Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland (March 20 – March 26).

 

• Roe Valley Singers and Friends, Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre, Limavady, Derry~Londonderry, March 23. The Roe Valley Singers and singers from all over the region will perform together in an eclectic evening of music and song together with special guests, the Kansas State University Orchestra.This friendship concert, given in aid of ‘Daffodil Day’, promises to be a real treat for all lovers of popular classic music and traditional Celtic song – there may even be a show tune or two – something to suit every taste.

• Studio Symphony Orchestra 70^th Anniversary Concert, Ulster Hall, Belfast, March 25. The Studio Symphony Orchestra presents a very special 70th anniversary concert. Founded by Havelock Nelson in 1947, the orchestra is proud to celebrate seven decades of excellence in local music making with a birthday concert featuring three orchestral masterpieces and the hugely talented Michael McHale.

• Toddler Tuesdays, F. E. McWilliam Gallery, Co. Down, March 21. This free workshop gives parents and toddlers the opportunity to participate in a range of activities with local artist Millie Moore such as looking for portraits, investigating coloured shapes, using mirrors for observing and much more.

• Famla, MAC, Belfast, March 21 – 25. Haunting, hilarious and heart-breaking, Famla challenges the stories people tell themselves to hide the truth of who they really are. It tells the story of Hector who has passed an old house all her life never giving it a single thought until now when she needs to escape. Famla is a theatrical feast not to be missed! Suitable for 16+.

• Wonderland the Musical, Millennium Forum, Derry~Londonderry, March 21 – 25. Hailed by the New York Times as “inspirational”, Wonderland is an enchanting musical adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass, with a huge heart, a medley of magic and a whole lot of wonder. Hear a timely and touching story of love in all its forms, it’s an adventurous exploration of who we are, who we want to be and the power of everyday magic in our lives.

• Meet the Maker, Ards Crafts, Co. Down, March 25. Seacourt Print Workshop, Bangor, present the first in their series of Meet the Maker What is Intaglio? explores the process of printmaking, derived from the Italian phrase for making an incision below the surface.Visitors will have the opportunity to see examples of drypoint, copper etching, salt etching, mezzotint, hard ground, soft-ground, photo intaglio and aquatint.

• Bug-Ology, Navan Centre & Fort, Co. Armagh, March 26. Get up close and personal with some bugs, beasties and unusual characters. With friends from Mantella Environmental Education Navan Centre & Fort will highlight the roles these important animals play in our local environment. Come along and learn what a millipede feels like, why spiders have eight eyes and why some of birds of prey are making a comeback after years of absence.

• Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea, WWT Castle Espie, Co. Down, March 26. This Mother’s Day, treat your Mum and loved ones to a delicious Afternoon Tea at the Kingfisher Kitchen at Castle Espie, and enjoy demonstrations on this season’s latest fashion trends.Susan, of Captain Tortue fashion, will be bringing along some pieces from her new collection and Honor will be matching these with the perfect accessories from Miglio Designer Jewellery.

• Room on the Broom, Lyric Theatre, Belfast, March 22 – 25. Iggety ziggety zaggety zoom! Join the witch and her cat on their mission to defeat the dragon in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Enjoy songs, laughs and scary fun for children in this Olivier Award nominated show that’s toured Britain and the world!

• On the Trail of Martel – Caving Exhibition, Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark, Co. Fermanagh, March 25. Delve off the beaten track to explore ‘real’ caving, deep inside the Marble Arch Caves System. Meander through wild cave passages, climb through boulder chambers and squeeze though our famous flyover to emerge into the Marble Arch Showcave, before returning to the boulder chambers on your way out, muddy but proud!

 

Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland this week (March 13 – March 19).

 

• Féile an Earraigh, various locations, Belfast, March 13 – 19. Belfast’s traditional spring festival returns on Monday with a feast of music, talks, tours, live entertainment and St Patrick’s Day festivities celebrating the best of Irish arts and culture. This year, the festival is partnering with the Respect Human Rights Film Festival which has produced a programme that offers a dazzling diversity of events, offering a wider understanding of human rights subjects.

• Legenderry Food Festival, Guildhall Square, Derry~Londonderry, March 17 – 19. The Legenderry Food Festival returns for three days to the city’s Guildhall Square. The festival which was recently awarded the Best NI Food Event at the Year of Food and Drink Awards is back showcasing the talents of our local chefs and producers. Expect live looking demos, artisan foods, street theatre, music and much more!

• The Emigrants Farewell, Ulster American Folk Park, Co. Tyrone, March 17. Join in the fun this St Patrick’s Day at the Ulster American Folk Park and attend the ‘American Wake’. Countless thousands of people left Ireland in the 18th and 19th Centuries.  For many, the hours before departure became known as the ‘American or Living Wake’. Watch this dramatic re-enactment complete with music and song.

• Voice of the Irish, Newry Cathedral, Co. Down, March 19. This inaugural concert will be given by the Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland with its own inspirational complement of up to 100 young musicians from across Ireland performing a light and highly tuneful programme of popular songs, movie themes and classics interspersed with readings and performances by some of Ireland’s leading actors and musicians. Booking essential and available through Sean Hollywood Arts Centre, Newry.

• St Patrick’s Day Parade and Concert, Custom House Square, Belfast, March 17. The streets of Belfast will be awash with colour from twelve noon as the carnival parade leaves Belfast City Hall snaking its way through the heart of the city to Custom House Square where the St Patrick’s Day annual concert will start at 12.45pm sharp. Performers at this year’s concert include X-Factor runner-up, Fleur East, Reggie ‘n’ Bollie and Stooshe. Entry to the concert will be on a first-come, first-served basis and tickets are not required.

• Steam & Shamrocks: Vintage Traction Engine Road Run, Co. Fermanagh, March 17. A popular annual event organised by Headhunters Railway Museum commencing at Mahon’s Hotel, Irvinestown at 9 am. After participating in the annual St Patrick’s Day Scout Parade through the town the vintage engines will steam their way into Enniskillen early afternoon joining the St Patrick’s Day Parade which departs from the Lakeland Forum.

• Spot, Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre, Co. Armagh, March 16. Spot is a friendly and endearing stage light that loves to tell stories. Spot can be the yellow sun, the blue sea or red fire; a balloon, a hoop or nothing at all. But most of all Spot loves to have fun. The show is a magical world of light, sound and movement for early years’ children. Booking essential.

• Cinderella – La Cenerentola, Grand Opera House, Belfast, March 16 – 18. A much-loved fairy tale but not quite as you know it. Cinderella dreams of a better life as she scrubs the floor of the school of dance. The prince arrives seeking a companion and so this sparkling rom-com goes.An evening of pure magic is in store uniting the fun, fire and brilliance of Rossini’s music with a fresh and witty production. With fabulous frocks and dance woven into the very music of this opera, Cinderella prescribes a healthy dose of entertainment to cure those winter blues.

• Living History, Dundrum Castle, Co. Down, March 16. The ancient rivalry between the Norman Knights of the deLaceys and the deCourcys is explored in a display of the everyday objects of the early 13th century. It wasn’t all fighting and warfare in the Middle Ages, here’s a chance to explore how people, dressed, ate and amused themselves in the castle’s heyday.

• Pat Woods & Friends, Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre, Co. Armagh, March 16. Join Pat Woods, The Bard From Armagh, for an intimate evening of song and banter.  A previous winner of Entertainer of the Year, Pat’s career has seen him tour many times in the U.S.A. playing the Irish festivals in cities of Chicago, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Milwaukee and Muskegon.  Pat will share the stage with some special guests during an evening that promises to be one to remember.

Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland next week (February 20 – February 26).

 

• Celtic Mindfulness, Navan Centre & Fort, Co. Armagh, February 25 – 26. Celtic Mindfulness is a unique healing experience of the land and energy. Music, myth and mediation will be used to awaken your Celtic Soul, creating focus positivity and stillness for the mind. Featuring workshops from Sandra Nelson and Kate Fitzpatrick.

• Mid Term Fun, Titanic Belfast, Belfast, until February 21. Challenge the kids with the Explorer Trail throughout the Titanic Experience, meet the Titanic Mascots and try out the new family interactive guide, before stopping off for a bite to eat with the ‘Kids Eat Free’ meal deals this mid-term holiday.

• Ards and North Down – A Postcard View of the Past, Newtownards / Ards Visitor Centre, Co. Down, until February 25. Do you remember the age of steam trains, pony rides on the beach, Bangor seafront activities, the Ballywalter lightship, or the Whale’s Jawbone Arch near Portaferry?Step back into the past via the medium of old picture postcards and see the towns and villages of Ards and North Down going back over the 20th century to days when the pace of life was much more sedate.

• Winter Wooly Walk, Saint Columb’s Park, Derry~Londonderry, February 25. It’s time to kick off those winter blues. Rally your kids, friends and family, and join the big Winter Woolly Walk in St Columb’s Park, Derry~Londonderry. Starting at 10:30, the 3 mile walk starts at St Columb’s Park House and takes in the beautiful surroundings of Ebrington Square and the iconic Peace bridge. Afterwards there will be plenty of warming refreshments and family fun.

• Glasgow Girls, MAC, Belfast, February 21 – 25. Glasgow Girls is a potent political drama, with uplifting songs, music, dance and humour to tell the tale of the most powerful asylum campaigns in recent history. A show with universal appeal – a massive hit at Edinburgh Fringe 2016, selling more tickets than any other theatre show in the festival.

• Ulster Orchestra, Ardhowen Theatre, Co. Fermanagh, February 25. Join the Ulster Orchestra and its sensational young Music Director, Rafael Payare, in a concert that celebrates its fifty years as Northern Ireland’s world-class symphony orchestra and that will evoke, ‘the awakening of happy feelings on arriving in the countryside.’

• Jane Eyre: An Autobiography, Riverside Theatre, Coleraine, Derry~Londonderry, February 22. Dyad Productions presents ‘Jane Eyre’, Charlotte Bronte’s classic novel, dramatized on stage and starring Rebecca Vaughan. Struggling to live, think and love beyond the stifling expectations of duty, class and convention, governess Jane Eyre and Master Edward Rochester take a dark journey towards sensual and intellectual liberation.

• William McKinley by Alex Blair, Ballymoney Town Hall, Co. Antrim, February 22. William McKinley was one of many Scotch-Irish presidents with Ulster links. His links lay in Conagher and the talk will untangle the family lineage which links Conagher to The White House. Alex Blair will untangle his family lineage which links Conagher to The White House. He will tell of the 25th Presidents progress to the highest office in the U.S.A. and how his presidency ended tragically in assassination.

• Let the Dance Begin, Alley Arts and Conference Centre, Co. Tyrone, February 23. Inspired by The Pushkin Trust’s theme of Floodtide in the Heart – Seamus Heaney, Let the Dance Begin aims to bring many different people together through Creative Arts within the community of Strabane through a display of dance, drumming poetry and more.

• A Taste of Flavour SenseNation, Black Box, Belfast, February 25. This exciting interactive event will take your taste buds on a roller-coaster ride through the senses. It will challenge your sensory skills, your taste, smell, touch, sight and hearing, to see how they react with each other when different sounds, smells and textures are thrown into the mix. This is no ordinary experience; you will sample the ‘fifth taste’, test your smelling memory skills, trick your taste buds and sample some very weird foods.

Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland this week (February 27 – March 5).

 

• Discover Fermanagh Open Weekend, various locations, Co. Fermanagh, March 3 – 5. Visit Fermanagh to rediscover some of the county’s most stunning visitor attractions for free over the Discover Fermanagh Open Weekend. Over the weekend visitors will have the opportunity to visit a selection of stately homes, museums, ancient sites such as Belleek Potter, Castle Coole, Share Discovery Centre and much more.

• United Airlines Belfast Nashville Songwriters Festival, Clayton Hotel, Belfast, March 1 – 5. More than one hundred local and international artists will perform in thirty concerts and showcases over this five-day festival. This year’s line-up features Paul Brady, one of Ireland’s most successful songwriters, Nashville’s Grammy nominated Darrell Scott and Mac McAnally, as well as local performers Kaz Jawkins, Peter McVeigh and Triona.

• Ballycastle Food Tour, Ballycastle, Co. Antrim, March 3 – 4. North Coast Walking Tours host a three hour, six stop food tour of Ballycastle focusing on the town’s varied cultural history, local award winning food producers and amazing community spirit. By the end of the tour you are guaranteed to be so full of facts, folklore and fabulous food.

• Stayin’ Alive, Strule Arts Centre Omagh, Co. Tyrone, March 4. Now in their 19th year as the world’s premier tribute to the Bee Gees, Stayin’ Alive continue to tour all corners of the globe with their No1 show dedicated to the magic of the Brothers Gibb. This unforgettable showcase will feature timeless classics such as ‘How Deep Is Your Love’, ‘Night Fever’, ‘Tragedy’, ‘Massachusetts’, ‘Gotta Get A Message To You’ and many more.

• Cirque Berserk, Grand Opera House, Belfast, February 28 – March 5. Showcasing the finest in traditional circus thrills and skills, Cirque Berserk brings this treasured form of live entertainment bang up-to-date in a jaw-dropping spectacular created especially for the theatre. Combining contemporary cirque-style artistry with adrenaline-fuelled stunt action, this astoundingly talented international troupe includes over 30 jugglers, acrobats, aerialists, dancers, drummers and death-defying stunt men.

• A Musical Celebration of Stevie Martin, Nerve Centre, Derry~Londonderry, March 4. A night of musical celebration will take place in the city’s Nerve Centre to remember talented Northern Ireland musician – Stevie Martin. Line up the evening to include performances from And So I Watch You From Afar, The Wood Burning Savages, Making Monsters, Furlo, Allie Bradley and John Deery & The Heads.

• Give My Head Peace, Market Place Theatre, Co. Armagh, March 2. ‘Give My Head Peace’ combines up to the minute satire, topical jokes and laugh out loud comedy. Featuring Uncle Andy, Da, Pastor Begbie, Ma, Cal, Billy and Dympna as well as superb stand-up from Tim McGarry, don’t miss the brand new GMHP Live stage show. It’s a night of guaranteed laughs.

• Glass Painting, F.E. McWilliam Gallery & Studio, Co. Down, March 4. Express your creativity on a day long Glass Painting course with artist Naomi Whan! Participants will get the opportunity to learn a number of glass painting techniques including sponging, adding embellishments and mixing colours as well as techniques for brush painting and how to use outliners and peel – offs. Booking essential. Please contact (028) 406 3322.

• The Royal Ballet: Sleeping Beauty, Movie House Cinema, Belfast, February 28. A perennial delight and a much-loved classic, The Royal Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty combines the best of classical ballet, with all its charms and virtuosity, splendid music and talented dancers. First choreographed to Tchaikovsky’s great musical score by Marius Petipa in Russia in 1890, the ballet has wonderful ensembles, solos and, of course, the concluding celebratory dances for the happy union of prince and princess.Tickets from £10. Booking essential.

• Ardnaglass On The Air, Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre, Derry~Londonderry, March 2. The highly acclaimed c21 Theatre Company presents a hilarious rural rom-com set in the fictitious town of Ardnaglass. Experience Ireland’s top premiere rural community radio station and join Hugh Francis O’Connell and Margaret Mary-Rose for the latest community news and gossip. Suitable for 16+.

Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland next week (February 6 – February 12).

 

• ‘The Browning Version’, Armagh Public Library, Co. Armagh, February 7. Centre Stage Theatre Company presents the classic one-act play ‘The Browning Version’ by Terence Rattigan, one of the most popular dramatists of the twentieth century.A moving piece, it deals with the last days of Andrew Crocker-Harris, a dedicated classics master at an English public school.

• Hansel and Gretel, Grand Opera House, Belfast, February 8 – 11. Scrumptiously surreal and with more than a sprinkle of festive magic – take an enchanting journey with Scotland’s national dance. A carousel of delicious treats from start to finish, Hansel and Gretel is full to the brim with magic and wit, with toys that come to life and a beautiful, bewitching ballerina who is not at all what she seems.

• Teenage Market, Old Town Hall, Co. Down, February 11. This market is an initiative involving teenagers in the marketing and sales of crafts and local produce which has been running two seasons and going from strength to strength. With jewellery, crafts and loads of unique designs and food to sample, come along and look at the produce on offer.

• The Fureys, Ardhowen Theatre, Co. Fermanagh, February 11. For over 39 years, Ireland’s legends, The Fureys have been selling out concerts worldwide. Renowned for their hit songs ‘I Will Love You’, ‘When You Were Sweet Sixteen’, ‘Steal Away’ and many more, don’t miss an amazing night of music that is well worth seeing.

• Ulster Orchestra: Golden Moments, Ulster Hall, Belfast, February 11. An evening devoted to the most beautiful classical music ever written. Wash your weekday cares away and be transported by melodies such as Debussy’s Clair de Lune, the Adagio from Rachmaninov’s Second Piano Concerto and Tchaikovsky’s great ode to ‘love, love, love’, Romeo and Juliet. Simply relax and be uplifted by these musical masterpieces.

• Lisa McHugh, Alley Arts & Conference Centre, Co. Tyrone, February 10. With determination and talent to last a lifetime, Lisa McHugh is a Glaswegian born star that’s more than ready to shine. Having now gained thousands of fans, the 26-year-old beauty has won 14 awards to date in under 3 years including ‘Female Vocalist of the Year’ 3 years running and ‘Outstanding Achievement on the World Stage’. Tickets cost £22.

• Hamlet, Riverside Theatre Coleraine, Derry~Londonderry, February 8. Icarus Theatre Collective and Kings Theatre presents Hamlet by William Shakespeare. The King of Denmark is dead. Consumed with grief, Prince Hamlet devotes himself to avenging his father’s death with devastating consequences for his family and the Kingdom. A company of seasoned classical actors embrace the brutality of one of the greatest plays ever written.

• Winter Wildlife Walk, ‘Window on Wildlife’ Belfast Harbour Estate, Belfast, February 11. Wrap up warm and join the friendly team at Belfast’s Window on Wildlife (WOW) for a guided tour of this haven for nature, nestled in the bustling Harbour Estate. Binoculars and scopes will be provided. After the walk, you’ll be able to enjoy a warming cuppa as you savour one of the best views in Belfast. Event is free for RSPB members or £5 for adults and £3 for children.

• Tea Dance, Old Courthouse, Co. Antrim, February 8. Join Double Trouble for some great tunes from all eras.  Enjoy a cup of tea and whether you dance or not, these relaxed, friendly and entertaining afternoon teas are sure to delight! Tickets cost £3 and pre booking is essential.

• Family Roller Disco, MAC, Belfast, February 11 – 12. With fun music by a live DJ, this is a family day out you won’t forget. Mums and dads can watch from the viewing gallery or join the fun and hit the rink as well. Fun for all the family, this special MAC event always sells out so get in quick to avoid disappointment. Ticket includes a 45-minute skate session and hire of your roller boots and protective gear.

Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland next week (February 6 – February 12).

 

• ‘The Browning Version’, Armagh Public Library, Co. Armagh, February 7. Centre Stage Theatre Company presents the classic one-act play ‘The Browning Version’ by Terence Rattigan, one of the most popular dramatists of the twentieth century.A moving piece, it deals with the last days of Andrew Crocker-Harris, a dedicated classics master at an English public school.
• Hansel and Gretel, Grand Opera House, Belfast, February 8 – 11. Scrumptiously surreal and with more than a sprinkle of festive magic – take an enchanting journey with Scotland’s national dance. A carousel of delicious treats from start to finish, Hansel and Gretel is full to the brim with magic and wit, with toys that come to life and a beautiful, bewitching ballerina who is not at all what she seems.
• Teenage Market, Old Town Hall, Co. Down, February 11. This market is an initiative involving teenagers in the marketing and sales of crafts and local produce which has been running two seasons and going from strength to strength. With jewellery, crafts and loads of unique designs and food to sample, come along and look at the produce on offer.
• The Fureys, Ardhowen Theatre, Co. Fermanagh, February 11. For over 39 years, Ireland’s legends, The Fureys have been selling out concerts worldwide. Renowned for their hit songs ‘I Will Love You’, ‘When You Were Sweet Sixteen’, ‘Steal Away’ and many more, don’t miss an amazing night of music that is well worth seeing.
• Ulster Orchestra: Golden Moments, Ulster Hall, Belfast, February 11. An evening devoted to the most beautiful classical music ever written. Wash your weekday cares away and be transported by melodies such as Debussy’s Clair de Lune, the Adagio from Rachmaninov’s Second Piano Concerto and Tchaikovsky’s great ode to ‘love, love, love’, Romeo and Juliet. Simply relax and be uplifted by these musical masterpieces.
• Lisa McHugh, Alley Arts & Conference Centre, Co. Tyrone, February 10. With determination and talent to last a lifetime, Lisa McHugh is a Glaswegian born star that’s more than ready to shine. Having now gained thousands of fans, the 26-year-old beauty has won 14 awards to date in under 3 years including ‘Female Vocalist of the Year’ 3 years running and ‘Outstanding Achievement on the World Stage’. Tickets cost £22.
• Hamlet, Riverside Theatre Coleraine, Derry~Londonderry, February 8. Icarus Theatre Collective and Kings Theatre presents Hamlet by William Shakespeare. The King of Denmark is dead. Consumed with grief, Prince Hamlet devotes himself to avenging his father’s death with devastating consequences for his family and the Kingdom.
  A company of seasoned classical actors embrace the brutality of one of the greatest plays ever written.
• Winter Wildlife Walk, ‘Window on Wildlife’ Belfast Harbour Estate, Belfast, Feb 11. Wrap up room and join the friendly team at Belfast’s Window on Wildlife (WOW) for a guided tour of this haven for nature, nestled in the bustling Harbour Estate. Binoculars and scopes will be provided. After the walk, you’ll be able to enjoy a warming cuppa as you savour one of the best views in Belfast. Event is free for RSPB members or £5 for adults and £3 for children.
• Tea Dance, Old Courthouse, Co. Antrim, February 8. Join Double Trouble for some great tunes from all eras.  Enjoy a cup of tea and whether you dance or not, these relaxed, friendly and entertaining afternoon teas are sure to delight! Tickets cost £3 and pre booking is essential.
• Family Roller Disco, MAC, Belfast, February 11 – 12. With fun music by a live DJ, this is a family day out you won’t forget. Mums and dads can watch from the viewing gallery or join the fun and hit the rink as well. Fun for all the family, this special MAC event always sells out so get in quick to avoid disappointment. Ticket includes a 45-minute skate session and hire of your roller boots and protective gear.

Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland next week (November 28 – December 4).

• Carols Together, Stormont Parliament Buildings, Belfast, December 2. Join Carols Together and celebrate the start of the festive season. This wonderful evening promises to get you in the Christmas spirit with seasonal readings and entertainment from the fabulous Methodist College Chapel Choir, Mezzo Soprano, Helen Aiken and Opera singer Roland Davitt. Following the concert, guests will be treated to mince pies and mulled wine, there will also be optional tours of the chambers.

• Magherafelt Christmas Market, Magherafelt Town Centre, Derry~Londonderry, December 2 – 4. Showcasing over 25 local artisan food and craft stalls, the market will be the first event to be held in the new refurbished Magherafelt Town Centre.  Come along and enjoy browsing and sampling the locally produced Artisan food and drink; or take time to unwind in the lounge, where you can experience a craft beer, hot mulled wine or even just sit and relax.

• Santa’s House, Castle Ward, Co. Down, December 3. Travel along the illuminated avenue of lights, enjoy the festive sights and sounds in the stableyard, have a go at some Christmas crafts or write a letter to Santa before you head to the basement of the big house where Santa is waiting to say hello and give all the boys and girls a special gift. A truly magical experience for kids.

• Schools Orchestra Winter Concert, The Waterside Theatre, Derry~Londonderry, December 1. String, wind and brass players from across the schools in the North West come together to perform an eclectic mix of seasonal favourites combined with traditional and contemporary repertoire as a celebration of the young talent in our region.

• Christmas Markets at An Creagan, An Cregan, Co. Tyrone, December 1 – 2. Step into a world of festive delights at this two-day festive market. Experience the sights, sounds and smells of the season in inspiring surroundings and find unique and high quality gifts from over 30 handmade crafters. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to find special presents for special people, the perfect place to work your way enjoyably through your Christmas list.

• Castle Espie Ladies Nights, WWT Castle Espie, Co. Down, December 1. Enjoy festive fashions with pop up shops from Sarah Alexandra Boutique and KoKo Boutique, hair and make-up sessions with Nicholas Graham Hairdressing and beauty advice and tips from Roamer Holistic! Pick up fabulous stocking fillers from one of our specialist stalls or get something for yourself on this special ladies’ night out.

• Christmas Cooking Neven Style, Belleek Pottery, Co. Fermanagh, December 2. Enjoy an afternoon of everything Christmas with local celebrity chef Neven Maguire as he helps you to solve all your Christmas Cookery Crisis’s with lots of hints and tips on how to make that all-important Christmas Day Meal an unforgettable success.

• Belmont Road Walking Food Tour, Belfast, December 3. Taste everything from Portavogie scampi to Guinness cake and from Irish tapas to award winning raspberry sorbet! Along the way, Tracey, your enthusiastic Tour Guide will enlighten you with stories about famous people from this area and about local food and drink from Belmont Road and surrounding area.

• Christmas Fair, The Argory, Co. Armagh, December 3. The Festive period is not complete without a visit to The Argory’s Christmas Fair, featuring a number of craft, food and drink stalls, as well as traditional festive entertainment. Soak up the wonderful atmosphere and see the house decorated for the festive season.

• Ronnie Greer Blues Band, Ballymoney Town Hall, Co. Antrim, November 30. Blues Guitar Legend Ronnie Greer makes a welcome return to Ballymoney with his powerhouse band some of the country’s leading musicians. Expect a night of blues, roots soul and a little jazz based music, played with style and conviction by the best in the business.

Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland next week (November 21 – November 27).

• Georgian Day, Various locations, Co. Armagh, November 26. Armagh’s much loved Georgian Days showcases the city in all its festive glory, sparkling in lights as the Ancient Cathedral City goes back to its Georgian roots. More than 70 stalls, hosted by traders in Georgian costumes, will line the streets for a unique experience that cannot be missed.  Highlights include Horse & Carriage rides and an Illuminated Light Show. Some events require booking.  For more information go to www.armagh.co.uk/georgian.

• C. S. Lewis Festival, Various locations, Belfast, until November 22. Step through the wardrobe and celebrate the life and legacy of C.S. Lewis – best known for The Chronicles of Narnia series – at this family-friendly festival. Through a series of events and activities including talks, film, theatre, arts, crafts, readings, music, workshops, exhibitions, tours, children’s activities and spoken word events – everyone is invited to be inspired and walk in his footsteps.

• Christmas Cookery Demonstration, Orchard Acre Farm, November 25. A great night of both fun and learning; with useful tips and insights to help you add new flavours to the Christmas menu, Teresa will help ease the stress of Christmas cooking. The evening includes hot drink and festive treats, lots of tastings and recipes to take home! There will also be a surprise guest appearance by a well-known local food hero.

• Enniskillen Christmas Lights Switch-On, The Diamond, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, November 26. Christmas officially starts in Enniskillen on Saturday 26 November with the Christmas lights switch-on in the town centre. The town will become a hub of live entertainment from late afternoon to mark the start of the Christmas shopping season so come along and get into the festive spirit!

• Whoopi Goldberg: Direct From Broadway, Black Box, Belfast, November 27. Long before she was hosting Oscar broadcasts or holding court on The View, Whoopi Goldberg was wowing audiences on the Great White Way with a one-woman show. Head along to the Black Box for a reminder of what an energetic stage performer and comedienne she was before she started adding actress, awards-show emcee and talk-show dynamo to her resumé.

• Newscastle Christmas Lights Switch On, Main Street, Co. Down, November 26. Newcastle’s annual Christmas Lights Switch On will take place on Saturday 26th November with street entertainment, carol singing with local schools and a special visit from the man himself which promises to be a night for all the family to enjoy.

• Thanksgiving Day, Ulster American Folk Park, Co. Tyrone, November 24. Join the Partridge family for Thanksgiving as they await the return of their only son Joseph.  Immerse yourself in living history and sample the flavour of a Western Pennsylvania rural Thanksgiving in November of 1863, which was the year of the first national day of Thanksgiving.

• Sippy of Culture, Guildhall Square, Derry~Londonderry, November 25 – 26. Over the Course of two days, the Guildhall in Derry-Londonderry will come alive with a selection of the best beers, ciders and distilled drinks, all in one of the most historic buildings in Northern Ireland. Come together, discuss, taste, sample and celebrate the crafting traditions of these masters.

• Susan MacWilliam: modern Experiments Exhibition, F.E. McWillian Gallery & Studio, Co. Down, until November 26. The largest and most comprehensive exhibition of MacWilliam’s work to date, Modern Experiments will present key pieces from the artist’s career with a focus on works created from 1998.

• Declan Nerney, Alley Teatre, Strabane, Derry~Londonderry, November 24. Born in County Longford, join Irish singer Declan Nerney, as he performs some of his greatest songs live on stage at the Alley Theatre.  Booking essential.  Tickets £20. To book call 028 71 884760.

Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland THIS week (October 17 – October 23).

• City of Derry International Choral Festival, Various locations, Derry~Londonderry, October 19 – 23. Created as a joyous celebration of choral music-making, the City of Derry International Choral Festival provides opportunities for competitive and non-competitive participation for singers across a wide range of styles, ensembles and ages. School, local, national and international choirs will bring the city alive with music as they take part in a range of activities from competitions and workshops, to evening concerts and choral trails, in various venues throughout the city.

• Open House Belfast, Various locations, Belfast, October 21 – 23. The Open House Belfast – Architecture & Engineering Festival returns for a second year. Between 21 – 23 October the festival will open up some of the city’s most interesting and exciting buildings and spaces for you to experience for FREE.

• Autumn Cookery Experience, Belle Isle Cookery School, Co. Fermanagh, October 22. Learn to cook or improve your cooking skills with a Cookery Course in the beautiful and tranquil setting of Fermanagh with trained professionals in a bright and welcoming environment. Each cookery experience has a different theme with October 22^nd focusing on ‘Food for Friends’.

• Return to Monster Manor, W5, Belfast, until November 6. Monster Manor is back! And it’s even spookier than last year!! W5’s singing pumpkins, dancing skeletons, floating ghosts, witches and monsters have been joined by some new phantom friends this year. It may be really spooky and a little bit eerie, but Monster Manor is a whole lot of fun. This Autumn, are you and your family brave enough to discover what lurks within the Manor?

• 1916 – Tim McGarry “Goes Over the Top”, Portico, Co. Down, October 22. Following the success of Tim McGarry’s Irish History Lesson the comedian returns with a brand new stand up show and because of the year, it can only be based around the 1916 Easter Rising and the Battle of the Somme.

• At The Mountain of Madness, Marketplace Theatre, Co. Armagh, October 22. Desperate. Incensed. Exhausted. In H.P. Lovecraft’s ‘At The Mountains of Madness’, William Dyer returns from a cursed expedition to the Antarctic. Be drawn into the untold world of the Antarctic, and stumble upon unnameable horrors that lie beyond The Mountains of Madness. Booking required.

• Naturally North Coast& Glens Market, Ballycastle, Co. Antrim, October 23. Fresh aromas, vivid colours, eclectic treasures, buzzing crowds – a mere stroll amongst the many stalls of an Artisan Market are enough to invigorate the senses and whet the appetite.

• Jamz NI, T13, Belfast, October 22. Jamz NI is a brand new all style Hip Hop competition for dancers of all ages and abilities set in the fabulous T13 Belfast.  If you think you have what it takes to be a Jamz NI champion, why not try out in the 1v1 battle for your chance to take the title? An after party in the evening will be for those who wish to dance the night away to some amazing DJ sets.

• Half Term Hallowe’en Fest, The Argory, Co. Armagh, October 22. Look no further for things to do this October half term. Carve out a pumpkin, explore our Hallowe’en trail, try some ghoulish treats in the Café and watch scary movies, if you dare…

• Magheraglass Flute Band presents Marching Band Variety Concert, Burnavon Theatre, Co. Tyrone, October 21. A night of Ulster Scots and cultural music from a wide variety of local marching bands, including Sons of William Melody Flute, Desertmartin Accordion, Moneymore 93 (featuring the snare drum), the Ulster Scots Juvenile Pipe Band, and of course Magheraglass Flute Band themselves.

Please note some of the events require pre-booking. For more details on these and other events click on www.discovernorthernireland.com/events, visit your local tourist information centre or log onto www.facebook.com/discovernorthernireland.

Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland next week (October 3 – October 9).

• Armagh Festival of Food and Cider, Various locations, Co. Armagh, October 5 – 9. The Armagh Festival of Food & Cider is a celebration of tasty local cuisine and cider showcasing all that Armagh City’s many tempting eateries, orchards and breweries have to offer. Diners and craft brew enthusiasts will have the opportunity to sample local hospitality at its best.

• Slow Food Festival, Guildhall Square, Derry~Londonderry, October 8 – 9. This free family-friendly event will incorporate a Slow Food Harvest Fayre, Slow Food Street Food Zone, Family Fun Zone and fringe events including a Made in Derry Slow Food Walking Tour around the city, tours of Butterlope Social Farm at Plumbridge by shuttle bus and an eco-tourism experience at St Columba’s Heritage Centre which will bring to life stories of our forgotten and local foraged foods.

• The Sinatra Years with James Huish and Band, Crumlin Gaol, Belfast, October 8. James Huish, Northern Ireland’s king of swing, and his ten-piece band perform a special concert celebrating the life’s work of the one and only Sinatra, live at Crumlin Road Gaol. Tickets £20. Doors open 7pm, show starts at 8:30pm.

• Model and Collector’s Fayre, Bawnacre Centre, Co. Fermanagh, October 7 – 8. There will be four rooms within the Bawnacre Centre filled with an array of things to see from railway layouts, farm models and homemade displays, football memorabilia, diecast cars, motorbikes, lorries, aircraft, construction displays, wooden toys and crafts to name a few. Many items will be available to purchase on the day.

• Blood Brothers, Millennium Forum, Derry~Londonderry, October 4 – 8. The legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences.

• Finding Nemo (Outdoor Cinema), Solitude Park, Co. Down, October 7. Join Nemo, Dory, Marlin and all their fishy friends for some underwater family fun in the open air. The movie takes place in Solitude park, Banbridge, at the seated amphitheatre, so pack your rugs and hampers and come along with friends and family to experience these fun events in the open air.

• Chris Wise and The Hidden Revolution, Voodoo, Belfast, October 4. Manchester experimental, indie rock three piece Chris Wise & The Hidden Revolution bring the very best of frantic manic and menacing melodies, staccato fills, massive crescendos and twisted harmonics to Belfast city for an unforgettable night. Tickets £10. Starts 7pm.

• Macbeth, Alley Theatre, Co. Tyrone, October 6. Once again c21 Theatre Company bring Shakespeare to life on stage.  The production follows the eventful life of the evil Scottish warrior and his power-hungry wife. Prophecy, witchcraft, murder and revenge all play a part in their tragic demise and guarantee a captivating production for audiences of all ages. Tickets £4.

• Donal Lunny Triad, Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre, Derry~Londonderry, October 7. Multi-instrumentalist and trailblazer Donal Lunny is one of the greatest Irish musicians alive, having been at the forefront of Irish Traditional Music for over than 35 years. He will be joined by two other world-class musicians for what promises to be an extraordinary concert.

• Slieve Donard Trek, Slieve Donard, Co. Down, October 8. Celebrate World Mental Health Day by making a real difference by climbing Northern Ireland’s highest peak in AWARE’S Slieve Donard Trek. Walkers must be over 12 and anyone under 18 to be accompanied by an experienced adult walker. www.aware-ni.org/donardtrek

Please note some of the events require pre-booking. For more details on these and other events click on www.discovernorthernireland.com/events, visit your local tourist information centre or log onto www.facebook.com/discovernorthernireland.