Category: Pick of the Week

Down

Saffyre and Lore present: Take Me Home – A Night of Contemporary Irish & American Music this Saturday evening at the Sean Hollywood Arts Centre in Newry.  Lore and Saffyre, both from Northern Ireland, have come together to create an unforgettable music.

Antrim

Be an everyday hero this Saturday by joining the  beach clean at Whitepark Bay Beach.  This is a great way to get active and meet others in the community, so you’ll feel good in more ways than one! Suitable clothing and footwear essential.

Armagh

Armagh is at the heart of celebrating the life of Patrick and the “Home of Saint Patrick Festival” promises a lively and varied showcase of the best culture, music and spirituality.  The festival takes place from 6th – 17th March 2020. See visitarmagh.com.

Derry

Gather your trainers and grab your head torch this Friday evening for a NEW night time adventure. The Firmus Energy Northern Lights Walk is the ultimate night-time challenge. Experience Portstewart’s magically lit coastal route and refreshments, cake, music, great banter and a medal that will greet you at the finish line! 5K or 10K.

Fermanagh

Join National Trust staff and volunteers on Sunday 8 March between 12.00pm and 4.00pm at Castle Coole and help them on their mission to plant over 100,000 snowdrops in Fermanagh in 2020!  Fun for all the family – outdoor clothing/footwear advised.

Tyrone

Veteran Irish songwriter Kieran Goss and singer Annie Kinsella released their debut duo album: ‘Oh, the Starlings’ on 1st March 2019. See them perform live at the Burnavon Theatre Cookstown this Saturday evening. A show to make you laugh and cry… A show to move you with its honest beauty… A show not to be missed.

Belfast

In celebration of World Book Day, Belfast Zoo is bringing literary favourites to life with an interactive book reading session on Saturday 7 March from 11am – 12.30pm. Tickets from £6.50 (Child under 4 years free).

For further 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 for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

Down

Swim on down to Exploris Aquarium to start your mid-term break this Saturday 22nd February.  Lots of fun filled activities for all the family!  Exploris Aquarium are hosting animal demonstrations, “Eco brick” craft activity and a mer-mazing face painter to keep everyone busy while they explore the underwater and land habitats.

Antrim

This Friday evening, Big Telly Theatre Company present two short pieces of theatre based on the poetry of Seamus Heaney, with sensory audio and visual experiences, and readings of a selection of Heaney’s poems. The Old Church Centre, Cushendun.  Admission £8.

Armagh

Celebrating forty years as a live performer, Eddi Reader has effortlessly developed into one of popular music’s most thrilling and affecting performers. See her perform live at the Market Place Theatre this Saturday 22nd February.  Tickets £19.

Derry/Londonderry

Churchlands Golden Gloves Boxing Club is hosting an evening of amateur boxing at the Lodge Hotel in Coleraine, on Friday 21st February, to raise funds for the Community Rescue Service, Northern District.  First bell is at 8.00pm.

Fermanagh

The virtuosic and inspirational Fidelio Trio is one of the leading international trios, performing the widest possible ranges of classical and contemporary music on concert stages across the world.Darragh Morgan (violin), Adi Tal (cello) and Mary Dullea (piano) will play four works ranging in date from 1827 to 2007.  Live at the Ardhowen Theatre, Enniskillen this Thursday evening.

Tyrone

Save the date! You are invited to the Bridal Exhibit this Sunday 23rd February from 2.00 to 4.00pm at The Mellon Country Inn, Omagh. With complimentary drinks reception, goodie bags for the first 50 brides, wedding menu tasting opportunities, a fashion show, and vendor discounts on the day, it’s an event not to be missed!

Belfast

Cancer Focus NI’s Belfast Castle Abseil is back!  Are you looking to face your fears in 2020? Why not add an abseil down Belfast Castle to your list of goals!  Belfast Castle is set on the slopes of Cave Hill Country Park in a prominent position 400 feet above sea level.  You will abseil down 100ft of the castle’s tower while taking in the spectacular views across the city.

For further 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 for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

Down

Put on your wellies, get out into nature and have a splashing time at the Puddle Jumping Championships this Saturday at WWT Castle Espie!  Come rain or shine, this is the perfect activity for a fun filled family day out!  Daily competitions with splashtastic prizes to be won. 15^th to 20^th February.

Antrim

Create your own animated Lego mini film with Can Do Academy at the Lego Animation Workshop in Ballyclare Town Hall this Saturday.   Learn the basics of film making, how to storyboard and different animation techniques. Create your own storyline and learn the do’s and don’ts of effective animation which you can apply at home.  ​

Armagh

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly. I don’t know why she swallowed a fly…But The People’s Theatre Company do!  And now you can too at the Market Place Theatre this Sunday, as they bring one of the world’s best loved nursery rhymes to life just in time to celebrate the 45th anniversary of Pam Adams’ best-selling book.

Derry/Londonderry

Across the Threshold – A Taste of Heaney, Saturday 15 February, 5.00pm & 8.00pm at the Flowerfield Arts Centre, Portstewart.  An exclusive evening of entertainment, theatre and a tasting menu  inspired by the poetry of Heaney and hosted by Big Telly Theatre Company alongside Chef Paula McIntyre MBE.

Fermanagh

Surprise your better half this Valentine’s Day with a romantic cruise on Upper Lough Erne. This unique event takes place on Saturday 15th of February at 2.30pm, on-board The Inishcruiser at Share Discovery Village . Includes afternoon tea, glass of wine or prosecco, chocolates and a guided tour of the lough.

Tyrone

This Valentine’s Weekend enjoy a delicious menu crafted by the award-winning team at the Mellon Country Inn Omagh.  Enjoy live music on Friday 14th February with Paddy McDermott and on Saturday 15th February with The Whistlin’ Donkeys!

Belfast

This Sunday at the Waterfront Hall join Quirky Weddings for another day of the best wedding inspo from some of NI’s top wedding vendors. Meet 120 companies who can create, customise and present you with everything you need to make your big day exactly what you want it to be.  Expect a wide range of venues with experts to talk you through your options.

For further 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 for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

Down

Make February one to remember and join Cancer Focus NI on Friday for a night-time spectacular at the Kilbroney Night Walk. Not only will you experience the scenic wonderland of Kilbroney Park by moonlight, but you’ll also be greeted at the finish line with well-earned refreshments, cake, music & a medal!

Antrim

Join Mr. Hullabaloo the magical storyteller and his colourful puppet friends for an enchanted tea party full of well-loved classic stories and songs this Saturday at the Old Courthouse Antrim.  From teddy bears picnics to royal balls at the storybook castle, this show is lots of fun for all the family.

Armagh

Paint your pet at a workshop in Armagh County Museum this Saturday morning.   Participants will create an acrylic painting on canvas of their chosen animal or pet with the guidance and expertise of professional artist Lorraine Fletcher.  All materials are provided, however participants are welcome to bring their own paints and brushes if they wish.

Derry

No words are needed at Downhill Demesne this February as Mussenden Temple welcomes an impressive new evening light installation, “Silent Art”.  Visitors will be steeped in the landscape. Embarking on a silent walk to Mussenden Temple which sits perched at the edge of a 120ft cliff overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean. Exposed. Yet protective.  9-15 February – 17:30-18:15 (+ other times). 16-23 February – 18:00-18:45 (+ other times).

Fermanagh

Described across the world as “Jaw Dropping” and “Hilarious”, NI’s record breaking Mind Reader Meade is back on home soil to blow your mind in his funniest and most interactive show yet: “Catch Meade If You Can”.  See David live on stage at the Ardhowen Theatre Enniskillen this Friday evening.

Tyrone

Flash Harry are Northern Irelands most enduring tribute band, celebrating the music of super star Freddie Mercury and super group Queen, for over 25 years. Queen fans can see Flash Harry live on stage this Friday 7th February at the Strule Arts Centre in Omagh. Tickets £20.

Belfast

Calling guitarists of any age ability! This Saturday Matchetts Music in Belfast will show you how to change the strings and maintain your steel string acoustic /electric guitar. This is a fun interactive session for all ages and are free of charge.

For further 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 for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

Down

Portico Ards presents WRETCHES: Revolutions, Rights & Wrongs – from the early days of women’s suffrage to the present. A unique, original musical work commemorating 100 years since women in Belfast gained the right to vote, featuring choir, string quartet, poetry & more. Saturday 1st February.

Antrim

St. Coleman’s Church Carrickfergus is the venue for Death at Deadwood Murder Mystery this Saturday. Set in the Wild West, you will meet Black Bill Hoyt, Belle Starr, Sheriff Hank Ketchum and Glory of the Morning who are all suspects in a dreadful crime which has been committed. Test your sleuthing skills while having lots of fun!

Armagh

Join the National Trust at the Argory Moy this Saturday for their popular Snowdrops Walk. See the Wonderful displays of snowdrops planted over the years by estate staff and volunteers.  Enjoy this spectacle at your leisure with a self-guided walk then relax in the coffee shop for a warm drink or tasty bite.  Snowdrops will also be available to buy.

Derry/Londonderry

This Saturday morning the Flowerfield Arts Centre in Portstewart will screen one of the most acclaimed anime films ever made, Princess Mononoke.  Internationally award-winning, this Japanese epic anime film is written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli.

Fermanagh

This Saturday, World Wetlands Day,  join RSPB NI staff on a bus tour with a difference.   Setting off from Enniskillen, get a flavour of the area’s natural heritage and history. As you make your way up around Upper Lough Erne, stopping at viewing points along the way, see wintering birds including whooper swans, teals, mallards and kingfishers.

Tyrone

Jake O’Kane’s new show, ‘Walking The Line’, sees NI’s most popular comic once again cast his caustic eye over the events of the last year.  As always, nothing and no-one are beyond attack as Jake continues his sixth year of sell-out tours. See him live on stage at the Alley Theatre Strabane this Saturday evening.

Belfast

Back by popular demand! The Frock Around the Clock Bohemian Bazaar is an event for free spirits which brings a modern approach to a holistic lifestyle together with a contemporary marketplace of artisan crafts and vintage.  Belfast Castle, Sunday 2nd February.  Admission costs only £1.50 for adults and children under 15 go free. 

For further 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 for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

Down

Portico Arts and Heritage Centre are delighted to welcome the new Director of Music at St Anne’s Cathedral Belfast to Portico for an organ recital this Sunday 26th January. 3.00pm to 4.30pm.

Antrim

This Friday, The Courtyard Community Choir celebrates its 7th year by entertaining you with a rich mix of popular songs and entertainment selected to help chase away those winter blues at The Courtyard Theatre, Newtownabbey, 8.00pm to 10.00pm.

Armagh

Don’t miss the George Michael Tribute Show at the Armagh City Hotel this Friday evening. This authentic high energy international tribute show dedicated to the music of George Michael has it all…The looks, the voice, the moves, it’s a show not to be missed, and is performed by award winning singer songwriter in his own rights, who has performed all over the world and appeared on National TV on BBC1.

Derry/Londonderry

Join The Chocolate Manor on Saturday 25th January for a Chocolate Extravaganza for the whole family!  A one hour session for adults and children in the Peter Thompson Hall in Castlerock – with a fabulous range of fun chocolatey activities.  On arrival all participants will be greeted by the master chocolatier and given an insight into where chocolate comes from and the journey the humble cocoa bean goes on to be transformed into our favourite treat!

Fermanagh

This Saturday 25th January, the Westville Hotel in Enniskillen will host a live performance by the hugely popular Brian Kennedy. The evening, which begins at 7.00pm, includes a 4 course dinner with tickets priced at £45 per person.  Accommodation available.

Tyrone

Saturday 25th January from 2.00pm – 4.00pm at Ranfurly House Dungannon, you can take a workshop covering the history and customs of the ancient Celtic festival of Imbolc / St Brigid’s Day. Participants will have the opportunity to make a variety of different types of St Brigid’s crosses that were found throughout Ireland in the last century. Admission only £5.

Belfast

Gaming & Geeking NI is hosting an official Catan UK National Qualifier Tournament this Sunday 26th January at the Harland and Wolff Staff Club.  Entry is £4, 15+ only. Participants may bring in their own food and drinks. For more information about the Qualifier, contact your Qualifier Host, Gaming & Geeking NI.

For further 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 for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

Down

This Friday 17th January, The Belfast Operatic Company presents Songs From The Shows at St. Philip and St. James Church,  Holywood.  Tickets  are only £12 and available from the Parish Office. Proceeds in aid of the church organ fund.

Antrim

Rock ‘n’ Roll Years is back! After last year’s smash hit tour this wonderful nostalgic musical hits the road again, and will be at the Island Arts Centre Lisburn this Saturday 18th January.  Journey through the musical decades of the 50s and 60s paying homage to the lives and music of the stars of the era

Armagh

This Saturday evening join the Market Place Theatre on a journey through the music from the Beatles. A 9-piece band of multi-instrumentalists will passionately recreate all the classic Beatles hits as well as some hidden gems that showcase The Beatles absolute mastery of song writing.

Derry

This Sunday 19th January, Arbutus at the Crannagh, Coleraine on Sunday will host their Wedding Show from  2.00pm to 5.00pm.  You will be welcomed with champagne and canopes.  View the Marquee, talk with select wedding exhibitors, take in two catwalk shows and meet the Wedding Team at the Crannagh. Admission is free.

Fermanagh

Lakeland Players present Snow White at the Ardhowen Theatre, Enniskillen Thursday 16th to Saturday 18th January. Glamorous killer Queen Caligula, so used to being called the fairest in the land by the spirit of the mirror Speak True, discovers a rival for the title in the shape of her step-daughter Snow White. Book early!

Tyrone

This Friday evening celebrate Burns Night with a Supper and Ceilidh at the Royal Hotel in Cookstown. Tickets are £22 and include a three course meal, whiskey toast, raffle and a superb line up of entertainment. Dress code “A touch of tartan”.

Belfast

Planning your summer getaway? Don’t miss this weekend’s Holiday World Show, now in its twenty-eighth year. This is the biggest and most influential holiday showcase – a three day travel fest to be enjoyed by tens of thousands of visitors. 17th – 19th January.

For further 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 for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

Down

Don’t miss the fabulous Tina Turner Tribute Show this Saturday evening at the Slieve Donard Resort and Spa.  Sit back and enjoy the show in a cabaret-style setting.  Tickets £22 from Ticketmaster or Hotel Reception.  Book in for a pre-show dinner, or treat yourself and stay overnight!

Antrim

La Mon Hotel  and Country Club will host their Winter Wedding Showcase this Sunday 12th January from 1.00pm to 4.00pm.  Admission is free. Receive a Wedding Goodie Bag & glass of prosecco on arrival, view the ceremony suites, reception suites, luxury accommodation & beautiful gardens and meet La Mon’s professional wedding co-ordinators and banqueting team.

Armagh

Bagatelle have shared stages with legends like Bob Marley, John Denver, The Pogues, Duran Duran, Van Morrison, George Micheal, U2, Jose Feliciano and UB40. See them live on stage this Saturday evening at the Market Place Theatre. Tickets £23.

Derry

This Saturday afternoon at the Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Anne Tracey and friends invite you to join them for another afternoon of music, song and poetry to lift the heart and soul at the beginning of 2020.  Tickets £10.

Fermanagh

Life Cycles by Lorna Smith is a showcase of new works at Enniskillen Castle, encompassing the four seasons in one year. Lorna’s art emphasises the world around us, highlights her love of nature and captures a sense of belonging regardless of the place name.

Tyrone

Stewartstown Amateur Dramatic Society presents Aladdin at the Burnavon Theatre Cookstown. The Wicked Abanazer is seeking the magic lamp that contains the all– powerful genie, so that it can rule the world! The innocent Aladdin, his brother Washee and their fearsome mother, Twankey intervene and save the day!  Throw in a magic carpet, beautiful princesses, policemen and spirit of the ring; a fantastic tale with song, slapstick and pantomime! 10th, 11th 17th, 18th, 24th  and 25th January.

Belfast

Join the RSPB NI Winter Walk this Saturday morning.  After taking in the stunning views of Belfast Lough from the observation room at WOW, take a tour of the reserve with the warden and spot black-tailed godwits, bar-tailed godwits, wigeons, shovelers and ruffs. You might even see curlews, lapwings and kingfishers! Bring a packed lunch and wear suitable outdoor clothing and footwear in case of inclement weather. Wellington boots essential!

For further 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 for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

Happy New Year from Jacqueline at whatsonni.com as she shares her pick of what’s on across the North this weekend.

Down

Getting married in 2020? Don’t miss the Wedding Show at the Marine Court Hotel Bangor this Sunday 5th January.  This is the perfect opportunity to view the Marine Court, beautifully situated on Bangor Marina.  Meet the events team and get a tour of the hotel. You will also have the chance meet an amazing selection of local wedding suppliers. Enjoy a welcome drink on arrival with nibbles, a relaxing way to plan your wedding.

Antrim

William Caulfield stars in Our Jimmy, Past and Present at The Theatre at the Mill this Saturday 4th December. Featuring some original, and some new material from the beloved comedy characters. Join William as he celebrates the comedy legend that was James Young.

Armagh

Fresh from a sell-out tour, star of BBC’s ‘The Blame Game’, ‘Fighting Talk’ and ‘The News Quiz’, Neil Delamere returns to The Market Place with a brand new show on the 3rd, 4th and 5th January.  Time waits for no man, especially one trying to buy a watch. Things always get complicated!

Derry/Londonderry

Ah Vienna! Let the Ulster Orchestra and charismatic guest performers take you to the glittering world of Strauss for the waltz of your life this Sunday 5th January at the Millennium Forum. Welcome the New Year with an uplifting and enchanting evening of your much-loved Viennese music from the Merry Widow to the Blue Danube.

Fermanagh

Flash Harry are Northern Irelands most enduring tribute band, celebrating the music of super star Freddie Mercury and super group Queen, for over 25 years. See them perform live this Saturday 4th at the Ardhowen Theatre in Enniskillen. They are sure to have the audience rocking in their seats and singing along to anthems of one of the greatest bands in history!

Tyrone

This Saturday 2.00pm at Ranfurly House Dungannon, sing your heart out to the Greatest Showman. This special sing-a-long screening of The Greatest Showman, the Golden Globe winner for Best Original Song, is your opportunity to join in the fun, sing loud and be part of the movie – It’s Showtime!

Belfast

The Rock ‘n’ Roll Years and Dance Hall Days show is coming to the Ulster Hall on 4th and 5th January.  An all-star cast will take you on a whirlwind journey through the musical decades of the 50’s and 60’s paying homage to the musical stars of the era.  Hosted by George Jones who plays ‘the Agent’, the story unfolds into a myriad of the times greatest hits, including Elvis, Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, Buddy Holly, Del Shannon and many more.

For further 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 for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

Down

Join the Slieve Donard Hotel for an evening of music in a “cabaret-style” setting with the Bjorn Identity on Sunday 29th December.  Doors open at 7.30 and the show begins at 9.00pm.  Make a night of it and book in for a pre-show dinner, or even better, treat yourself to an overnight stay!

Antrim

Island Arts Centre Lisburn presents Celtic Soul, the definitive tribute to Van Morrison on Sunday 29th December, for a special Christmas evening celebrating the music of the legendary Belfast song writer.  With years of playing in blues, folk, trad and jazz bands, the seven-piece band have the ingredients to deliver Van’s music authentically.

Armagh

Live Nativity at Tannaghmore Rare Breeds Animal Farm is open until the 29th December.  You will find Jesus, Mary, Joseph and the three Kings in a remake of that world  famous stable complete with donkey,  sheep, cows and other animals. 

Derry

Junior Parkrun Magherafelt takes place every Sunday morning at 9.30am at Polepatrick, Castledawson Road, Magherafelt, BT45 6PB.   This is a free, timed 2k event for juniors only age 4-14 years old. Get updates on the facebook page and don’t forget your barcode!

Fermanagh

Veteran Irish songwriter Kieran Goss and singer Annie Kinsella will perform live at the Ardhowen Theatre this Saturday evening.  With songs, stories and harmonies that transport the listener to another world, this is music from the heart, for the heart… A show to make you laugh and cry… A show to move you with its honest beauty.

Tyrone

Banyan Theatre Company presents the Emperor’s New Clothes at Ranfurly House this Saturday at 2.00pm.   Two Swindlers come into town pretending to be master tailors. The vain Emperor summons them to fashion him a set of clothes the like of which had never been seen before.  This charming and humorous adaptation is told through the use of puppetry, original music and storytelling. Tickets only £5.

Belfast

Panto season is still in full swing and continues with Belvoir Players’ production of Aladdin. The wicked Abanazar is seeking the magic lamp that contains the all-powerful Genie, so that he can rule the world, and is just steps away from succeeding! Is all hope lost?   The show continues until the 4th January at Belvoir Players Studio.