Down

Join in the festive fun and entertainment at the Christmas Lights Switch on in Dromore town centre this Saturday 1^st December. There will be carol singing and festive fun in the market square, followed by free Santa’s grotto for the kids and a craft market for the grown-ups with lots of entertainment and fun for everyone!

Armagh

Leave winter behind this Christmas and escape to balmy oriental nights as The Market Place Theatre takes you on a high-flying, magical carpet ride headed for the exotic and mystical lands of The East, with the spectacular and breathtaking pantomime ‘Aladdin’.  Join a cast of well-loved characters including old Widow Twanky and her poor son Aladdin, and let your imagination take flight with this action-packed and mesmerizing pantomime. 1^st to 23^rd December.

Fermanagh

This Saturday 1st December will see the Christmas lights switched on in Irvinestown. Come along and enjoy the festivities as Irvinestown lights up for Christmas with a fun day and bazaar in the Church of Ireland Hall with Santa in attendance.

Tyrone

Little Red Riding Hood & The Silly Billy Wolf comes to the Burnavon Theatre Cookstown this Sunday afternoon, 2nd December.  This colourful, fast–paced all singing and dancing show is a fun and gentle re–telling of the classic fairy–tale of Little Red Riding Hood. Little Red Riding Hood is adventuring through the woods to visit her Granny, but somewhere along the way the Silly Billy Wolf is waiting. Children with have great fun joining in on the action, singing songs and playing games and meeting some amazing characters in this original show, written especially for this touring spectacular.

Derry/Londonderry

Join Seamus Heaney HomePlace for some Christmas celebrations on Friday 30th November and Saturday 1st December. Opening times are: Friday: 3pm-7pm (last admission 6pm), Saturday- 10am-4pm (last admission 3pm).  Listen to Mrs Claus read tales of Christmas adventure, take part in the sparkling arts and crafts, get your photograph taken with Santa Claus himself and receive a special present and finally, make your way through the candy cane garden to collect as many candy canes as you can.  Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Antrim

Colin Glen Forest Park hosts their annual Santa Run & Walk this Saturday 1^st December!  Get in the festive mood & get fit for the Christmas Break. Take on the 5K Santa Run & Walk at Colin Glen Forest Park and help raise funds for 2 great causes. All you need is a Santa Hat and your running gear. Santa Hats are provided!  Location: Colin Glen Forest Park. Registration Open from 11:15,  Race starts at 12 Noon Sharp.  Price: £12pp. Entry Fee includes medals, prizes, timing chip & bib, Santa Hat, AND a Goody Bag!. Profits from the run will be split between Colin Glen Trust and Glen Parent ‘families in need appeal’.

Belfast

Be a Claus for a good cause!  This year’s Santa Dash is on Sunday 2nd December at 10.00am, kicking off from Writers Square in Belfast City Centre.  It’s a fun-filled morning for families and friends. With hundreds of Santas expected to join in at the biggest Dash yet!  There are two options to get involved in. Join Santa and the Cool FM Breakfast team on his sleigh as they sing carols and wander on the 2K family walking route. Or take part in the official verified and timed new 5K route and get your PB in a Santa suit! All 5K participants will receive a Santa Dash finishers medal.  Registration  is £7.50 per adult for the Original 2K Dash and £25 for the 5K, and includes your free Santa suit!  Visit cancerfocusni.org to register.  Every pound from registrations and sponsorship will go towards the Family Support Service which helps local children when a significant adult in their lives has cancer.

 

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

Join in the festive fun and entertainment at the spectacular Christmas Lights Switch On in Holywood this Saturday! Holywood Chamber of Commerce have organised a Christmas market along Hibernia Street from 12.00pm – 6.00pm, the perfect way to soak up the seasonal atmosphere and even purchase some gifts. A real highlight for children will be a giant inflatable snowman that they can climb inside. Holywood District Community Council will be providing free family activities throughout the afternoon at Holywood Library. They have an exciting children’s fancy dress competition planned that will see the winner join Santa on his sleigh as he makes his way through the town centre and then the lucky child will join Santa and the Mayor of Ards and North Down on stage to switch on the Christmas lights at 4.30pm.

Armagh

Join Armagh Planetarium this Christmas as they journey back more than 2000 years to Bethlehem, and seek to discover an explanation for the star the Wise Men followed to find the baby Jesus in “Mystery of the Christmas Star”.  The show opens on Saturday 24th November and runs until Saturday 5th January 2019.  Show Times: Tuesday – Friday at 2.00pm, Saturday/School Holidays at 2.00pm and 4.00pm.  Evening shows on Tuesdays 4th, 11th and 18th December at 7:30pm.  For more information on show times and to book online visit www.armaghplanet.com.

Fermanagh

Craigville Garden Centre Christmas Craft and Food Fair Enniskillen takes place from  22^nd –  25th November.   The Christmas market will be packed full of gorgeous gifts, freshly baked treats, multicultural cuisine and warm drinks, from Craigville’s very own Log Cabin Coffee Shop. The fair also has great potential for some Christmas shopping as Crafters will be offering a range of unique handmade gifts. You are sure to find something special for your nearest and dearest! Entry to the fair is free and kids will have the opportunity to take a selfie with Elfie.

Tyrone

Make your way to Dungannon’s Magical Christmas Kingdom at the Hill of the O’Neill and Ranfurly House, Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th November, for lots of festive fun and entertainment for all the family to enjoy.  In Ranfurly House you will find; face painting, arts and crafts, the Elf n Safety team, Jump Jiggle and Jive (Saturday only) and the Fizz Wizz Pop magic show (Sunday only).  At the Hill of the O’Neill journey through the Nutcracker realms as you make your way to Santa’s Grotto. Then visit Santa’s stables to meet his real reindeer, make your own reindeer food, meet the LED spinning elves, enjoy a funfair ride, face painting and much more.

Derry/Londonderry

Visit the Magherafelt Christmas market from 11.00am on Saturday 24th  and 1.30pm on Sunday 25 November, and enjoy the vast array of food, craft and entertainment on offer over the festive weekend. On Saturday evening from 6pm – 8.30pm, Santa will arrive for a Street party on Broad Street with a Samba band, fire performers and entertainment before counting down to the magical Christmas lights switch on and fireworks display! Over the festive weekend the Bridewell, Magherafelt will also be home to Santa’s Grotto, Mrs Claus Storytelling & craft activities for children to enjoy. Opening times are: Saturday: 11.00am – 5.00pm; Sunday: 1.30pm – 5.00pm.

Antrim

Stuart Robinson kicks off Christmas in Antrim this Friday evening!  Santa and his friends will arrive at 7.20pm to officially light up the town but be sure to book the kids into the fun and furry teddy bear workshops beforehand. Taking place in Castle Mall at 4pm, 5pm or 6pm, tickets for the workshop are priced at £5 per child and £2.50 per adult. Tickets must be bought in advance from www.theatreatthemill.com.   Adding to the festive spirit will be a Twilight Market which will line the Square offering everything from Christmas gifts, food and treats from local traders as well as Bonkers Betty’s Bizarre Bazaar’s festive craft market.  A spectacular fireworks display will round off a great festive evening.

Belfast

Winter Wonderland is coming to Belfast City Centre this Christmas!  This Christmas spectacular will help you get into the festive mood from 23rd November, running daily apart from Christmas Day until Sunday 6th January!  Get your skates on for the covered open air ice rink!  Other activities to enjoy include Gandeys Greatest Snowman Circus, Christmas Attractions, Big Wheel, Festive Games, Festive Food, Festive Bars and much more!  Plus Santa’s reindeer will be coming to visit on 15th and 22nd of December. Opening times : 10.00am – 10.00pm daily. New Year’s Day 12 noon – 10.00pm.

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.  

Down

Bangor’s BIG Christmas Switch On brings a full day of festive fun this Saturday 17th November.  The Christmas market returns to the seafront, with an abundance of festive treats on offer. With over 20 local market stalls selling artisan foods and local crafts this is the perfect spot to kick off some early Christmas shopping. Grab a hot drink and soak up the atmosphere with music, face painting, a children’s carousel and much more – it will definitely put you in a festive mood!.  A lantern parade with over 100 lanterns will take you on a journey from Translink to the McKee Clock Arena led by Santa and the Mayor of Ards and North Down. Christmas Lights Switch On McKee Clock Arena 5.30pm.  The Mayor and Santa will light up Bangor’s Christmas tree followed by a spectacular fireworks display.

Armagh

The 25th William Kennedy International Piping Festival at the Market Place Theatre presents a Uilleann Pipes Concert on Sunday 18th November.  The festival’s annual flagship event features 6 world renowned masters plus a special showcase of young pipers from across Ireland featuring Louise Mulcahy, Mick O’Brien, Paddy Keenan, Seán McKeon, Seán Óg Potts, Síle Friel.  Young pipers showcase – Aoife Smyth, Peter McKenna, Jane Walls, Iarla McMahon & Amy Campbell.

Fermanagh

Never heard the Ulster Orchestra? Well here’s your chance to discover the magic of a full, live orchestra right on your doorstep at the Ardhowen Theatre this Thursday 15th November.  The Ulster Orchestra brings you Mozart’s beautiful Strassburg Concerto – the Strassburger being a popular folk tune which inspires the closing Rondo. Join star violinist Francesca Dego, conductor Daniele Rustioni and the Ulster Orchestra for a truly magical and memorable evening!

Tyrone

For the first time ever, the classic nursery rhyme Humpty Dumpty is brought to the stage in a wonderful all singing and dancing interactive production at the Strule Arts Centre on Saturday 17^th November.   Humpty is on a big adventure to climb the highest wall in the kingdom but needs your help. Singalong, solve puzzles and meet lots of famous characters including The Three Little Pigs, Little Bo Beep and the animals on Old McDonald’s Farm!  With amazing costumes, dazzling stage sets and a host of colourful characters.

Derry/Londonderry

Do you love running and dogs? Then this is the event for you and your canine friend!  Join Dog Trails NI on the stunning Benone Strand this Sunday for a canicross race and a day out your dog will love!  There will be a 5k race, and a novice and kids 3k race.  5k race 10.00am start.  3k race 11.00am start. Both races will be seeded fastest first with plenty of twists and turns on a course your dog will love!  Visit dogtrailsni.com for more information and to enter.

Antrim

Glengormley Lights Switch on and Christmas Market takes place this Saturday 17th November. Create a bear at the Christmas Fair Workshop at 1.30pm, 2.45pm or 4pm in Glengormley Pavilion. Tickets must be bought in advance from www.theatreatthemill.com and are priced at £5 per child, £2.50 per adult and include a visit to Santa’s Grotto. The Lillian Bland Community Park will be transformed with cosy cabins lining the path filled with Christmas gifts, food and treats from local traders as well as Bonkers Betty’s Bizarre Bazaar’s festive craft market. Santa and his bear friends will arrive at 5pm to officially light up Christmas in Glengormley.

Belfast

CastleCourt’s much-loved Christmas parade will return to the streets of Belfast city centre on Saturday, 17th November, officially marking the shopping centre’s month-long calendar of festive activity.  Setting off from Writer’s Square at 12 noon, Santa will again lead this year’s exciting line-up in his train and sleigh, joined for the first time by Mrs. Claus and Rudolph the Reindeer. The trio will lead the magical parade past St. Anne’s Cathedral along Donegal Street, arriving at Royal Avenue at 12.30pm.  Families are invited to follow the parade, alongside an amazing line up of giant characters and riveting performers, including glistening snowmen, sparkling Christmas trees and the cast of Belfast Operatic’s Elf The Musical, which will give spectators an exclusive preview performance of their new Christmas production.  The procession will culminate at CastleCourt, where Santa will take up residence in this year’s fabulous grotto at 1.00pm, and delight thousands of visiting children and their families until 24th 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.

Down

Step back in time with a visit to the exclusive 1950’s Vintage Tudor Cinema in Comber. It is fully equipped with comfy luxurious seating and a modern cinema screen. This is sure to be a fantastic night and tickets are already selling fast.  The Movie which was voted for by the public is ‘The Greatest Showman’ and will be screened this Wednesday 7^th November at 8.00pm.. This family friendly event is as a fundraiser for the Belfast Sub-Aqua Club Dive for Health Campaign. Everyone is welcome.  Included in the price of a ticket is a drink and snacks. Guests are welcome  anytime from 7:00pm onwards. Tickets are £10.00.  If you would like to reserve a ticket contact Ryan on 07340 360 819.

Armagh

Father and son team, Conal and Rory Gallen have written, what is, without doubt, their funniest comedy play ever! ‘Off Your Trolley’ is a rip-roaring, laugh-a-minute tale of life in a hospital ward! It’s packed with craic, confusion and constant laughter! Where the story leads? Nobody knows! See Off Your Trolley at the Market Place Theatre this Saturday evening.

Fermanagh

Armistice morning, Enniskillen Castle, 11th November.  Sunday 11th November 2018 will mark the day 100 years ago when the guns fell silent at the end of the First World War. The Inniskillings Museum will play its part in remembering the sacrifice of millions of men and women by joining in the national commemoration Battle’s Over, A Nation’s Tribute. The event will be a moving and atmospheric occasion to pay a personal and community tribute to those who gave their lives or returned home wounded during or after the dreadful darkness of four years of war from 1914 to 1918.

Tyrone

Colum Sands and Lily Neil weave the strings of guitar and harp around a tapestry of songs, tunes and stories to brighten a dark November night, this Saturday 10th at An Creagan. Colum’s original songs and stories draw on a lifetime of travel and performances from small folk clubs to venues like Carnegie Hall, New York.  Colum Sands and Lily Neil in concert is a shared experience of the colours of countless musical miles in the specially chosen spaces of intimate venues on winter nights. On this, their first tour together, it promises to be an evening to warm the heart.

Derry/Londonderry

On Thursday 8th November at 7.30pm come along to Moyola Park Golf Club Castledawson and enjoy a night full of inspiration, listening to two remarkable local ladies; Clodagh Dunlop and Emma Heatherington.  Clodagh will speak about her remarkable journey when at 37 years of age the young front line Police Officer was left with Locked-in Syndrome after suffering a devastating brain stem stroke. However, she astounded everyone with her remarkable recovery and continues to work daily on her recovery. Emma Heatherington is a book writing, song writing, script writing, busy mum from Co Tyrone – her novels have been described as ‘life affirming emotional dramas’, and include ‘The Legacy of Lucy Harte’ and ‘A Part of Me and You’.  Emma’s will speak of her journey which is also an amazing story full of sadness, laughter and lifetime experiences. For tickets call 07855570324.

Antrim

Join RSPB NI for a family scavenger hunt at Portmore Lough nature reserve this Saturday morning, searching out autumn’s bounty! Children will have the chance to explore the reserve and collect special objects along the way to use in nature-themed crafts. Price: £5 for children (non-members) / Free for RSPB members and all accompanying adults. Booking essential: Call the secure booking line 028 9064 5630 (Mon to Fri, 9am to 5pm) or email rspbnievents@rspb.org.uk. Please note children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Belfast

Dust off your glad rags for the Mad Hatters Charity Ball which will take place this Saturday 10th November at the Titanic Visitor Centre Belfast. The Champagne reception begins at 6.30 accompanied by live music from Bangor Grammar’s Jazz Band. Enjoy a delicious 4 course meal served in the beautiful Titanic Room following by a raffle and auction with some fabulous prizes up for grabs!  There will also be a casino and disco with Fusion providing the music. Funds raised on the evening will be donated to Macmillan Cancer Support, Cystic Fibrosis Trust and ADD.NI.

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

City of Merchants Festival Newry will once again thrill audiences with a spectacular fireworks display on Friday 2nd November at 8.30pm (with the best viewing area along Fathom Line).  Also on Friday, Festival-goers will be treated to music, entertainment and scrumptious scran at the Twilight Market from 5.00pm –11.00pm at Newry Variety Market in John Mitchel Place and are encouraged to walk across to the viewing area for the fireworks. There will be a carnival atmosphere before and following the fireworks display, with lights, fire and pyrotechnics for all to enjoy.  This year, as part of the festival, the Walking Tours of Newry will have a railway theme, coinciding with Newry and Mourne Museum’s forthcoming exhibition on railway transport.  Also in Bagenal’s Castle will be a banquet with themed entertainment.

Armagh

Immerse yourself in the mystical side of Armagh heritage at the Astral Weeks party this Sunday 4^th November.   Step through the Armagh County Museum doors into an after-dark event celebrating the mysticism in Armagh’s hidden histories and the 50th anniversary of Van Morrison’s Astral Weeks with Classic Album Sundays . Join CAS founder Colleen ‘Cosmo’ Murphy and journalist Stuart Bailie and experience Astral Weeks in a way you never heard before. They’ll be discussing the stories behind the album followed by a vinyl replay on a world-class audiophile sound system courtesy of Kronos Audio Visual .

Fermanagh

Join  Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre for Bloomfields Horrible Halloween. An afternoon of freaky fun with a programme of activities to keep children of all ages amused. Event starts at 12noon on Wednesday 31st October with special Bloomfield Horrible Halloween Guided Trails, follow the map to unveil the clues. Spooky Stories told by Bloomfield’s daughter Arabella. There will be a Halloween special for the adults to enjoy in the Belleek Restaurant. Guided Trails 12.00 pm | 2.00pm | 3.00pm.  Admission £3.00 per child.  Book early to avoid disappointment.  Email: takethetour@belleek.ie.

Tyrone

The UK’s No.1 and world’s busiest swing and jive band, The Jive Aces present their biggest theatre show to date, the Big Beat Revue at the Strule Arts Centre on Friday 2^nd November.  Featuring special guests, vintage pinup dancing, singing and tapping troupe, The Satin Dollz; The low down baritone sax of Lottie B and the smooth accordion of Grazia Bevilacqua, this show features the best in 40s and 50s jive, rhythm and blues and rock and roll.  With classic tunes from artists such as Louis Jordan, Louis Prima & Keely Smith, Big Joe Turner and Bobby Darin with the flair of an Alan Freed rock and roll extravaganza, this show will have you out of your seat with its larger than life big-beat sound!

Derry/Londonderry

The Health, Well-Being & Natural Therapies Expo will be bringing you some of Ireland’s finest and most popular Therapists, Treatments, Holistic Retailers and Readers at the Guildhall this Saturday and Sunday.  There will also be Inspirational Talks & Workshops so that you can experience what the Holistic field has to offer. The energy emanating from our events is always amazing and many have commented in the past of how it made them feel.  Admission £4.

Antrim

Join the Theatre at the Mill if you dare, for a trick, treat and scare at the upcoming production of Sleepy Hollow! Magically travel back in time with school friends Amy, Irving and Charlie to meet schoolmaster Ichabod Crane and hero Brom Bones, as they battle for the attention of the enchanting Katie Van Tassel at the school disco.  Meet the crazy Halloween characters of the 1800’s and watch out for the Headless Horseman!   Time: 7.45pm, Matinee 2.30pm, Saturday 3rd & Sunday 4th November.

Belfast

Crumlin Road Gaol is one of Belfast’s most haunted buildings and now you can get the chance to carry out investigations with experts in the field of Paranormal Activity. On the 4 Hour Paranormal Investigation this Saturday night you will be taken to the most active areas in the Gaol and  given the chance to use equipment used by experts while conducting your very own ghost hunt. The areas you will visit will include the reception, the condemned man’s cell, execution chamber, the tunnel and the flogging room.  Paranormal Gaol Investigations are carried out in low light conditions and are not suitable for expectant mothers. They are serious ghost hunts and not for the faint hearted! Suitable warm clothing and flat shoes must be worn.  Suitable for 18 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

This Saturday 27th October seas the return of the hugely popular Seapark Fireworks to Seapark Recreation Grounds which transforms into a hive of activity from 4.00pm.  Wrap up warm against the brisk Seapark air to enjoy the children’s funfair and live music by local band The Jukes. A selection of food stalls packed with delicious bites will be on hand to help take the chill off.  The excitement culminates for the always impressive fireworks display at 8.00pm, set to a music soundtrack. Remember to bring a torch to navigate the grounds, finding the perfect spot to view the display.  The fun continues until 9pm.

Armagh

Little Spooks at Navan Fort from 27^th to 31^st October is the perfect Halloween experience for boys and girls who aren’t afraid of enjoying some spooky surprises.  A Halloween Bride & Gloom Story – Do you have the courage to be witness at the ceremony?  With an undead bride and ghostly groom, join the hapless couple on the most memorable day of their lives (or afterlives).  The witch’s cabin is just a short walk away along the winding path. Discover what ghastly ingredients go into a witch’s cauldron and, if you are brave enough to torture your taste buds, there will be a truly gruesome brew freshly prepared just for you.  Proceed along the path to the Palace of the Pumpkin Prince. There, you will hear some startling stories sure to put a shiver up your spine.

Fermanagh

Leave daylight behind as you join a 15th century Maguire’s House Party in Enniskillen Castle this Friday 26th October. The castle doors will swing open for one night only, with live music, an on-site bar, and medieval-inspired food.  Alt-rockers Emerald Armada will be headlining music on the night, with support acts to be announced. Grab a drink from The Giddy Box vintage bar and roam the castle to discover music, performance, and some 15th-century guests that once revelled in the medieval stronghold. The Castle Café will be serving a medieval-inspired menu of stew and soup served in traditional edible ‘trencher’ plates made of bread, alongside sharing platters. Get ready to party like it’s 1499.  Strictly over 18s.

Tyrone

Mid Ulster Sports Arena will host their annual Halloween Fireworks Display on Saturday 27th October from 5.30pm when hundreds of people are expected to gather to enjoy some scary antics at Mid Ulster Sports Arena Cookstown, before the grand finale fireworks extravaganza at 8pm that will brighten up the dark skies into a fantastic fanfare of colour and lights.  Children can get ghoulishly creative at the Halloween themed arts and crafts station, listen to storytelling by Winifred the witch, be amazed by the fire performers, have a spin in the Vortex Tunnel and get to meet our spooktastic Halloween characters throughout the evening.  Children will also be able to burn off some wicked energy at the climbing wall, krazy karts and caterpillar train.  There will be music, face painting and lots more to help keep your little monsters entertained. If you get hungry, there’ll be a wide range of food stalls offering sweet and savoury tempting treats.

Derry

On Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th October, Drumnaph Nature Reserve will come alive at night to celebrate the Celtic festival, Samhain.  Samhain was celebrated by our Ancestors and it marked the end of the harvest and the beginning of the ‘Dark Half’ of the year. Remember to wrap up warm and wear appropriate footwear for the journey.  Don’t forget to bring your own lantern too. Delicious, homemade refreshments will be available when you return to our new café at An Carn.  Book your tickets online at www.ancarn.yapsody.com.

 

Antrim

This Thursday 25^th October, The Junction, Antrim  will host their Halloween Spectacular.  This year’s theme is Day of the Dead and your little ghosts, goblins and ghouls are invited to come along in their scariest costumes. Join Stephen, Cate and the Q Radio roadshow to see who picks up the bag full of tricks and treats for the best dressed. We will also have fire jugglers, face painting, arts & crafts and spooky characters to keep everyone entertained.  The celebrations reach a crescendo around 8.00pm, with a spectacular fireworks extravaganza.  Free shuttle bus departs from Dunsilly and Market Square, Antrim to The Junction, at regular intervals from 5.45pm. Access to the event is by Ballymena Road entrance only.  Firework display is subject to weather conditions.

 

Belfast

Enjoy a ride in a restored steam train from Belfast Central, along the shores of Belfast Lough to Whitehead Railway Museum and return this Sunday 28^th October. Ghosts and ghoulies of all ages are invited to come along in seasonal costume to sample the unique steamy Halloween atmosphere. All children holding a ticket will receive a spooky goody bag from the wicked witch!  Departing from Belfast Central Station at 11.00am.  Book online at www.steamtrainsireland.com.

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

This Friday enjoy a night at the museum, but not as you know it. For one strange night, Bagenal’s Castle will morph into a sideshow circus. Arrive at the castle to see the walls illuminated by fire dancers, while the circus ringmaster invites you to embrace your darker side and celebrate the rich performing arts history of Newry.  Once inside, professional make-up artists and historical costume collection will make sure you look the part. Then, get ready to get weird with ‘dangerous harpist’ Ursula Burns Music, and comedians and magicians Paul Currie Comedian and George Firehorse. Stop by the mysterious fortune teller, or roll up to some Street Countdown and a Sideshow Ramone performance.  The best of local food and drink will be served too – with sweet treats, coffee, and artisan street food outside, to craft gin, beer and cider tastings within the castle walls.

Armagh

Frankenstein, Friday 19th October, Market Place Theatre. ‘If I cannot inspire love, I will cause fear!’ On the 200th anniversary of the publication of the great Gothic novel, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein’s Monster will be reanimated, piece-by-piece. Wireless Mystery Theatre – Ireland’s longest-running audio theatre company – will bring the creature to life with galvanisation, harnessed lightning, and their usual mix of live music, sound foley, and horror.  You’ll get the shock of your life!  This event takes place in the Studio Theatre with an unreserved, tiered seating layout.

Fermanagh

This Wednesday 17th October, Music in Fermanagh is proud to present Enniskillen born Kristan Swain, the flautist who is making a huge name for himself across the water, including his appearances as guest principal flute for the Philharmonic Orchestra. Kristan is noted for playing ‘Danny Boy’ for HM the Queen during her historic Diamond Jubilee visit to Enniskillen.  He will be accompanied by Máire Carroll, International concert pianist, who has performed throughout Europe, Asia and North America. They will give us music by Berkeley, Hindemith, Hamilton Harty, Philip Hammond, Mouquet, Gaubert, Demersseman, Debussy, Hüe and Fauré. Ardhowen Theatre Enniskillen.

Tyrone

Uncover the ancient traditions of Halloween at the Ulster American Folk Park Omagh from 20th to 31st October. Learn about the jack-o-lantern, trick or treating and traditional treats. Sample seasonal foods like colcannon, barnbrack and pumpkin pie. Have your fortune told, listen to stories by the fireside and pose for a picture beside the pumpkin patch. Watch out for some spooky friends as you stroll through the autumn leaves and past the creaking cottages and cabins.

Derry/Londonderry

Carrowmena Field of Screams is back this Halloween with Haunting Nights in the Maize Maze from the 19th to 29th October. Do you dare to enter the Maze and battle your way through the Twists, Turns & Deadends? Opening Times: 7.30pm – 10pm.  Ages: 14 years+. £9 per person. Field of Screams takes place at Carrowmena Activity Centre’s Maize Maze at 100 Carrowclare Road, Limavady. Online booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.

Antrim

Explore the Galgorm Castle Estate at night  at the Galgorm Castle Spooky Hallow Night on 19^th and 20^th October with Brilliant Trails.  With your map and torch discover Halloween’s urban legends that lurk around the estate woods from Dracula to Funny bones and even the Corpse Bride. Each will tell a tale of how they came to be..  Feed the senses with an indulgent, freshly cooked BBQ cooked on the grill by Foodie Folk to tantalise your taste buds and plenty of toffee apples, marshmallows and coffee available to buy to keep you going to next year.

Belfast

W5 Late returns for Halloween on Saturday 20th October! W5 Late is a strictly adults-only, after-hours evening at Northern Ireland’s award-winning science and discovery centre!  Don your scariest costume for chills and thrills and explore over 250 interactive exhibits in four incredible exhibition areas.  Discover what lurks within the haunted mansion ‘Monster Manor’ but beware you might see some unexpected characters along the way! Get up close to some creepy crawlies and engage with the experts in our spooktacular series of lecture theatre talks as we explore the science of fear, plus SO much more!  There will be a fully licensed bar where you can have a glass of wine or cold beer.  Online booking essential.

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

Take steps to help Nexus break the silence on sexual violence by taking part in ‘Gems of the Mournes’ trek on Saturday 13th October.  Experience some of the most beautiful scenery the Mournes has to offer. Starting at Meelmore lodge, follow the Trassey River to Hare’s Gap. Climb up the amazing Slieve Bearnagh, continuing your journey, passing the feet of Slieve Meelmore & Meelbeg, heading south into the heart of the Mournes, Doan. Proceed North West picking up the Mourne Way past Fofanny Dam and back to Meelmore Lodge for some refreshments. Distance – 8-10 miles. This is graded as a moderate walk – suitable for people with country walking experience and a good level of fitness. May include some steep paths and open country. Walking boots are essential. Not recommended for those under 18 years but children aged 16-17 years and accompanied by an adult may take part.

Armagh

Apple Sundays at Ardress, every Sunday in October. Have a go at using the traditional apple press to make your own apple juice and ‘pick your own’ fruit from the orchard at Ardress House.  Local fruit farmer, Dermot Morgan will also be on hand to give information on the Armagh Bramley Apple.  Enjoy apple teas in the historic threshing barn, decorated with apple bunting and flowers and Learn about the history of the orchards surrounding Ardress on a guided tour.

Fermanagh

See Lough Erne your way with Erne Water Taxi’s chauffeur driven boats. Travel in the comfort of a covered 8- seater boat, complete with cab, without having to worry about the driving. Your tour guide will help you explore the history of Lough Erne. Leaving from Enniskillen at the side of Fermanagh Lakeland Forum Leisure Centre, pick up and drop off can also be arranged from any accessible jetty on Lough Erne.  Services Available until the end of October. Prices: £60 per hour for the hire of the boat and driver / tour guide (1-8 persons).

Tyrone

This Sunday at the Alley Theatre Strabane, using mime, puppetry and songs, Eddy the Teddy’s going off on holiday to the seaside with his best friend Sammy and is hoping to have a nice relaxing time, but with Eddy the Teddy, adventure is never far away.  Tickets £4, family of four £12.

Derry/Londonderry

The Jungle’s award winning Fright Night returns in 2018 bigger, scarier and full of delightfully devilish twists!  This year’s Fright Night will see the return of the horrid and harrowing “Woodland Trail”. Unveiling two amazing new sets, a brand new haunting story, coupled with special effects, atmospheric lighting throughout and a creepy cast of nefarious creatures. From 12th October to 3rd November.

Antrim

Celebrate our rich potato history this weekend at the Randox Northern Ireland Potato Festival – a must for everyone who loves the humble spud.  A great day out for all the family, with artisan foods, children’s activities, cookery demonstrations, talks, celebrity chefs, arts and crafts, helicopter flights, children’s rides, displays and exhibits, farm machinery and much more.  Free Shuttle Bus from Bushmills.  This year there is also a Causeway Coast Foodie Tour on Friday 12th October incorporating farm visits, a factory tour of Glens Potatoes/Crisps and tourist attractions surrounding the Causeway Coast.

Belfast

Take a Belfast Singing and Walking Tour this Sunday with  Jane Cassidy and Maurice Leyden.  During the singing tour, the public will be able to see first-hand how the local heritage comes to life on the streets and in the buildings. It will be eye-catching and unexpected, creating an enjoyable tour. Tickets for this event are free but booking is required.

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

 

 

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Warrior Assault, Bangor Aurora, this Saturday 6th October,  is the newest Obstacle Course Race to hit Northern Ireland! With two courses, one for adults and one for children, Warrior Assault is a fun packed obstacle course race for kids and adults! Ticket Prices Adult: £40, Teen (12-15): £17.50, Child (4-11): £12.00, Family Pass (2 adults + 2 children): £85.  The adult course is suitable for anyone over 16+ years, from complete beginner to regular OCR pros. The course has a 5km and 10km option – simply choose on the day which one you’re going to tackle!

Armagh

For the first time ever, the much loved Fairy-tale Goldilocks and the Three Bears comes to the stage at Portadown Town Hall this Sunday, in an unforgettable live stage production of song and laughter. Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Ruff The dog! and Mr Bunny, perform live on stage, right before their eyes in this exciting and fun filled musical production.

Fermanagh

Motorcycle Racing returns to Fermanagh in the form of the Enniskillen 100 Revival this Saturday 6^th October – Ulster Superbike Championship Round 9.   16 races around the 1.2 mile airfield circuit. Non-stop action will see Ulster championship titles being won from 125/250 cc right up to 1000cc superbikes. Expect full grids of riders of all abilities and from all over Ireland. Parking available onsite. Admission £10.

Tyrone

The Leonard Brown Show at the Alley Theatre this Saturday 6^th October will be an action packed journey of music, dancing and laughter.  After their sell out tour of North East England and Scotland, the show is coming to Strabane! Featuring Leonard Brown, champion accordionist and his All Star Band, up and coming country singer Chrissy Mac, Smith-McCarron Irish Dancers and the comedian and entertainer Gene Fitzpatrick.

Derry/Londonderry

On Sunday 7th October The Jungle NI are hosting their kids Zombie Run with a 2km and 6km zombie chasing course.  This is an obstacle run with a fiendish Halloween twist – think Rampage meets The Walking Dead!  Each runner starts with THREE lives (represented by flags worn about the waist) but, in addition to the running, the overcoming of obstacles and the manoeuvering through mud, runners also face ZOMBIES who will give chase in attempt to steal one of their three lives.  The runner’s objective is to make it to the finish line with as many lives as possible intact. The Zombie’s objective, however, is to steal your lives, so when you hear gunshot be prepared to run, for you only have three lives and the monstrous, prowling zombies are a determined bunch!

Antrim

Charity dinner in aid of Childrens Heartbeat Trust NI, Tullglass Hotel, Ballymena, Saturday 6^th October.  Start the evening with a drinks reception, followed by a four course meal, raffle/auction and then dance the night away.  Get dressed up and have a good night while raising funds for an amazing cause.  £35 per person with discount for bookings of 10 or more. For tickets or further information contact Tracy 07843 812 867. All money raised in aid of Children’s Heartbeat Trust NI Charity No: NIC102410.

Belfast

This Saturday 6^th October,  The Crescent Arts Centre is delighted to welcome to the stage the sensational blues and roots sing, songwriter and guitarist Gráinne Duffy.  Hailing from Castleblayney, Co.Monaghan, Ireland, she has been described by The Sunday Times as ‘a blues singer of real integrity’. She is a pioneer of her own style while also paying sincere homage to her roots, soul, blues, country and rock traditions and has spent the last number of years touring in Europe, Scandinavia, Asia and Canada.

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

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The Ballynahinch Harvest Festival returns on Saturday 29th September  with a jam packed schedule of FREE fun for all the family from 10.00am – 4.00pm.  There will be music, arts and crafts, a merry-go-round, a petting farm and LIVE music from The Untouchables in Market Square from 1.00pm – 3.00pm.  There’s something for everyone and best of all – it’s absolutely FREE!   Stay tuned to the event page for updates on activities and times.

Armagh

This ever-popular tribute show to the iconic Luke Kelly of The Dubliners, returns to The Market Place Theatre Armagh for a 13th consecutive year in what promises to be another memorable performance on Saturday 29^th September. Featuring the acclaimed vocals of one of Ireland’s finest ballad voices of today, Chris Kavanagh, this performance will take the audience on a journey through the numerous hit songs, music and times of the legendary Luke Kelly.

Fermanagh

Castle Coole is the venue this Saturday 29th September for the Classical Music Tour as the magnificent Grand Hall is brought to life with an array of musical scores from internationally renowned flautist Karin Leitner, accompanied by harpist Teresa O’Donnell on their tour of Ireland. Tickets are £15 and booking is essential.

Tyrone

Look ‘hot on The Hill’ this September as Mid Ulster District Council’s popular fashion event, Heels on The Hill, returns for its seventh year, after a short break last year.  The Dungannon style extravaganza, organised by the Council in partnership with Style Academy, will take place on Thursday 27th September on the Hill of The O’Neill, Dungannon with doors opening at 7.30pm.  Tickets cost £8. The event promises to sell out fast and numbers are limited so purchase your ticket today by contacting Ranfurly House Arts and Visitor Centre on 028 8772 8600.

Derry/Londonderry

The best of local, clean, fair food is on the menu as Derry City and Strabane District Council welcome the return of the Slow Food Festival on the 29th & 30th September in the Guildhall Square.  Slow Food is a global, grassroots organisation that promotes the true enjoyment of good food with the commitment to community and the environment – a major two-day celebration showcasing the best of local, clean, fair food from across the North West.  Featuring Slow Food Market, talks & demos from Paula McIntyre and Aine Carlin, tours & tastings, street food, family fun and lots more!

Antrim

Saturday 29th September is Volunteers Day at Whitehead Railway Museum. The Museum are always seeking new volunteers to keep their trains on the track. Have you go what it takes?  There are opportunities in a myriad of disciplines, so why not come along and see what we are all about?  If not interested, you can still visit and experience the steam train which will be operating within our premises at Whitehead Excursion Station.  Visitors will be able to see at close hand how this magnificent machine works.  You will be able to talk to the Driver and Fireman and to see the footplate.

Belfast

Back by popular demand this Sunday at the Belfast Castle, The Bohemian Bazaar is an event for free spirits which brings a modern approach to a holistic lifestyle together with a contemporary marketplace of artisan crafts. Around 50 exhibitors will be offering an inspirational range of services and products covering health and beauty, holistic and spiritual, food and drink, fashion and accessories, home and garden, as well as hobbies and play, rest and relaxation. Admission is only £2.

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