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 20th 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 23rd 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 20th 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!

 

Jacqueline shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI

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 16th to 23rd 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 14th 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 17th 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 16th 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 16th 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 31st 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.

Jacqueline from whatsonni.com shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI

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 8th 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-10th and 13th -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 8th 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 7th 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.

Jacqueline shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI

Down

Enjoy afternoon tea at the Culloden Hotel with songs and carols performed by Bangor Ladies Choir, in aid of Waakissa charity this Sunday 3rd 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.

Jacqueline shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI

Down

Get into the festive spirit at the annual Ards Christmas Light Switch On this Friday 24th 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 25th 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!

 

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 shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI

Down

A day of festive, free family fun is on offer at this year’s BIG Christmas Lights Switch On in Bangor, Co. Down, on Saturday 18th November.  Ards and North Down Borough Council has joined forces with ‘Main Street, My Street’ to put on a full day of entertainment that includes a Christmas market, a Winter Wonderland at Project 24, festive elf selfies, local school choir performances, Santa’s grotto, edible crafts and more.  All of which are the perfect prelude to Santa’s arrival and the official switch on and fireworks finale at 5.30pm.

Armagh

The Charlemont and Moy Christmas event takes place this Saturday 18th November, beginning in Charlemont at noon.  Meet the elves and write a letter to Santa, then make your way to the Moy Square for the Christmas craft stalls, Annaginney petting farm, horse and cart rides, crafts for kids, cage football, carol singing and the main man himself Santa Claus switching on the lights at 4.45pm!

Fermanagh

The Clay, Cake & Creativity at Ashbrooke’s Ceramic Retreat, takes place this week from 16th to 18th November, Ashbrook House, Brookeborough. This exclusive course offers a rare opportunity to stay in the picturesque and historic Ashbrooke House and work with two Royal College of Art Ceramicists.  Helen Moore and Sandra Robinson have been specifically chosen for their complimentary skills in both the form and finish of ceramics to offer expert guidance as a complete beginner or seasoned maker.  Arriving in the stunning Ashbrooke Estate, you will be welcomed by Amanda Brooke’s renowned home cooking, beside warm open fires with good old fashioned Irish Craic.

Tyrone

The Hub Cookstown will host their Holistic Fair this Saturday 18th November. Holistic therapies aim to restore the body’s natural harmony.  When you are relaxed and in balance you are able to deal with the everyday stresses and strains of life much more effectively.  This is an opportunity for you to try massage, reflexology, Bowen therapy, reiki, aroma-touch and much more.  All treatments are an amazing £10 (excluding food intolerance resting). Call 028 8676 3398 for further information.

Derry/Londonderry

St Trea’s Ballymaguigan 4th Christmas Craft and Gift Fair takes place this Sunday 19th November from 12.00pm to 4.00pm.  Wacky Wax Hands will be outside the main door.  Shop from 40+ stalls from local crafters, including handmade crafts, pottery, slate, customised woodwork, bespoke shoes & headpieces, cards, decoupage items, knitted/crochet items, sewed toys, football gloves, scarves,  jewellery, handbags, jam & chutney, cakes, nail painting as well as personalised Christmas decorations and wreaths & lots more!

Antrim

Antrim town is the place to be this Friday 17th November for the Antrim Switch On,  with Sonya Mac and Q Radio kicking off the festive season with music and games for all the family.  Mr Hullabaloo and Jingles will entertain the crowd from 6pm. One of the highlights is sure to be the special children’s prize draw.  This year’s entry slips are only available on the night so make sure you’re there to be in with the chance of Santa picking out the winner at 7pm. See Toby Pinecone to make sure you are on Santa’s list!  A spectacular fireworks display will round off a great festive evening.

Belfast

Discover your Inner Elf from 16th to 18th November at Belvoir Players Studio!  Don’t be a cotton-headed ninny-muggins. and get yourself down to see this wonderful musical production by Nismat Theatre School. And remember the best way to spread Christmas Cheer, is singing loud for all to hear!

 

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 shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI

Down

Calling all country and western music lovers!  For one night only, the incredible award winning Johnny Cash & June Carter Tribute Band Cash Returns Show will be held in La Mon Hotel & Country Club on Thursday 9th November 2017 in aid of TinyLife, the premature baby charity.  Iconic songs such as Fulsom Prison Blues and I’ll Walk the Line will be included in the 2 hour show.

Armagh

On Saturday 11th November at the Market Place Theatre, discover how to make your own stop motion animated film with your very own modelled plasticine characters in this animation masterclass by Can Do Academy!  You will learn how animated movies are created, storyboarded and how to make models which come to life using iPads and imagination!  Participants will receive a copy of their completed animation to take home.  Great for school and GCSE course work.

Fermanagh

Sit back, relax and see Lough Erne your way with a chauffeur driven boats on beautiful Lough Erne with Erne Water Taxis.  The taxi service provides a pick-up and drop-off from any accessible jetty on Lough Erne. Specialty tours of the Lough Erne, including a heritage trail and Food Trail are available.  Booking can be made via the www.ernewatertaxi.com website, by phone or e-mail. For each tour a hamper of great local food produce can be added for an additional £10 per person so you can enjoy your very own Island Picnic.

Tyrone

Don’t miss the Crazy Toons Live Stage Show on Saturday 11th November at Silverbirch Hotel. The magical kids character show includes Crazy Kids Comedy, Baz the Clown & lots more. Doors open at 2.30pm – show starts at 3pm. Tickets £10 per child & adults go FREE.  The show you can afford to see, but can’t afford to miss!

Derry

The annual Guildhall Craft Fair will celebrate its 23rd year and Derry City and Strabane District Council will once again be offering a unique Christmas shopping experience. With over 40 crafters to choose from offering items ranging from ceramics, leather, glass and jewellery, many of whom are new to this year’s fair, you will be sure to pick up that extra special gift not to be found on the high street.  With a dedicated Food Fair located within the ground floor of the Guildhall this promises to the biggest and most diverse to date. Open Friday 10th to Sunday 12th November.  Browse, shop and add a festive sparkle to your Christmas shopping at the annual Guildhall Craft & Food Fair weekend.

Antrim

After an absence of a few years Britain’s Got Talents’ ‘RJ Rocks’ returns with a bang at the Theatre at the Mill this Saturday evening.  With an all new show and an all new band, RJ brings his tribute show back to the 1970s and 80s with some of Rock’s greatest acts: The Who, Guns ’n’ Roses, Rod Stewart, Queen, Status Quo and Bon Jovi – all the hits, all the memories and all the entertainment!

Belfast

The BBC Good Food Show is heading back to the food-loving city of Belfast this weekend, packed with all the ingredients for a great day out at the Belfast Waterfront. This year, the Show will return with a great range of Northern Ireland’s very best food and drink producers, plus a line-up of top celebrity chefs and culinary experts. The weekend will be full to the brim with demonstrations, tastings, chef interviews, book signings and more.

 

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 shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across Northern Ireland

Down

Seapark Fireworks, Holywood was postponed and will now take place on Saturday 4th November. Keep the winter cold at bay with delicious refreshments and a lively family funfair from 4pm and music by local favourites ‘The Jukes’ from 6.30pm. Of course the most anticipated part of the event is the always spectacular firework display – watch as the skies come alive above the shores of Seapark at approximately 8.00pm.  The fun continues until 9.00pm.

Armagh

Everyone loves Sponge Bob and the Minions so get ready to make your very own cheeky colourful character at Spongebob v Minion this Saturday at the Market Place Theatre.  Using sponge, fabric, recycled bits and pieces and paint – this fun class could get messy so please wear old clothes! For age 7 to 11 year olds.

Fermanagh

The National Trust at Crom are getting ready to welcome visitors for a truly special event on Thursday 2nd November at Crom Estate. Their team of experienced rangers are taking visitors on a personal tour of the deer park for an exclusive insight into the resident fallow deer.  A warming tea or coffee is provided as visitors gain an understanding of these beautiful animals, what they eat and how they are cared for at Crom Estate.

Tyrone

Smart Mums Market is an quality indoor market for buyers and sellers of baby & children’s, nearly new clothes, shoes, toys and equipment for 0-10 years.  You can also find crafters and knitters at these markets as well as businesses aimed at this age group offering advice, from pregnancy and onwards. Taking place this Sunday 5th November at Mellon Country Inn, Omagh.

Derry/Londonderry

Ulster University Music department is delighted to present Cassandra Wilson, an American jazz musician, vocalist, songwriter, and producer from Jackson, Mississippi. Cassandra has for a long time been regarded as the finest jazz singer in the world, having sold millions of records on the Blue Note label, but is also known for attracting audiences from a broad spectrum of musical genres. This Thursday, The Great Hall, Magee Campus, 7.30pm.

Antrim

It’s now twenty years since the distinctive sound of Tranquility, featuring Phil Coulter’s piano and orchestra, first seduced the whole of Ireland with its easy melodic charm. See Phil Coulter perform live at the Theatre at the Mill this Sunday 5th November.

Belfast

Join the fun at the Eikon Exhibition Centre this weekend on the 4th & 5th November to enjoy Northern Ireland’s very first all action Leisure Show!  Traders and dealers will be showcasing a range of motorhomes, caravans and camper vans – along with accessories and consumables – with great deals and bargains on offer.  And that’s not all!  There will be mobile homes, jet skis, boats, tents, cyclists and anything else within the leisure industry.  A must not miss on getting those 2018 plans in motion.

 

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 shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI

Down

Visit North Down Museum on Saturday 28th October from 2.00pm to 4.00pm for the Not So Scary Halloween event! This year there will be magic shows with the brilliant magician Trevor Price and not so scary Halloween stories with the master storyteller, Willie Drennan.  Meet owls and creepy crawlies, make Halloween crafts and have your face painted.  For more information visit: www.northdownmuseum.com.

Armagh

Little Spooks at Navan Fort  28th to 31st October is perfect for some Halloween fun for all the family!  This is for boys and girls who aren’t afraid of enjoying some spooky fun!  ‘Vera Courage’ world famous Vampire hunter needs your help!  She is looking for Dracula and thinks she has found the location of his Haunted Castle!  Will you help her in her quest by joining in the adventure and be brave as we come face to face with Dracula during our Halloween show.

Fermanagh

One last request, five women, what can possibly go wrong…?  Sparks fly as five strong-willed women must work together when the cunning final request of their late husband, son, father and boss is revealed.  The comedy follows the ladies attempts to make the most of a very tricky situation to fulfil the wishes and in turn help shape each of their own futures with some very surprising outcomes.  Bill’s Will is a comedy for all ages at the Ardhowen Theatre this Saturday 28th October.

Tyrone

The Halloween Torchlight Tours return to the Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh for another year of thrills and spills from Saturday 28th – Tuesday 3st  October. Take a stroll, if you dare, through the outdoor museum as darkness falls, with only the light of a torch to guide you. Ghosts, ghouls and witches will lurk in the shadows as you sample traditional foods such as barnbrack, pumpkin and shoofly pie. Not for the faint hearted, booking for the evening tours is essential. Tour times available at 4.30 pm & 9.30 pm.

Derry/Londonderry

A welcome like no other awaits you, as the division between this world and the otherworld’s is at its thinnest, as supernatural beings and the souls of the dead flood into the City of Derry from 28th to 31st October. Let your imagination run wild under the Samhain Moon. Join in on a 4-day celebration like no other, filled with ghoulish events and frightful fun for all the family. See derryhalloween.com for full programme of events.

Antrim

Join Ballymoney for their Halloween Extravaganza which promises to be frighteningly fun for all the family on Friday 27th October starting at 18:30 at the Joey Dunlop Leisure Centre.  Dust off your broomstick and dress up your little monsters for the fancy dress competition. They will love the mini fun fair, creepy characters and be mesmerized by the spinning fire dancers in the Fire Poi show, fireworks display and much more!

Belfast

Enjoy a ride in a restored steam train from Belfast Central, along the shores of Belfast Lough to Whitehead and return this Sunday 29th October.  Ghosts and ghouls 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.  Trains depart Belfast Central at 11.05 am  and 1.05 pm.

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 shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI

Down

Embrace the autumn season and start Halloween break off with fireworks, food, fun and a funfair at the Seapark Fireworks Holywood this Saturday 21st October.  Keep the winter cold at bay with delicious refreshments and a lively family funfair from 4pm and music by local favourites ‘The Jukes’.  Of course the most anticipated part of the event is the always spectacular firework display – watch as the skies come alive above the shores of Seapark at approximately 7.45pm.  The fun continues to 9pm.

Armagh

Blues guitar legend Ronnie Greer has been at the centre of the blues scene in Ireland now for over 40 years, and has shared the stage with some of the leading figures in the genre. Ronnie will be performing live with his Blues Band live on stage at the Market Place Theatre this Saturday evening.  This event takes place in the Studio Theatre with an unreserved, cabaret-style seating layout.

Fermanagh

Join Ireland’s best loved and busiest comedian, William Caulfield, for an evening full of laughs at Crom Castle this Saturday evening, 21st October. VIP and accommodation packages are available for this event.

Tyrone

The Silverbirch Hotel will host their Wedding Fayre this Sunday 22nd October.  Meet local wedding experts from bridal fashion, hair, beauty, decor, grooms wear, flowers, transport, cakes & much more! A warm welcome of complimentary prosecco & canapes awaits while you view the stunning new Drumragh Suite, Foyer, Courtyard Bar & Terraces. Enjoy live wedding entertainment, catwalk fashion show and various special offers & competitions! Admission is free and there’s a goodie bag for the first 50 brides!

Derry/Londonderry

The Organ Festival 2017 is coming to Derry on 19th – 21st October 2017.  The first of its kind in the city, the festival promises to showcase the magnificent Guildhall organ.  The programme includes school workshops, lunch time performances, evening concerts, master classes for experienced organists to polish their skills, as well as an exciting Battle of the Organs event culminating in a grand finale gala concert with performances by internationally renowned artists.

Antrim

Antrim Glens Tourism presents The Ghosts in the Glens Story Telling Festival from the 19th to the 22nd October.  A four day storytelling festival based in the Glens of Antrim, with events being held all the way from Carnlough to Ballycastle and Rathlin Island. The festival will celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Glens of Antrim and will feature storytellers and musicians from the local area as well as guests from the rest of Northern Ireland, England and the Republic of Ireland. Support has been received from Causeway Coast and Glens Council as well as the Causeway Cast and Glens Heritage Trust.

Belfast

The Belfast Giants are back! Belfast’s best family night out returns for Giants vs Guildford Flames on Friday 20th October, face-off 7pm at The SSE Arena. Do not miss their special Halloween night with the team wearing exclusive Halloween themed jerseys! Entrance Fee £16 – Adults / £9 Kids / £39 – Family (2 Adults + 2 Kids).

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