Category: Pick of the Week

Jacqueline from whatsonni.com shares her pick of What’s On this weekend across the NI and it’s starting to look a lot like Halloween already!

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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 10th 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 8th to 10th 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 10th 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.

Add your events free at www.whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

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

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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 3rd 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 3rd 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 2nd 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
Add your events free at www.whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

Jacqueline from whatsonni.com shares her pick of What’s On this weekend across the North.

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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.

Add your events free at www.whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

Jacqueline from whatsonni.com shares her pick of What’s On this weekend across the North.

By

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 4th 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.

Add your events free at www.whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

Jacqueline shares her pick of What’s On this weekend across NI

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Solitude Park is set to twist and shout on Friday 28 August when the Classic Beatles take to the stage at 7.30pm with a musical tribute to the famous Fab Four.  The band will be bringing the unmistakable sound of the Merseybeat to Banbridge with a free concert featuring classics covering the complete Beatles catalogue, from the early mop top era of I Wanna Hold Your Hand and She Loves You through the psychedelic period of Sgt Pepper right up to the final curtain call of Let it Be .

Armagh

Have you ever wondered about the past? How did people live their lives 2,000 years ago? What were their homes like? How did they dress? All will be revealed this weekend when you have the opportunity to experience life as a Celt first-hand at Navan Centre and Fort from 11am to 5pm, Saturday 29th August at their Celtic Family Event.

Fermanagh

Rock Detective Club, Marble Arch Caves, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, August 26th. An exciting expedition for 4-12 year-olds, who can take part in a treasure hunt or try their hand at orienteering, whilst finding out about the array of plants, many of which have existed for millions of years.

Tyrone

Excitement is soaring for the first ever display of professional kite-flying to take place in Dungannon.  Kites of all shapes, sizes, characters and colours, will take to the skies above Dungannon Park in a precision flying event, where professional pilots will showcase their skills in flying kites into stack formations and other intricate manoeuvres.  The kites are the main attraction at the free ‘Picnic in the Park’ on Bank Holiday Monday 31st August.

Derry/Londonderry/Legenderry

It’s a case of lights, eels and lots of action this bank holiday weekend at Lough Neagh.  Lumarina will light up Ballyronan Marina Friday 28th August from 7.00pm while the River to Lough Festival will celebrate the world renowned Eel Fishery in Toome Saturday 29th August.  Lighting up the marina at Ballyronan, join your family and friends at this illuminated spectacular with a fireworks finale on the lough.  Entry is only £3 per person and you can either enjoy live music from 7.00pm or if you’re feeling energetic you can go zorbing, paintballing, take a trip on Segway and for the really adventurous or ultra fit who are up for some daredevil action there’s an assault course!  There’ll be an array of street food and craft to choose from and amusements will entertain the little ones before fire dances, Irish, jive and hip hop dancing will liven up the lough side before the light show and fireworks bring Lumarina to a close.  All activities and amusements are free upon entry.

Antrim

Northern Ireland Speed Weekend, the adrenaline fuelled motoring spectacular will return this August Bank Holiday weekend, Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th August at Eikon, Balmoral Park, Lisburn. Jam packed with exciting, revved-up action you’ll definitely want to be there!  Live action, Interaction, Rally Cars, Race Cars, Drifting, Sports Cars, Go Karting, Super Cars, Dragsters, Helicopters, Stunt Shows and a whole lot more are waiting for you at the Northern Ireland Speed Weekend 2015.

The Shoreline Festival also takes place this weekend from 29th to 31st August with free events family fun and music performances happening every day including James Huish on Saturday followed by fireworks, and Flash Harry on Sunday!

Belfast

The 1st annual Lughnasa International Friel Festival, Belfast takes place this weekend from 27th to 31st August 2015. Celebrating Ireland’s greatest living playwright Brian Friel through music, dance, food, kites & women! See www.lughnasainternationalfrielfestival.com/ for full programme of events.

Add your events free at www.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.

Here is Jacqueline’s pick of what’s on this weekend across the North this week.

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There will be a full country fair programme this Saturday and Sunday at the NI Countrysports Fair in Scarva, including, country sports and rural life competitions and demonstrations, a 2 day action-packed main arena programme, air display, crafts, artisan foods and much, much more.  A great, value-for-money family day out! Admission is £10 and under 12s go free.

Armagh

The Willis Clan is a family band of twelve brothers and sisters from Nashville, TN – Music City USA, where they perform regularly on The Grand Ole Opry.  They have Irish roots and started out in Irish music and dance placing in the top 5 at the World Championships of Irish Dance in 2013 and winning the Fleadh Cheoil in 2012. 　Now they perform many genres of music such as bluegrass, country, pop, in addition to Irish.  They were contestants on Season 9 of ‘America’s Got Talent’ making it to the live rounds and getting to perform at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. See the Willis  Clan live at the Market Place Theatre this Friday 5th June.

Fermanagh

Join staff at the Marble Arch Caves on Sunday 7th June, in a hunt for unseen wildlife in the Marble Arch National Nature Reserve. Hunt in habitats throughout the Nature Reserve, catch and identify invertebrates as you go! Why not learn a bit more about these mini-beasts fascinating lifestyles and their roles in an ecosystem.  This event is suitable for people of all ages but all children must be accompanied by an adult. Please bring warm waterproof clothing and suitable footwear. This event is FREE of charge. Book for one of the hour long slots. The event runs at 11:00pm and then again at 3:00pm (subject to demand).

Tyrone

Omagh Laughs Back is a brand new 3 day Festival of Comedy, 5th to 7th June, brought to you by Dalys Comedy Club. The Festival features an array of Comedy Talent from all over the UK and Ireland participating in a wide range of events including; Comedy Workshops, Street Performers and of course, Stand-Up Comedy.  The Festival contains a wide range of comedy to suit all tastes with headline acts such as, Ardal O’Hanlon, David O’Doherty, Kevin McAleer, Micky Bartlett, and Colin Murphy.  Alongside these amazing headliners, we have the very best new Comedy talent around, featuring Paul Currie, Colin Geddis, Shane Todd, Chris Kent, Sean Hegarty and many, many more.

Derry/Londonderry

‘The Trouble with Giants’, at the Roe Valley Arts Centre Limavady this Saturday 6th June, is a brand new show for children, which brings to life the story of mythical giant Finn MacCool through music and storytelling.  The familiar story of how the Giant’s Causeway came to be is told from some new perspectives including a magpie, a fish and a frog. Each character and action, such as the fight between the giants, is represented by music.  Characters include Finn MacCool, his clever wife Oonagh and arch-enemy Scottish Giant Benandonner.  Suitable for ages 4-11, families welcome.  All children must be accompanied by an adult over 18.

Antrim

There is a packed festival programme this June to celebrate the Larne Area’s Maritime Heritage at this year’s Larne Maritime Festival, and also the visit of the Tall ships to Northern Ireland this July.  The festival opens on Saturday 6th June when Larne Main Street will be awash with all manners of strange sea creatures, sailors and of course pirates! The festival continues until 20th June with events for all the family to enjoy.

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 7th June.  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 4 hours to enjoy Dublin before your return journey home.  The train departs from Belfast Central at 0915, Lisburn at 0943 and Portadown at 1009.  Tickets must be purchased in advance, either online at www.steamtrainsireland.com and 02890246609.

Add your events free at www.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.

Here is Jacqueline’s Pick of What’s On This Weekend Across NI.

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Down

North Down Model Railway Society are on track for their biggest ever exhibition taking place on 11th-12th April at Bangor Grammar School.  The North Down Model Railway Society will mark their 25th Annual Model Exhibition by treating visitors to their largest ever model-making showcase. From miniature railways and steam engines to marvellous moving Meccano models and remote control airplanes, the two-day event promises to bring together the very best displays from model making enthusiasts across the UK and Ireland.

Armagh

Brian Boru was the first High King of Ireland and you can meet Fiachra the File, who was Brian Boru’s personal story collector at the Market Place Theatre this Saturday afternoon. He will tell you the heroic tales of the first High King of Ireland with help from his friend Brian O Brien and Ken Kennedy. A fun family puppet show where kids can learn through an entertaining show created by Honest Arts.

Fermanagh

Under the direction of Siobhan O’Brien, Borderline Players are back! Following the success of ‘Cinderella’ last Easter, this April prepare for a journey to the Wild West with Old Mother Hubbard and Co. putting an entirely new spin on the classic nursery rhyme at the Ardhowen Theatre until Friday 10th April. With spectacular live musical performances, daring dance routines and much more don’t miss your chance to be part of the biggest adventure of 2015.

Tyrone

Jack, a young boy from a poor family, exchanges the family cow for some magic beans. The beans grow overnight into a huge beanstalk, which Jack climbs into the clouds, arriving at a magical land ruled over by a cruel giant. Join Black Air Theatre Group as they bring this classic fairytale to life at the Alley Theatre Strabane Saturday 11th April. A must see show for all the family!

Derry

The North West’s largest celebration of Irish musical culture, Derry Feis Dhoire Cholmcille, continues all week until Friday 10th April at the Millennium Forum.  The Feis will celebrate Irish language, verse and drama as well as the famous Irish Dancing Competition and vocal choirs.

Antrim

Round off the Easter holidays and work off all that chocolate by getting close to nature at Portmore Lough Aghalee this Saturday 11th April on a fun treasure trail!  Children will have the chance to explore the reserve and collect objects along the way to use in nature-themed crafts. Prizes will be awarded for the most unique finds!  Please note children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Belfast

Join W5 this Easter until 12th April for an old fashioned, fun family day out, with a modern technology twist! Throw balls to knock down virtual milk bottles, pop virtual balloons or smash virtual plates! Can you get a high enough score to unlock the “Dunk the Clown” bonus round?  Step right up and take part in the Giant Buzzer challenge. A steady hand is all that’s needed. Keep the loop off the wire to reach the end without setting off the buzzer, then see how many rabbits you can catch with our bunny themed reaction timer!  Roll up, roll up for some science showmanship! Watch as the W5 demonstrators perform feats of science magic before your very eyes. Is it science or is it magic, you decide!
Add your events free at www.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.

Here is Jacqueline’s pick of what’s on this Easter weekend across the North.

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Join the WWT Castle Espie for their Giant Easter Bunny Hunt this Easter until 12th April.  Get on a roll with egg-citing activities throughout the Easter holidays. Hunt for the giant Easter bunnies hidden around the nature reserve and win a prize. Take part in cute animal crafts and have a go at courtyard games. On Easter Monday and Tuesday join the storyteller in the round house for entertaining animal tales with free face painting too!

Armagh

‘There once was an ugly duckling…’ Enjoy a great Easter at the Navan Centre & Fort with family fun, songs,  dance, quack crafts and lots more ‘eggs-citing’ activities!  This event runs from Saturday 4th – Tuesday 7th April with shows at 10.00am , 11.30am, 1.30pm, 3.00pm & 4.30pm.  This is always a popular event so book today to avoid disappointment!

Fermanagh

Roll up Roll up or down as the case may be for the Share Easter Bunny Hunt and Cruise on Sunday 5th and Monday 6th April. Search  for Easter surprises and treats followed by a cruise. Children £6, Adults £10, Family of 4 £28. Bunny Cruise times include 10.00am and 2.00pm.

Tyrone

An Creagán is bracing itself for an exciting line-up of events during Easter Monday 6th April.  To kick off Spring enjoy a fun filled day in the great outdoors.  Get messy with wild art, build dens and connect with the natural environment. The event will all see the launch of An Creagán’s new Bronze Age Settlement with a team of historical re-enactors to bring the site to life. Try your hand at archery and making tools from flint.  Help cook some bread or porridge over the open fire and have a tour around a thatched, Bronze Age roundhouse. The event will be showcasing creARTivity cultural workshops allowing children to explore arts & crafts from across the world.

Derry

Enjoy some Easter fun at the Jet Centre in Coleraine. Choose from Disney’s fabulous new live action Cinderella and DreamWorks fun family animated adventure Home at Moviehouse Cinemas.  It’ll be all go at Alley Cats too over the holiday period. Join in the Easter Egg hunt on Sunday 5th April Easter from 2.30-3.30pm. The event is free with paid admission to Alley Cats. Other activities include arts & crafts from 11-noon and 2-3pm on Wed 8th April and Fri 10th April and face painting at the same times on Thursday 9th April. Again all activities are free on paid admission.

Antrim

Join the Courtyard Theatre for The Jungle Book KIDS 6th – 11th April.  This unique musical theatre adventure for little ones has been designed so that they too can take part in a fun and structured theatre school environment.  Enter a world of fun that includes Mowgli, Baloo, King Louie and the gang, as they swing their way through madcap musical adventures and thwart the ferocious tiger, Shere Kahn.  In just one week the boys and girls will be performing their own show to family and friends live on stage.  The Jungle Book KIDs is full of colourful characters, toe-tapping tunes and Disney classics including: The Bare Necessities, and I Wan’na Be Like You.  Daily 10am – 4.30pm. Performance: Sat 11 April at 2.30pm. Age: 5-10 yrs

Belfast

Celebrate a unique and fun-filled Easter in classic steam train style with the Easter Eggspress Steam Trains running on Easter Monday and Tuesday.  The trips are aimed at families, providing nostalgia for adults and great fun for children.  They will feature newly-restored No.85 “Merlin, our most powerful locomotive. Departures from Belfast Central Station 12.00pm and and 3.00pm.

Add your events free at www.whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

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

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Edenmore Golf and Country Club invite you to their Wedding Fayre this Sunday 22nd March.  Enjoy a complimentary glass of sparkling wine and indulge in some delicious canapes whilst browsing the selected exhibitors- sure to give you inspiration for your special day!  Goodie bags for the first 50 guests so get there early!

Armagh

Browse through hundreds of second hand books and stock up on all your essential reads at this weekend’s Spring Book Fair at the Argory on Saturday and Sunday. There’s something for everyone. Live music and Punch Judy shows on Sunday. Donations of unwanted books, CDs and DVDs are welcome prior to the event.

Fermanagh

See Willie Russell’s classic play Blood Brothers this Friday 20th March at the Ardhowen Theatre Enniskillen. Set in Liverpool, Blood Brothers tells the story of fraternal twins, born into a large and poor working class family who were separated at birth because their mother decided to have one of them adopted. The twins’ different backgrounds take them to opposite ends of the social spectrum, one becoming an Oxbridge-graduated councillor and the other unemployed and in prison.  The play looks at the differences and conflicts of their upbringing, their relationships with one and other and with their real and adopted mothers as well as with the girl they both ultimately fall in love with.

Tyrone

The Alley Theatre Strabane is delighted to be hosting Ireland’s leading drama festival this week with performances every day until Saturday. Curtain up is at 8pm.  Join them as this intimate venue comes alive with productions from all over Ireland, all eager to take title of Best Play.

Derry/Londonderry

Sounds for Heaney, a three date tour from 20th-23rd March will arrive at the Derry Central Library on Saturday 21st March.  This is an exploration into Seamus Heaney’s poetry and using it as a direct source of creative inspiration for writing and creating music. The outcome is a blend of Heaney’s voice with sounds and music that are purely inspired by his voice, poetry and his country. The written music and selected poems are all compiled by drummer and composer James Anderson and aimed at celebrating the life and passing of Heaney himself.

Antrim

The students of vocal coach Lesley Henry return to the Theatre at the Mill Newtownabbey this Saturday 21st March for Showtime! This fast moving musical show is packed with laughter, tears, energetic dance and spectacular chorus numbers and memorable solos from six musicals.  Featuring the music of ‘The Phantom of The Opera, South Pacific, The Wizard of Oz, 13, Hairspray, not to mention the music of Sondheim and the latest Disney hit Frozen.  This family friendly show will entertain you and have you dancing in your seats with a cast of over 50 students you will be part of a very special ‘show stopper’ of an evening.

Belfast

Join the 5* Merchant Hotel this Sunday 22nd March for their stunning Wedding Showcase for some inspiration, from romantic ceremonies to luxurious wedding nights. Admission is free. Open 12pm to 5pm.

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Here is Jacqueline’s pick of what’s on this St. Patrick’s Day/Mother’s Day weekend across the NI

By

Down

There will be fun for everyone as Banbridge District Council host their annual St Patrick’s Family Fun Day in Solitude Park on Saturday 14th March 2015. The craic kicks off at 2pm and runs until 4pm and will feature a host of performances and activities guaranteed to get you in the mood for a bit of a jig and a hoolie!

Armagh

Armagh City is a perfect destination for a short break this Saint Patrick’s Festival as the place has something to suit every taste. Visitors have a wide range of accommodation options to choose from, including high quality hotels, bed & breakfast and self-catering accommodation.  Enjoy wonderful restaurants, take in an act at The Market Place Theatre, follow the session trail across the City and enjoy the Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations as you soak up the atmosphere of Ireland’s oldest City! See www.armagh.co.uk/saintpatrick.

Fermanagh

Let’s not forget Mum this weekend! Mother’s Day at Lough Erne Resort is the perfect treat to say a huge thank you.  Enjoy a 4 Course Buffet lunch as well as a ‘Traditional Ice Cream Corner’ with cones and candy treats for kids. Prepared by Executive Head Chef Noel Mc Meel & his team means this fabulous Mothers Day Buffet Lunch is a hugely popular event so book early!

Tyrone

The Mid Ulster Sports Arena Cookstown will open its doors for the first time ever this weekend forThe Mid Ulster Model Show,  in association with Cookstown District Council, in aid of Jennifer’s Journey and Stewartstown Primary School. Thousands of people from all over Northern Ireland and beyond are set to converge on the show, running from 10am – 6pm on Saturday 14th March.

Derry/Londonderry

With free entry for anyone who can prove they are called Patrick, Shamrock Shenanigans at Springhill Moneymore is sure to be fine way to celebrate Saint Patrick. Discover the shamrock trail and enjoy craft activities, food and music from the Armagh Rhymers.  Additional charge for Shamrock Trail.

Antrim

Celebrate all things Irish at the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre this Saturday and Sunday to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Leprechauns will be lurking on the family-friendly treasure trail (find them all and win a pot of gold!). There will  also be face-painting, balloon modelling, crafts and traditional music.

Belfast

Treat your Mother to a special Afternoon Tea at Titanic Belfast in the opulent surroundings of the Titanic Suite featuring the stunning replica staircase! Live jazz music will add atmosphere to your afternoon as you dine on a delicious selection of finger sandwiches, superb cakes, sweets and freshly baked scones with clotted cream. Children’s menu also available. Guests may use the Grand Staircase & take photos.  Afternoon Tea sitting take place every twenty minutes starting from 12:20 until 16:00.  Book Online at www.TitanicBelfast.com

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