Category: Pick of the Week

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

Down

Come along to North Down Museum’s Mulicultural Festival this Saturday at Bangor Town Hall to experience a range of unique multicultural activities, entertainment, family-friendly activities and workshops at this creative, community festival.

Armagh

Join the Millennium Court  Arts Centre Newry this Saturdayfor their Family Open Art Day. At 11:30am there will be a projection style screening of ‘Pokemon Detective Pikachu”, then join the arts team afterwards rom 1:30pm – 3:00pm to use a selection of materials to design and make some fake souvenirs from a fake place! 

Fermanagh

This Saturday evening the Ardhowen Theatre Enniskillen will host the world premiere of The Beating Heart of Ulster which celebrates the rich musical heritage from both Irish and Ulster Scots traditions as well as the local landscape. This world premiere performance blends song, dance and storytelling, and will be performed by local young musicians and dancers from across the district, bringing the audience on a musical journey through the history and landscape of Fermanagh and Omagh.

Tyrone

From 7th to 10th November the Craic Theatre Coalisland presents The Little Shop of Horrors! The meek Seymour Krelborn, who works in a flower shop on Skid Row, stumbles across a new breed of plant.  He calls it Audrey II – after the woman he works with and with whom he is love.

Derry 

Los Dramáticos take you on an exciting voyage around Latin America and Spain this Friday night at the Playhouse in Derry.  Los Dramáticos bring together flamenco guitar, the charango lute and vocal harmonies to give new life to traditional songs from both sides of the Atlantic. For this special show they are joined by renowned jazz drummer Steve Davis.  

Antrim

The RPSI will be holding its first Model Railway Day at Whitehead Excursion Station this Saturday, 9th November, with a line-up of marvellous miniature models, steam train rides, refreshments, etc. All this, and the Museum exhibits too!

Belfast

Join TinyLife #Premvember celebrations as they host a special Afternoon Tea event in Stormont, Parliament Buildings on Saturday 9th November 2019 courtesy of Robbie Butler MLA.  TinyLife guests will have a guided tour of Parliament Buildings, relax to music by the McAuley Swing Duo and enjoy Afternoon Tea in the eloquent surroundings of the Great Hall.  

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

Down

Do things go bump in the night at the Exploris Aquarium? Well now is your chance to find out with the new alternative night out – Night at the Aquarium this Friday and Saturday Night.  Includes meal, guided tour and more!

Armagh

Join the Armagh Planetarium “Adult Only Takeover” when adults get the chance to take over the facility for the night this Friday.  Grab a glass of bubbles, experience the dome theatre, be entertained with the Hubble Bubble Toil and Trouble live science show with Scientific Sue and take home an intergalactic space photo.

Fermanagh

Scary trail for Children at Lusty Beg Island until 3rd November. Includes food and a drink.   Are you brave enough to walk the woods, can you explain the noises and sightings, are you ready to experience Fermanagh’s scariest Halloween Event?

Tyrone

Phil Coulter’s long career as a songwriter, producer and recording artiste has been recognised over the years and you can see Phil perform live at the Alley Theatre Strabane this Saturday night.  An original retrospective on the work of one of our finest, it’s a show for every lover of good music.  

Derry/Londonderry

The Walled City Market returns to Guildhall Square this Saturday from 11.00 to 4.00pm, welcoming the very best of artisan traders and offering visitors a family friendly shopping experience with a wide selection of speciality foods and hand crafted products.  Tickle your taste buds with homemade jams, chutneys, sauces, artisan breads and cakes,  a range or organic meats and of course some sweet treats!

 Antrim

Join the Marine Hotel Ballycastle on Saturday November 2nd for their Spooktacular Witches and Wizards Afternoon Tea.  Devour delicious sand-witches, drink down a poisonous potion, and indulge in some devlish delights.  Halloween Movie | Face Painter | Small Gift | Fancy Dress Competition | Witch-craft corner | Room Décor. .£12.50 per child | £16 per adult 

Belfast

An Evening of Irish Horror is the perfect, cozy scare for when the air gets cold and the night grows dark, with two classic Irish spook stories reanimated in the dark, with live music – two original scores for violin, cello, and guitar. Wireless Mystery Theatre presents A Story of Irish Gothic at the Crescent Arts Centre this Saturday evening.

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

Down

This Friday, North Down Museum, Bangor is bracing itself for some intergalactic visitors when ‘Invasion from Planet X’ takes place in its historic building.  Find out  if you could survive an alien invasion at this fun event. Visitors can expect storm trooper performances, escape rooms, alien walkabouts, live music and more!

Armagh

To celebrate Armagh City Centre being granted Purple Flag status, a number of events have been organised, kicking off the a ‘Halloween Movie Day’ in the Johnston’s Building on Saturday, 26th October 2019.  See family favourites Beetlejuice and Hocus Pocus!

Fermanagh

Calling all witches and wizards! Share Discovery Village are pleased to offer you a place on their magical Halloween Cruise,  26th – 29th October.   Report to Platform 9 3/4 by 2:30pm on the day of your cruise. Expect to be sorted into your house, cast some spells and sample some fascinating foods from professors, as well as other fun games and crafts.

Tyrone

Jamboree Oktoberfest – where Bavaria meets Fintona returns to the Ecclesville Centre Fintona on Saturday evening. Performing at this year’s Jamboree Oktoberfest will be Derek Ryan, Johnny Brady, Paul Kelly and Christopher King.

Derry

First performed in 2006, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, presented by Isosceles, is a fast-paced adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel which has enthralled audiences throughout Britain and Ireland and played to packed houses everywhere.  See it performed live at the  Playhouse in Derry this Saturday.

Antrim

Halloween Hullabaloo / Travelling Treeluminations comes to Ballylough Country Estate 25th to 31st October. Two events in one with the “seeing is believing” Travelling Treeluminations  lighting up the woodlands to specially composed music by Sharon Graham.  From there you’ll travel on to the Hullabaloo with family friendly ghosts, a haunted castle and maybe the odd scary zombie!

Belfast

Aisling Ghéar Theatre Co is taking over the Cultúrlann for its Samhain/Halloween celebrations!! Let ‘Butler McCracken’  take you on a special tour of this scary old building. Expect ghostly stories, spooky goings on and some creepy crawlies! This event is in Irish and is aimed at children who are attending Irish Medium Primary schools. It is easy peasy to understand but if in doubt consult your child for a quick translation!

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

Tullyverry House in Killyleagh will host their Open Day and Wedding Fair this Sunday 20th October between 1.00pm and 5.00pm. Exhibitors include caterers, florists, musicians, photographers, videographers, stationary providers, wedding cars, weddings decorators and more!

Armagh

Take a Farm/Cider Tour of Long Meadow Farm this Saturday 19th October at 11.00am.  Be guided through the 30 acre orchard and see how the famous PGI status Bramley Apple is grown, processed, harvested and hand pressed to be transformed into brands of apple juice and artisan ciders. 

Fermanagh

Join RSPB staff on a guided walk this Saturday 19th October through the autumnal display at Castle Archdale Country Park. Learn to identify the different signs of autumn and the wildlife that will be most active during this bountiful season.   £5 per adult, £2.50 per child. Free for all RSPB members.

Tyrone

Enjoy an audience with MUNDY at an intimate acoustic gig by one of Ireland’s finest singer/songwriters in the modern era.  Mundy’s mainly acoustic, folk based pop/rock has been compared to Damien Rice and Josh Ritter. See him live this Saturday evening at Ranfurly House Arts & Visitor Centre in Dungannon. Tickets £18.

Derry/Londonderry

Seamus Heaney HomePlace  in Bellaghy is delighted to work with Moving on Music to present Ruth McGinley and Darragh Morgan, two of Northern Ireland’s leading internationally renowned classical musicians, as they tour NI for the first time together.  Performing this Saturday evening, this concert will feature two beautiful violin sonatas, Irish folk song arrangements as well as a piece by Northern Irish composer Deirdre McKay.

Antrim

Whitehead Museum Railway We are delighted to offer their vintage inspired afternoon tea with a difference!   Afternoon Tea will be served in a static railway carriage beside the award-winning Edwardian Tea Room at Whitehead Excursion Station on Saturday afternoon between 2.00pm and 3.30pm.

Belfast

La Spire, Botanic Gardens, this Sunday afternoon is part of the 2019 Belfast International Arts Festival. Breath-taking aerial acrobatics on an impressive steel spiral sculpture. The all-female cast combine raw strength, tenacity and vulnerability, accompanied by a live musician and special sound machines to create a suspense-filled dreamlike journey into human fragility and power.

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