Category: Pick of the Week

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

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Down

Calling all campers – the RSPB’s Big Wild Sleepout is back for 2017 and you’re invited!   The nature charity’s most popular family event of the year will take place on Saturday 22nd July at the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum in Cultra, County Down.  The museum is the perfect place for families to try camping for the first time. Toilet facilities, 24-hour security and designated safe spaces to cook and camp mean you can get on with just having fun!  Big Wild Sleepout tickets are priced at £20 for adults and £17 for children. Kids under four go completely free.

Armagh

Enjoy a Guided Tour of Armagh this Summer! For those who want to explore everything the City has to offer, a guided walking tour is a must.  You’ll walk through Armagh’s rich history as you hear stories and anecdotes about the area, learn about the city’s renowned Georgian architecture and stroll along the distinct cobble streets as you unearth some of the city’s hidden gems along the way.  Tour times:   Each Wednesday to Saturday 11am – 12:00 noon and 1:00pm – 2.00pm until the 2nd September.

Fermanagh

” Stop it Nurse” is an hilarious Ulster comedy by Sam Cree. Set in a Belfast hospital during the 60s the Ward Sister rules the roost! We follow the fortunes and misfortunes of the patients in the male surgical ward. With all the ingredients for a typical evening of pure Cree manic magic, Stop it Nurse runs at the Ardhowen Theatre for three nights only from 20th to 22nd July.

Tyrone

Steeped in history, heritage, folklore, fauna and culture, the shores of Lough Neagh – the largest freshwater lake in the United Kingdom – provide the backdrop for a unique set of one Lough Neagh Tours’ day tours which have  launched just in time for summer.  The Lough Neagh Western Forts Tour, Co Tyrone takes in the forts and castles on the western shore of the lough.  The Western Forts Tour starts at the impressive and imposing Ardboe Cross before a stop at Hill of The O’Neill, Dungannon and on to the spiritual site of Tullyhogue Fort on the outskirts of Cookstown.  Mountjoy Castle is the final stop where visitors can imagine the grandeur of the castle on the hill in the early 1600s with its battles and power struggles between the O’Neills and the O’Donnells. See loughneaghtours.com for all tours available.

Derry/Londonderry

The Super Milk Wild Air Run, St Columb’s Park, 22nd July,  is a dynamic fun run featuring 10 giant inflatable obstacles as part of a 5k course. It includes Europe’s largest inflatable slide which is 60M long!  The event can be undertaken by all fitness levels. The 10 obstacles combine agility, creativity and a vast amount of fun. The event is for both adults and children, seven years and up, and is a very enjoyable day for anyone from 7 to 70.

Antrim

Take a walk in the country at The Antrim Show this Saturday 22nd July.  From cookery demonstrations by Paula McIntyre in the Festival of Food marquee, to livestock, sheep shearing and horse jumping competitions there’s plenty to keep all of the family amused. There’s also a dog agility display, a children’s pet show, a petting zoo, Young Farmers Games and a jiving competition to be found among craft stalls, family entertainment and Home Industries and Horticulture exhibits.

Belfast

Do not miss the legendary, multi-award-winning and ground-breaking rock musical RENT as it celebrates its incredible 20th anniversary from 19th to 22nd July at the Belvoir Players Studio.   This exhilarating landmark musical tells the thrilling story of a group of impoverished young artists struggling to survive in New York City’s East Village in the thriving days of Bohemian excess.  Inspired by Puccini’s classic opera La bohème, RENT features unforgettable music and lyrics by Jonathan Larson including the much-loved songs Seasons of Love, Take Me or Leave Me and La Vie Bohème. Winner of four Tony® Awards, six Drama Desk Awards and the hugely prestigious Pulitzer Prize for Drama, it ran on Broadway for an astonishing 12 years.

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

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

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Down

The Portaferry Gala Festival is celebrating 50 years this year and is offering some spectacular new events to mark the anniversary from 15th to 21st July.  The festival highlights are an opening extravaganza with live band, The Pitching the Sheaf Competition, live band Ritchie Remo, kids fancy dress, open air boxing, comedy play, live radio, youth challenge and Xbox event, paper boat race, live wrestling, 10 mile run, tea dance for seniors and main highlight of the week annual float parade display of fabulous floats and other carnival entertainment.

Armagh

During July, Craftswirl at the Armagh Visitor Information Centre will host a beautiful exhibition by Leona Devine.  Leona is an honours graduate in Fine and Applied Art from the University of Ulster, where she specialised in Ceramics. In 2014 Leona was awarded the Tyrone Guthrie Centre Regional Bursary by the Roe Valley Arts and Heritage Committee.  Leona’s work is greatly inspired by the natural landscape and environment where she lives and works. Based in the countryside, she draws inspiration from the rural landscape and the animals which inhabit it.

Fermanagh

Summer camp at SHARE is back!  With over 35 years’ experience delivering residential programmes to groups of all ages, SHARE Discovery Village is the perfect place to spend a week of adventure, making new friends, developing new skills and most importantly having fun!  Summer camp at SHARE runs weekly until the end of July (Sunday-Sunday). There are action packed morning, afternoon and evening activities on offer, along with meals, accommodation and 24 hour supervision in a safe environment accompanied by fully trained staff. Summer camp at SHARE is even more exciting this year as it includes young people aged 11-17 from all over Europe! Giving participants the chance to practice and improve their foreign languages while having fun with their new friends.

Tyrone

Join The Silverbirch Hotel Omagh for Friday night live entertainment with Ritchie Remo in Lola’s on 14th July.  Doors open from 9.15pm (DJ 9.15-11pm).  Ritchie Remo will be  on stage from 11.00 to 1.00am.  Price: £12 on the door. Jive & Dine In is £35pp for a 4 course dinner & Country Night ticket For Ritchie Remo.  Keep It Country accommodation offers from £60pp B&B, 4 Course dinner & ticket.

Derry/Londonderry

Carrowmena Summer Camp takes place from 17th to 21st July.  Have the Summer Camp Adventure of a lifetime on this 5 day jam-packed to the max with exhilarating outdoor pursuits camp. Not only will it give you the chance to spend the summer outdoors! You will meet new friends and take on new challenges! Giving you the chance to go back to school with amazing memories.

Antrim

Thursday night is movie night at the Bushmills Inn!  A night at the movies with a luxurious twist. Enjoy small, intimate screenings of the latest blockbusters in exclusive surroundings in a boutique cinema. Package includes a 2 course dinner and popcorn.  13th July 2017, La La Land.  27th July, Rogue One. 10th August, Beauty and the Beast. 24th August, The Accountant.  Entrance Fee  £27.50 per person.

Belfast

Join HMS Caroline for their Summer Family Festival this weekend from the 14th to the 16th July.  With Kids go free and a fun weekend of activities, there will be something for everyone at HMS Caroline. Activities run 10:30 am – 4:30 pm daily.  Entrance Fee – Adults: £12 (Gift Aid – £13.20), Concessions: £7.50 (Gift Aid £8.25), Children: FREE.   Book online and save up to 20%!

 

­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

By

Down

Ards are taking on the challenge of presenting outdoor performances every Friday lunchtime in Conway Square from 7th July to 25th August.  Picture it now: the sun is shining down, crowds are eating ice-cream and children are laughing to the backdrop of a spectacular live performance!  With everything from music to circus performance and comedy, Conway Square in Newtownards will be the place to be on Fridays between 12.30pm and 1.30pm throughout July and August.  In the event of inclement weather, the performances will move into Ards Art Centre.

Armagh

Portstewart isn’t the only home to champions from the 5th to 9th July!  The Navan Centre & Fort, Armagh was the home to famous champion warriors who used the skills of the ‘stick’ to perfect their skills, as warriors on the battlefield!  Champion Warriors at Navan will show you how to prepare your warrior skills using these ‘sticks’ also known as the hurl!    So while the golfing warriors thrash out the golf on the North Coast, visit the Navan Centre and see have you got what it takes to become a great Celtic Warrior!

Fermanagh

This July and August SHARE will be providing Guided Canoe & Kayak tours of Enniskillen Island & Castle Island (1 hr) and Devenish island (2 hr) as part of the new Enniskillen Activity Hub based at Waterways Ireland Headquarters!  If you fancy an outdoor adventure where you can also learn about the rich history and the amazing wildlife and eco-system that surrounds us here in Fermanagh then taking part in one of our tours is the perfect choice for you!

Tyrone

This Saturday 8th July, The Burnavon Theatre Cookstown’s annual July Celebrations Concert brings you a fantastic line up of music and dance to enjoy! This promises to be an evening which not only showcases musical talent in the district, but which introduces the Bright Light Dance Troupe from Belfast and Cup O’Joe from Co. Armagh. Completing our 2017 line up is KasK, who will be performing a fusion of traditional Scottish and Irish music, guaranteeing top notch entertainment.  The evening will be compered by entertainer and comedian Gary Wilson, who is sure to light up the room with his banter and shenanigans!

Derry/Londonderry

Treat the kids this summer and enjoy some family time with blockbuster family movies at the Waterside Theatre in Derry, great value that won’t break the bank! This Sunday’s movie is The Secret Life of Pets (2016, U, 87 mins) at 2.00pm. Tickets cost only £1.00!

Antrim

This Saturday July 8th, join RSPB warden and Rathlin Islander Liam McFaul to walk and explore the four-mile route from Church Bay to the Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre where our friendly team of staff and volunteers will be ready to greet you.  You’ll be amazed by the sight, sound (and smell!) of thousands of seabirds and will also have a chance to explore the lighthouse and learn about the people and wildlife which make their homes here.  After your exciting adventure you can hop on the Puffin Bus back to Church Bay, taking in the stunning sights of Northern Ireland’s only inhabited offshore island.  Please book your ferry crossing in advance via www.rathlinballycastleferry.com or by calling 028 2076 9299. We recommend booking the 10am departure from Ballycastle and the 3.30pm return crossing.  Please also bring a packed lunch and wear suitable outdoor clothing and footwear in case of inclement weather.

Belfast

Don’t miss Hairspray Junior from 6th to 8th July at  the Belvoir Players Studio It’s 1962 in Baltimore, Maryland, and quirky, plus-sized, teenage Tracy Turnblad has one dream: to dance on The Corny Collins Show. When she gets put in detention with the African-American students in the school, they teach her some of their dance moves, and her new found groove wins her a spot on Corny’s show.  The bright, energetic story of Tracy Turnblad teaches us all to look past the colour of one’s skin and fight for every human being’s equal rights.

­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

By

Down

Summer Music in the Park makes a welcome return this weekend to Ward Park, Bangor. This is the perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon! Bring along family and friends, enjoy a picnic and take in the sounds of weekly live music throughout July and August.  This Sunday enjoy the sound of Jazz the Park  with The Jazzmeisters , 3.00pm to 5.00pm.

Armagh

Join The National Trust at The Argory every Sunday in July for laid back tunes and relaxation. Chill in the Courtyard while the kids are entertained and feast on a summer BBQ. Normal admission charges apply, members go free.

Fermanagh

Jump on board one of the Geopark Landrovers and explore the stunning scenery of Cuilcagh Mountain Park this Sunday 2nd July. Ranging from the rugged upland cliffs to the weathered limestone landscapes on the lower ground, this safari is a chance for you to experience and explore the patchwork of landscapes found on Cuilcagh Mountain.  Booking essential – contact Marble Arch Caves (+44(0)2866348855) to book your place.  This event is not suitable for children under 12 years old.

Tyrone

This Friday 30th June all roads lead to Cookstown for the Cookstown Summer Carnival! This is a free family event taking place from 6.00pm to 10.30pm with live entertainment, a food village, fairground and a spectacular street party on Burn Road. Lots of fun for all the family to enjoy! The carnival parade begins at 6.00pm. Call 028 8676 3398 for more information.

Derry

Fireworks Dance, Drama and Theatre Academy celebrate their 4th Birthday with an exhilarating performance of “Feux d’artifice: Équilibre et Espoir” this Saturday 1st July at the Millennium Forum. An evening of inspiring entertainment awaits as over 100 energetic cast members fulfil the company motto, ‘Let YOUR Colours EXPLODE!’

Antrim

Come along to Larne Museum’s free Children’s Art Workshop on Saturday 1st July from 11.00am to 1.00pm and make your very own Shoebox Dolls House to take home! Participants are asked to bring along a shoebox and a home magazine. If possible also bring a lightweight cardboard box, scissors and a 30cm scrap of wallpaper. Places are limited and should be booked in advance by contacting Larne Museum & Arts Centre.

Belfast

QFT Late: Cult & Classic continues with the Coen Brothers’ achingly funny quasi-detective story, this Friday 30th June at 9.00pm. Jeff Bridges is The Dude, a fortysomething stoner who lives only for bowling, White Russians and his rug. But when some unhappy gangsters barge into his home and soil said rug it kicks off a tale of mistaken identity, chopped-off toes and German nihilists that will have you in fits of laughter.

 

­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

By

Down

The popular Sea Bangor Festival  returns with plenty of fun plus a celebration of the Armed Forces this Saturday and Sunday. Throughout the weekend, Sea Bangor’s maritime themed festival will once again delight all with a host of activities including live music, food stalls, street theatre and impressive displays which the event is known and loved for, including a Spitfire and JetLev demonstrations.

Armagh

Armagh City Guided Summer Tours begin again on Wednesday 21st June.  As Ireland’s Ecclesiastical Capital, many impressive sites and attractions can be found in Armagh.  From pre-historic Ireland to an unmatched Georgian architecture, modern day Armagh is built against a rich backdrop of history, clearly visible through its historic buildings and open spaces.  For those who want to explore everything the City has to offer, a guided walking tour is a must.  You’ll walk through Armagh’s rich history as you hear stories and anecdotes about the area, learn about the city’s renowned Georgian architecture and stroll along the distinct cobble streets as you unearth some of the city’s hidden gems along the way.  Tour times:   Each Wednesday to Saturday 11am – 12:00 noon and 1:00pm – 2.00pm from 21st June -2nd September.

Fermanagh

Borderline Players return to the Ardhowen Theatre this Friday 23rd June with Ray Cooney’s frantic comedy, ‘Out Of Order’. Set in the ‘steamy’ world of Westminster politics, Richard Willey a junior government minister, is attempting to spend an ill-advised evening in the company of Jane Worthington, a typist for the opposition. His plans are complicated by the arrival of his aide, George Pigden, his wife Pamela, an interfering hotel manager, an unscrupulous waiter, and a seemingly dead body… The evening goes disastrously wrong as Richard and George attempt to dig their way out of an ever deepening hole to avoid political scandal. Please note: the play contains mild language.

Tyrone

It’s the Friday Tea Dance this Friday 23rd June at The Hub in Cookstown.  Dance the afternoon away to live music from Briege Devlin and a salubrious afternoon tea! Admission is FREE!

Derry/Londonderry

On Saturday 24th June, award-winning Irish actress Olwen Fouéré and Syrian opera singer Lubana Al Quntar are to collaborate on a unique project exploring the Syrian conflict through Heaney’s collection The Spirit Level, at Seamus Heaney HomePlace.

Antrim

On Saturday 24th June 2017 Ballymena town centre will be transformed into a fun and exciting summer carnival.  This FREE one day event is taking place in Bryan Street, Wellington Court, Bandstand and surrounding areas. There will be on-street entertainment, carnival games and crafts, face painting, fun characters, live music, pet farm and sporting activities including a climbing wall, foot darts, foot pool and interactive challenges for all ages!

Belfast

This Sunday 25th June at the Crescent Arts Centre, take a journey into the colourful world of Lego animation with the mini animation masterclass, which will teach participants how to make a complete animated film on an iPad, including sound effects visual effects, and planning your film.  You’ll also learn about how to create 2D animations and basic photoshop skills on the iPad.

 

­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 Father’s Day weekend.

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The award winning Comber Earlies Festival is back for 2017 on Saturday 17th June. Enjoy a fabulous day out celebrating Comber Earlies. Local Artisan food will pave the way to big tops and a hay bale picnic filled with music, children’s activities, street theatre, food demonstrations and lots more, making this a great day out for all the family!

Armagh

Organised by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Bee Curious will take place on Saturday 17th June from 11am to 4pm at the Lough Neagh Discovery Centre, Oxford Island National Nature Reserve. This FREE family day out offers an exciting insight into the magical world of pollinating insects, including honey and bumblebees, hoverflies, butterflies and moths and celebrates the importance of these creatures to local food producers.

Fermanagh

Trevor Smith and his ‘Friends in Low Places’ are putting on a very special show at the Ardhowen Theatre this Saturday evening. Friends in Low Places brings you the magic of Garth Brooks and all of his greatest hits such as ‘If Tomorrow Never Comes’,  ‘Friends in Low Places’, ‘The Dance’, Baton Rouge’, ‘Shameless’ and ‘Unanswered Prayers’.  This show is a must see for any Brook’s fan and is the next best thing to the man himself.

Tyrone

This Saturday 17th June An Creagán are hosting their first ever Feast of the Earls Banquet which will be held at 6pm – 10pm, £30 per adult & £15 per child. Discover the entertainment and food that awaits you as you dine with warriors of the Cineál Eoghain group and revel in live music and storytelling. Partake in a sumptuous dinner and delight in traditional songs and instrumental music.

Derry/Londonderry

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt this Saturday afternoon at the Millennium Forum! Direct from a smash-hit West End season and international tour. Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going on a Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score.

Antrim

Re-Wild your Dad with Colin Glen Forest Park’s Father’s Day Bushcraft Event. Learn to build a shelter, light a fire, and how to use a knife & read a map. Finish it off with some smores on an open fire. Sunday 18th June from 1.00pm to 4.00pm.

Belfast

Join W5 in June for an exciting design and build challenge!  Have you got what it takes to create a spectacular marble run roller coaster?  Help W5’s expert track builders combine wooden building blocks, marble run tracks and some very special track pieces to create the biggest and most entertaining run possible. Will your team’s design work? The only way to find out is through trial and error. Every Saturday & Sunday in June from 2-4pm.  The Marble Run is FREE with admission to W5.

 

­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 across NI this weekend.

By

Down

The wonderful Castle Ward Book Fair is back on the 10th and 11th June with the usual amazing selection of quality second hand books to be had. It’s a magnet for book lovers – you’ll be surprised at what you’ll find. And you will be supporting a good cause as you head away with armfuls of fabulous reading material. There are fun family activities taking place as well, with aspiring young writers invited to take part in the Castle Ward Big Story Challenge. Aspiring adult writers are invited to join Words for Castle Ward to try their hand as some writing as well!

Armagh

The Castle Classic Club will host their annual show on the grounds of Brownlow House Lurgan on the 10th of June from 10.00am to 4.00pm.  This will be the 19th year showing a range of classic cars, motorcycle’s, tractor’s and machinery.  There will be a raffle on the day and all proceeds will go to Craigavon Cardiac Care.

Fermanagh

Join Crom Estate, Newtownbutler, this Saturday 10th June for a Mothy Coffee!  See which varieties of moths have been found on the estate. You can grab a cup of coffee and a bun and join the National Trust rangers to learn a few things about these amazing creatures.

Tyrone

Cookstown Superstars are back to dazzle you with their new musical production Happy Ever After this Saturday at the Burnavon Theatre Cookstown.  This upside-down musical fairy tale tells the story of how one unlikely suitor wins the heart of a beautiful princess. A story of love, acceptance and, tolerance, with whimsical puppetry, high energy dance numbers and laughs by the minute – a true happy ever after story brought to life as only Superstars can!

Derry/Londonderry                                                                                           

This Friday 9th June at the Ardtara Country House in Upperlands, Chef Patron Ian Orr will share his tips and secrets for creating the perfect BBQ which can be recreated at home. The demo will be followed by a three course meal and is priced at only £31.95 per person. Telephone 028 7964 4490 to book or email info@ardtara.com.

 

Antrim

Mid Summer Magic takes place this Saturday 10th  and Sunday 11th June at Lilian Bland Community Park, Glengormley. Experience the magic of summer with a fantastic feast for the senses. Browse the artisan market stalls, enjoy food from your favourite local restaurants, relax to the sounds of local music and enjoy our free family fun activities. A fun fair will also be in Glengormley on Friday 9th June from 6pm – 9pm.

Belfast

The Ballyhackamore Community Fun Day will take place this Saturday 10th June at St. Joseph’s Primary School. There’s lots on offer for all the family! A giant inflatable wrecking ball, bouncy castles, slides, games, football cage, giant fire engine, and Lego and Clay modelling workshops (pre-book online at www.stjosephsps.co.uk).  If you’re peckish pick up a burger or treat yourself to some popcorn or candy floss and relax while enjoying some live music.

 

­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

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The Holywood Harmony Festival boasts a three-day line-up that is set to boost the growing reputation of the volunteer-run spectacle.  Hothouse Flowers, Ulaid & Duke Special and Gareth Dunlop will headline each day from Friday 2nd June to Sunday 4th June respectively.  On Ulaid and Duke Special will be supported by The Emerald Armada and Red House. On Saturday The Hothouse Flowers will be supported by The Nat Youle Band and singer/songwriter Ciaran McElhinney. On Sunday Gareth Dunlop will be supported by Dana Masters and Sam Wickens.

Armagh

An Antiques Vintage and Collectors Fair will take place this Saturday 3rd June from 10.00 am to 4.00pm at Mulavilly Parish Hall, Mulavilly, Tandragee. This event is a fundraiser for SAMS project. There will be free parking and refreshments available.  Browse a great selection of antique and vintage silver, jewellery, kitchenalia, china,  crystal, tools, art ,coins, medals and much more.

Fermanagh

What could be more relaxing than spending your evening watching the sunset whilst paddling along taking in the stunning views of Lough Erne?  If this sounds like something that would interest you then join SHARE Discovery Village on May 31st or June 2nd for their Sunset Paddles event!  This fantastic event costs ONLY £15pp – including equipment hire.

Tyrone

Time Travellers, Midsummer Vintage & Handmade Fair will take place at The Mellon Country Inn, Omagh this Sunday 4th June. There will be stalls galore filled with vintage clothing, jewellery, collectibles, retro, vinyls, china and more. Music will be provided by Boneyard Record Shop.

Derry

This Saturday Guildhall Square will welcome the very best of artisan traders at the Walled City Market, offering visitors a friendly shopping experience with a wide selection of speciality foods ranging from vegetables, homemade jams & preserves, artisan breads & cakes, sweets and handmade craft products.

Antrim

A weekend of walks are on offer for everyone ranging from gentle strolls to mountain challenges around the Glens of Antrim led by local people. The Walk the Glens Festival is based around the Glens areas and offers walking in simply spectacular surroundings. Walks include a heritage history walk, the three peaks, and a stroll around the Clachans in Cushendun followed by a BBQ and traditional music and much more. Appropriate footwear must be worn on all mountain walks. Registration will take place before each walk at the Old Schoolhouse. No dogs allowed on any of the walks. See www.walktheglens.co.uk.

Belfast

Blues guitar legend Ronnie Greer returns to the Crescent Arts Centre this Friday with his powerhouse band, featuring some of the finest musicians in the country.  Ronnie’s distinctive guitar style, melding searing Chicago blues style licks with be bop jazz inspired lines, has been critically acclaimed as world class.  His band, comprising of Anthony Toner, guitar and vocals, John McCullough, keyboards, Nick Scott, bass guitar and Peter McKinney, drums, operate on a level which must be heard to be appreciated. Add to the mix, special guest Ken Haddock, one of the most soulful and expressive singers on the Irish music scene, and you have the recipe for a great night of blues, roots and a little jazz, played by some of the best in the business!

 

­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 across NI this Bank Holiday weekend.

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Portico are delighted to be presenting another astonishing array of talented performers at Portico’s Fesiv’Ards 2017, from 26th to 29th May.  Artists include Calidore String Quartet, Finghin Collins, Daniel Cook, Concentio with Brass Ensemble, Ficini Quartet, Richard Hills, Ben Johnson, and James Ballieu, Jamie Walton and Katya Apekisheva, Anneliene van Wauwe, NI Opera.  For information on all the concerts and tickets see  wwww.porticoards.com.

Armagh

Armagh Craft Fair is returning to Armagh on Saturday 27th May from 10.30am to 6pm, at The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre.  Bringing high quality Craft to the heart of Armagh City this annual event offers something for everyone. The fair will feature over 45 high quality craft stalls from makers across Northern Ireland and Ireland. The crafts on show at this year’s Craft Fair will include textiles, knitwear, jewellery, wood, metal, basketry, glass, soaps, leather, ceramics,  and candles to name but a few.

Fermanagh

Boho Parish Church Select Vestry will host The Church in the Vale Flower Festival from 26th to 29th May to raise vital funds for the urgent restoration of the church and grounds. The church was originally built in 1777 and remains as one of the smallest congregations in the Clogher Diocese with 30 souls. Themed as ‘The Church in the Vale’ & will encompass approximately 10 displays arranged by renowned floral artists from Fermanagh and Tyrone. Refreshments will be provided in an adjoining marquee.

Tyrone

Beatles Tribute Show, Made In Liverpool, are coming to Lola’s at the Silver Birch Hotel Omagh on Saturday 27th May! Resident at The Cavern Club Liverpool they were the first Beatles tribute band to play the Cavern when it re-opened and are mentioned in music writer and Mersey beat historian Spencer Leigh’s book ‘The Cavern, The Most Famous Club in the World’.

Derry

Replay Theatre Company present Woofle at the Flowerfield Arts Centre this Friday 26th May. In this 30-minute show, singer-songwriter Dan Leith brings lots of furry fun with Woofle – a show about one Dan and his dog with lots of silly songs. From chasing bees and getting mucky, to taking a walk and having a bath, this quirky combination of video footage and live music gives an unusual view of the ups and downs of having a dog as your best friend. Woofle is designed for children aged 4-10 and is an opportunity for children of primary school age to access a high quality, bespoke show created just for them.

Antrim

At the very heart of the spectacular Causeway Coast and Glens the communities of Ballycastle and Rathlin Island would like to extend a very warm welcome and would like to invite you to come along and join in and help celebrate the rich and diverse maritime culture during the Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival 26th May to 4th June. The festival is centred on Rathlin Sound, the body of water that lies between Rathlin Island and Ballycastle.  From the adrenaline rush of the Sailing Regatta and races as well as exciting have a go activities, to tempting food and craft markets, seriously scenic guided walks, exciting and informative talks and tours, exhibitions and demonstrations, fun competitions, friendly giants, Tall ship and Viking ships, there’s plenty to choose from including fantastic family friendly events.

Belfast

The Free Saturday Minors Film Club returns to the Strand Arts Centre this Saturday, for ages 5+. This weekend’s screening is A Bug’s Life (1998) [U]. A misfit inventor ant called Flik, ends up having to look for “warriors” to save his own colony from greedy grasshoppers and recruits a groups of bugs that turn out to be an inept circus troupe.

 

­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 across NI this weekend.

By

Down

The Big Telly Theatre Company presents The Faerie Thorn at the Web Theatre, Newtownards, this Friday 19th May.  This production will recreate Talbot’s dark, imaginative and bewitching tales, propelling the audience into a world of devilish debts, trysts and trades, broken bargains and unjust trials; of magic, quick-wittedness, hoodwinking and revenge. The Faerie Thorn will be witty, dark and wickedly comedic dealing with inexorable human tensions in a way that is shocking and yet terrifyingly familiar.  Recommended for age 14+.  Tickets are on sale at ardsarts.com.

Armagh

See Brenda Murphy & Martin Lynch’s ‘Crazy’ this Friday evening at the Market Place Theatre Armagh.  It tells the story of young Belfast woman Ruby and her search for true love. Throw in the greatest hits of Patsy Cline and Garth Brooks and audiences are set for a great night out. Starring Caroline Curran.

Fermanagh

‘And Finally… Phil Collins’ are recognised throughout the industry as the market leaders and definitive Phil Collins and Genesis tribute show. Now, celebrating their ‘10th Anniversary’ year together, this truly amazing eleven piece band which includes the ‘And Finally Horns’ faithfully re-create all the classic hits from the Phil Collins and Genesis timeless back catalogue. See them live on stage this Friday at the Ardhowen Theatre, Enniskillen.

Tyrone

Cookstown goes continental when the food and flavours, sights and sounds of Europe and beyond come to the town centre this weekend (Sat 20th May from 9am – 9pm  and Sun 21st May 2017 from 11am – 7pm). The Continental Market will feature over 40 traders from as far afield as Morocco, India, Belgium, France, Russia, Holland, Spain and China, who will set up stalls alongside local traders from the weekly street market. As well as mouth-watering dishes, from freshly made Paella to delicious Bratwurst Sausages, visitors to the market will also be kept entertained with a variety of street entertainment and music.

Derry

For the first time ever the classic nursery rhyme Humpty Dumpty is brought to the stage in a wonderful live interactive all singing and dancing production, this Saturday at the Millennium Forum.  Humpty Dumpty is going on a big adventure to climb the highest wall in the Kingdom, but Humpty needs your help!  Sing along, solve puzzles and meet lots of famous children’s characters along the way including The Three Little Pigs, Little Bo Peep, all the animals on Old MacDonald’s Farm and many more. When Humpty climbs the highest wall in the Kingdom, who knows what might happen next?

Antrim

The annual Ballyclare May Fair takes place this weekend. The May Fair is one of the few horse fairs left in Northern Ireland. The event has grown to be more than a horse fair, with amusements, family activities, music concerts, Mayor’s parade, sports events and exhibitions. Local shops compete for the best dressed window, and children take part in fun days and competitions.

Belfast

This Sunday 21st May,  the QFT’s autism friendly screening is Kiki’s Delivery Service. An exciting story about a young girl named Kiki, who grows in confidence as she adapts her flying skills to create a broomstick delivery service. This coming of age tale is a wonderful and humorous animation from Studio Ghibli. 30 mins before the film begins there will be free refreshments, a pre-screen art activity and short introduction to the film by Shelley Tracey.

 

 

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