Category: Pick of the Week

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.

Down

Spend a winter evening in the company of Ebeneezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchett and a few of the ghosts of Christmas’ past, present and future this Saturday 21st December at Castle Ward. Hear the classic Dickens story of Ebeneezer Scrooge as you never have never heard it before.

Antrim

Theatre at the Mill Newtownabbey present a live screening of Coppelia, live from the Royal Ballet, this Saturday evening.   Osbert Lancaster’s designs bring a colourful storybook world to life in this Christmas treat for the whole family.

Armagh

Beauty and the Beast continues at the Market Place Theatre until Sunday 22nd December. The greatest love story ever told, but told in a way you’ll never have seen the like of before! Audiences can expect an action-packed show bursting with magic, music and plenty of mayhem!

Derry

See It’s a Wonderful Life this Saturday afternoon at Roe Valley Arts Centre, Limavady. George Bailey is a small-town man who had always wanted to leave Bedford Falls to see the world, but circumstances have led him to stay.   As he prepares to take drastic action, his guardian angel intercedes; showing him what life would have become for the residents of Bedford Falls if he had never lived.

Fermanagh

This Saturday evening at the Ardhowen Theatre in “Mini Strokes of Luck”, Terry McHugh will be taking a very funny and honest look at his experience of suffering 2 mini strokes and the effects they had on him.  Terry will be joined by the hilarious Frazer Robb who has been performing on the Northern Irish Comedy scene for nearly 10 years as a Stand Up and as part of improv group Wonderfrog.

Tyrone

Join vocal ensemble Cantabelles for a festive evening of Christmas carols and popular songs this Friday evening at Ranfurly House Dungannon.  Relax  and listen to favourites of O Holy Night and Carol of the Bells.  Cantabelles are an established local ensemble combining rich harmonies and vocals to old classics and modern songs.

Belfast

Meet Aladdin at the Crescent Arts Centre 20th to 22nd December.  He is the rough and rugged hero struggling to find his purpose in life. Along the way he falls in love with the beautiful princess Jasmine who has been forced to marry the man her father, the Sultan, picked for her.

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 Saturday 14th December Dromore is hosting a “Christmas Barket”.  A special Christmas themed market with gifts and treats for all your furry friends and family.  Shop for all-natural dog treats, unique pet gifts and dog beds and accessories. 

Antrim

Naturally North Coast and Glens will celebrate Christmas in Ballycastle with a sensational Christmas Market in the Marine Hotel, Ballycastle on Sunday 15th December.  The market will be festooned with artisan treats galore, quirky gift  ideas, sumptuous hand crafted treats,  and  much more!  

Armagh

The Santa Special is a return journey of festive fun by steam train, with an on-board visit from Santa and presents for children from Portadown to Lisburn. The round trip lasts around 2 hours. Get a photograph with the man in red beside the train. Sunday 15th December 12.00pm to 4.00pm.

Derry

This Saturday evening, friends once again gather at the hearth at HomePlace Bellaghy for an evening of music, poetry and banter. Expect some songs, readings and recitations and some memories of Christmas – including songs from Anthony Toner, piano from Rod McVey, cello and uilleann pipe music from Neil Martin and readings from acclaimed author Glenn Patterson.

Fermanagh

Visit Santa in his Grotto on Sunday 15th December at Share Discovery Village.  This Christmas Cheer event is running for the public from 2.00pm to 4.00pm on Sunday 15th December.  £8 per child and £2 per accompanying adult including an individual visit to Santa Claus, making Christmas crafts and play games, write your Santa letter, feast on hot chocolate and cookies,  balloon modelling and face painting.

Tyrone

Santa is making his journey from the North Pole to Peatlands Park Dungannon on 14th and 15th December from 12.00 – 3.00pm.   Hop aboard the Santa Express train through the woods to Santa’s secret grotto. Meet Father Christmas who will deliver a present to all children. Take a selfie with Santa. Hop back on the express train tto the Peatlands Visitor Centre to write a letter to Santa which will be placed in the North Pole Letterbox.  

Belfast

Join Belvoir Players for their annual Christmas Charity Concert in aid of NI Chest Heart and Stroke  on Saturday 14th December.  Enjoy music from the season performed by students & professionals alongside dramatic readings taken from C.S. Lewis’ Narnia.  Tickets include mulled wine and mince pies at the interval.

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

Enjoy a magical evening of festive fun with a visit from Santa this Saturday 7^th December in Dromore at the Christmas Lights Switch on event.  This year take the opportunity to find that special gift or food treat at a Mini Twilight Market.  3.00pm to 7.00pm, admission is free.

Antrim

Special Olympics Ulster is calling upon people from Portrush and beyond to accept the challenge and plunge into the sea at East Strand this Sunday to raise funds for local Special Olympics athletes.  ‘Get freezin’ for a reason’ in support of athletes with an learning disability.  Families, sports clubs, businesses and individuals are invited to brave the icy waters at 1.00pm.  Those who think they are brave enough to make a splash and take the Polar Plunge can register at  Registration costs just £20.

Armagh

This Christmas check out the stunning Live Manger at Tannaghmore Animal Farm – a truly magical experience for all the family to enjoy!  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. 8th to 29th December.

Derry

A wintry Saturday in December is a fantastic time to watch a film in the warmth of the Roe Valley auditorium Limavady.  So whether you have seen Dr Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas or not enjoy with and friends a festive favourite. This Saturday at 2.00pm.  Admission £3, family of 4 £10.

Fermanagh

Caritas Sing their hearts out to Fermanagh, in St Macartin’s Cathedral this Sunday 8th December.  There will be a voluntary collection for Mental Health in Fermanagh. (Aisling Centre).

Tyrone

Santa is making his journey from the North Pole for two weekends in Peatlands Park, Dungannon on 7th, 8th, 14th and 15th December from 12 – 3pm.  This promises to be a magical experience not to be missed for all the family.

Belfast

This wonderful Snowman movie is now a festive family tradition, creating special memories for young and old. Join the Ulster Orchestra and young guest soloists for magic and adventure in this big-screen, classic tale of a boy whose snowman comes to life. Saturday 7th December.

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

Santa Claus is coming to town, Banbridge town!  Meet him at the annual Christmas Lights Switch On and Twilight Market event this Friday evening.  Enjoy the festive atmosphere, street entertainment and visit the magical Twilight Market showcasing local artists, handmade crafts and Christmas delights. 

Antrim

The Victorian Street Fair/Steam Saturday in Whitehead takes the form of a street fair and train rides within the Whitehead Excursion Station premises, with the chance for visitors to enjoy the unique steam experience.  See at close hand how the magnificent steam locomotive works, talk to the Driver and Fireman and see the footplate.

Armagh

With seasonal crafts and workshops, real reindeer, a snow globe, light sculptures and a wide range of stalls selected to appeal especially to children, you will find the magical Children’s Market a must do for little visitors. The perfect event to make lasting family memories. This Saturday, The Shambles Yard, 1.00pm to 7.00pm.

Derry

Join Santa and his elves in Maghera Walled Garden for some festive fun, or why not try some arts and crafts in the Lurach Centre, before you follow his sleigh to the town centre for the Christmas lights switch on. This Saturday 30th November, 3.00pm to 6.00pm.

Fermanagh

Cancer Connect NI returns with their Magical Winter Wonderland to be held at a secret location in the heart of Enniskillen. After refreshments, games and entertainment, board the Polar Express through the town to Santa who has a special gift for you with an opportunity for photographs.

Tyrone

Na Fianna Christmas Fair and Christmas Tree Lights Switch in Coalisland takes place this Sunday 1st December.  1.00pm – 5.00pm at the Parochial Centre and from 4.30pm at the Cornmill Heritage Centre​ there will be free face painting, balloon modelling and the opportunity to meet Santa in his cosy corner.

Belfast

The Titanic magical Christmas Experience is now open until the 23rd December. Journey through the Enchanted Forest, the Old Curiosity Shop, the Elves’ Workshop, Mrs Claus’ cosy kitchen, the bustling post office and peek into the Elves toy shop! Have your name checked off the ‘Naughty or Nice’ list by the Chief Elf and get to meet Father Christmas!

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 Saturday in Bangor, expect family fun, food and craft market and seasonal entertainment, all leading to the lights switch on at McKee Clock arena with extra special guests The Snowman™ and The Snowdog followed by a fireworks finale.

Antrim

This year’s Courtyard Theatre Newtownabbey’s pantomime will be the 10th Anniversary Production of the Courtyard Theatre and Mr Hullabaloo Productions bringing timeless magic to your Christmas treat!  Prepare to soar away on a magical carpet ride of non-stop laughs and thrills in one of the most spectacular pantomime adventures of all time – Aladdin. November 23rd to December 21st.

Armagh

Enjoy a magical evening of festive song, dance and merriment with performances for all the family, including carol singing from local primary schools at the Portadown Twilight Market and Christmas Lights Switch On this Friday evening 22nd November from 6.00pm.

Derry

Join in the fun in Magherafelt on Saturday 23rd November for live entertainment and the Christmas market, before the street party kicks off and countdown begins to this year’s Christmas lights switch on. The market is back again for a second day on Sunday 24th November.

Fermanagh

On Sunday 24th November, Share Slalom is back for the 16th year in a row at Ballyconnell Lock Gate. Waterways Ireland has developed this area with canoe steps and assisted flow boulders to provide a superb venue for this Paddle 4 Sport League event.

Tyrone

It’s time to get signed up for Dog Trails NI’s next race event in the magical and wild grounds of Lissan House in the heart of Mid Ulster this Sunday 24th November. Muddy Mutts comprises a 5K, 3K and kids race. This is a canicross race…….but one with a twist! As a location for equestrian events, Lissan House is going to be a muddy one, with jumps and swamps to challenge you and your dog!

Belfast

Every Sunday evening comedic improvisers at the Accidental Theatre, Shaftesbury Square put together scenes, songs, and stories from audience suggestions. All scenes are created in the moment, and no two shows are ever the same.

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

The Into Film Festival is a free, annual, UK-wide celebration of film and education for 5-19 year olds. The Into Film Festival is running at Portico Ards until 22nd November 2019, bringing you three weeks of engaging film screenings, workshops and special events!

Armagh

Talon’s ‘Greatest Hits Tour 2019’ will once again feature the Eagles timeless back catalogue including Hotel California, Take It Easy, One Of These Nights, Take It To The Limit, Desperado, Lyin’ Eyes, Life In The Fast Lane and many more. See them perform live this Friday evening at the Market Place Theatre.

Fermanagh

This Saturday join Fiona Stewart for a very special evening of Spirit Communication and Psychic Insights at a very intimate and exclusive audience held at the Donn Carragh Hotel. This will be an extraordinary night of communication from beyond the grave illustrating in her very down to earth manner that the soul lives on.

Tyrone

Join Tutor Louise McEntee this Saturday 16^th for Little Tokens Picture Frames Workshop at Ranfurly House.  Craft a bespoke and personalised picture frames which will make the perfect Christmas gift or a beautiful keepsake. Create and decorate a photo frame using crafts, paint and illustrations to show off treasured pictures.  10.30am – 1.00pm | £10.

Derry/Londonderry 

Get hands-on with the BBC Microbit at Coding for Kids this Saturday at the Flowerfield Arts Centre in Portstewart.  Learn what it is, what it can do and how to create the code to make it do cool stuff. This beginner’s workshop will not only teach you the basics of creating scrolling text and animations, but will also provide ideas for more advanced uses. £12.

Antrim

Naturally North Coast and Glens will celebrate Christmas in Ballycastle with the first of their TWO seasonally sensational Christmas Markets in the Marine Hotel, Ballycastle this Sunday.  A fabulous festive fanfare is in store for all, the market will be festooned with artisan treats galore, quirky gift  ideas, sumptuous hand crafted treats,  and  much more!

Belfast

Frock Around The Clock will be returning to Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter and the stunning location of Belfast Cathedral on Saturday 16th November 2019 for The Wonderful Winter Fair.  This event will feature 90 sellers of beautiful and original handmade, vintage and holistic treasures.  Admission £3.

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.

Jacqueline McGonigle