Down

Join in with all the craic and banter this St Patrick’s Day at Exploris in Portaferry with their underwater and reptilian friends. Take part in themed arts and crafts in the Crabby Craft club or get your hands wet with daily open pool demonstrations. Plus, lots more surprises for all the family.  Book your tickets online (24 hours in advance) to be fast tracked and discounted.

Armagh

Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in Armagh with a spectacular display of colour, music, dance and entertainment for all to enjoy as the wonderful procession snakes it way through the city centre. The procession route runs from the Palace Demesne, Irish Street, Ogle Street, Thomas Street, Market Street, Market Street to English Street, onto Cathedral Road, past the Shambles Yard before finishing at the grounds of Cathedral Road Recreation Centre.

Fermanagh

Enjoy a St. Patrick’s Day like no other in Ireland’s only island town, Enniskillen.

Broadmeadow : 1:30pm – 3.30pm, St. Patrick’s Day Water Activities & Family Fun Day, Broadmeadow. Free family fun day at the Lakeland Forum with special guests and activities including face painting, bouncy castles & live music.   St. Patrick Arrives at the Broadmeadow for a meet and greet, grab a selfie!  St. Patrick leads off the parade from the Forum through our island town. 3.30pm – 4.30pm Festival Parade from The Forum to The Enniskillen Castle.

Town Centre : 2.30pm –3.30pm Street Entertainment featuring a live music entertainment. 3.30pm Main Parade, Performances at East Bridge Street, The Diamond and Church Street.

Tyrone

The long goodbye – in addition to the vibrant music, crafts and festivities for the Ulster American Folk Park St Patrick’s Day Celebrations on Saturday 17 March, costumed guides will be re-enacting the emotive send-off which was carried out by countless thousands of people before their voyage from Ireland to America in the 1700s and 1800s. Known as the ‘American’ or ‘Living Wake’, re-live this dramatic re-enactment complete with music, song and dance as the family gather to bid a sad farewell to the departing emigrant. Normal Folk Park admission pricing applies, for more information visit www.nmni.com

 

Derry/Londonderry

Celebrate St Patrick’s Day 2018 with an action packed weekend of activities for all the family at the St Patrick’s Spring Carnival, Derry this Saturday and Sunday. The two day festival will be a celebration of Music, Food and Culture and include a number of key events throughout the city including St. Patrick’s Day Carnival Parade, Ubuntu Global Festival and the LegenDerry Food Festival​. For more information visit derrystrabane.com/springcarnival.

Antrim

On Saturday 17 March celebrate St Patrick’s Day climbing the slopes of historic Slemish.  There are spectacular views, an exceptional outdoor experience and some traditional entertainment on offer as thousands trek up Slemish Mountain this St. Patrick’s Day.  Raceview Mill and Broughshane & District Community Association will provide the hub of the event, with free activities for all the whole family to enjoy, from artisan market with live demos, children’s entertainment, small speciality car show and live music.

Belfast

Enjoy a family fun day at Colin Glen this St Patrick’s Day, with a range of activities, including the very popular Gruffalo Trail, Fairy village and Stick man Trails.  The event will mark the launch of the Spring/Summer season for the park and visitors will be able to have a go at a range of outdoor activities, such as the climbing wall, zip line, high and low ropes course, laser tag and archery.  Of course, being St. Patrick’s Day, the park will be filled with music & entertainers and children will be able to get into the atmosphere with glitter tattoo’s, balloon modellers and bouncy castles. There will also be a food & craft village, so you can take a break from the activities and browse through some of the stalls.

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

The next concert in the series of Music In The Chamber concerts at Bangor Castle, is taking place on Friday 9th March and will feature the hugely popular alt-folk band Runabay. With uplifting melodies, complex instrumentation, their music will appeal to fans of artists like José Gonzalez and Fleet. Don’t miss this chance to catch the band in the beautiful surroundings of The Chamber room at Bangor Castle. Show time is 8pm.  Tickets cost £10 and are on sale now at www.ticketsource.co.uk/ardsandnorthdown. Tickets can also be purchased from North Down Museum or any of Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Visitor Information Centres.

Armagh

Navan Centre & Fort is the setting this Friday evening for a unique experience learning about the mysteries and wonders of the night sky. Observe the stars with expert astronomers from Armagh Observatory and Planetarium and discover the importance of the night sky during the time of St Patrick.  Hosted by BBC Weather presenter Barra Best, attendees will have the opportunity to see the sky through telescopes. As this is an outdoor event, attendees are encouraged to dress accordingly and please bring along your own binoculars and/or cameras if you wish. Booking essential.

Fermanagh

Haiku Poetree Walk/Workshop at Cladagh Glen, 10th March at 11.00am to 1.00pm.  Meet at Marble Arch Caves Visitor  Centre.  In honour of National Tree Week this event is hosted by local writer and Geopark Guide Bee Smith.  Take a walk down Cladagh Glen along the river, passing shake holes and cascades.  Create little haiku poems inspired by this splendid wet ash woodland.  Please wear sturdy footwear and warm waterproof clothing.  Bring a notebook and pen.

Tyrone

Treat your mum to a relaxing Afternoon at the Silverbirch Hotel Omagh this Saturday 10th March, and enjoy a delicious four course Afternoon Tea Menu, which begins with an amuse bouche followed by a selection of finger sandwiches, sumptuous cakes and scones served with fresh cream and local jam served with a selection of leaf teas (choose from Earl Grey Bravo, Hazelnut, Whiteberry, Apricot Green, Peach Oolong and Irish Breakfast Tea) or coffee and glass of bubbles!  Incudes treat pack for Mum. Live entertainment by Monte Thompson.

Derry/Londonderry

PROJECT TRACTOR & the BIG Country Breakfast on Saturday 10th March, is the second of a series of community focused fundraising events held by the Specialist Joinery Maghera to celebrate 30 years in business. Festivities will begin at 9.00am, with a bumper Charity Breakfast. Country star Richie Remo will provide the headline act for a strong bill of entertainment throughout the morning. Arbutus Catering will provide the tasty event catering.  Entry for Children is free and they will be entertained by an adventure playground and a selection activities. The cavalcade of Tractors will roll out from Specialist HQ at 1.00pm sharp, to travel the 30 mile Anniversary Route via Maghera, Tobermore, Draperstown, Desertmartin, Magherafelt, Castledawson, Bellaghy, Gulladuff & then finally return to Specialist HQ.

Antrim

To coincide with Larne Art Club’s Spring Exhibition, which will be on display, art club members will be hosting a ‘hands on with art’ day this Saturday 10^th March, giving visitors the chance to have a go at art using different mediums with an opportunity to learn more about being a member of Larne Art Club. Light refreshments provided. Everyone welcome!  10.00am – 4.30pm. Free admission.

Belfast

The 20th Belfast Children’s Festival takes place from the 9th to 14th March.  Dive into the packed programme of theatre, visual art, music, dance, literature, workshops and talks, guaranteed to inspire joy, creativity and curiosity.  Check out the Big Botanic Birthday Bash, which will be jam-packed with free activity for families over the main festival weekend.  The festival also offers a diverse programme aimed at adults, professional arts practitioners and those working and studying in related fields. See the full programme at www.youngatart.co.uk.

 

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

May The Road Rise Up, this Friday at the Sean Hollywood Arts Centre Newry, is a  fast-paced, comedy rollercoaster about a woman who resolves to live life to the full no matter what it flings at her. When Mia’s boyfriend leaves her, she falls into debt and loses her job, but she still stays cheerful throughout our recessionary times.  Written by Rosemary Jenkins who is currently the writer-in-residence at the Lyric Theatre.

Armagh

Empowerment for Women with Wendy Porter, The Market Place Theatre Armagh this Saturday 3rd March, is a fun, informal workshop to help you realise your potential. You will learn relaxation techniques and how to handle stress, how to find your voice and stand up for yourself, positive thinking and how to become more confident. Tickets £10.

Fermanagh

Visit Fermanagh’s Visitor Attractions for FREE, 2nd to 4th March as part of Discover Fermanagh Open Weekend. To kick off the season, many of Fermanagh’s visitor attractions are opening their doors for free! With a wealth of visitor attractions in Fermanagh take this opportunity to visit and explore what Fermanagh has to offer.

Tyrone

Join Liz Weir, Storyteller, at the Burnavon on  World Book Day 2018 this Thursday 1^st March,  for an inspiring story session with your child. Liz has the extraordinary ability to inspire even  the most reluctant reader.  She will tell stories  which bring words and the world to life!  Allow Liz to  stimulate your creativity and become immersed  in a world of fantasy.  Why not come dressed as your favourite book character, and really get into the world of make-believe!  2.30pm (ages 3 – 6), 4.00pm (ages 7 – 10). Admission is free.

Derry/Londonderry

Love the outdoors? Join Derry & Strabane District Council in exploring the greenways in the City and District at a fun family activity event entitled Love My Greenway, taking place on Saturday 3rd March at the Peace Bridge in Derry, (cityside entrance).  Taking place from 11.00 am to 3.00pm the event will feature a series of fun filled activities for all the family aimed at promoting the greenways and encouraging people to get outdoors, get active and help improve their health and well-being.

Antrim

Following the success of All Shook Up, Fortwilliam Musical Society returns to Theatre at The Mill with their production of Sister Act. The stage show follows the story of Deloris Van Cartier who is in hiding in a local Convent after witnessing the criminal activity of her mobster boyfriend, set to songs Take Me to Heaven, I Could Be That Guy and Raise Your Voice. 27^th February to 3^rd March.

Belfast

The Dirty Onion’s first Pooch Social event of 2018 is taking place this Sunday 4th March. Enjoy an afternoon of live music, BBQ and doggy fair, selling locally produced food and accessories for your dog. Your furry friends are welcome, so you can enjoy the event with your doggo!  Live music throughout the day and into the evening.  Event in aid of Lucy’s Trust dog charity who help re-home unwanted dogs.

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

Have you got what it takes to put your powers of sleuthing to the ultimate test? Then “The Point of Murder”, a brand new 1940’s Country House themed Murder Mystery Weekend at The Lough & Key Hotel Warrenpoint is where you should be this weekend! This two day immersive Murder Mystery weekend will transport you back to war time Ireland for an experience not to be missed.  From the moment you arrive on the Saturday afternoon, to your departure on Sunday after the final lunch, mystery, intrigue and top notch entertainment will be the order of the day.

Armagh

Join Armagh City Hotel for an amazing Girls Night Out this Friday at the Something Blue Fashion Event! See the latest styles from leading boutiques Creative Ideas Bridal, Shauna Fay Designs, Crystal, Mary Curry, The Dressing Room & Paynters Menswear, showcased on the catwalk. The evening will be compered by Denise Curran Styling & Events. All proceeds will go to Sands NI (Stillbirth & Neonatal Death Support) to help fund a Bereavement Suite in Craigavon & Daisy Hill Hospitals.  Tickets available from all participating boutiques & online.

Fermanagh

Colin Murphy is coming to Ardhowen Theatre, Enniskillen for his Bald Ambition Tour on 23rd February 2018. Known for his role as resident panellist on the BBC Northern Ireland comedy show, The Blame Game, Colin will be making the humdrum fun with support from Mary Flannigan.

Tyrone

The Hothouse Flowers are a jam band with their own homemade jam spread into all corners of the bread!  Despite the band’s lengthy career, which is now heading into its forth decade, there is a sense of unfinished business.  There are still songs to be written and emotions to share, whether it’s in a tiny club, an arena or in a festival field, there is a sense that the best is yet to come.  See them perform live this Saturday 24^th February at the Alley Theatre Strabane.

Derry/Londonderry

It’s Freak Out Friday this Friday at Carrowmena Activity Centre Limavady, offering outdoor activities for crazy prices for the last Sunday the month.  Climbing Wall, Leap Of Faith & Archery Price – £10pp at 11.00 am & 2.00pm.  Enjoy a morning of Adventure Sports with Leaping from Heights, Tackling the 28ft Climbing Wall & Shoot Golds in the Archery Range. Your Instructor will guide you through the morning events.

Antrim

Ever fancied building your own castle?  Then join in the fun at Carrickfergus Castle Museum this Saturday 24^th February from 2.00pm to 4.00pm  to create a colourful cardboard castle, fit for royalty.  This is the perfect opportunity for your little ones to use their imagination, it’s super practical and always lots of fun!  Suitable for ages 1-5 and admission is free!

Belfast

Peace Proms returns to the stage of the SSE Arena Belfast at 3.00pm on Sunday 25th February 2018 and promises to be a huge celebration of youth, music, energy and sheer talent on an epic scale.  Peace Proms is an outstanding production, suitable for all the family – young and old! The critically acclaimed Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland will perform with the Belfast Children’s Peace Choir which is made up of 3,500 Primary School children from all over Northern Ireland.

 

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

Calling all little superheroes this Thursday 15^th and Friday 16^th February! Join The Outlet in Banbridge for an action packed half term, where kids will get the chance to help protect the universe against evil arch enemies by designing and building their very own superhero using lego-bricks.  Children aged 5 – 11 years old are invited to create their favourite superheroes by visiting the free craft workshop, where they will go home with an official superhero certificate for demonstrating their super powers and completing their model (1-hour slots available from 11.00 am – 2pm and 3pm – 5pm).

Armagh

Enjoy a free day at Navan Fort’s Straw Craft Workshop on Sunday February 18th where you and your family can learn about the traditions of straw craft and participate in craft making activities. Admission is free!

Fermanagh

Join the Marble Arch Caves staff this Saturday 17^th February to hear about the hydrology of these fascinating caves while watching the Owenbrean River turn a luminous shade of green. Dye Tracing is a method used by hydrologists to track and trace the flow of underground streams and rivers. Learn about the importance of dye tracing in the field of geology and the different equipment used to carry out these exciting experiments. Admission is free but booking is essential.

Tyrone

The Burnavon in Cookstown will host the Bump, Baby and Beyond, Pregnancy and Baby Fair on Saturday 17th February.  This popular annual event hosted by Gold Surestart will be of interest to parents and family members in the antenatal period and beyond into family life. Visitors will be made welcome to browse various information stalls, receive midwifery advice and support, gain details of baby massage courses and other relevant antenatal and postnatal courses. There will also be the opportunity to view  nursery goods, baby wear and a number of handmade craft tables.  Come along for a browse and friendly chat.

Derry/Londonderry

Collapsing the Distance: With Damian Smyth, Matthew Warwick, Frank Ferguson, Nelson McCausland, Carol Baraniuk and John Erskine, Seamus Heaney Homeplace Bellaghy, Friday 16^th February.  In his collection of essays Finders Keepers, Seamus Heaney wrote a heartfelt essay called ‘Burns’s Art Speech’ detailing his love for the poetry of Robert Burns, his belief in the power of words and poetry to connect rather than divide and the joy of language found in Ulster Scots, Gaelic and the everyday colloquial phrases of Ulster. Inspired by this essay, this mini-festival will celebrate the work of Robert Burns, the legacy of Ulster Scots and the power of common speech to provide a positive viewpoint on Ulster’s history and culture.

Antrim

From the creative team that brought last year’s stunning production of Annie to the Theatre at The Mill stage comes a new special Youth Production of one of the most enduring shows of all time. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a reimagining of the Biblical story of Joseph, his father Jacob, eleven brothers and the coat of many colours. Wednesday 14^th to Sunday 18^th February.

Belfast

This half term break? Join HMS Caroline for a weekend filled with fun family activities! Journey around the ship and explore the historic spaces with Tom the Cat children’s trail. Join Bricks4kidz and Clayrazy in the Learning Room, where you can discover how to build your very own creations. Facilitated activities are available Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th February from 11am – 3pm. Normal admission applies; opening hours 10.00am.

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

This season of Opera Club at the Portico Ards kicks off this Saturday 10th February with Opera North’s enchanting staging of The Adventures of Pinocchio. Jonathan Dove’s 21st opera is a wittily inventive feast for the eyes and ears. A full-length  grand opera with 29 characters, a sizeable chorus and a profound symphonic score, it is overflowing with visual delights.

Armagh

This Saturday Seagoe Parish Hall Portadown will host an antiques, vintage and collectables fair, showing casing lots of treasures from the past. 40+ stalls including Victorian jewellery, silver, china, crystal, militaria, kitchenalia, books, coins, medals, ceramics, art, vintage fashion and linens.  Refreshments will be available. The fair is open from 10.00am to 4.00pm. This is a great day out to relive the past, to add to your collection or just to treat yourself.

Fermanagh

Love Building Bird Box Day takes place this Saturday from 2.00pm to 4.00pm at Crom.  Spread the love between your friends and family this February as you join the National Trust in preparation for National Nest Box Week by learning to build your own bird box.  Learn how to create your own bird box, just in time for the upcoming nesting season as we care for our beloved birds. February is the perfect time to show your love for others and wildlife by constructing your very own bird box.   For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/crom

Tyrone

With dozens of songs featured on numerous hit US television shows & movies and writing for some of the world’s biggest selling artists, Gareth Dunlop has become one of Ireland’s most revered and successful songwriters. It’s a reputation based on a wonderful singing voice and a strong body of material, influenced by soul, country, folk and blues. See Gareth perform live at Ranfurly House Dungannon this Saturday 10^th February at 8.00pm.

Derry/Londonderry

The Linenhall Upperlands is the venue this Saturday night for the Ampertaine PS Fundraiser. The night will see performances  from local singer/songwriters Eilish Mulholland, Tiernan Heffron, James Bradley Music and formal pupil Charlene Bradley’s band Aria Sail. Magician extraordinaire Rodd Hogg also be in attendance to amaze guests with his magic! Refreshments provided with a DJ to finish the night.

Antrim

Larne Museum & Arts Centre is open on Saturday 10th February.  Come along to visit the Main Gallery which hosts permanent displays reflecting the agricultural, industrial, military and maritime history of the local area. This will also be an opportunity to visit the temporary exhibition ‘Painting Pictures in My Mind – Remembering the 1950s and 1960s’, an exhibition which focuses on local life in the 1950s and 1960s. Admission is free!

Belfast

Join in the NICHS Red Dress Run this Saturday 10^th February to take action for your own heart health and raise funds to continue the fight against heart disease!  Grab your red dress, red hat, red knee socks…absolutely anything RED and join us for this truly unique charity 5km and 10km running event, where you’ll walk, jog or run around Stormont Estate in Belfast, all in the fight against heart disease.  With a choice of running or walking two distances and a real element of fun, there’s something for the ladies, men and kids alike to enjoy! Grab your friends, family or work colleagues and be part of this spectacular new charity running event. If you would like to chat with one of the team about the Red Dress Run 2018 give Cheryl a call on 02890 266740 or email cbrown@nichs.org.uk.

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

Dawn (1928) is a silent film that tells the story of World War 1 martyr Edith Cavell, a nurse who risked her own life by rescuing prisoners of war from the Germans.  She was aided by Madame Ada Bodart, a Newry-born woman who plays herself in the film.  The movie is accompanied by pianist Darius Battiwalla, who has composed a score specifically for the movie. Showing at Newry Town Hall, Friday 2nd February at 8.00pm

Armagh

See the  wonderful displays of snowdrops planted over the years by staff and volunteers at the Argory this Saturday 3rd February at the Snowdrop Walk. Enjoy this spectacle at your leisure with the self-guided walk then relax in the coffee shop for a warm drink or a tasty bite.  Snowdrop plants also available to buy.

Fermanagh

You Must Be Joking,  this Saturday at the Ardhowen Theatre Enniskillen. This show is comedy stand-up heaven.  Fun and laughter for all ages is guaranteed, as four of the North’s best known comedians take to the stage.  With the ever endearing Jimmy Cricket, the first lady of Irish comedy May McFettridge, William Caulfield and Gene Fitzpatrick. Compere for the evening is May McFetridge’s long suffering driver John Linehan.

Tyrone

The Ceilidh is back! Enjoy a great evening of Scottish Country and Ceilidh dancing this Friday evening at the Burnavon Theatre Cookstown. With the help of experienced dance leaders Ken and Linda McLean, see how it is done and then join in. You don’t need to have danced before, just come armed with your best dancing shoes and a sense of fun!

Derry/Londonderry

Have a fun-tastic February at Foylehov!  Their Shoot it Out package is 1/2 Price – Just £12.50 per person. That means you can do Laser Clay Shooting + Archery + Football Golf for just £12.50pp for all 3 activities! Perfect day out, having fun with friends & family. This fab offer is available on any dates booked from 3rd February to 28th February 2018.  Booking is essential

Antrim

In his funniest and most impossible show yet, David Meade, the first mentalist to win a million dollars in a Las Vegas casino, will blow your mind as he beats the odds and predicts the impossible at the Theatre at the Mill, Newtownabbey.

Belfast

On Saturday 3rd February, it’s Belfast Giants vs Cardiff Devils in Belfast! Saturday’s game is the second of two weekend games against the Devils at The SSE Arena, Belfast. Face-off is at 7.00pm at The SSE Arena, Belfast & tickets are on sale online from Ticketmaster.ie OR from the Arena Box Office in person/by calling 028 9073 9074.

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

This Friday at the Space Theatre Bangor, Celtic Soul team up with the Arco String Quartet to deliver a stunning reminiscence of Van Morrison’s ‘It’s too Late to Stop Now’.  It’s often considered the greatest live concert recording ever. For the tour Van added additional musicians, including strings, to form the Caledonia Soul Orchestra.

Armagh

New iPad for Christmas? This Saturday at the Market Place Theatre, a workshop will lead you through the fundamentals, and the apps you’ll need to make the most of it. They will cover setting up your account, as well as your email, security and general maintenance of your iPad. Learn how to use your iPad camera, and edit and organise photos as well as how to use iPad for everyday tasks, including the Dropbox, Evernote, Calendar, Notes and Reminder apps.

Fermanagh

The Rock’N’Roll Years and Dance Hall Days’ Show is back with a brand new show featuring George Jones, Clubsound and four wonderful singers at the Ardhowen Theatre Enniskillen this Saturday 27th January at 8.00pm.  Combining evocative love ballads with the greatest Rock‘n’Roll hit songs of the era, this show will carry the audience back to a time when dance halls were full and the youngsters danced, jived and rocked to the Four Seasons, the Shadows, Neil Sedaka, Dean Martin, Patsy Cline, Elvis and much, much more!

Tyrone

Little Red Riding Hood and the Silly Billy Wolf comes to the Alley Theatre Strabane this Saturday 27th January. 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. 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. With beautiful costumes, stunning stage sets and hilarious characters, making this a fun-packed show not to be missed!

Derry/Londonderry

Join the Everglades Hotel for an amazing night of music and dance with all the best known songs from Elvis starring Jim Brown and his band this Saturday evening. Why not make a night of it and book in for a pre-show dinner or even stay overnight on one of the “Heartbreak Hotel” packages which includes an overnight stay, tickets to the show, and breakfast the next day.  Tickets are available on Ticketmaster or at the Hotel Reception Desk, and the “Heartbreak Hotel” packages are available on line on www.hastingshotels.com or telephone 02890 471066.  Doors open from 7.30pm and show begins from 8.45 pm

Antrim

Jake O’Kane, Northern Ireland’s top comic and star of the BBC panel show ‘The Blame Game’, is back with a brand new show entitled ‘Still Sittin’ on the Fence’ at the Braid Arts Centre Ballymena this Thursday 25^th January.  In his traditional end-of-year review show, Jake will be casting a satirical eye over the preceding twelve months, combining stories and pictures from the Irish News with the madness of the Internet to debunk the great, the not so great, and himself.

Belfast

The cream of Northern Irelands non-professional theatre companies compete in the final of the NI One Act Finals this Saturday and will have the opportunity to represent Northern Ireland in the British Finals. Taking place for one night only at the Belvoir Players Studio from 7.30pm.

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

The F.E. McWilliam Gallery and Studio and Gallery are currently hosting an exhibition, Self-Reflections, to celebrate the artistic contribution made by Banbridge Art Club, which celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2018.  The exhibition focuses on self-portraiture and includes more than 20 stunning paintings and drawings created by its members inspired by a series of selected works from the National Self-Portrait Collection of Ireland, housed at the University of Limerick.

Armagh

The Rock ’N ’Roll Years and Dance Hall Days show is back with a brand new show featuring George Jones, Clubsound and four wonderful singers this Saturday 13^th January at the Market Place Theatre. The show will transport you back to the nostalgic days and incredible music and artistes of 50’s and 60’s, with over forty classic songs.

Fermanagh

Loughs, Bogs and Mountains is the first exhibition of its kind hosted by Fermanagh County Museum at Enniskillen Castle. Local arts organisation Collage Collective has guest curated an exhibition on the theme of Loughs, Bogs and Mountains, drawing inspiration from Fermanagh’s natural beauty and environment. The exhibition features a selection of work by artists across a range of art forms including photography, craft, sculpture and fine art in response to the theme.   Exhibition continues until 27th January 2018.

Tyrone

Take a step back in time to an era of splendour and sumptuous tradition at the Alley Theatre’s Bridal Weekend this Saturday 13^th January.  You will be treated to a glass of bubbly and a scrumptious selection of sandwiches and homemade scones and cakes, joined by lovely acoustic music before you are treated to a fashion show full of bridal elegance throughout the decades.  Plus there will also be vintage beauty demos taking place on stage.

Derry/Londonderry

Join The Everglades Hotel this Saturday evening for an evening of Abba with Bjorn Identity.  With 5 stunning handmade replica costumes and a perfect copy of Benny’s famous white Yamaha piano, this show has all the glitz of the 70’s era and the best party night out, featuring a decade of ABBA and more, including songs from the hit musical “Mama Mia”.  Doors Open 7.30pm Show Begins 8.45pm.  Tickets are available at the Hotel Reception Desk or on Ticketmaster.

Antrim

Wizarding Weekend! This Saturday 13^th & Sunday 14th January Carrickfergus Castle be transformed into a fantasy world filled with potion making, broomstick and wand training and fantastical creatures. This is an opportunity for children and adults of all ages to journey into an enchanted world and uncover their magical powers. If you’d like to brush up on your broomstick skills, try your hand at wand training, or potion making, this is the weekend for you, your friends and family.  Due to the historic nature of the castle, there are no lifts available to access areas of the castle included in the event. If you require wheelchair access, please call 028 90 823 207.

Belfast

The Titanic Hotel Belfast just opened their doors in September 2017 and are excited to be hosting their first ever wedding show this Sunday 14^th January from 1.00pm to 4.00pm.  Relax and enjoy a champagne reception with nibbles whilst listening to a selection of live music! There will be 40 local wedding suppliers in attendance. Admission is free and the first 50 Couples will receive a free goodie bag!

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

‘The Streets of Donaghadee’ exhibition from 4^th to 29^th January at Ards Visitor Centre, will feature the old hotels, pubs & businesses of Donaghadee’s past including the Cyril Lord Carpet Factory, which for many years was the largest employer in the town!  Please note that the exhibition is closed on Sundays.

Armagh

Flash Harry have been performing the music of Queen for over 25 years. From the small beginnings of five Queen fans getting together for a one off gig, Flash Harry have gone from strength to strength, playing venues throughout Ireland, the UK and further afield. See them perform live this Friday 5th January at the Market Place Theatre. Show starts at 8.00pm.

Fermanagh

“Each a Glimpse and Gone Forever”* – Fermanagh’s Railway Story – a photographic exhibition at Castle Museums until 13th January,  featuring Fermanagh railway scenes captured by John J. Smith (1925-2007). Originally from Eastbourne, John visited Ireland on a number of occasions during the heyday of steam. He portrays the story of Fermanagh’s railways through the camera lens; capturing locomotives, signal boxes and stations!

Tyrone

After all the hard work is done, the ladies deserve an after Christmas treat!  Call the gang and enjoy a fabulous evening meal in The Mellon Country Inn’s O’Brien’s Restaurant, before dancing the night away to ABBA SENSATIONS! The Ultimate Abba Tribute. Adm. to dance only: £10.00.  Make a night of it and book a table!

Derry/Londonderry

Join The Everglades Hotel this Saturday evening for a great night of tribute songs from local artist JP Mac who will be performing songs from Johnny Cash and June Carter.  Doors open from 7.30pm and Show Begins at 9.00pm.  Tickets are available at the Hotel Reception Desk or on Ticketmaster.  Why not make a night of it and book in for a pre-show dinner – or even stay over on the “Ring of Fire” package which includes an overnight stay, tickets to the show, and breakfast.   Details of the Ring of Fire package can be found at www.hastingshotels.com.

Antrim

Join the Ballygally Hotel this Saturday for an amazing night of music and dance with all the best known songs from Elvis starring Jim Brown and his band.  Make a night of it and book in for a pre-show dinner or even stay overnight on one of the “Heartbreak Hotel” packages which includes an overnight stay, tickets to the show, and breakfast the next day.  Tickets are available on Ticketmaster or at the Hotel Reception Desk, and the “Heartbreak Hotel” packages are available on line at www.hastingshotels.com or Telephone 02890 471066 and ask for the Reservations Department.  Doors open from 7.30pm and show begins from 8.45 pm.

 

Belfast

Start 2018 with a glittering tribute to Vienna and Strauss, from the Ulster Orchestra at the Waterfront Hall this Saturday the 6^th January,  which is a true delight for the eyes and ears. Featuring a stunning programme of whirling waltzes and sweeping melodies accompanied by guest artists, let the luscious bars of the Blue Danube Waltz leave your heart beating in triple time!

 

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