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.

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 Ford Capri Club of NI are hosting a display of vintage, classic, modified, motorsport and American Ford cars in the grounds of the Transport Museum, Cultra, Holywood  on Sunday 24th July, starting at 11:00am.  Entry to the event for spectators is at the usual museum entry fees.

Armagh

The Lyric Theatre present Observe the Sons of Ulster Marching Towards the Somme at the Marketplace Theatre Armagh this Saturday 23rd July.  On 1 July 1916, the 36th Ulster Division took part in one of the bloodiest battles in human history. The Battle of the Somme. One hundred years on this major new co-production is directed by Headlong’s Artistic Director, Jeremy Herrin. In the extraordinary circumstances of World War 1, eight ordinary men are changed, changed utterly. This iconic war play by Frank McGuinness is a powerful portrayal of mortality, love and loss.  An Abbey Theatre, Headlong, Citizens Theatre and Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse Theatre co-production.

Fermanagh

The Lady of the Lake is a title that has been associated with Lower Lough Erne, Particularly the area of the great waterway close to Irvinestown, Killadeas, Lisnarick, Castle Archdale and Aughinver. The Lady of the Lake Festival is a Summer Event which takes place every July in Irvinestown, providing 11 days of Fun for All! Folklore has it that the legendary lady walked amongst the mists & islands of Lough Erne bringing a sign of good times ahead! The Festival continues this week until Sunday 24th July.  For details see facebook.com/ladyofthelakefestival.

Tyrone

Enjoy an extravaganza of traditional Irish rock/folk music with Ireland’s best loved and home grown folk rock band, The Whistlin’ Donkeys, this Friday 22nd July at the Alley Theatre Strabane.  Joining them on stage will be guitar legend Johnny Fean and the Siamsa Gael Irish Dance Troup. Throughout the evening the Donkeys will feature some hits from their last top selling album Sung Like A Donkey and for the first time they will play a number of tracks from their forthcoming album and of course a mix of old favourites.  Local singer Brian Hassan will also be joining the Donkeys on stage in an evening not to be missed!

Derry/Londonderry

Taking place in the picturesque seaside town of Portstewart, the Red Sails Festival is a non-profit making festival organised by the Charitable Portstewart Community Association which runs from Sunday 24th July through to Saturday 30th July.  A fabulous week combining a diverse range of entertainment  centred on the Portstewart Promenade  with live music, culture, dance, competitions, ending with a spectacular firework show. The majority of the entertainment and events are free and a wide range of family and children’s activities including workshops, street theatre and talent competition.

Antrim

The Corrymeela Community invites you and your family to join them at their Ballycastle Centre on Sunday 24th July for the Summer Open Day. The Open Day will be an opportunity to visit the Centre, learn about the important work that we do here, chat to community members and find out what we are all about. It’s guaranteed to be a fun-filled day out, in the beautiful setting of the North Coast. On site will be a car wash, BBQ-themed food available to buy, market stalls to peruse, a film-screening and plenty of refreshments. Activities for children will include a site-wide scavenger hunt, games to encourage teamwork and co-operation, environmentally themed crafts, a bouncy castle and face-painting.

Belfast

The smell of the smoke and steam, the sound of the whistle….step back in time on a journey of nostalgia between Belfast Central and Dublin on Sunday 24th July.  Fresh from transporting the Queen on her visit to Northern Ireland on 4th July, at the head of your train will be a steam locomotive that was built especially for the Belfast-Dublin-Cork railway line, in 1932.  Your seats will be in lovingly restored carriages, a train from the 1960’s and 1970’s, complete with fully operational bar and tea-bar.  All of that, and 3 hours to enjoy Dublin before your return journey home.

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

Down

This year’s Castlewellan Show takes place on Saturday 16th July and the committee are looking forward to showing off the best of local agriculture, food and rural pursuits.  Q Radio will be on site and broadcasting live with Local DJ Big O spinning the tunes and having a bit craic.  With dog agility, show jumping, cattle, sheep, goats, poultry, rabbits, pigs and home industries spread across fifty acres of Castlewellan Forest Park we are all set to offer a great day out for all the family.   The Show offers a great opportunity to enable children to get close to a range of animals with kid goats, lambs, NI Rabbit Club, alpacas as well as an array of livestock.   Visitors will get a chance to try out felt making, weaving, straw making and watch the blacksmith and cookery demonstrations.  The County Down Young Farmers are set to entertain the crowds with tug of war, tractor driving and water games.   See castlewellanshow.com for full programme.

Armagh

The Royal Irish Fusiliers Museum Armagh host a new exhibition “Der Tag”.  July the 1st cost the British Army approximately 57,000 casualties, more than any other day in their entire history.  This infamous day in The Great War, was the first day of a battle that would rage on through to November.  The Royal Irish Fusiliers 1st, 7th, 8th and 9th Battalions were part of this long campaign, fighting with the 10th Irish and 36th Ulster Divisions.  Friends were lost, memories were ingrained but often rarely talked about and families throughout Ireland paid the price of war!

Fermanagh

Take the opportunity to take part in a guided tour of one of the most fascinating areas of the Geopark on the Cuilcagh Mountain on a Guided Bus and Walking Tour this Saturday 16th July.  Visitors will be transported by bus to the newly developed Cavan Burren Park where you will learn more about this fascinating archaeological landscape.  Then, it’s back on the bus to Cuilcagh Mountain Park, where you will have an opportunity to explore the lower reaches of the mountain and find out more about this unique setting.  Light refreshments will be provided. Thus event is not suitable for children under 16 years old.  Booking is essential as places are limited.

Tyrone

Enjoy a lazy July Sunday at the Argory. Come and join the National Trust every Sunday in July for laid back tunes and relaxation. Chill in the Courtyard while the kids are entertained and feast on our summer BBQ.

Derry/Londonderry

On July 13th, 14th and 15th, members of the public will be treated to Clipper 2015-16 Race Fleet: Open Boat Tours.  People will be able to discover what life as an ocean racer is like on a personal yacht tour conducted by crew members who have competed in the unique race.  On Saturday July 16 the spectacular finale, The Voyage of Sunniva – Night of the Two Moons, which takes place at Queen’s Quay, brings together land, water, aerial performance, light, music and fireworks in a world class spectacle that will be remembered forever by all who see it.  The closing day of the festival, Sunday July 17, will feature the Clipper Race Yachts Parade of Sail.  This will be a very special event as the city bids an emotional farewell to the Clipper race yachts as they depart for their next official race start at Greencastle, Co Donegal.

Antrim

Join Colin Glen Trust  for a Gruffalo Hunt at Colin Glen Forest Park this Summer! Enjoy a story telling session of the best-selling Children’s Book before meandering through the forest on a guided forest walk from our energetic staff. Try and find the Gruffalo Pictures en route! Collect some woodland items to recycle & create a piece of artwork for  your bedroom or the fridge! On departure collect your ‘I have met the Gruffalo Certificate’.

Belfast

Augmented Reality, or AR, is the amazing new technology that superimposes computer-generated images onto our view of the real world. And this summer W5’s brand new AR exhibit is going to bring dinosaurs roaring back into your world!  Prepare yourself for an encounter with some of the most realistic 3D animated dinosaurs you can get outside of a movie theatre. Watch yourself on the big screen as you get up close and personal with a T-Rex, get approached by a pack of curious raptors or try not to get trampled by a passing Diplodocus!  State of the art technology and prehistoric creatures combine to create a dynamic new experience. An experience that puts you right at the centre of the big screen action!

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.