Down

This Thursday evening 4th February, Newry City Library will host a Harry Potter themed magical night of wizardry, games and crafts for children up to 12 years old. Fancy dress is optional – but SO much more fun! Booking is essential so call the library or email with child’s name, library card number and contact details.

Armagh

This weekend Navan Fort in Armagh will host a weekend of Celtic Mindfulness – a unique healing experience of the land and energy. Where Music, Myth and Meditation will be used to awaken your Celtic Soul. Creating a positive mindfulness, with workshops delivered by Ciaran Corr, Kate Fitzpatrick and Katie Rutledge.

Fermanagh

Neil Delamere returns with a brand new show to the Ardhowen Theatre this Saturday 6th February, brimming with hilarious stories and incisive wit. 2015 saw the award-winning comedian continue his star turn on the perennially popular The Blame Game for BBC NI on TV and radio. Neil also landed his own weekend national radio show for Today FM and the hosting role in the new RTE2 science series Eureka. Now he’s back to his first love, telling tall tales and spinning side-splitting yarns about the events of the last year. Patrons please note: as this is stand-up comedy, the content may not be to the taste of all. Suitable for 16+ years.

Tyrone

See “The Two Loves of Gabriel Foley” this Saturday 6th February at the Alley Theatre Strabane.  This 3-Act Irish Comedy play is exceptionally funny that has had entertained audiences all over Ireland.  Set in Rural Ireland and unlucky in love, Gabriel, a middle-aged bachelor farmer living with his elderly mother finds himself caught between the love of two women. Tickets £12 & £10.

Derry/Londonderry

The amazing Brick Wonders Exhibition by Warren Elsmore is coming to Nerve Centre this Saturday 6th February for 12 weeks.  Showcasing over 70 LEGO® models the exhibition covers not only the seven ancient wonders, but also seven old, modern and natural wonders. Using LEGO® bricks, artist Warren Elsmore creates stunning scenes with easy-to-follow instructions. While many of the original seven ancient wonders have crumbled away, here we see them in their full glory. Brick Wonders also takes a look at new wonders of the world; treasures from the past millennium that remain standing today.

Antrim

Remembering Rebekah, Friday 5th February, Loughshore Hotel, Carrickfergus.  A retro disco event organised by Louise Bunting & Mervyn Bunting in memory of their 9 year old daughter Rebekah, who passed away from DIPG in 2014. Tickets £20. Includes Hot Buffet Food on the evening. Fancy Dress optional but encouraged. Entertainment includes Jordan School of Dance, Drag Act Penny Cillin & Friends & other surprises. All monies raised will be donated to DIPG Angels & 1 in 3 Cancer Support (Registered Local Carrickfergus Charity).

Belfast

Northern Ireland’s leading theatre school the Belfast School of Performing Arts returns to the MAC with a musical that has taken Broadway by storm, it’s the high-spirited musical that has all of New York dancing the Charleston – Thoroughly Modern Millie Jr. this Saturday 6th February.

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Down

Elsa and Anna are coming to the Newcastle Centre on Sunday 13th December at 11am and will perform live all the favourite tunes from Frozen.  The world’s most popular snowman, Olaf will also join the princesses and a visit to Santa will be included.  Tickets are £8 per child and £4 per adult each.  To book log on to www.buytickets.at/tinylife.  Book early to avoid disappointment.  This is a ticket only event.

Armagh

Santa’s Magical Elves at Navan Centre & Fort, Armagh will take you on an enchanted Christmas Journey with Santa’s little helpers who arrive on their very own Elf Mobile!  How did the Elves come to be at Navan?  How did they help Santa make Christmas?  Be captivated by the secrets of the Elves as you journey with them from Navan to the wonderful ‘Elf-ville’.  On your travels the Elves will stamp your Christmas Ticket allowing you unlock the gates on ‘Elf-ville’ to meet with Santa in his magical kingdom, where he has gifts for all the boys and girls!  Pre-booking essential on www.armagh.co.uk/santa. Open until 22^nd December.

Fermanagh

Visit Castle Coole while Santa and Mrs Claus make it their home this Christmas. Castle Coole will be home to Santa and Mrs Claus from 11th – 20th December as they busily prepare for Christmas.  Journey up the magical tunnel to the basement kitchen where Santa and Mrs Claus will be waiting to welcome you into their winter home. Grown-ups can enjoy a warming mulled drink and a mince pie from the kitchen as the children meet Santa and Mrs Claus and receive a special gift from Santa.  Booking is essential.

Tyrone

Kinturk’s magical Christmas Trail opens this Sunday. Write your letter to Santa in the Reindeer Room and make some magical glistening reindeer food for Rudolf and his friends.  Step into Mrs Claus living room for a Christmas tale or two before stepping outside to be greeted by our Chief Elves toasting marshmallows for your delight and waving you on your way up Kinturk Road.  Don’t forget to call into the Elves craft workshop, where you will be able to make your very own Christmas craft to show Santa and take home.  Santa will be waiting for you in his cottage and if you’ve been good, he may even have a little gift for you.  On return to the Centre, warm yourself up with a cup of hot chocolate and marshmallows or maybe Mum and Dad would prefer a little Mulled wine option whilst listening to Christmas carols.

Derry/Londonderry

No stranger to yap, Alan Carr is yapping his way around the UK & Ireland with his brand new stand up show ‘Yap, Yap, Yap!’ The BAFTA and British Comedy Award winning comedian, author and chat show supremo returns to his stand up roots with his hilarious take on life at the Millennium Forum 10^th – 13^th December.

Antrim

See Antrim Castle Gardens transformed into an enchanted world where the magic of Christmas fills the air Saturday 12 December to Sunday 20 December 4.00pm to 8.00pm.  Make magical Christmas memories as you enjoy a stunning light installation, Forest of Fire, Santa Grotto, Reindeer Trail, Christmas Train, Christmas Carousel, Festive Fayre and Christmas Lights. Extra special treats are available on both weekends when Christmas characters spring into life and fire shows feature in the Forest of Fire.

Belfast

This Christmas take a journey to the fairytale world of Winterland at W5. Take a trip on the Winterland Express, the magical miniature train ride. Travel through the enchanted forest into the icy cavern to emerge in the courtyard of Winterland Castle, where a few surprises await!  The Winterland Express is FREE with admission to W5 and the ride lasts approximately 5 – 8 minutes. To guarantee a place, the Winterland Express must be pre-booked. Open until 23^rd December.

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Down

Enjoy a Halloween Spooktacular with all your little ghastly ghouls this Halloween with a fantastically devilish disco this Saturday from 3-5pm at Edenmore Golf Club Moira.  Halloween games, spooky snacks, face-painting, fancy dress and colouring in competitions guarantee a fiendishly fun filled afternoon for all!  Witches, devils, ghosts, black cats and vampires – all are welcome! Pre-booking essential as spaces are limited.

Armagh

Enjoy some family Halloween fun at the Navan Centre, Armagh from 29^th October to 1^st November. Have spooky fun as you meet with Hansel and Gretal at the witches house in the woods, but beware of what could be lurking in the trees.  You never know who is watching!  Enjoy the interactive ‘Billy Bones’ games and activities… are you sure that bone is supposed to be there?  Make a Halloween dream catcher to hang in your window and enjoy our hair-raising theatre presentation based on the popular ‘I am a Celebrity…’

Fermanagh

SHARE’S annual Halloween Howler event takes place this year from 29^th to 31^st October. Guests can purchase a pass that will grant them access to a Haunted Forest Walk, Pumpkin Carving and take part in an number of our Halloween Extravaganza Activities.

Tyrone

Dust off your broomsticks and dress up the kids if you’re brave enough to join the Premier Loughshore Spooktacular Halloween event – Nightmare on Kinturk Street II – Kinturk Centre, Moortown this Saturday.  This exclusive adult ONLY Ghostly Trail of the Banshee once again directed by the brilliant Gerry Cunningham is taking an alfresco twist into the Mysterious Murky Moss! Kinturk will once again be transformed into a fun, haunted centre with a variety of entertainment for all the family, apple bobbing, kid friendly ghost trails, storytelling, disco as well as delicious festive fayre – all culminating in a spectacular fireworks display at 9.30pm. So dust off your broomsticks and dress up your kids to make this Halloween a memorable one at Kinturk Centre .. if you dare!

Derry

With a bigger and even busier programme of events than ever before from 29^th October to 1^st November, coupled with the addition of the rise of the ghostly River Gods from the Foyle and further afield, it’s set to be a week awash with devilish activities for all to experience in Derry this year. The city and district will be full of tricks and treats galore – with the return of the gruesome ‘Chateau le Fear’ and  the incredible spectacle of ‘Awakening of the Walls’, and the addition of the ‘Rio Bravo Fiesta’ celebrating Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)! The big treat of course is the annual, world renowned, street carnival parade – the biggest in Europe, culminating in the explosive fireworks finale!

Antrim

There’s mischief brewing in at Mossley Mill this Halloween for little monsters too cute to spook, aged between 3 and 8 years on Saturday 31^st October. There will be crafty imps arty activities, fearsome face painting, Balloon modelling in the Museum and special performance with Mr Hullabaloo Puppeteer Show with storybook villains in Theatre at The Mill (tickets are £4.00 and must be booked in advance with box office).   Ending with a fancy dress competition, so if you’ve Got It, Haunt It!

Belfast

Enjoy a 1.5 hour ride in a restored steam train from Belfast Central, along the shores of Belfast Lough to Whitehead and return this Saturday. Ghosts and ghouls of all ages are encouraged to wear seasonal dress and enjoy the unique steamy atmosphere.  All ticket holding children receive a spooky goody bag from the wicked witch! Train departs Belfast Central at 11:30 & 14:30. Tickets must be booked in advance from Belfast Welcome Centre (02890246609) or online fromwww.steamtrainsireland.com

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Down

Fun for 3-5 year olds at Rowandale Primary School in October. The school is hosting  an October Arts Fest starting Saturday 10th October until Saturday 31st October.  Saturday 10th 11-12 Get imaginative with the Fairy & Elf Extravaganza, come dressed up ready to have fun! Saturday 17th October 11-12 Get active with hip hop and drama.  Saturday 24th October 11-12 Get creative with pottery yarn.  Saturday 31st October 11-12 Get crafty with Hallowe’en arts and crafts.

Armagh

The Armagh Food and Cider Festival celebrates a tasty feast of Armagh cuisine with the best of local Cider from 7th to 11th October at various venues across the city. Enjoy a delicious range of events at eateries and public houses throughout the Armagh area. Join in a weekend packed with special menus and mouth-watering events, including: Pop up cookery school. Armagh restaurant food tour, Artisan food and cider market, cider tasting, orchard tours and scrumptious menus using the finest locally sourced ingredients.

Fermanagh

There’s nothing nicer than exploring among the crunchy autumn leaves which is why families are invited to join the RSPB on the shores of Lower Lough Erne for a nature scavenger trail at Castle Caldwell Forest this Saturday 10^th October from 10.30 am to 12 noon.  Prizes will be awarded for the best finds!

Tyrone

Ireland’s hottest trio – Ray O’Hare, Dominic McGorian and Declan Kelly, The Three Tenors, with their amazing voices promise you a night to remember this Saturday at the Strule Arts Centre Omagh.  Noted for their friendly and down to earth approach, the trio love to talk with their audience during and after each show.  This thrilling fast moving concert is packed with the world’s most beautiful, magical feel-good, uplifting songs.  Hear the hits ‘I Believe’, ‘SHE’ and from Sinatra (‘My Way’/New York New York), Leonard Cohen (‘Hallelujah’), Pavarotti (‘Nessun Dorma’) and The Dubliners – rousing selection of the greatest Irish Ballads to include ‘Song For Ireland’ and ‘The Wild Rover’.

Derry/Londonderry

See The Matchmaker at the Millennium Forum from 8^th to 10^th October.  Based on the novella ‘Letters of a County Matchmaker’ by John B. Keane, one of Ireland’s most celebrated writers, the play follows the efforts of Dicky Mick Dicky O’Connor to make matches for the lonely and lovelorn from all parts of the country. At the centre of this celebrated production is John B Keane’s marvellous and mischievous wit coupled by his unparalleled way with words. John B. Keane takes us back to a simpler time, when even phones were few and far between and the only web was oneleft behind by spiders.

Antrim

Following the critical acclaim of The Producers, Oklahoma, and Les Miserables, Peter Corry returns to Theatre at the Mill Newtownabbey as part of the theatre’s fifth anniversary, weaving his magic by directing this new production of Irvin Berlin’s classic musical Annie Get Your Gun until Saturday 10^th October.

Belfast

There are some decidedly ghostly goings-on at W5 this October…Are you and your family brave enough to investigate the creepy mansion known as Monster Manor?  If the rumours surrounding this old place are true you will encounter singing pumpkins, dancing skeletons, floating ghosts, paintings which transform before your very eyes and all manner of mysterious monsters!  It’s really spooky, a little bit scary and a whole lot of fun. So this October why not bring your family along and discover the secrets of Monster Manor for yourselves? We dare you! Saturdays and Sundays from 3 October – 1 November daily from Monday 26 – Friday 30 October 1-5pm.

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Down

The Big Brent Event takes place at WWT Castle Espie this Friday 2nd – Sunday 4th October.  One weekend celebrating the return of the light-bellied brent geese.  Join Castle Espie to welcome back their annual arctic arrivals to Strangford Lough with family fun, wildlife experts and free workshops.  Experience their incredible journey on the Arctic Survival Trail, enjoy children’s art workshops with Bernice Anderson, make Jumping Clay brent buddies, join storyteller Liz Weir in the Brent Play Barn and be amazed by the Migration Vacation Show. There will be wildlife talks, guides in the hides, photography and nutrition workshops, Anthony McGeehan’s brent photography exhibition plus the Man v Brent cycle challenge.

Armagh

Learn the art of Japanese Manga illustration and comic book design with artist Dwyer McKerr in this fun and expressive creative workshop at the Market Place Theatre this Saturday 3^rd October.  You will develop character design skills which you can use to create your own comic books, posters or expand your art and design skills to improve course work for participants studying art and Design. All materials will be provided.  Suitable for 12 – 16 yrs.

Fermanagh

Experience Fermanagh’s finest live entertainment and visual arts this autumn when the county’s 7th Arts Festival, Fermanagh Live takes place from the 1st October to the 4th October 2015. Enjoy a programme of innovative events that are vibrant, colourful and contemporary yet connect with our regional sense of place. Each chosen local artist remains grounded in Fermanagh and West Ulster yet excels in his or her domain : Richard Pierce, Louise Irvine, David Robertson, the Mark Bradley Quartet, Bronagh Gallagher, Denise Ferran, Ciaran May.

Tyrone

One of Ireland’s greatest tales has been brought to life in this new adaptation of The Táin at the Strule Arts Centre this Saturday 3^rd October, turning the classic myth into a feast of sword play, buffoonery and slapstick.  Cú Chulainn, the hero of Ulster, stands alone against the might of the forces of Connacht. A hero at his finest, but also the worst, in this comedic, pantomime adaptation by Belfast’s own Benjamin Gould.

Legenderry

Family film Saturday at the Roe Valley Arts Centre present Labyrinth.  A teenager babysitting her little brother accidentally sends him to the land of the Goblin King, and she must get him back by midnight or he will be turned into a goblin.  Starring a young Jennifer Connelly and David Bowie as the Goblin King, this 1986 release is a family fantasy classic directed and co-written by the amazing Jim Henson.

Antrim

The Galgorm Resort and Spa Ballymena will host a Charity Gala Ball this Friday evening in aid of the The Alzheimer’s Society (Ballymena & Antrim Group) and Crohns and Colitis (NI).  The evening includes a 4 course meal with entertainment provided by Oonagh Clarke and Madasafish and a raffle.  The dress code is Black Tie and proceedings begin at 7.30pm.  Tickets £40 per person. For tickets/further details, contact Grace or Charlene on 07710582554/07845696655.

Belfast

If you love the Wild West and comedy,  then saddle up yer horse and gallop on down to the saloon on the Belfast Barge this Friday 2^nd October for Murder Mystery comedy night.  Come meet the good, the bad and the ‘not so aesthetically pleasing’ and help the Sheriff figure out who dunnit  …. before high noon!  Doors open 8pm, it’s bring your own drink and fancy dress is optional! Prizes will be given to the best fancy dress!  Tickets are £17 and includes a saloon buffet supper!You can book online at:  www.crazycatcomedy.com
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Down

The Hastings Culloden Estate & Spa will showcase their facilities at their Wedding Fayre on Sunday 13th September 2015 from 1pm.  Take the opportunity to view the Hotel and meet with the Wedding Team to discuss any requirements you have for your Special Day. Over 40 Wedding Suppliers will be in attendance plus live entertainment throughout the afternoon. The Perfect Bliss Model Team will show case on the Catwalk at 2.30pm & 4.30pm.

Armagh

Join Bluebird Fabrics Portadown for their Saturday Sewing Classes in September as they sew up an array of modern patchwork and simple sewing projects. All materials provided. Workshop cost £25 plus £5 for Tea, Coffee and Cake from a local baker. Absolute beginners welcome.  12th September 9am – 1pm : Cushion Cover- A Sewist’s Basic.  Saturday 19th September 9am-1pm : Beautiful Bunting- A Great Gift for Any Occasion.  Saturday 26th September 9am-1pm : Sugar Bag Doorstop- A Traditional Home Staple with a Modern Twist.  Booking Essential. Sewing machine preferable but not essential.

Fermanagh

Join staff from RSPB NI and the Northern Ireland Bat Group at Castle Caldwell this Friday 11th September, and discover more about some of our most elusive and mysterious mammals in their natural environment. With the help of specialist technology, you’ll be able to hear the bats high frequency calls which are normally beyond the range of human hearing. This echolocation system enables them to wing their way through the dark night hunting the tiniest of insects. *Please note that bat detectors can only be operated by those aged seven and above.

Tyrone

Join best-selling novelist and scriptwriter Emma Heatherington this weekend at An Creagan for an exclusive creative writing course. Learn how to create memorable characters, develop exciting plots and what to do when you face the dreaded writer’s block! Published writer Emma, who is now working on her 8th novel, will share advice on how to get your story started, how to get it finished, and how to attract that all important agent and publisher Sat 12th & Sun 13th Sept. Time: 11am – 4.00pm

Derry/Londonderry/Legenderry

Ireland’s premier Star Wars costuming club, The Emerald Garrison, invade Derry for a weekend of fantastic celebrations and photo opportunities in Invasion Derry at the Millennium Forum on Saturday and Sunday. This hugely popular event gives visitors of all ages the chance to meet with dozens of costumed characters including legions of Storm Troopers, Jedi Knights, Bounty Hunters, Clone Troopers, Darth Vader, Wookies and many, many more! Young visitors will have the opportunity to experience Force Training with the Emerald Garrison’s Jedi and Sith instructors. We are delighted to give Jedi apprentices another opportunity to become strong in the ways of the force.

Antrim

Stock up on your winter reading at the Cushendun Big Book Sale this Saturday and Sunday. Browse through 1000’s of books in the Old Church which will be open for the European Heritage Open Days. National Trust property Glenmona House will also be open and serving scrumptious home-made cakes, tea and coffee.

Belfast

The Quirky Weddings Alternative Wedding Fair is back at the Waterfront Hall on Sunday September 13th 2015, from 12-5pm.  At Quirky Weddings they do things a little differently! They have handpicked an excellent line up of over 120 wedding vendors who are fun, friendly and very talented. There will be rockabilly hair, stylish stationery, vintage and unusual transport, jaw-droppingly-good cakes, cool venues, slick suits, non-cheesy bands and DJs, dress designers, bridal boutiques and so much more. Everything you could need for planning your wedding…but a little bit different. It all takes place in a laid back environment with the emphasis on asking questions and finding new ideas.

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Down

Now in its 23rd year, The Hillsborough International Oyster Festival is one of Northern Ireland’s premier events, attracting thousands of visitors each year from across the world. Set in the historic, picturesque Georgian village of Hillsborough, Co. Down the event takes place from 1st – 6th September this year and visitors can look forward to food and festivities with a packed programme of activities and entertainment.   Ticket prices vary based on activities running throughout the festival.

Armagh

Mein Freund is Mein, St Patrick’s Cathedral Armagh, Friday 4th September – Music of life and death by the Bach Family.  Dynamic young ensemble Sestina explore themes of life and death through works of breathtaking power and humanity by JS Bach and his family.  Sestina is an early music ensemble based in Belfast, Northern Ireland and is made up of young professionals and students. At the core of Sestina’s philosophy is learning through collaboration and mentoring by professional musicians and expert performers in their chosen field.

Fermanagh

Willow Weavers Weekend, Irvinestown 5th and 6th September is a two day festival including workshops, basketry exhibitions and field trip. The festival will explore the creative and artistic craft of weaving with willow.   Saturday and Sunday workshops begin at 10am and finish at 4pm. Field trip departs at 4.30pm from the farm and returns at 6.30pm. Light lunch will be served both days.

Tyrone

The Tyrone heat of the All Ireland Poetry Slam takes place this Friday 4^th September at the Alley Theatre Strabane. This is a first stage event in selecting Ireland’s top eight performance poets, with one walking away with the prestigious crown of All Ireland Poetry Slam Champion. Tickets are only £3.

Derry/Londonderry/Legenderry

Enjoy one last Family Fun Day and  budget prices only at The Jungle NI!  On Sunday 6th September, The Jungle will host the last Family Fun Day of the season offering unique, adventure activities at the discounted rate of £3 each or 6 activities for £15. Suitable for ages 4+.  The quirky Coffee Shop and BBQ Bar will be selling a range of hot-food and snacks ensuring your energy levels are well stocked to take advantage of the vast range of activities available.

Antrim

Air Waves Portrush, running from Saturday 5th – Sunday 6th September 2015, is set to enthral the 100,000 spectators expected to attend the island of Ireland’s largest airshow.  Major attractions  include the world-famous RAF Red Arrows (on both days). The last airworthy Sally B, B-17 Bomber, made famous in the 1989 film Memphis Belle will make an appearance on the Saturday of the show. The renowned SAAB Viggen jet fighter ‘Thunderbolt’ will make its first ever display on this side of the Irish Sea on the second day of the show. The Vulcan XH558 is the only flying Vulcan in the world and this exclusive appearance at Portrush will be its first and last on the island of Ireland. Other highlights will include the RAF Typhoon jet, two RAF Hawk jets, Wild Geese Parachute Display Team, the Blades Display Team, Autogyro, and Royal Navy Sea King Helicopter.  Family fun is the focus for ground-based activities which include a play zone, the Motor Village, vintage aircraft display, 6 helicopters on static display, Star Wars characters, artisan marketplace, and the very best of North Coast hospitality.

Belfast

Join Sparkle Weddings on Sunday 6th September from 1pm till 5pm, on board the SS Nomadic for The Curious Wedding Fair. Explore this truly unique venue and visit the fantastic exhibitors who will be showcasing unique and unusual wedding ideas across 3 decks of with a few of the more traditional elements included. The Curious Live Lounge will take place on the bridge deck under a fabulous stretch tent. Win some Wedding Sparkle and enjoy the Curious Catwalk at 3pm.

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