk Festival, Cookstown, 12 August. Family fun, with a celebration of food, music, sport, and art. Hosted by The Clans of Ulster, this event marks the end of summer and celebrates the harvest season, while honouring the role of the ancient Celtic ways.
9. The Wolfe Tones, Derry~Londonderry, 12 August. Now in their 54th year on the road, The Wolfe Tones have chosen one of their favourite venues to present A Greatest Hits Performance. Hear the songs and ballads that helped to create a legend of Irish music. To book call 028 7126 4455
10. 7 Hills Blues Festival, Armagh, 10-13 August. A vibrant music festival, which celebrates the diversity of blues music.  The festival was created in 2010 from the passion and inspiration of local musician Simon Smith. It is focused around a four-day gig trail through the bars, restaurants and cafes in Armagh City Centre.

 

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 10 exciting things taking place this week (July 31-August 6).

1. August Féile, Belfast, 3 August. Ireland’s biggest community arts festival and summer school returns from 3 – 13 August. The festival is renowned for attracting top entertainers and this year’s highlights include UB40 featuring Ali, Astro and Mickey, Boyzlife, comedian Jake O’Kane, traditional Irish band Altan and the annual Feile Carnival Parade.
2. Children’s Street Entertainment -Parky, Ballycastle Seafront, 31 July. This show enthrals and excites both adults and children alike. Parky performs a traditional Punch and Judy show with the authentic voice of Mr Punch. Puppets and theatre are traditional in style with slapstick and humour the ingredients of this free show.
3. Bat Night, Craigavon, 4 August. Help identify all eight of Northern Ireland’s bat species that live at Ardress House and make some batty crafts to take home. A perfect evening for kids with an exciting educational twist.
4. Festival of Flight, Newcastle, 4 – 5 August. Festival of Flight 2017 will once again launch a full programme of thrilling events in Newcastle, Co Down with the airshow taking place on Saturday 5 August. The airshow is the centre piece of the festival where the crowds watch in awe as the sky over Dundrum Bay is filled with the roar of engines.
5. Music by the Lake, Fermanagh, 5 August. Midnight Graffiti are back at Crom Estate for another fantastic evening of jazzy pop classics. Bring a picnic and prepare to dance the night away by the shores of Lough Erne. Enjoy a glass of wine on arrival. Performance begins at 7pm.
6. Dungannon’s Busking and Blues Festival, 5 August. Join us for the annual Blues on the Hill festival taking place on the Hill of the O’Neill, a stunning location at one of the most important heritage sites in the whole of Ulster. Take in the fantastic panoramic views as you enjoy music from a number of acts including the headlining Band of Friends.
7. Belfast MasterChef Challenge 2017, 3 August. The Balmoral Hotel’s inaugural Belfast Master Chef Challenge will see four foodie finalists fight it out for the coveted title in front of a live audience at the venue as part of Feile an Phobail. The winner will be decided by a panel of experts as well as an audience vote with proceeds from that process going to Children In Need.
8. Bricklive, Belfast, 3 – 6 August. The world’s best Lego builders will gather as the Titanic Exhibition Centre welcomes international professional and amateur displays to the fan zone. The event also include special guests, Lego launches to the live stage and have-a-go themed areas for you to enjoy.
9. Carmen, Millennium Forum, Derry~Londonderry, 4 – 5 August. The dramatic story of the gypsy Carmen and her ill-fated affair with army corporal Don Jose, told through Georges Bizet’s powerful score, is the most popular opera of all time. To book call 028 7126 4455.
10. Wildfire Walk, Belfast, 5 August. Enjoy a walk along the uplands of Cave Hill to highlight the impacts of wildfires on the hills, visitors and wildlife. Find out just how resilient the uplands are and the positive news about what the Belfast Hills Partnership does to combat wildfires. Meeting point: Ballyaghagan car park. For further information call 028 9060 3466.

 

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 10 exciting things taking place this week (July 24-30).

1. Cairncastle Bluegrass & Folk Musical Evening, Ballygally Halfway House Hotel, Larne, 25-30 July. There is no better way to round off a day visiting the nine Glens of Antrim, than to take in this festival, at the Halfway House Hotel. Workshops begin at 2pm and performances at 7.30pm.

2. ‘A Night Under The Stars’, Palace Demesne, Armagh, 28 July. Be welcomed to the 200-year-old Palace Greenhouse with a homemade cocktail, followed by a delicious three-course-meal and wine. Share this experience under the stars with a guest speaker from the Armagh Observatory. To book call 028 3752 9678.

3. Sunflowerfest, Hillsborough, Co.Down, 28 – 30 July. The 2017 festival is themed sci-fi and space, string theory and the multiverse. The organisers are designing and building the best festival to date at Tubby’s Farm, where fancy dress is actively encouraged.

4. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë – Chapterhouse Theatre Company, Enniskillen Castle, 27 July. Adapted from Charlotte Brontë’s classic novel, Chapterhouse Theatre Company presents one of the greatest romances of English literature. This beautiful story of undying love is brought alive under a summer sky at Enniskillen Castle. Play starts at 6.30pm.

5. Magilligan Bioblitz, Benone Tourist Complex, Limavady, 29-30 July. Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust are teaming up with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council to hold a 24-hour long BioBlitz to record the coastal wildlife from Downhill to Magilligan. Over the 24-hour period scientists, naturalists and members of the public race against the clock to find as many species as possible.

6. Strabane Market, Strabane, 28 July. The Alley Theatre welcomes the very best of artisan traders, offering visitors a friendly shopping experience with a wide selection of specialty foods and handmade crafted products.

7. A Level Playing Field: Women in Sport, PRONI, Belfast, 27 July. 2017 is an iconic year for women’s sport in Northern Ireland. PRONI will present Women in Sport Archives alongside talks from the IFA, IRFU and GAA along with a preview of the new drama, Rough Girls.

8. Belly dance workshop, Crescent Arts Centre, Belfast, 30 July. Designed to give you an introduction and also a taste of what Belly Dance is. You are welcome if you are a complete beginner or if you have done some belly dancing before. Workshop begins at 12.30pm.

9. West Side Story, Derry~Londonderry, Millennium Forum, 27 – 29 July. The Millennium Forum Youth Musical Group brings the dynamic musical to stage. Based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, West Side Story is set in Manhattan’s Upper West Side. This milestone musical explores the rivalry between two teenage gangs, The Jets and The Sharks.

10. Frampton vs Gutierrez, SSE Arena, Belfast, 29 July. Carl Frampton will make his ring return against Andres Gutierrez at Belfast’s SSE Arena in a WBC world featherweight title eliminator. Frampton has not fought since his loss to Leo Santa Cruz in their WBA title fight in Las Vegas in January.
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 10 exciting things taking place this week (July 17-23).

1. Strawberry Tea Fair, Ballance House, Crumlin, Co Antrim, 22 July. Enjoy a complimentary bowl of strawberries and lots of fun outdoor games for the kids at the annual Strawberry Tea Fair event in the Glenavy countryside. Guided tours of the house will also be available
2. Armagh City Guided Walking Tours, 19-22 July. For those who want to explore everything the City has to offer, a guided walking tour is a must. Walk through Armagh’s rich history as you hear stories and anecdotes about the area, learn about the city’s renowned Georgian architecture and stroll along the distinct cobble streets as you unearth some of the city’s hidden gems along the way. Tours at 11am and 1pm.
3. Eddie Rafferty Exhibition, The F.E. McWilliam Gallery, Banbridge, 17-23 July. Rafferty’s prints, drawings, paintings and collages depict the people and places that he has encountered at home and abroad, particularly in South Africa where he worked for periods as an artist in residence.
4. On the trail of Finn Mac Cool – Exploring Big Dog Forest, Enniskillen, 23 July. Big Dog Forest takes its name after two very distinctive small rounded hills known as Big Dog and Little Dog. But, how have they formed? Legend tells us one way and science another – so why not come along and see which one you believe. Booking is essential, contact Marble Arch Caves on 028 6634 8855. Trails begin at 2pm and 4pm.
5. Super Cup NI, Coleraine, 23 July. The tournament kicks off on Sunday with a colourful parade of the football teams around the town of Coleraine. This is popular with the footballers, and also with locals who line the streets to give a warm welcome and show of support.
6. Lazy Sundays at The Argory, Dungannon, 23 July. Come and join The Argory every Sunday in July for laid back tunes and relaxation in the yard. Chill in the Courtyard while the kids are entertained and feast on the summer BBQ.
7. Mid-Week Madness at IKEA, Belfast, 19 July. Free children’s fun every Wednesday at IKEA including face painting, clay workshops, arts and crafts and the chance to win some back to school goodies.
8. Kaz Hawkins Piano and Vocal Album Launch, Belfast Cathedral, 22 July. Belfast’s multi award winning blues queen Kaz Hawkins steps out of her blues shoes to release a piano and vocal album ‘Don’t You Know’ at Belfast Cathedral. A special concert that will take you through the journey of a woman who says music saved her life and her campaign to increase awareness for mental health through her music.
9. Foyle Cup, Derry~Londonderry, 17- 22 July. Matches are played at over 30 superb venues in Derry City and throughout counties Derry, Tyrone & Donegal. The finals are normally played at Eircom League side Derry City’s Brandywell Stadium and Institute FC.
10. Afternoon Tea with Benefits, Malmasion, Belfast, 22 July. Enjoy the super naughty afternoon tea with a glass of champagne, followed by a makeup masterclass and demonstration with Benefit Cosmetics. To book call 028 9600 1405.

 

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 10 exciting things taking place this week (July 10-16).

 

 

1. Lassie Summer Series, Fabling the Coast, Portrush, 14 July. Come on board the Lassie boat trip to hear the stories of the Banshee of Dunluce Castle, pirate treasure, Vikings, mermaids and many more tales of the Causeway Coast. Join Liz Weir as she shares legends and lore reflecting our rich coastal heritage. Sailing from Portrush Harbour at 6pm and returning at 9pm
2. Sham Fight, Craigavon, 13 July.  King William of Orange camped here with his army of 30,000 in 1690 on the way to the famous Battle of the Boyne. Come along and enjoy the festive atmosphere and splendid colours on the painted banners and music from bands.
3. Tumble Circus on the Promenade, Newcastle, 15 July. One suitcase, six clubs and 40 minutes of circus, slapstick, and comedy. The trail blazing Tumble Circus continue their adventures by presenting their unique circus comedy street theatre show. Performances at 1pm and 2.30pm
4. Corralea Waterpark, Enniskillen, 11, 13 and 16 July. Corralea Water Park is open to individuals during July and Aug. Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Numbers are limited for each session. Ring first to book your place call 028 66 386 123
5. Lazy Sundays at The Argory, Dungannon, 16 July. Enjoy laid-back tunes and relaxation in the courtyard while the kids are entertained and feast on the summer BBQ.
6. Stand Up Paddleboard River Trail, Limavady, 10 July. Want to try something unique, chilled out and super fun? Then stand up paddle boarding is for you. An ancient form of surfing (with a paddle) with a Hawaiian heritage. The session is suitable for varying abilities.
7. Bank Holiday Weekend at Titanic Belfast, Belfast, 11 July – 13 July.  Challenge the kids with the Explorer Trail throughout the Titanic Experience, meet the Titanic mascots and try out the family interactive guide, before stopping off for a bite to eat in Bistro 401 or the newly refreshed Galley Café.
8. Away A Wee Walk, Dunseverick Harbour, Bushmills, 11 July. Guided 6 mile cliff path walk. The walk is a spectacularly scenic, cliff path walk to the UNESCO world heritage site of the Giant’s Causeway. Advance booking by 8pm the night before required.
9. Castlewellan Agricultural 50th Anniversary Show, Castlewellan, 15 July. Castlewellan Agricultural 50th Anniversary Show is located in the beautiful surroundings of Castlewellan Forest Park within the heart of the Mourne Mountains in County Down. The show will include agricultural shows, trade stands, food and craft producers and much more with live music throughout the day.
10. Sea2Sky Race, Newcastle, 14 July. Take on 10K race, 5K and 10K Walk, an awesome route starting on the promenade in Newcastle and includes a mix of road and track before heading up through the foothills of the Mournes.

 

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 10 exciting things taking place this week (July 3-9).

 

1. The Dubai Duty Free Irish Open 2017, 4-9 July. Host Rory McIlroy will defend his title against Cabrera Bello, Hideki Matsuyama, John Rahm and Justin Rose at Portstewart Golf Club. And there’s more than just world-class golf to enjoy, with music from Two Door Cinema Club and Scouting for Girls.
2. Irish Open 2017 Fringe Festival, Portstewart, 5-9 July. The Crescent area will be transformed into a live music venue and outdoor cinema, creating a unique tournament atmosphere in the host town with fireworks and children’s entertainment. Midsummer Sessions, a spin-off from the popular Atlantic Sessions, will see over 30 musicians playing free gigs in bars, hotels, coffee shops and restaurants.
3. Family Festival at the Grand Opera House, Belfast, 4-6 July. The building will come alive with circus performers, face painters, balloon modellers, a treasure hunt and a unique opportunity to see behind the scenes of Northern Ireland’s oldest theatre.
4. Belfast Parkland International Golf Tournament, 3-5 July. The most prestigious three courses within the Belfast area, Malone Golf Club, Royal Belfast Golf Club and Shandon Park Golf Club have come together to offer this unique parkland international golf tournament.
5. Country Music Gala Cabaret & Dance, Newcastle, 6 July. The Burrendale Hotel will feature a galaxy of homegrown stars for an action-packed show, including Billy McFarland, Shaun Loughery, Eddie Carey, Tracey Mallon, Cowboy Larry, Farmer Dan and the fabulous Barry Doyle Band.
6. Lazy Sundays at The Argory, Dungannon, 2 July. Enjoy laid-back tunes and relaxation in the courtyard while the kids are entertained and feast on the summer BBQ.
7. Music by the Lake, Fermanagh, 8 July. Bring a picnic to Crom Estate for a rocking evening of ‘folkabilly’ tunes from local supergroup, the Hand me Downs. Relax by the shores of Lough Erne and enjoy a glass of wine on arrival.
8. The Celts take a ‘Swing’ at Golf, Armagh, 5-9 July. While the golfing warriors thrash out the golf in Portstewart, visit the Navan Centre and see if you’ve got what it takes to become a great Celtic Warrior, who used the skills of the ‘stick’ to perfect their skills, as warriors on the battlefield.
9. Launch Party: Open Studio Weekends at Margey’s Portrush Gallery, 7 July. Artist Adrian Margey is opening his studio and gallery space to the public each weekend in July and August to showcase his summer collection.
10. Summer Music in the Park, Bangor, 9 July. Bring along family and friends, enjoy a picnic in Ward Park and take in the sound of The Salvation Army Brass Band.

 

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 10 exciting things taking place this week (June 26 – July 2).

 

1. Winged Wonders Butterfly Hunt, Craigavon, 1 July. Make a bee-line for Portmore Lough and join the RSPB NI team as they search for beautiful butterflies, darting dragonflies and damselflies in the reserve’s meadows.
2. Lazy Sundays at The Argory, Dungannon, 2 July. Enjoy laid-back tunes and relaxation in the courtyard while the kids are entertained and feast on the summer BBQ.
3. Cuilcagh Mountain Jeep Safari, Enniskillen, 2 July. Jump on board one of the Geopark Landrovers and explore the stunning scenery of Cuilcagh Mountain Park. Ranging from the rugged upland cliffs to the weathered limestone landscapes on the lower ground, this safari is a chance for you to experience and explore the patchwork of landscapes found on Cuilcagh Mountain. Booking essential (028 66 348855).
4. Music City, Derry~Londonderry, until 27 June. The city becomes one giant performance space with music of all genres in the streets, squares, venues, churches and communities. Derry’s choral tradition is showcased throughout the festival on the main outdoor stages while the historic walls will feature performances from pipe bands, flute bands and trad musicians.Most events are free of charge and family friendly.
5. Feux d’artifice: Équilibre et Espoir, Derry~Londonderry, 1 July. Fireworks Dance, Drama and Theatre Academy celebrate their fourth birthday with this exhilarating performance. An evening of inspiring entertainment awaits from over 100 energetic cast members.
6. Derek Ryan Summer Concert, Slieve Donard Resort, Newcastle, 29 June. Irish country music’s golden boy has chart topping albums, self-written smash hit singles, box office busting live tours and an army of faithful fans around the world. So dust off your dancing boots and get on down to Newcastle for a night of foot tapping country music.
7. Belsonic, Belfast, various dates. Green Day, Axwell ^ Ingrosso and The Chainsmokers are headlining this week at Belsonic’s new venue, Ormeau Park.
8. The Ladykillers, Lyric Theatre, Belfast, 10 June – 8 July. A celebrated black comedy tale of a sweet innocent old lady, alone in her home, pitted against a gang of criminal misfits who will stop at nothing.
9. Naturally North Coast & Glens Artisan Market, Ballymoney, 30 June. Colourful art and crafts, the delicious smell and taste of fresh food produce and the sound of musicians providing a backdrop to the buzz of traders and customers chatting and laughing.
10. Comber Historical Walking Tour, County Down, 2 July. Stroll through the home town of Thomas Andrews, designer of the Titanic, and discover points of historical interest on this guided tour. Visit St Mary’s Parish Church, the Comber Stones, the old Andrews Mill and Andrews Memorial Hall on your tour of this charming town.

 

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 10 exciting things taking place this week (June 19-25).

 

 

1. Music City, Derry~Londonderry, 21-27 June. The city becomes one giant performance space with music of all genres in the streets, squares, venues, churches and communities. Derry’s choral tradition is showcased throughout the festival on the main outdoor stages while the historic Walls will feature performances from pipe bands, flute bands and trad musicians.Most events are free of charge and family friendly.
2. Super Milk Wild Air Run, Stormont Estate, 24 June. A 5K family running event with a difference – ten huge inflatables! Suitable for adults and children over 7, and all fitness levels. Join more than 20,000 people and have extreme fun.
3. Royal Irish Fusiliers Museum exhibition – 1917 Misery and Mud, Armagh, until 30 June. The fourth year of the Great War saw the Third Battle of Ypres, commonly known as The Battle of Passchendaele. It would become infamous. The Royal Irish Fusiliers spent 1917 on all fronts. A more fluid war was underway in the Region of The Levant and the glorious capture of Jerusalem was the aim.
4. Barry Kirwan at the Silverbirch, Omagh, 23 June. Having been nominated ‘Newcomer of the Year’ at the 2016 RTE Irish Country Music Awards, Barry Kirwan is set to take the Irish country scene by storm. Jive, dine and accommodation offers available from the hotel.
5. Minibeast & Moth Hunt, Fermanagh, 24 June. Hunt for unseen wildlife in habitats throughout the Marble Arch National Nature Reserve. Learn about mini-beasts’ fascinating lifestyles and get up close to some of the moth species found in the woodland. Children must be accompanied by an adult, booking essential – contact Marble Arch Caves on 028 66 348855.
6. Mourne International Walking Festival, Warrenpoint, 23-25 June. Stunning routes in the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion for walkers of all levels of fitness, between 10k and 40k at both high and low level.
7. Rhythm of the Bann, Coleraine, 24 June. An evening featuring a wide variety of Celtic influenced, contemporary and traditional musical performances in the historic Market Yard, with artists from Isle of Skye and Spain joining local musicians and dancers in an outdoor concert, hosted by Tim McGarry and Dr David Hume.
8. Midsummer Evening Concerts at Mussenden Temple, Castlerock, 23-24 June. A number of instrumentalists from the Ulster Orchestra will present a programme of music on summer melody themes, followed by a light supper. Booking essential on 028 20 768798.
9. MCM Comic Con, Lisburn, 24-25 June. A pop-culture weekend extravaganza at the Eikon Exhibition Centre featuring everything from comics, movies, games and sci-fi to cosplay, anime, steampunk and online video.
10. Irish Game Fair & Fine Food Festival, Co. Antrim, 24-25 June. Fun for all the family at Shane’s Castle, from angling, archery and air rifles to falconry, fine food, ferrets and fun.

 

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