Down

Returning to his home turf of Newry and Mourne, David Meade Mind Reader will be bringing his spellbinding mentalist powers to entertain you for two nights on Friday 22nd and Friday 26th February in Newry Town Hall!  His last record-breaking tour sold out everywhere, so grab your tickets now and look forward to a jaw dropping performance that your whole family of all ages will never forget!

Armagh

Celtic Mindfulness at Navan Centre & Fort this weekend is a unique healing experience of the land and energy. Where music, myth and meditation will be used to awaken your Celtic Soul, creating a positive mindfulness.  The Saturday event will include workshops from Kate Fitzpatrick and Sandra Nelson. Sunday’s delivery will be facilitated by Kate. Both days include refreshments and light lunch. 23rd and 24th February.

Fermanagh

Don’t miss the funniest show of the year , Give My Head Peace Live, at the Ardhowen Theatre 19^th and 20^th February.  Along with Ulster’s favourite menacing cleric Pastor Begbie (Paddy Jenkins) the gang guarantee a night of topical comedy, fantastic jokes and up to the minute satire. Plus there’ll be some superb stand-up from Tim McGarry.  

Tyrone

Singing star Dolores Keane is making her comeback tour – under the new management of  MC Promotions, Dolores says “I’m back singing better than ever and really looking forward to travelling the long and winding roads wherever they lead me. See Dolores live at the Silverbirch Hotel Omagh on 23rd February.  Dolores has a unique, distinctive, soulful melodious voice that moves every audience whose presence she graced. Few Irish artists of the past half-century could interpret the death of culture and the fathomless loss of emigration in the space of a four-minute song as well as she could. Dolores has played all over the world including two appearances in Carnegie Hall in New York something not many performers can make claim to.

Derry

Spend an afternoon with Roddy Doyle at the Seamus Heaney Homeplace Saturday 23rd February.  If Seamus Heaney has come to symbolise Bellaghy and its surrounds, then Roddy Doyle undoubtedly personifies his native city of Dublin.  In a career spanning three decades, Doyle has become one of the best-loved and most recognisable writers of his generation. He is the author of eleven novels for adults, eight books for children, seven plays and screenplays, and dozens of short stories.

Antrim

Home Spun Youth Theatre is delighted to be staging a premiere of the new musical Twisted at Theatre at The Mill Newtownabbey from the 20^th to the 24^th February.  This exciting new musical by Esler Burke with orchestration by Mark Dougherty and Musical Supervision and additional lyrics by Wilson Shields takes up the story of Dicken’s Oliver Twist, however, it is now fifteen years on and Oliver Twist is now in his late twenties.  The market place of his youth has changed little, and when he first meets and falls in love with Jane their happiness seems assured. However, all is not as it first seems..

Belfast

The Cancer Fund for Children invite you to join them on their family-friendly Winter Woolly Walk. Step out once again and wrap up warm in support of local families living with cancer! It’s time to rally the family, gather your friends, and join them for a beautiful walk in aid of Cancer Fund for Children.  On Saturday 23rd February there will be 4 picturesque walks for you to choose from. Each walk ranges from 3 to 5 miles and is, as always, suitable for the whole family. Walkers are free to stroll leisurely or you can walk as briskly as you wish – just as long as everyone is having fun! Warming refreshments will be provided at the end to warm your hands along with some fun family activities for the kids while you sit and relax. Visit cancerfundforchildren.com/event/winter-woolly-walk-2019 for more details.

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.  

Jacqueline McGonigle

Down

The wedding team at Larchfield Estate invites you to visit their exclusive countryside haven on Saturday 16th February from 11.00am to 3.00pm. The Barn, Courtyards, Gardens and Cottages will be open for couples who are keen to explore the venue, providing the opportunity to meet the specialist team and recommended catering, décor and florist companies.  Wander around the gardens and lake area, picture yourself walking up the aisle at our indoor and outdoor ceremony locations, and enjoy the warm and cosy atmosphere of the traditional barn reception area. On-site accommodation will also be open, available for you to view the cottages where you can spend a restful night post-wedding, before sharing breakfast after waking up on your first morning together as a married couple!

Armagh

Debbie Dolittle is set to return to the Navan Centre on Sunday 17th February for a free drop-in Ecology Sunday as this local wildlife expert presents some of her rescued creatures, including a tame fox! Over the last 30 years, hundreds of orphaned creatures have come through Debbie’s doors – you are sure to be impressed by her amazing knowledge and passion for rehabilitating animals into their natural environment.

Fermanagh

Try out the new laser guns in the forest arena at Share Discovery Village who are running a series of 2 hour 30 minute sessions over the weekend.  A session will include a activity briefing, dressing in camouflage gear and then playing a range of games in the Forest Arena.   This activity is suitable for groups of individuals ageds 8+.  Wear footwear that can get dirty or wet and you can run in.   

Tyrone

Frank Carson : A Rebel Without A Pause, Strule Arts Centre, Thursday 14th February. Written and performed by Dan Gordon.  Belfast funny man Frank Carson blazed a comedy trail for over fifty years. His quick-fire gags and infectious laugh delighted audiences in variety shows, on telly and in clubs across the land – The Comedians , The Good Old Days, Seaside Special, Royal Variety, Noel’s House Party, Tiswas, and many more.

Derry

Fortnite themed lastertag, The Jungle Moneymore,  Sunday 17th February.  This is a real life Fortnite themed battle simulation, so you can get a taste of what it would be like to be in the ever popular Fortnite game. Using existing infamous Paintball and Laser Tag game zones, modified to be able to play a Fortnite themed session.  Open to all participants aged 8 and above. Parents and adults can play along with kids, if they can keep up!  Each session will be limited to 44 players and will last approximately 2 hours.

Antrim

Silver jewellery making workshop, Arches House, Randalstown, Saturday 16th February.  Let your creative side run free and learn a new skill whilst working with silver to create a piece of jewellery which you can then bring home to keep and show everyone!  Booking is essential with concessions available.  To book call 028 9447 8471 or email info@randalstownarches.com.

Belfast

TQ Giant Explorers Trail, Saturday 16th February. A family friendly trail where you will be provided with a treasure map & lots of clues as you explore Titanic Quarter searching for industrial giants. Discover how these ‘Giants’ have played a huge role in TQ’s maritime history and listen to some epic tales at the Great Light! There are also plenty of prizes to be won!  The Wee Tram will ferry everyone around the area, accompanied by a guide and TQ heritage helpers.  Meeting point: Titanic Sign, next to Titanic Belfast, 10.30am.

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.  

Jacqueline McGonigle

Antrim

The NI Motorcycle Festival this weekend is Ireland’s largest annual motorcycle festival, taking place at the Eikon Exhibition Centre, Balmoral Park, Sprucefield.  The event promises to be a fantastic show with an array of features, personalities and stands.  A vast range of the latest motorcycles and scooters from top manufacturers will be on display. The NI Motorcycle Festival is organized by Nutt Promotions, and provides entertainment for all the family.  As well as displays of both new and classic motorcycles and scooters from top manufacturers, there will also be appearances from the stars of the motorcycling world over the weekend.

Armagh

The Suitcase, Market Place Theatre, Friday 8th February. In Vienna, a young woman dreams of becoming a dancer. In Belfast, an elderly man revisits a painful past, while a mother and daughter unearth a hidden piece of family history. Moving between the present day and 20th century Europe’s darkest period, the play is a hymn to the redemptive power of art and a life-affirming human drama. Winner of the Audience Award at the 2015 Belfast International Arts Festival.

Belfast

The legendary Starjets are reforming one more gig. “Spit Records” head honcho Sean O’Neill has persuaded the guys to appear at the Spit album launch party Live At The Crum. Also on a fantastic bill are Shock Treatment, Johnny Hero’s Ex Producers, and Confrontation Time.  What a line up!  Tour/Dine/Show Tickets available. This package will allow you to discover over 150 years of history as you explore within the walls of Belfast’s Infamous Prison, enjoy a 2 course meal in the atmospheric setting of Cuffs Bar & Grill (on-site restaurant) and finish the night with live entertainment.

Derry

Anne Enright in Conversation, Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Saturday 9th February.  Booker Prize-winning novelist Anne Enright is one of the most celebrated writers working in Ireland today. Her work is part of a great tradition of Irish writing that explores themes of family life, relationships, love, repression and memory.  From 2015 to 2018 she was the inaugural Laureate for Irish Fiction and we are delighted to welcome her to The Helicon where she will talk about her work and career with Paul McVeigh.

Down

Cloughmore Male Voice Choir is proud to present an evening with the Celtic Tenors, Newry Town Hall, February 8th.  The Celtic Tenors, the only tenor group with a truly global audience, and the Cloughmore Male Voice Choir will give you a night to remember.  Performing in this idyllic harbour town located on the shores of the beautiful  Carlingford Lough,  the show promises to be one of musical delight with a blend of Celtic, Operatic and re-worked popular songs that will stir the soul and inspire the listener.

Fermanagh

Fly Me to the Moon, Ardhowen Theatre, Friday 8th February. Francis and Loretta are community care visitors. Davy, one of their elderly charges, has had a significant win on the horses, but he doesn’t know. When the cash-strapped women learn that Davey will not be around for a considerable time they are faced with a mouth-watering dilemma. Marie Jones is the author of some of the most successful plays ever produced in Ireland, including ‘Stones In His Pockets’, ‘Women On The Verge Of HRT and ‘A Night In November’. This hilarious comedy investigates whether we are valued more in life or in death.

Tyrone

Ven_ture comprises of David Munnelly (accordion), Anne Brennan (vocals) and Joseph McNulty (fiddle) who make new arrangements for old music whilst composing new melodies keeping in mind the unique sound produced by voice accordion and fiddle keeping to non-conventional new sounds in the process. See them perform live at The Square Box, Ranfuly House Dungannon this Saturday evening. A night of fun and music for the whole family.

For more details of these events please visit whatsonni.com. Follow us on facebook.com/www.whatsonni and twitter @whatsonni  

Down

This Saturday step into Winterfell and take aim where young Bran was taught archery by Jon Snow. Have a go at archery in the very place where the BAFTA award winning TV show was filmed – in the courtyard aka ‘Winterfell’ at Castleward Estate.  Booking essential. This experience is independently operated by Clearsky Adventure Centre, it is not sponsored, endorsed, or affiliated with HBO or anyone associated with ‘Game of Thrones’.

Armagh

Join Navan Fort on Sunday 27th January, between 11:00am and 3:00pm for free guided mini-beast hunts! There are all sorts of amazing, tiny creatures residing in the grounds of the Navan Centre & Fort. Come along and see what you can find! This is a free drop-in event, with no booking required.

Fermanagh

Rock ‘n’ Roll Years and Dance Hall Days is back at the Ardhowen Theatre this Saturday evening.  After last year’s smash hit tour this wonderful nostalgic musical hits the road again! The all-star cast will once again take you on a whirlwind journey through the musical decades of the 50s and 60s Paying homage to the lives and music of the Everly Bros, Johnny Cash, The Four Seasons, Ruby Murray, Bobby Darin and Elvis.

Tyrone

If you’re gliding gracefully towards the second half of your life, maybe this isn’t the show for you. But if you want reassurance that you’re not the only one struggling with all the things Life throws at you, step right up for Nuala McKeever’s Letting Go Or Losing It at Ranfurly House Dungannon this Saturday 26th January.

Derry

Derek Ryan performs in the Millennium Forum, Derry on Saturday 26th January with all the fan-favourites and his latest songs from new album TEN.  Derek will be joined on the evening by All Folk’d Up as special guests PLUS Olivia Douglas.  Tickets available from venue box office – 028 7126 4455.

Antrim

Sarah’s Key is one of two film screenings in Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough to mark Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD), which provides an opportunity for everyone to learn the lessons from the Holocaust. This Thursday evening, 24th January. Tickets are free and can be booked online at  theoldcourthousetheatre.com.

Belfast

This animation club at Blick Shared Studio, Malone Road offers a great introduction to the colourful world of animation!  The workshop which takes place this Saturday from 2.00pm to 4.00pm will allow participants to make a complete animated Lego film on an iPad, using sound effects, visual effects, titles and lots of imagination Your child will learn about the basic principles of stop motion animation, using special iPad apps and will receive a copy of their film at the end of the session. These workshops are a collaboration between Can Do Academy and Blick and are suitable for children between 7 – 14 years.

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.  

Jacqueline McGonigle

Down

Would you like to learn how to make local Irish breads in a very relaxed atmosphere within a small group?  If so, join Tracey Jeffrey in her thatched barn, The Stables,  10 steps away from the edge of the Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty in Killinchy, County Down. You will take home a bag of breads that you have made along with a copy of all of the recipes used. No doubt you will also have made some friends throughout the duration of the session which runs from 10.30am – 1.00pm on Saturday 19th January.

Armagh

After playing the character Mark Halpin in RTE’s long running TV soap Fair City, Dublin-born Ryan O’Shaughnessy then went on to compete in TV shows such as The Voice of Ireland, Britain’s Got Talent and The Hit.   See Ryan perform live at the Market Place Theatre this Thursday 17th January.

Fermanagh

Join Carrybridge Lakeside Lodge & Marina for Burns Night this Friday 18th January.  For only £15 per person enjoy whiskey on arrival & supper (haggis or savoury mince, neeps & tatties), and live entertainment.   Guest artists include the Ulster Scots Agency Juvenile Pipers, Erne Highland Dancers and a Ceilidh Band.   Remember to wear a touch of tartan to this Burns Supper & Dance.  For tickets contact the Carrybridge Hotel directly.

Tyrone

You can also celebrate Burns night this Friday 18th January at the Royal Hotel Cookstown.  Join the Alastair Scott Ceilidh Band in celebrating the Life of Scotland’s Greatest Poet.  Back by popular demand this Burns Night includes all the traditional elements of a Burns Night. Tickets are available from The Royal Hotel, Cookstown 028 8676 2224 or from the Alastair Scott Ceilidh Band.

Derry

The IMBOLC Festival 2019, which runs from Friday 18th January through to 16th March, features an eclectic mix of concerts, workshops, talks, visual art and films. All in a range of locations spread throughout the city – from state-of-the art concert halls and historic buildings, to churches, cafés and bars. It features some of the world’s finest musicians from Ireland, Scotland, England, Scandinavia and America, with music from a wide range of genres including Irish traditional, roots, world, folk and classical. View the full programme of events at imbolcfestival.com.

Antrim

Ireland’s No.1 Rod Stewart Tribute show “Tonight’s the Night” have been wowing audiences far and wide. A seven-piece live show complete with backing singers, Richie Lee is a very well respected frontman and knows how to connect with a live audience. See Tonight’s the Night live at the Theatre at The Mill in Newtownabbey this Saturday 19th January, for a two hour roller coaster of Rod Stewart’s greatest songs!

Belfast

This Saturday evening at the Crescent Arts Centre you can Sing-A- Long Dirty Dancing with the movie projected onto a huge screen!  There will be performers throughout show to help show you recreate those famous dance moves, as well as a FREE prop bag with everything to need to celebrate one of the best movies ever made!  They’ll be popcorn on offer and even a chance to have your snaps taken with the look-a-likes!  Fancy dress and audience participation are strongly encouraged!

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.  

Jacqueline McGonigle

Down

Mixed Feelings at Ards Arts Centre  is an exhibition of sculpture by Katrina Cobain, with glazed expressions, dysfunctional properties and stories to tell. By displaying a range of objects from various performances or contexts, in their own right, they communicate another time, place or narrative. These objects have a sense of error about them: there is something off-kilter, not quite right, that puts you off. Whether you laugh, smile or grimace – Mixed Feelings has something to show you. Runs until 26^th January.

Armagh

Portadown Pantomime presents Sleeping Beauty at Portadown Town Hall.  Shows run from Thursday 10^th January until Saturday 26^th January.  Curtain up at 7.30pm with the show concluding at approximately 10.15pm.  Tickets cost only £8.

Fermanagh

Exhibition :  When the Wind Blows, A Decade of Fermanagh Photographs from the Kite. Enniskillen Castle, Enniskillen until 19^th  January 2019.  This exhibition highlights a selection of chosen images by Fermanagh photographer Ciarán May.  For almost a decade, Ciarán has uniquely captured the beauty and charm of his native county using a Kite to lift a camera. The display showcases the beautiful idyllic settings in Fermanagh and it gives us an insight into the techniques used by Ciarán to capture the perfect image!

Tyrone

Singalong with Goldilocks and The Three Bears this Saturday afternoon at the Alley Theatre in Strabane.  The much loved fairytale returns to the stage in a live show of song and laughter.  With plenty of audience participation and action, perfect for all the family!   Tickets are priced at  £9 or £40 for a family of five.

Derry/Londonderry

Following on from the success of last year’s sell-out show, Anne Tracey and friends return to The Helicon at Heaney Homeplace Bellaghy to start the New Year with words, wit and warmth.  This Saturday afternoon join some of Mid-Ulster’s finest talent for an afternoon of song, music and poetry exploring the emotional pull of home. Words and music that spring from their home place promise nourishment for both heart and soul.

Antrim

Portrush Theatre Company presents The Wonderful Wizard of Oz for its January 2019 Pantomime from 11^th to 19^th January at Portrush Town Hall.   Join Dorothy and Aunt Em on their journey down the yellow brick road; sing along with the Lion, Tin man and Scarecrow as they join in the adventure; and help defeat the Wicked Witch of the West!  Tickets prices at £10.  (Matinees £7). Curtain up at 7.30pm.

Belfast

The Crescent Arts Centre present the incredible Charlton Wood’s Cabaret Cruises: Terminal Divertissement this Friday evening. Belly-ache, screaming, roaring, laughter. Never to be missed, the last show you’ll ever want to watch!  Having spent most of his life on cruises, Mr Woods is offering you the chance to see one of his famous cruise cabarets, on dry(ish) land.   Charlton offers his condolences and sincerely welcomes you to this, THE show. His satirical musings have sated the pleasure seeking appetites of Sultans, Noble Born, Kings, Celebrities, plebs and luddites. Drawing from a rich pool of human experience Charlton Woods will ponder, live, and ask you to do the same. Now finally you can join him, and be at peace, or whatever you find yourself doing.

Down

A weekly Saturday Market is held in Conway Square, Newtownards. This market caters for all your needs. A diverse range of stalls including local fruit and vegetables, seafood and meat; there are also tools, clothing and accessories, toys, flowers and plants, to name just a few. Something for all the family. Next date Saturday 5^th January.

Armagh

Bagatelle have shared stages with legends like Bob Marley, John Denver, The Pogues, Duran Duran, Van Morrison, George Micheal, U2, Jose Feliciano and UB40. See them perform live on stage this Saturday 5^th January at the Market Place Theatre in Armagh.

Fermanagh

Lose the January blues by getting out in the fresh air, helping the Rangers remove and burn the invasive rhododendron bushes at Crom Estate in Newtownbutler this Saturday, and finish the day off by toasting some delicious marshmallows on the fire.  Tools and training provided by the Rangers to ensure that you have fun in a safe environment. Suitable for children aged five and above. This is a free event and booking is not required. 10.00am to 3.30pm.

Tyrone

In his new show ‘Nobody Shouted Stop’ Jake O’Kane will be casting his caustic, comedy eye on the good, the bad and the very, very ugly.  If you have been before you will want to come again, if you haven’t seen Jake O’Kane live then the advice is to book early to see who everyone is talking about. Once again Jake will be joined by Terry McHugh one of Ireland’s finest young comedy talents.  Show contains adult reference for 16+ only. Strule Arts Centre, Omagh, Saturday 5th January.

Derry

Vienna! Ah Vienna! Let the Ulster Orchestra and charismatic guest performers take you to the glittering world of Strauss for the waltz of your life at the Millennium Forum this Sunday evening.  Welcome the New Year with an uplifting and enchanting evening of your much-loved Viennese music from the Merry Widow to the Blue Danube. Not forgetting that all-time favourite, the Radetzky March!

Antrim

Just returned from the USA to deliver his funniest and most incredible show yet, Mindreader David Meade, the first mentalist to win a Million dollars in a Las Vegas casino, will blow your mind as he does the impossible live on stage right in front of you.  Now performing all over the world, David is coming back to home soil to blow minds across the country.  His last record-breaking tour sold out everywhere, so grab your tickets now for the Old Courthouse Antrim this Friday 4^th January, and look forward to a jaw dropping performance that your whole family of all ages will never forget.

Belfast

This Saturday The Crescent Arts Centre  welcomes one of Ireland’s greatest female jazz and blues singers, Mary Coughlan.  She is a true artist who has carved out a timeless and highly regarded career and a legion of devoted fans worldwide. Described as “Ireland’s Billie Holiday’ Mary has overcome trauma and addiction to become a musical force like no other.  Mary live is in a league of her own. Her glorious husky voice pulling every ounce of emotion from the music. This is the real thing, sung from the depths of a woman’s heart and soul, a survivor who (to paraphrase Leonard Cohen’s famous words) “was born with the gift of a golden voice.” This is why she is so loved.

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.  

Jacqueline

Down

Newry Chamber Music presents its annual Christmas concert on Wednesday 19^th December at the Sean Hollywood Arts Centre Newry. Joining NCM’s artistic directors David Quigley and Joanne Quigley McParland will be the celebrated Irish soprano Máire Flavin.  Expect a wonderful evening of classical and Christmas favourites. Early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.  If you wish to reserve tickets by telephone please call 02830 828 632.

Armagh

Celebrate the Winter Solstice with a lantern-lit walk to Navan Fort and take part in a solstice ritual of morning meditation reflecting on the past and welcoming the arrival of new light.  Appreciate the calmness and serenity of watching the sun rise over the sacred site of Emain Macha on the shortest day of the year, before returning to the centre for an optional breakfast.   Pre-booking is essential although tickets are free, with the option to purchase a breakfast ticket at just £4.00 per person. Friday 21^st December.

Fermanagh

Everyone across Fermanagh, Tyrone and beyond will have the opportunity to support the great work of Air Ambulance NI by visiting their fund raising Christmas Tree Festival which will be held in the Bawnacre Centre, Irvinestown next week, from Tuesday 18th until Sunday 23rd December. The spectacular display will consist of over 60 decorated Christmas trees presented by local groups, clubs, schools and voluntary organizations to reflect their good work in the local area. All funds raised will be presented to Air Ambulance via their local Trustee Mr Rodney Connor. Everyone is warmly invited to visit the Festival next week anytime Tuesday to Friday between 10 am and 10 pm; Saturday 10 am to 5 pm or during the special opening on Sunday 23rd December between 2 pm and 5 pm. Complimentary refreshments will be provided and families can also visit Santa’s Grotto in the Bawnacre for a beautiful family photograph.

Tyrone

The Christmas Country Concert Tour comes to the Mellon Country Inn Omagh on Friday 21st December.  Doors open at 7.30 pm with the show beginning at 8.00 pm.  With Ray Lynam, Philomena Begley, Dominic Kirwan, Louise Morrisey, Colm Kirwan, Barry Kirwan, Aidan Quinn, Stacey Breen, Chrissy Mac, MC Brian Cunningham.  Dine & Dance/ Dine, Dance and Stay Packages Available!  Tickets £22.50.

Derry/Londonderry

This Friday evening enjoy a Christmas Carol Service in the atmospheric setting of Mussenden Temple. Mulled wine and mince pies will be served in the interval. Please note that booking is essential for this event.  Phone: 028 7084 8728 or email: downhilldemesne@nationaltrust.org.uk.  Unfortunately dogs are not welcome at this event.  Tickets : Adult: £7.50 | Child: £5.00 | Family: £20.00.

Antrim

A special screening of Frank Capra’s enduring and classic Christmas movie, It’s a Wonderful Life, will take place this Saturday afternoon at the Old Courthouse in Antrim.  George Bailey has so many problems he is thinking about ending it all – and it’s Christmas! As the angels discuss George, we see his life in flashback. As George is about to jump from a bridge, he ends up rescuing his guardian angel, Clarence – who then shows George what his town would have looked like if it hadn’t been for all his good deeds over the years. Christmas gift included in ticket price.

Belfast

“Do you wanna build a snowman?”  Join the Crescent Arts Centre this Saturday afternoon for an extra special Christmas treat and join Elsa, Anna and Olaf for an afternoon of sing-a-long cinema!  There will be music, singing, films and even snow!  The film will be shown with lyrics on a huge projector, blasting those famous tunes through the state of the art sound system.  There are cinema seats and even popcorn, and don’t forget to dress up as your favourite character!

 

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

Jacqueline McGonigle

Down

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has announced that its first Hillsborough Christmas Market will take place in the idyllic setting of the Dark Walk at Hillsborough Fort, for one evening only this December. Visitors can expect to feel festive as they will be greeted with the sights and sounds of Christmas as soon as they walk through the gates.  A host of local artisan food producers and crafts people will be ready and waiting to proudly present their products as dusk descends from 3.00pm – 9.00pm on Friday 14th December.

Armagh

Grainne Duffy is a blues and roots artist hailing from Castleblayney. She is a pioneer of her own style while also paying sincere homage to her roots, soul, blues, country and rock traditions. She is a seasoned artist and has been spending the last number of years touring in Europe, Scandinavia, Asia and Canada.  With a voice that is as passionate as it is raw and honest, accompanied by simple, melodic and well-phrased guitar lines, this is what you have in Grainne Duffy. See her perform live at the Market Place Theatre this Saturday 15^th December evening in the Studio Theatre with an unreserved, cabaret-style seating layout.

Fermanagh

This Saturday 15th December, Enniskillen Castle will showcase a wide range of bespoke craft items created by craft designer-makers and artists from the Fermanagh & Omagh District at their festive Christmas Craft Fair.

Tyrone

Join the Silverbirch Hotel s this Christmas for a festive celebration for the whole family, with their Santa Sunday Lunch.  Children will be thoroughly entertained with the kids Christmas party, disco and entertainment by the fabulous Mr Majestic from  2.00pm to 4.00pm. Includes 4 Course Sunday Lunch.  Adults – £18.95pp | Kids – £9.80pp | Under 3 – £5.00pp.

Derry

George Hutton will play a special hometown concert in the city of Derry this Friday 14^th with support from Paul Casey at the Guildhall.  George encompasses that of an extremely versatile performer. Having received classical training under the tutelage of tenors Ciáran Kelly, Eoin O’Callaghan and Benito Rodriguez he has developed a depth of control that allows him to sing across a great range of musical genres. Tickets £13.00.

Antrim

Carrickfergus Christmas Market takes place this Saturday 15th December.  Enjoy the seasonal atmosphere and find your Christmas in Carrickfergus, where there will be carefully selected, delicious artisan food and unique, locally produced Arts and Crafts. The markets are managed by Mid and East Antrim Borough council in partnership with award-winning Naturally North Coast and Glens Touring Artisan Markets. Admission is free.

Belfast

This Christmas will see J.M. Barrie’s magical story of Peter Pan brought to life in gigantic proportions at the SSE Arena.  Reprising his role as the ultimate baddie Captain Hook is acclaimed actor and Spandau Ballet star Martin Kemp, and playing Hook’s simple-minded right-hand man Mr Smee, is the pun-tastic hilarious comedian and star of BBC Two’s Mock The Week, Milton Jones, who will be swashbuckling his way across the seven seas for the very first time. Matt Knight, who is once again playing the role of Peter Pan was in the band Iron Sun, who were semi-finalists in the BBC entertainment series Let It Shine. 15^th and 16^th December.

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

Jacqueline McGonigle

Down

Gina’s Santa Cottage is Santa’s very own home in Newry, Co. Down run in aid of the Southern Area Hospice. Owned by the Boyd Family, the cottage was renovated in memory of Gina Boyd who lost her life to cancer in September 2010. Nestled in the sleepy hills of Sheeptown Road, the cottage is run entirely by volunteers and welcomes over 2000 people each Christmas to meet Santa and his helpers. Over the years of operation the cottage has raised over £60,000 for the Hospice through the dedication of the Boyd Family and the Hospice staff and volunteers. Book your visit to meet Santa and have an experience which your family will never forget. Open from 7^th to 23^rd December.

Armagh

The Christmas Tree Festival at the First Presbyterian Church Armagh will tell the story of the life of Christ through Christmas trees. The  theme of the event is “Joy to the World”.  Light refreshments will be available throughout.  Proceeds will be divided between Church Organ Restoration Fund and Newry Hospice.  The event opens on Thursday 6th December 2018 at 1.00pm attended by the Lord Mayor and will remain open until 7.00pm. Further opening times are as follows: Friday 7th 12.00 noon to 7.00pm, Saturday 8th 10.00am  to 7.00pm and Sunday 9th 1.00pm to 7.00pm.

Fermanagh

Cancer Connect Enniskillen runs until the 9^th December. Families will begin their experience at the railway station located at Hollyhill. Once checked in at the ticket booth, you will be greeted by Mrs Claus and her elves who will treat everyone to complimentary mulled wine, hot chocolate, mince pies and cookies. Following some games and fun entertainment you will be invited to board the new Polar Express and travel through the beautiful town of Enniskillen, discovering the festive windows along the route and ending at Santas Grotto at the Buttermarket. Santa will have a special gift for each child and a photographer will be on site in Santa’s grotto to capture the moment.   The Enniskillen Christmas market will be open to the public in The Buttermarket. Following a visit with Santa you are welcome to browse through the market and have a ride on the carousel or enjoy a stroll through the town centre and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Families can avail of an “open return ticket” on the Polar Express returning to your parking area at the railway station at your leisure.

Tyrone

This festive season take the family back in time to experience the magic of a traditional Christmas at the Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh. Gather around the warmth of the turf fire and enjoy readings from The Night before Christmas, singalong with the Christmas Mummers, taste seasonal treats and meet Santa and Mrs Claus in his workshop. Day and evening tours available from 8^th to 16^th December.

Derry/Londonderry

The Staff of Specialist Joinery Group Maghera invite you to Project Santa 2018 on 8th and 9th December – even bigger and better than before! Over two days Specialist HQ will once again transform into a winter wonderland where Santa will be visiting to ensure that the “MAGIC CHRISTMAS SPRINKLER” has been fixed by the Specialist team!  As with last year’s event all proceeds raised will go directly to the charity legacy initiative’s 10 charities. It’s going to be MAGICAL!

Antrim

The Award Winning Enchanted Winter Garden returns to Antrim Castle Gardens from  7^th to 17th December with an evening of Inclusive Enchantment on Tuesday 18th for children and adults with specific needs.  See the gardens transformed into an Enchanted World! Returning this year is the ‘Antrim Wheel’ – a 35m Ferris Wheel offering breath taking views over Antrim and beyond, just one of the highlights of the dazzling array of attractions. This year there are a number of new attractions, including a Vintage Wave Swinger a Victorian Helter Skelter and an Extended Wonderland Wood.. To book tickets visit enchantedwintergarden.com

Belfast

Shelter NI Film Festival is back! As part of Homelessness Awareness Week events, Shelter NI in partnership with Belfast Film Festival will be hosting a 3-day film festival. Every day across Northern Ireland 50 families and individuals present as homeless.  You are invited, with your friends,  colleagues and family to help to combat homelessness and poor housing conditions by supporting Shelter NI on the 6th-7th-8th December 2018 at the Bean Bag Cinema, Exchange Place.  Doors at 7.00pm.

 

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.