Down

This Saturday enjoy a festive afternoon at the Kingfisher Kitchen at Castle Espie with their new Afternoon Tea Menu. There will be music from Fourte Strings Quartet as well as fashion and jewellery tips and advice from Captain Tortue Clothing and Miglio Designer Jewellery. Check off your Christmas list and pick up some unique items too, all the while enjoy stunning views and delicious food.  A glass of bubbly will be included as a special festive treat too!  £25 for 2 people. Booking Essential – 02891 874146.

Armagh

Why not treat a loved one to a night of great music and food at the Market Place Theatre’s popular Christmas Jazz Supper Club this Friday 16th December.  Taking centre stage will be the hugely popular Martello Jazz Band who feature a sound reminiscent of the Dixieland bands of 1920’s New Orleans, stamped with their own brand of drive and flair. A great pre-Christmas night out with friends.

Fermanagh

Caritas are a mixed voice choir who will perform Carols this Friday evening with Fr. Brian Darcy at the Graan Retreat.  Proceeds will go to the Ellie Nicholl foundation – of Ellie’s Retreat.  Enjoy a family friendly Christmas experience for all.

Tyrone

Join the  Ulster Orchestra this Saturday evening at the Alley Theatre Strabane for a very special performance of enchanting carols and festive music. This hugely popular and lively sing-a-long Christmas show will include all of your festive classics and promises to be fun for all the family – so have your tinsel, bobbles and sleigh bells at the ready for a Christmas cracker of a show!

Derry/Londonderry

Enjoy a festive screening of It’s a Wonderful Life this Saturday at the Roe Valley Arts Centre, Limavady.  This 1946 award-winning classic directed by Frank Capra is now regarded as one of the finest festive films ever made. An angel helps a desperate man on the edge realise what life would be like if he never existed. Set in the small community-oriented town of Bedford Falls, we follow George Bailey (played by the excellent James Stewart) as he reflects on his life, his loves and his future.  Complimentary seasonal refreshments.

Antrim

Antrim’s Market in the Square is back with some festive fever this Friday and Saturday.  With lots of artisan food and craft stalls, its ideal if you want to pick up that unique Christmas gift. There will be lots of free family entertainment and music, plus a twilight bar serving mulled wine, so bring the family along for a great day out.

Belfast

The Belfast Guitar Orchestra are a 25 piece guitar band with singing, brass, bass and drums who like to play and sing and have fun. Welcome to the first annual BGO Christmas Variety Show this Friday 16th December at the Crescent Arts Centre – there’s not that much variety, it’s still all about the guitars and the singing! Full band performance and performances from The Rockets, Gerry and the Atric, The Villianelles, M&E, and others.

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

Its back! The annual Comber Christmas Fair in the Square returns this Thursday 24^th November from 4.00pm to 8.00pm. Join in the festive spirit and enjoy time browsing the different local stalls including gifts, jewellery, crafts and a kid’s zone. Santa will make an appearance as well as carol singers before the official turning on the Christmas lights.

Armagh

On Georgian Day, Saturday 26th November, a festive market will bring the city to life, with stalls offering high quality gifts and locally produced food and drink. The city streets will offer something different on every turn including period characters, demonstrations, live music, street theatre & performers, walking tours, horse & carriage rides, mulled wine, mince pies, hot chestnuts and much more.  The Children’s Market at The Shambles Yard will offer a family friendly experience with traditional fairground games & rides, festive stalls with treats & gifts suitable for little people, real reindeer, light sculptures, workshops & crafts all served with lashings of sprinkles and glitter!  As the city grows dark, the dramatic Light Show, will burst to life, illuminating the backdrop of the Georgian Market House and creating a festive atmosphere with contemporary and seasonal music. A must see for all visitors to the City!

Fermanagh

Christmas officially starts in Enniskillen on Saturday 26th November with the Christmas lights switch-on in the town centre at 5.30pm. 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!   A programme of festive family entertainment at The Diamond includes Street Entertainers and Face Painters, Balloon Modellers, Marty Fay Band, Silver Bands, Cross Community Choir, Santa and much more.  Access via Water Street will be restricted from 4.00pm. Santa will leave The Town Hall to meet and greet families in The Diamond from 4.30pm with the lights switch on taking place at 5:30pm.

Tyrone

Tim McGarry “Goes Over The Top” at Burnavon Theatre this Friday 25th November  with a brand new stand-up show about our history.  This time instead of taking on all of Irish history Tim will concentrate on the bits that we think matter the most. And because of the year that’s in, it can only be the 1916 Easter Rising and the Battle of the Somme.  In 2016 we have be inundated with worthy and serious dramas and documentaries about the meaning of 1916.  There has been much chin stroking and nodding of heads sagely.  Tim McGarry doesn’t want that. He wants to give you jokes.

Derry/Londonderry

The third annual Ballymaguigan Christmas fair will be on Saturday 26th November, from 12.00 – 4.00 at St Trea’s football club hall, Ballymaguigan.  You will find a whole host of amazing handmade products, from jewellery to clothes to art and gifts. Everything is made with love, care and time as the makers of handmade products all share one thing; a passion for what they do.  There will also be some independent stall holders, children’s entertainment and ladies doing your makeup, hair and nails. The Fairy Workshop will be in attendance for a 2-3 hour kids special Christmas workshop ‘Making your own fairy door’.

Antrim

The action kicks off in Market Square Antrim this Thursday 24^th November for the Christmas Tree Switch On, with musical entertainment hosted by Sonya Mac from Q Radio, a visit from Santa at 7.00pm and the special Children’s Prize Draw with some great prizes to be won. A spectacular fireworks display will round off what will undoubtedly be a perfect festive evening for all the family.

Belfast

The Folktown Market is a farmers and variety market running every Thursday from 9am to 4pm with stalls selling locally grown fruit and vegetables and locally produced meats and breads. You can also find coffee, hot food and local crafts. The market is in one of the most central spaces in Belfast, Bank Square, only a few yards from the main shopping streets, Castle Court shopping centre and multi-storey car parks. Surrounded by two of the oldest churches, Mourne Seafood Restaurant and traditional pubs, one dating back to the 18th century, the square is steeped in character and heritage – a perfect place for people meet and do their shopping – crossing barriers and reconnecting the city.

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

Kick off the festive season at the Bangor Christmas light switch on this Saturday 19th November.  Watch the skies above the Bangor come alive with a spectacular fireworks display following the switch on of the Christmas tree lights.

Armagh

Don’t miss out this year when the goodies take on the baddies in an unforgettable evening featuring future WWE Superstars this Sunday 20th November at the City Hotel Armagh.  It is an ideal event for families with small children .  Admission on-the-door is £12 per person.

Fermanagh

Borderline Players are back with Ray Cooney’s frantic comedy, ‘Out of Order’ at the Ardhowen Theatre on the 17th, 18th and 19th November.  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.

Tyrone

Presented with special permission from Cameron Mackintosh, Holy Cross College Strabane brings Les Misérables School Edition to The Alley Theatre in a production this Saturday afternoon 19th November, with a fantastically talented cast of students, all under 19 years old.  A timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit, featuring the songs I Dreamed a Dream, Bring Him Home, One Day More and On My Own, Les Misérables School Edition is the must-see show this Autumn.

Derry

The Millennium Forum presents Magical Mozart by Candlelight, this Sunday 20th November. This sumptuous fully costumed show immerses us in the wonderful music and the classical baroque world of one of the world’s greatest romantic composers- Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.  A packed programme of classical music and song, which includes excerpts from Mozart’s Operas, The Magic Flute, The Marriage of Figaro, Cosi Fan Tutte, and many more. Mozart’s Magical music also includes Symphony no. 40, Lacrimosa (Requiem D minor), and Eine Kleine Nacht Musik. With beautiful settings, costumes and lighting and, of course, candles, the European Baroque Ensemble and Singers transport us back to the sumptuous past. An evening of Mozart masterpieces

Antrim

In celebration of the Year of Food and Drink Northern Ireland, the very first Causeway Coast and Glens Restaurant Week runs until the 20th November 2016.  There will be themed nights and taster menus, featuring fresh, local and seasonal ingredients, complemented by fine wines, artisan ales and of course, the world’s oldest licensed whiskey from Bushmills..

Belfast

Calling all Witches, Wizards, Muggles and No-Maj’s!  Join the Odeon Cinema Victoria Square this Saturday for a screening of the new JK Rowling film “Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them”.  Tickets cost £10 and everyone will receive a goody bag and be entered in to the raffle for a chance to win some amazing prizes.  All money raised will be used to fund research into the causes and cures of blood cancer in Northern Ireland.

Down

Make a date in your diary this Sunday for Style Sunday at No.7 Duke Street,  Skylite Room, Warrenpoint with compere Denise Curran.  Showcasing their A/W16 Collections, with accessories by Elite Warrenpoint, Berling Newry, Sinenna Warrenpoint & Shauna Fay Designs. There will be a prize for most stylish lady & spot prizes on the day, as well as a fantastic raffle! In Aid of Irish Childrens Pilgrimage Trust Lourdes Group 67.

Armagh

Join Peter Corry  and cast as they take you through the streets of Fagin’s London to Saigon, from Oklahoma to the barricades of Paris, to the Phantom’s Lair and onto New York’s West Side Story.  Peter Corry returns to the Market Place Theatre this Saturday 5th November, with a new show celebrating the best of the musicals. Northern Ireland’s finest voice will entertain you with a night full of musical gems.  There are all the classic favourites from shows like ‘Phantom Of The Opera’, ‘Grease’ and ‘Oliver’ as well as hits from ‘Charlie And The Chocolate Factory’ and of course songs from the brilliant ‘Les Miserables’. A night not to be missed by all musical theatre fans.

Fermanagh

Boogie Nights – The 70s Show is coming to the Ardhowen Theatre, Enniskillen, Friday 4th November at 8 pm. The eldest son of household names Coleen Nolan and Shane Richie, Shane Junior brings a natural charisma and stage presence to any show or production.  Boogie Nights showcases the very best music of the 70s and 80s, from The Jackson Five to Wham! Complete with a live band and an all singing, all dancing cast.  www.ardhowentheatre.com

Tyrone

The Annual Christmas Model Toy and Collectors Fair is being held by Mayne Methodist Church in the Silverbirch Hotel on Saturday 5 November. There will be a large number of trade stands where many toys and other items can be bought. Exhibitors will show working model railways, Meccano displays and other working models. There will be a Lego competition and a Pretty Little Doll From Omagh competition. Singing legend Brian Coll will be helping to judge that competition as well as signing copies of his book. Lots more attractions for everyone.

Derry/Londonderry

Roll up all creative kids! The Roe Valley Arts Centre needs your help to make fantastic festive decorations for their special Christmas tree and window displays in time for Christmas.  You can make some to take home too! Materials provided.  Course 1 for ages 5-7 years, Course 2 for ages 8-12 years. Saturdays for 4 weeks.

Antrim

Lisburn and Castlereagh presents Treat Week, a week-long celebration of our tastiest eateries. Running all week until 5th November, eateries spanning across the region will come together to deliver one-off food and drink experiences.  The Treat Week line-up will include gourmand evenings, cooking masterclasses, afternoon teas, brunch at my place, explore & discover, pop-up suppers, village food trails, meet the producer’s and chef demos. It promises to be an adventurous collaboration of all those involved in our local food scene from Farm to Fork, creating a lasting legacy for our local eating-out scene.  For further information and the full line-up of Lisburn & Castlereagh Treat Week events, visit www.visitlisburncastlereagh.com.

Belfast

THE 4 OF US bring their critically acclaimed acoustic show to the Lyric this Sunday evening, 6th November, showcasing songs from their brand new album Sugar Island, due for release in the autumn, as well as songs from their extensive back catalogue. From their first anthem, Mary, still a radio favourite, through to the UK-charting She Hits Me, to Sunlight, the band has notched up over two decades of radio hits and six top 20 charting albums.

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 fantastic Seapark Fireworks annual family event returns to Seapark Recreation Grounds in Holywood on Saturday 22nd October.  Look forward to live music by local band ‘The Jukes’, tasty treats at the food stalls, a children’s funfair and a spectacular fireworks display!  The fun starts at 4pm, live music from The Jukes at 6.15pm and a fireworks spectacle at 7.45pm.  Why not leave the car at home and hop on the train (STOP Holywood or Marino).  Make sure to wrap up warm and bring a torch.  Have fun times with friends and family!

Armagh

Join Navan Fort this Saturday to learn how to use willow to create some stunning pieces of work. It is amazing what can be achieved with nimble fingers and willow. In the past they have made fencing, baskets, and even their beautiful pig ‘Sow-Anne’. Now it’s your turn to get involved.  Help make a Celtic Bull for the 2017 Wickerman Celebration. Suitable for 6 years + everyone is welcome to participate! This is a FREE event!

Fermanagh

Join RSPB NI for a family scavenger hunt through Castle Caldwell Forest, searching out autumn’s bounty this Saturday 22^nd October.  You’ll learn lots about the forest and its wonderful wildlife as you explore this haven for nature on the shores of Lough Erne.  Free for RSPB members and accompanying adults. £5 per child.  Booking is essential by calling 028 9049 1547 during office hours or emailing amy.colvin@rspb.org.uk

Tyrone

The Silverbirch Hotel invite you to join them for the official launch of the stunning new Drumragh Suite at their Wedding Showcase’ event  on Sunday 23rd October from 1pm.  Meet over 40 of Ireland’s leading wedding suppliers from leading Bridal Wear, Occasion wear, Hair & Beauty, Wedding Transport, Decor, Florists, Cakes & much more. There will be live bridal models throughout the event complimented by a catwalk fashion show. Live entertainment by The Bleed’N Cowboys, Mini Wedding Masterclasses revealing exclusive tips & trends from the experts and more.

Derry

Peter Corry returns to the Millennium Forum this Saturday with a new show celebrating the best of the musicals. Northern Ireland’s finest voice will entertain you with a night full of musical gems. There are all the classic favourites from shows like Phantom of the Opera, Grease and Oliver. Hits from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and, of course, songs from the brilliant Les Misérables.  A night not to be missed by all musical theatre fans.

Antrim

Join Mr Hullabaloo and his cast of colourful puppet friends down in the magical pumpkin patch where an exciting autumn adventure is waiting to unfold! This Saturday at the Courtyard Theatre, Newtownabbey.  Throughout this special storytelling event, young children will be invited to take part in fun spooky sing-alongs and interactive stories.  Shows at 1.30pm & 4.00pm.

Belfast

Come along to HMS Caroline’s End of Season weekend this Saturday and Sunday before she goes into Dry Dock for hull conservation work this Winter. With plenty to do, and free entry for kids, this is a weekend of activities not to be missed at HMS Caroline!  Most activities are drop in and run from 11am – 3pm.

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

Visit the Lookout at Mount Stewart this Saturday morning and have a gander at the geese! Strangford Lough is one of the major destinations for wintering birds in the UK and we hope to see Brent geese, various wildfowl and waders and even seals. Rangers will help with identification and answer any questions you might have. Meet at The Lookout, Mount Stewart. Rangers will direct you to other locations around the Lough.

Armagh

Craigavon Samaritans, in association with Portadown Male Voice Choir, present a fundraising concert this Friday 14th October at 7.45pm in Portadown Town Hall.  Tickets cost £15 (includes tea/coffee & tray bakes during the interval).  Enjoy performances from some fantastic local talent including Portadown Male Voice Choir, Curran-Rooney School of Irish Dancing, Aisling Kennedy, and Gene Fitzpatrick.

Fermanagh

It’s Super Saturday again at SHARE this Saturday 15th October, with great activities for low prices.  Enjoy 1 hour sessions for £6 when prepaid and £8 to pay on the day.  Enjoy 2 hour sessions for £10 when prepaid and £13 to pay on the day.

Tyrone

The Muddlers Club have brought a new flavour of folk fusion to the music scene in Ulster and will perform live this Saturday at the Alley Theatre Strabane.  Bringing together the drive of drums, bass and electric guitar with fiddle, bodhrán, whistles, acoustic guitar and vocal harmonies they are known for the their electrifying live performances. Their theatre performances, though, are an opportunity to hear them at their best, performing a different setlist which combines original and traditional material in an intimate atmosphere. You can expect to hear new interpretations of songs you may know and perhaps discover a few new favourites.

Derry/Londonderry

Digital Dungiven this Saturday is a unique opportunity for people of any age to try out a range of digital media workshops in animation, movie-making, DJ-ing and music production, led by Belfast-based Giga Training. Each session lasts an hour and has 14 available spaces. To book your place, please contact Big Telly on 02870836473

Antrim

Black Spark Gaming presents GAME WARS, Northern Ireland’s premier gaming tournament and exhibition, this Saturday at the Eikon Exhibition Centre Lisburn. GAME WARS has something for gamers of all ages including Competitive eSports tournament, Kid’s Zone, Gaming Zones, Cosplay, Expo Zone and Freebies – prizes and giveaways all weekend.

Belfast

Getting married? Visit the Hastings Europa Hotel Wedding Fayre  which takes place this Sunday 16th October 2016 from 1pm.  Perfect Bliss are proud to present The Europa Hotel’s Wedding Fayre with complimentary admission, Bridal Catwalk Show at 3.30pm, over 50 wedding suppliers & live entertainment throughout the day.

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

There’s something fishy going on in Solitude Park on Friday 7th October 2016 at 7pm when Nemo, Marlin and Dory make a splash on the big screen with a free outdoor screening of the family favourite Finding Nemo.  This animated aquatic adventure follows the comedic and eventful journeys of the fretful Marlin and his young son Nemo.  To add to the cinema experience local food outlet Captain Cooks will be offering a host of hot and tasty treats throughout the event.  So pack a comfy cushion and a cosy blanket and settle down to enjoy a free movie night under the stars at Solitude Park.

Armagh

Join Navan Fort this Saturday 8th October for Willow Weaving Saturday! Learn how to use this natural product to create some stunning pieces of work. It is amazing what can be achieved with nimble fingers and willow. In the past they have made fencing, baskets, and even the beautiful pig ‘Sow-Anne’. Now it’s your turn to get involved.  Help make a Celtic Bull for the 2017 Wickerman Celebration. Suitable for 6 years + everyone is welcome to participate!

Fermanagh

Don’t miss this weekend’s Model and Collector’s Fayre in Irvinestown. A fun day with lots to see for adults and children alike, with something to appeal to all interests. Whether you want to view others private collections or layouts or add to your own this is the place to be. See railway layouts, farm models and homemade displays, football memorabilia, die cast cars, motorbikes, lorries, aircraft, construction displays, wooden toys and crafts. Many items will be available to purchase on the day. Refreshments will be available on Saturday. Fayre open Friday evening and all day Saturday.

Tyrone

Once again c21 Theatre Company bring Shakespeare to life on stage at the Alley Theatre, Thursday 6th October. Edited and directed specifically for schools by Arthur Webb, this fast-moving production follows the eventful life of the evil Scottish warrior and his power-hungry wife. Prophecy, witchcraft, murder and revenge all play a part in their tragic demise and guarantee a captivating production for audiences of all ages.

Derry/Londonderry

Take part in the Jungle NI’s Zombie Run on 9th October at 11am. Brave participants will complete a daring 5K obstacle trail whilst being chased by running zombies.  There’s nothing between you and the finish line, apart from some obstacles. Oh, and the Zombie living dead – did we forget to mention that?  Each runner starts with three lives (flags worn around the waist), & as you run the 5k, through mud and obstacles, it’s up to the zombies who will be attempting to steal one of your three lives. It’s up to you to make it to the finish line with as many lives intact as possible.

Antrim

The Ballygally Castle is the setting for Perfect Bliss’ Wedding Fayre on Sun 9th October 2016 from 1.00pm.  The Event will showcase the newly refurbished Hotel, host over 50 Wedding Suppliers, showcase Bridal, Grooms & MOB/G & Occasion Wear on the Catwalk.  All complimented with live entertainment.  There will be some lovely spot prizes to be won throughout the afternoon.

Belfast

Do you want to Unleash Your Creativity? The Crescent Arts Centre, based in the heart of South Belfast, offers over 250 classes, workshops and events each week for both adults and children alike.  If you too love the wooden puppet who was dreaming of becoming a real boy, then you’ll enjoy this Saturday’s workshop, Pinocchio, full of curiosities about his author Carlo Collodi, the characters and the places of the book (including the oak from which poor Pinocchio was hanged – and then saved by the Blue Fairy!), the theme park dedicated to the puppet, the best-known films that he inspired, and so much 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.

Down

There’s something fishy going on in Solitude Park on Friday 7th October 2016 at 7pm when Nemo, Marlin and Dory make a splash on the big screen with a free outdoor screening of the family favourite Finding Nemo.  This animated aquatic adventure follows the comedic and eventful journeys of the fretful Marlin and his young son Nemo.  To add to the cinema experience local food outlet Captain Cooks will be offering a host of hot and tasty treats throughout the event.  So pack a comfy cushion and a cosy blanket and settle down to enjoy a free movie night under the stars at Solitude Park.

Armagh

Join Navan Fort this Saturday 8th October for Willow Weaving Saturday! Learn how to use this natural product to create some stunning pieces of work. It is amazing what can be achieved with nimble fingers and willow. In the past they have made fencing, baskets, and even the beautiful pig ‘Sow-Anne’. Now it’s your turn to get involved.  Help make a Celtic Bull for the 2017 Wickerman Celebration. Suitable for 6 years + everyone is welcome to participate!

Fermanagh

Don’t miss this weekend’s Model and Collector’s Fayre in Irvinestown. A fun day with lots to see for adults and children alike, with something to appeal to all interests. Whether you want to view others private collections or layouts or add to your own this is the place to be. See railway layouts, farm models and homemade displays, football memorabilia, diecast cars, motorbikes, lorries, aircraft, construction displays, wooden toys and crafts. Many items will be available to purchase on the day. Refreshments will be available on Saturday. Fayre open Friday evening and all day Saturday.

Tyrone

Once again c21 Theatre Company bring Shakespeare to life on stage at the Alley Theatre, Thursday 6th October. Edited and directed specifically for schools by Arthur Webb, this fast-moving production follows the eventful life of the evil Scottish warrior and his power-hungry wife. Prophecy, witchcraft, murder and revenge all play a part in their tragic demise and guarantee a captivating production for audiences of all ages.

Derry

Take part in the Jungle NI’s Zombie Run on 9th October at 11am. Brave participants will complete a daring 5K obstacle trail whilst being chased by running zombies.  There’s nothing between you and the finish line, apart from some obstacles. Oh, and the Zombie living dead – did we forget to mention that?  Each runner starts with three lives (flags worn around the waist), & as you run the 5k, through mud and obstacles, it’s up to the zombies who will be attempting to steal one of your three lives. It’s up to you to make it to the finish line with as many lives intact as possible.

Antrim

The Ballygally Castle is the setting for Perfect Bliss’ Wedding Fayre on Sun 9th October 2016 from 1.00pm.  The Event will showcase the newly refurbished Hotel, host over 50 Wedding Suppliers, showcase Bridal, Grooms & MOB/G & Occasion Wear on the Catwalk.  All complimented with live entertainment.  There will be some lovely spot prizes to be won throughout the afternoon.

Belfast

Do you want to Unleash Your Creativity? The Crescent Arts Centre, based in the heart of South Belfast, offers over 250 classes, workshops and events each week for both adults and children alike.  If you too love the wooden puppet who was dreaming of becoming a real boy, then you’ll enjoy this Saturday’s workshop, Pinocchio, full of curiosities about his author Carlo Collodi, the characters and the places of the book (including the oak from which poor Pinocchio was hanged – and then saved by the Blue Fairy!), the theme park dedicated to the puppet, the best-known films that he inspired, and so much 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.

Down

Bestselling authors, comedy, crime, song-writing, poetry, sport, family events, and a Festival Yurt – every aspect of Irish writing will be celebrated at Ards and North Down Borough Council’s 25th Anniversary Aspects Festival in Bangor until 25th of September.

Armagh

In the Game of Thrones Indonesian Shadow Art Workshop at the Market Place Theatre this Saturday you will use the intricate shadow art of Wayang Kulit to make your own Game of Thrones character. Firstly draw and cut-out your favourite character, then using a scalpel, a hammer and hollow hole punches create intricate details for your shadow puppet, then piece the puppet together with bamboo canes. You can then try putting on a shadow play using a screen and lights and perform a favourite scene. Suitable for 16+.

Fermanagh

Festival Lough Erne is returning for the second year this weekend. 2016 has been designated as the Northern Ireland Year of Food and Drink and what better way to celebrate this than to showcase the very best of local food produce and sample some culinary delights. Making the most of the lakeside location, you will also be able to enjoy water based activities. The newly refurbished Enniskillen Castle complex is an ideal location offering superb views over the waterways.

Tyrone

Silverbirch Hotel Dinner & Craft Beer Tasting Event Friday 23rd September 7.30pm.   As long standing member of Fermanagh Lakeland Tourism, Silverbirch Hotel are delighted to take part in the very first Fermanagh Restaurant Week by hosting an exciting a Dinner & Craft Beer Tasting event on Friday 23rd September. A great follow up to North West Brew Fest Beer Festival.

Derry/Londonderry

Following the phenomenal success of the Musical Drama ‘PADDY’ in 2015, it makes a welcome return to the Millennium Forum this weekend.  ‘Paddy’ tells the story of emigration in all its shapes and forms.  The two-hour production tells the story of a young Irish emigrant called Patrick Murphy (played by Tommy Fleming) who leaves Mayo in the 1960’s in search of fame and fortune. The show follows his life in both London city and Ireland over a 25 year period.

Antrim

Larne Museum & Arts Centre will be open on Saturday 24th September.  See the temporary art exhibition and sale of works by Brendan McAfee. Brendan will be available from 1pm – 2pm to guide you around the exhibition and answer any questions.

Belfast

Join W5 this weekend for The Crunch – an exciting season of activities, experiences and discussions about our food, our health and our planet. Created by the Wellcome Trust, The Crunch invites people to get involved and help create the recipe for a happier, healthier future. Join the W5 team as they look at the future of food. Could insect brownies be the next big thing?  Will we run out of chocolate? What do a small iron fish and a bowl of Rice Krispies have in common? How can a bicycle and a blender help solve the increasing problem of food waste? Through fun, hands-on activities we’ll discover the answer to these questions and more.  The Crunch 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.

Down

Be prepared to be transported to a galaxy far, far away as Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council present the sensational sci-fi spectacular Stars Wars: The Force Awakens on the big screen in Solitude Park, Banbridge on Friday 16 September at 8pm.  To add to the magical movie experience tasty treats including popcorn, sweets and drinks will also be on sale. Booking is not required just come along and don’t forget to bring along a comfy cushion.

Armagh

In celebration of Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and Drink, come along to The Argory this Saturday to taste and buy a range of locally sourced produce. The once bustling Courtyard at The Argory will come alive with cookery demonstrations, music and country activities. Normal admission applies.

Fermanagh

Don’t miss Fermanagh’s first ever Restaurant Week 16th – 25th September. Enjoy eating out at pop-up Restaurants at the newly refurbished Enniskillen Castle Complex, themed menus in local eateries, dining at some of Fermanagh’s historic visitor attractions, cookery demonstrations & bake-offs, craft beer events and dine on Lough Erne. See www.fermanaghrestaurantweek.com.

Tyrone

Venues and organisations across Omagh will throw open their doors to the public on Friday 16th September for Culture Night Omagh. From 5pm to 11pm event-goers can explore and experience the town’s cultural heritage with an array of free activities on offer. Culture Night is an all-Ireland and wider European celebration of culture, arts and creativity.

Derry

Ireland’s premier Star Wars costuming club, The Emerald Garrison, will be Invading the Millennium Forum Derry this weekend! It includes a line-up of talks, and fun interactive activities as well as the Emerald Garrison’s hugely popular props and replicas. Visitors of all ages will love meeting and posing with over 40 costumed characters including legions of Storm Troopers, Jedi Knights, Bounty Hunters, Clone Troopers, Darth Vader, Wookies and more!  Meet actors from the original movies during Lecture Theatre talks and signings. Please note that the actors charge a fee for photographs and autographs. Young visitors will once again have the opportunity to experience Force Training with the Emerald Garrison’s Jedi instructors. This is also a great opportunity to pick up that collectible or toy you’ve been looking for at one of our traders stands on the ground floor.

Antrim

The much loved fairy tale Goldilocks and The Three Bears comes to life on stage in an unforgettable live stage production of song and laughter that the children will love this Sunday afternoon at Theatre at the Mill Newtownabbey.  Goldilocks, the Three Bears and Ruff the Dog perform live in this exciting and fun filled musical production which takes a few twists and turns along the way with other new puppet characters and hopefully a happy ever after.

Belfast

The fabulous Tesco Taste Festival is returning to Custom House Square in Belfast this weekend, 16th – 18th September.  Now in its eighth year, the Festival, which attracts around 20,000 visitors, looks set to be even bigger and better than before.  The Festival, which celebrates and showcases all that’s great about Northern Ireland food and drink producers, suppliers and chefs, promises a superb weekend of tasting, demonstrations, cookery tips and recipes using top local produce, and entertainment for all the family.

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