Discover Northern Ireland 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 (18-24 September).

1. Armagh Food & Cider Festival, Armagh, 21-24 September. Celebrate a tasty feast of Armagh cuisine combined with the best of local cider this harvest season. In collaboration with the Food Heartland Hospitality Forum and local businesses, diners and craft brew enthusiasts will have the opportunity to sample local hospitality at its best through a variety of events including food trails and markets.
2. A Night in the Orchard, Craigavon, 21-22 September. Hosted exclusively alongside the Food & Cider Festival this dining experience is all about great food, delicious cider, music and company. Experience the best ciders and taste the best of local food specially devised by award winning Food Heartland Chefs. A not to be missed, unique foodie event happening in a stunning setting.
3. Winterfell Festival, Castle Ward, Co. Down, 24 September. Discover the setting of the Stark family home, see first-hand theatrical re-enactments from the fantasy TV series, meet an actor from the show, watch spectacular games unfold in a mystical landscape and enjoy lively music, local food and much more. Winterfell Festival promises to fully immerse Game of Thrones fans into George R. R. Martin’s mythical world of Westeros.
4. Culture Night, Belfast, 22 September. Culture Night Belfast is a huge celebration in Belfast’s cultural calendar. Emanating from the Cathedral Quarter and taking place across the city centre, it will be family friendly, free of charge, accessible and open to all.  Culture Night will bring together, artists, organisations, community groups and businesses with over 300 free events.
5. Fermanagh Restaurant Week, Fermanagh, 15-24 September. A celebration of everything delicious about Fermanagh. Unique foodie experiences throughout the week and across the county include pop-up restaurants, dine on Lough Erne, bespoke themed menus, meet the producer event, Fermanagh’s artisan producers, growers and brewers and gourmet food and craft drink evenings. This is the perfect event for food enthusiasts with something for all tastes and budgets.
6. 60 Years of Fine Food and Wine, Belfast, 21 September. A joint celebration of 20 years since Deane’s first opened in Belfast and 40 years in business for JN Wine. The event marks the ongoing partnership between these two companies, both dedicated to providing the finest food and wines in Northern Ireland. Enjoy a champagne and canapé reception, a decadent five course meal with pairing wines, and live musical entertainment provided by The Rare Aul Stuff.
7. Festival Lough Erne, Enniskillen, 23-24 September. 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 refurbished Enniskillen Castle. The festival promises to be a feast of food and water based activities celebrating the very best of the Fermanagh Lakelands.
8. Island Voices Autumn Lecture Series, Derry~Londonderry, 22 September. A series of free lunchtime lectures at the Tower Museum exploring the shared bonds of history, culture and language that exist between the Celtic and Nordic nations of Europe, reflecting on our shared heritage and exploring our unique relationships, past and present.
9. Foyle Opera, Strabane, 22 September. Hear a selection of well-known operatic arias and choruses that will have the audience wanting to burst into song, and a few lesser known pieces just to whet your appetite. Opera favourites at The Alley Arts and Conference Centre from the beginning with some rousing choruses and evocative arias from Carmen, sung in English.
10. Spa September, Ballymena, 18 & 21 September. Galgorm Resort & Spa hosts a month-long journey of events exploring mindfulness, wellbeing and relaxation. This week features a ‘Stretch and Soothe’ session along with ‘De-stress Your Life.’ With special guest speakers, meditation classes, access to the Thermal Village and dinner in Gillies or Fratelli restaurants, these events will help you relax and reach peace of mind.

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 (4-10 September).

1. 26th Bluegrass Music Festival, Omagh, 1-3 September. Each year thousands of people attend this Festival enjoying highly entertaining performances and interactive workshops, as well as up close informative presentations by multi award winning musicians, singers and dancers within the unique setting of the museum.
2. European Heritage Open Days, across Northern Ireland, 9-10 September. More than 370 properties, many of which do not usually open to the public, will open their doors free-of-charge for the European Heritage Open Days. The theme this year is “Heritage and nature: a landscape of possibilities”.
3. Air Waves 2017, Portrush, 2-3 September. Ireland’s biggest airshow takes place over two action-packed days, it is a free event and very popular with all age groups. It takes place on the eastern side of Portrush, allowing use of a spectacular display line along the Causeway Coast. As well as having amazing aerial aircraft displays to watch there is plenty to see and do at ground level with a wide range of attractions and activities including a static helicopter display, armed forces village and much more.
4. Giants Causeway Coast Sportive, Ballycastle, 9 September. A road cycling event which takes place along the Causeway Coast and through the Glens of Antrim. This event has been designed to attract all cyclists from complete beginners to enthusiasts. Participants have a choice of three routes (35miles, 80miles and 115miles) all showcasing the Causeway Coast and Glens of Antrim area by offering participants an unforgettable cycling experience.
5. Carnival of Colours 2017, Derry~Londonderry, 9-10 September. Predominantly based in St. Columb’s Park, this festival will feature a Guinness World Record attempt for the world’s largest kazoo band and it will make use of emerging talent, featuring musicians, comedians and spoken word on the Eclectic Picnic stage. Workshops will also be available, for children and older people, in various creative disciplines including circus skills, graffiti art, dance, drumming, arts and crafts.
6. Seamus Heaney HomePlace Celebrates, Bellaghy, 8-10 September. Immerse yourself in a special programme of events which celebrates the work of Seamus Heaney, as curated by Pulitzer Prize winner Paul Muldoon. The line-up includes principal dancer and co-choreographer on Riverdance, Jean Butler’s deeply personal to Heaney’s collection in ‘Performance Reflections’, a number of poetry readings and much more.
7. Curious Wedding Market, Belfast, 5 September. Taking place in St George’s Market, this isn’t your average cookie cutter wedding fair. The Curious Wedding Market gives couples a chance to snap up one off exclusive offers on products and services, sample amazing food, relax, sample a drink, discuss a signature cocktail for their big day and listen to potential wedding entertainment. Over 100 eclectic wedding suppliers will be attending to cater for all your wedding requirements, so come along and strike an amazing  deal for your big day.
8. Bus Tour of Fermanagh Railway Heritage, Enniskillen, 9 September. A nostalgic tour of former railway stations in Fermanagh and Tyrone, commemorating the 60th anniversary of the closure of the railways on 30th September 1957. Tour commencing at Enniskillen Castle. Book in advance call 028 6632 5000 or e-mail castle@fermanaghomagh.com.
9. Donaghadee Lights Up, Donaghadee, 9 September. See the worldwide chart-topping band The Bay City Rollers play to fans at this free outdoor performance in the beautiful coastal setting of Donaghadee. Make an evening of it by enjoying one of the tasty food stalls before the gig begins, the night will then end with a spectacular fireworks display.
10. My Mountain Life by Simon Yates, Lyric Theatre, Belfast, 10 September. Hear about Simon’s mountain-climbing adventures. Share with him the drama, excitement and beauty of modern, lightweight alpinism. Told with wit, dry humour and lavishly illustrated with images and video collected on his great climbs.

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 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.