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!

 

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

See Santa at Hillmount Bangor this Friday to Sunday from 1.00pm to 5.00pm.  Cost is £10 per child which includes a present.  You’re welcome to bring your own camera and professional photographs will be available to buy as an optional extra.

Armagh

We all dream of a White Christmas and Happy Holidays, so Armagh’s sensational a cappella group ‘Cantilena’ pour some festive spirit into our Christmas Celebrations as they ring in the festive season in their own inimitable a cappella style this Wednesday 20^th December at the Market Place Theatre. This evening of well-known traditional carols and popular Christmas songs, accompanied by the festive atmosphere, mulled wine and mince pies, will definitely put a Christmassy glow in your cheeks. Early booking is strongly recommended for this ever-popular show that welcomes the holidays in true festive style.

Fermanagh

Relax in the charming surroundings of the festive Garden Hall at the Lough Erne Resort and enjoy the limited edition Festive Afternoon Tea, which brings together a delectable mix of savoury snacks, sweet fancies and spicy teas which are sure to make merry mouths water this Christmas season. Available until 31st December.

Tyrone

The Silverbirch Hotel Omagh  continues its festive calendar of events at Lola’s with Lisa McHugh on Friday 22nd December! Festive Jive & Dine In 4 course Dinner in Barreta Bar & Grill & Country Dance at Lola’s. Pre-booking essential.

Derry/Londonderry

The Roe Valley Arts Centre are giving their annual family festive screening of Frozen a break this year for another superb Christmas favourite – ELF! The hilarious Will Ferrell plays the unforgettable Buddy, raised in the North Pole by Santa’s elves. Discovering that he is actually a human, Buddy sets off on a festive trip to New York to find his real father. Saturday 23^rd December 2.00pm.

Antrim

Celebrate in style with family, friends or colleagues and enjoy a Christmas night out at the movies at the Bushmills Inn this Wednesday 20^th December.  Indulge in a 4 course Christmas Banquet followed by a festive movie and popcorn in the exclusive surroundings of the Still Room Cinema.

Belfast

The award-winning Children’s Theatre Company, Cahoots NI, are casting a spell over young theatre goers at the Crescent Arts Centre this Christmas as they bring the enchanting tale, Shh! We Have a Plan to life. So why not bring along the family this Christmas to the Crescent and prepare to be enchanted and amazed by this unique production featuring Magic, Music, Puppetry and lots more! Runs until Sunday 24th December and is suitable for age 3+.

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.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year!

 

Down

Are you looking for something to do with the kids this Christmas? Get yourself along to County Down’s Winter Wonderland at Clandeboye Estate, Bangor from the 16^th to 23^rd December. There will be markets and attractions including an ice rink, indoor cinema, arts and crafts, bouncy castle, face painting, Santa’s grotto, Mother Christmas, elves, snow machines and more. And here’s the good news – all the attractions are included in one amazing ticket price, so you can entertain the children all day without breaking the bank.  Santa has agreed to take time out from his busy schedule to see all the children at Winter Wonderland!

Armagh

Join the exceptional Cara Dillon for what will undoubtedly be a magical and memorable festive experience this  Thursday 14^th December at the Marketplace Theatre.  Having recorded her highly anticipated Christmas album, ‘Upon A Winter’s Night’, Cara and her band will be performing classic carols, Celtic hymns and other Christmas songs to celebrate and share in the Christmas spirit. A tradition in the making.

Fermanagh

At Christmas, Castle Coole transforms into a magical Christmas wonderland until Sunday 17^th December. Visit Castle Coole to check on how the elves are preparing for Christmas this year, and visit Santa and Mrs Claus by the range in the kitchen.  Visit Santa and Mrs Claus in their festive home as they prepare for the busy Christmas season. Each child receives a present and grown-ups can enjoy warming mulled wine and mince pies.

Tyrone

The Ulster Orchestra is bringing its hugely popular Christmas sing-along show across Northern Ireland! Soprano Marcella Walsh joins the party to bring you well-known festive classics and carols in this Christmas cracker of a night. Join them at the Alley Theatre Strabane this Saturday 16^th December at 8.00pm.

Derry/Londonderry

It’s December, so it must be time for the Roe Valley’s annual Christmas film screening of It’s a Wonderful Life! Join them this Saturday 16^th December for what is now a Roe Valley festive ritual – escape the hustle and bustle for a few hours, sit back and enjoy one of the most beloved films of all time with complimentary mulled (non-alcoholic) wine and seasonal refreshments.  Tickets only £5.

Antrim

Caroline Curran and Julie Maxwell return with a madcap Christmas comedy, set in the A&E of the local hospital. Make an appointment at Theatre at The Mill this Christmas and meet a heavenly host of hilarious characters, as they celebrate this very special holiday period! Runs until the 31^st December.

Belfast

Stormont School of Singing is back with their annual Christmas concert in aid of NI Chest Heart & Stroke.  Join them this Friday evening at the Belvoir Players Studio for a magical evening of festival favourites & music for the season! Featuring students alongside professional performers. Ticket price includes mince pies & non-alcoholic mulled wine.

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

Take some time to leave the hustle and bustle of the high street behind and explore the candlelit Ballycultra village to experience Christmas from 100 years ago at the Ulster Folk & Transport Museum this Friday 8^th December.  Visit beautiful festive homes, sample seasonal treats by a cosy peat fire, and listen to the rousing, seasonal anthems performed by brass bands and carol singers. Opening hours 6pm – 9pm.

Armagh

Take a magical train journey around the Argory Estate in Moy to see Santa in his grotto and meet his team of helpers from the North Pole. Includes complimentary festive refreshments.  Booking Essential. 7th-10^th and 13^th -17th December from 4.00pm to – 8.00pm. Adult £7,  Child £15, Member Adult £7, Member Child £15.

Fermanagh

Join SHARE for a very special, festive cruise of Upper Lough Erne on-board the Inishcruiser on Saturday 9th December.  Christmas High Tea cruise will indulge you in tasty festive treats including mulled wine, shortbread and mince pies, alongside other traditional high tea treats. These can be enjoyed as you cruise beautiful Upper Lough Erne towards Crom Estate. The cruise lasts approx. 1.5 – 2 hours. Booking essential.

Tyrone

Join the Silverbirch Hotel in Omagh this Christmas for  a festive celebration for the whole family with their Santa Sunday Lunch.  The children will be thoroughly entertained with the kids Christmas party and disco from 2.00pm – 4.00 pm. Contact the Christmas co-ordinator to book Tel +44 28 8224 2520.

Derry/Londonderry

Step back in time to Westeros this Christmas & enjoy a Game of Thrones themed medieval banquet this Friday 8^th December at the Waterfoot Hotel. The banquet will have Game of Thrones themed props & music, mulled cider reception.  You will then enjoy a 3 course meal plus live entertainment by The Hit Men & Silver Fox DJ.

Antrim

Enchanted Winter Garden returns to Antrim Castle Gardens bigger and better than ever before from Saturday 9th to Tuesday 19th December. This year’s event has even more of the stunning Gardens transformed, from entry at the Barbican Gate enchantment awaits as a magical journey through the Gardens unfolds. This year’s new features include the star attraction, ‘Antrim Eye’ – a 40m Ferris wheel where star gazing over Antrim Town and beyond will be one of the highlights of your visit to this fantastic event.

Belfast

Christmas Supper (a two course traditional Christmas dinner followed by Tea and Coffee) with a live performance from the fabulous Belfast Community Gospel Choir this Thursday 7^th December at the Stormont Hotel from 7.00pm. Visit hastingshotels.com to book.

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

Enjoy afternoon tea at the Culloden Hotel with songs and carols performed by Bangor Ladies Choir, in aid of Waakissa charity this Sunday 3^rd December. Doors open at 1.00pm with the show beginning at 1.30pm and afternoon tea  served at 2.30pm.   This is going to be a fabulous Christmassy event with stalls to purchase a few Christmas gifts, and a raffle with some amazing prizes.

Armagh

The Market Place Theatre is delighted to announce this year’s Christmas spectacular, ‘Sleeping Beauty’, which runs from 2nd to 24th December. This full-scale traditional pantomime will combine wonderful music, song and dance, colourful costumes, memorable characters, and loads of audience participation, in a lively and sparkling Christmas adventure.

Fermanagh

This Friday 3rd December, Music in Fermanagh presents Katherine Hunka (violin) and Finghin Collins (piano) who will be performing Beethoven’s violin sonata No. 4 in A minor Op. 23, Ian Wilson’s ‘from the book of longing”, Leos Janacek’s sonata for violin and piano and Brahms’ violin sonata No. 1 in G major, Op. 78. Tickets available from the Ardhowen Theatre Tel: 028 6632 5440.

Tyrone

Looking for gift inspiration? Look no further than The Hub Cookstown’s Christmas Market taking place this Saturday 2nd December.. Among a raft of special festive stalls you’ll find foodie gifts, hand-crafted presents and much more. The Hub Choir will create a festive ambience with their carol singing and you can enjoy a cup of mulled apple juice along with some M&S festive food samples. Admission is free!

Derry/Londonderry

A gigantic beanstalk, Daisy the cow, magic beans, a goose that lays golden eggs and the nastiest of giants – it’s panto time again at the Millennium Forum! Telling the story of peasant boy Jack and his attempts to please his impoverished mother and win the hand of Princess Jill, JACK AND THE BEANSTALK remains one of the best-loved pantomimes of all time. Packed with great song and dance routines, hilarious comedy, dazzling scenes and magical special effects, Jack and the Beanstalk is fun for all the family from 4-94! Runs from 1st to 31st December daily.

Antrim

Little Miss Muffett’s Christmas Caper, Carrickfergus Town Hall, 2nd to 5th December. The eternal appeal of this classic nursery rhyme makes this a golden opportunity to present this production from the North’s premiere producer of Christmas plays, Centre Stage Theatre Company, with their usual values of clean family entertainment, funny and immediate scripts, simple effects, live music, memorable tunes and strong performances.  To book, call Carrickfergus Visitor Information Centre on 028 9335 8222.

Belfast

The Cash for Kids Santa Dash Belfast City is back for 2017 and Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice is delighted to be one of the local beneficiary charities.  This year’s Santa Dash in on Sunday 3rd December, beginning at Writers Square, Belfast at 10.00am.  You and your family could sign up for the original 2.5km Santa Dash led by Santa in his sleigh or step up to the challenge of running in the brand new 5km timed route to earn your very own Santa Dash medal.  All money raised through registrations and sponsorship for Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice will go towards providing specialist care for children with life-limiting illnesses.

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

Get into the festive spirit at the annual Ards Christmas Light Switch On this Friday 24^th November. Join Cool FM’s Pete Snodden for a superb evening of Christmas fun featuring ‘Spark!’ a mesmerising street theatre show combining drums and light, that will lead the spectacular lantern parade from Ards Arena at 6.45pm.  At 7.00pm the parade will arrive in Conway Square for one last performance from Spark before the switch on finale.  Children’s entertainment including face painting and balloon modelling will be available in Conway Square from 5.30pm – 7.00pm.

Armagh

The mists of time will descend on Armagh this weekend  for a celebration of the city’s glorious and historic past for the annual Georgian Festival.  A packed schedule of unique events for history buffs, tourists, families and foodies alike, will provide an unforgettable weekend across the city.  Now in its 14th year, Georgian Day culminates in the unmissable spectacle of the annual Animated Light Show which continues to attract thousands to watch Market House burst into life, transforming it into a shimmering canvas. This year’s ‘Five Gold Rings!’ show promises to be a show to remember.

Fermanagh

 

Christmas officially starts in Enniskillen on Saturday 25th November with the Christmas lights switch-on in the town centre. The town will become a hub of live entertainment from late afternoon to mark the start of the Christmas shopping season so come along and get into the festive spirit! Enjoy Festive Family Fun at the Buttermarket from 12.00pm-4.00pm – visit Santa, enjoy festive music & Christmas arts and crafts. Entertainment will start at 3.30pm on The Diamond with music from Full Moon Fever & Sean Magee. Enjoy the Christmas lantern parade and Santa Train before the official switch on at 5.00pm.

Tyrone

 

The feast of festive events, organised by Mid Ulster District Council, kicks off on Friday 24th November at 5.30pm in Cookstown, with the switch on of the Christmas lights in the town. An evening of family entertainment awaits before a mile of magical Christmas lights illuminate the main street and the festive countdown begins. Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th also sees the return of the Winter Craft & Food Fair to the Burnavon, Cookstown. Running over the two days (10am to 5pm on Saturday and 1pm to 5pm on Sunday), you’ll have all the time you need to shop for the perfect, unique Christmas gifts and festive foods.

Derry/Londonderry

Get in the festive spirit and join Santa and his special guests at the Derry Christmas Lights Switch On, Thursday 23rd November from 6.00pm to 8.00pm.  There will be entertainment by walkabout street characters and live festive music on stages in Guildhall Square by Sensation and in Waterloo Place by Superstition. Special guests include Pantomime stars from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and Jack and the Beanstalk

Antrim

The Victorian Street Fair and Steam Train Rides on Saturday 25^th November, takes the form of a street fair with train rides at the Whitehead Excursion Station, offering visitors the chance to enjoy the unique steam experience.  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.  Option to enjoy a visit to the Whitehead Railway  Museum and cafe.  Train rides running from 12:30pm to 3:30pm.

Belfast

Join Titanic Belfast from 22nd November  to the 23rd December to explore the Elves’ Workshop in the Magical Christmas Experience!  Step through the Old Curiosity Shop to enter the Magical Workshop and watch the excitement unfold as Father Christmas and his elves count down to their favourite night of the year. Peek into the toy shop where the elves have been hard at work and join Mrs Claus at her cosy kitchen to hear Christmas tales, before letting your creative juices flow with our arts and crafts or work with Father Christmas’ elves to write and post your Christmas letter.  Don’t forget to make a Christmas Wish to hang on the Magical Wishing Tree. Finally, wrap up your Magical Christmas Experience by having your name checked off our ‘Naughty or Nice’ list by our Chief Elf, then journey through the enchanted forest and meet Father Christmas!

 

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