Down

Cycle in the Park for Knockevin is an all ability cycling event in Castlewellan Forest Park, hosted by Kilmegan VC this Sunday 22nd September.  There are cycling adventures for everyone from the novice to the seasoned lycra-clad warrior.

Armagh

From Thursday 19th to Sunday 22th September, Armagh Food & Cider Festival visitors to the iconic city of Armagh and its surrounding fruit-laden orchards can expect to raise more than a glass to an incredible spread of mouth-watering events.  An international extravaganza featuring multiple can’t-miss events in venues right across Ireland’s Orchard County, the Armagh Food & Cider Festival is this autumn’s hottest ticket.

Fermanagh

Festival Lough Erne takes place for the fifth year on 21st & 22nd September.  Ireland’s only island town, Enniskillen, will host Festival Lough Erne, a celebration of the very best of local food and the Fermanagh Lakelands. The weekend will see a host of activity on and off the water with cookery demonstrations by celebrity and local chefs, local artisan food and drink producers and live entertainment all taking place at Enniskillen Castle. 

Tyrone

The Showman is coming to the Strule Arts Centre Omagh this Friday, starring Peter Corry!  Combining the passion of Moulin Rouge, the spectacle of Barnum and the magic of The Greatest Showman, this new show brings an eclectic mix of iconic songs from ‘Somebody to Love’, ‘Your Song’, ‘Rise Like a Phoenix’, ‘The Show Must Go On’, ”Spanish Train’ to ‘This is the Greatest Show’.

Derry/Londonderry

Different Drums of Ireland come thundering onto the Playhouse stage this Saturday with a show not to be missed!  Feel the power of indigenous Lambeg and Bodhran drums, paired with Uileann pipes and whistles, guitar, world percussion and more.

Antrim

Larne Museum & Arts Centre will be open on Saturday 21st September.  See the permanent exhibition gallery which explores the agricultural, industrial, military and maritime history of the area. You will also have the ‘not to be missed’ chance to explore Discworld and the Charmed Realm in the temporary exhibition ‘Paul Kidby, Discworld and Beyond’. 

Belfast

With 53 producers in attendance, the Tesco Taste Festival 20th – 22nd September will be showcasing the very best local food and drink Tesco has to offer, all under one roof. Custom House Square, admission 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

Join other foodies on the lawn at Slieve Donard Resort & Spa for a fun filled family day out at their Food & Drink Festival this Saturday 14th September. Featuring local produce, face painting, live entertainment, a bouncy castle and a host of other child friendly activities, admission is only  which includes a donation to Air Ambulance Northern Ireland.

Armagh

This Saturday, enjoy a tour of Armagh Planetarium building and grounds and explore the heritage of this unique organisation that is involved in ground breaking research and has been exploring the Cosmos from 1790.  Tours are free for European Heritage Open Day

Fermanagh

RSPBNI Bat Detectives this Friday at Enniskillen Castle is a great opportunity to learn more about bats, to see and hear them and to immerse yourself in their world. There will be a short introductory talk about bats followed by a night-time walk using bat detectors to identify the different species living in Enniskillen town centre. 

Tyrone

See Little Red Riding Hood and the Silly Billy Wolf this Saturday at the Alley Theatre Strabane.  This colourful, fast-paced all singing and dancing show is a fun and gentle re-telling of the classic fairy-tale of Little Red Riding Hood. 

Derry/Londonderry

Has your pooch got what it takes?  Bring them along to the Jungle Family Fun Day and enter them in the Dog Show this Sunday.  The last Dog Show was such a success they have added a few more categories! With 10 great categories to choose from there is something for every pooch!

Antrim

I Sing for Me Community Choir begins on Friday 13th September.  This is an all abilities, all ages choir. If you would like to use your voice, get out and meet other people then come along and join in.  Just  bring your voice and sense of fun!  Weekly on  Friday mornings beginning this Friday.  10.30am to 12.00pm at Ballymena Methodist Hall.

Belfast

Enjoy the new Downton Abbey movie in the fabulous surroundings of the Strand Arts Centre, all to raise vital funds for Almost Home Animal Rescue this Saturday 14th September. 

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 Red Hot Chilli Pipers are returning to The Commons, Donaghadee this Saturday 7th September from 7.30pm-9.30pm, ending with a firework finale.  Free bus to Bangor and Newtownards from the event at 10pm and 10.30pm.  And that’s not all, this Thursday sees the return of boat tours of the bay and ‘A Taste of Donaghadee’ food tours on the 5^th September.

Armagh

Macha is a new production celebrating through music and drama the myths and mysteries of Emhain Mhacha, the Navan Fort, ancient seat of the rulers of Ulster. Navan Centre and Fort this weekend, 6th and 7th September. Come dressed for the weather as this is an outdoor performance. 

Fermanagh

The Ulster Canoe Festival returns to Lisnaskea once again in 2019 this weekend, 7th and 8th September. This event is 2 full days of paddling sessions in the presence of some of the top open boat coaches in the province to help you improve your skills.  This year it is taking place in Upper Lough Erne. Share Discovery Village’s facilities right on the shore of the lough are ideal and the perfect location to access several popular rivers.

Tyrone

Join Aware for their Annual Mood Walk from Omagh Community House this Sunday 8th September.  This is a family friendly event and all dogs are welcome on leads.  Every penny raised stays in Northern Ireland, and will help Aware continue the work they do to support those living with depression, anxiety and bipolar. Registration includes medal and t-shirt.

Derry/Londonderry

This Saturday don’t miss the Women’s Wellbeing Fair at Meadowbank Sports Arena Magherafelt, and discover organisations in the Mid-Ulster area that promote women’s health and wellbeing.  Try out and receive treatments on the day. Everyone is welcome and admission is free!

Antrim

Join the Donkey Sanctuary in Templepatrick for their Open Day this Saturday!  You will have the opportunity to learn all about our donkeys and how they are cared for, browse the indoor craft stall and enjoy a variety of activities for all ages.  BBQ and refreshments will be available, parking and entrance is free!

Belfast

Belfast Zoo is delighted to once again host Sensory Day this Saturday 7^th September.  This special day allows visitors on the autism spectrum and those with other sensory requirements to enjoy a day out to the zoo in a stress-free environment. 

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.

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Down

The Clandeboye Foodie Festival takes place this weekend on Saturday 31st August and Sunday 1st September at the Clandeyboye Estate in Bangor,, featuring local food and drink  producers,  demonstrations, tastings and much more. Admission is free!

Armagh

In The Heart of the Country this Friday at the Market Place Theatre, tells how a farming community in mid-Tyrone dealt with the complex issues that arose from the search for Civil Rights. At that time dancing and country music  were the main social diet albeit mostly one side of the community. Our story reflects how a young couples love of country music could transcend age old tribal barriers but not without a price to pay. The price of peace is often more expensive than we ever bargain for. In this case it most certainly was.

Fermanagh

Activities for All is a portfolio of action-packed, outdoor activities which SHARE offers to the general public! These activities are available every day in August and includes Archery, Sailing, Canoeing, Banana Boating and many more!

Tyrone

The 28th annual Bluegrass Omagh music festival returns to the Ulster American Folk Park from Friday 30th August to Sunday 1st September. Award-winning American and European bands and performers will descend on the museum to join acclaimed acts from across Ireland. The headline act bringing their popular and growing brand of Bluegrass music to this year’s festival is industry and fan favourites Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers. 

Derry/Londonderry

Carnival of Colours is back and  this time it’s on tour, bringing the most circus-y Festival you’ve ever witnessed to the stunning-est, most slopey Brooke Park in Derry this Saturday and Sunday, and you are invited! Acts include Grant Goldie, Andrea Fidelio, Dr Skita, Siolta Circus AND Jack Wise…to name just a few! 

Antrim

Antrim Castle Gardens will once again host the popular Spinning Yarns Festival this Saturday and Sunday. A Festival of Colour, Creativity and Craft celebrating the wonderful world of all things associated with textiles, in particular wool & linen, where we will showcase these homespun yarns in all their forms.

Belfast

Calling all brides to be – it’s back! The Stormont Hotel Wedding Show on Sunday 1st September 2019, 1.00pm until 4.00pm with two Fashion Shows, Live Band Showcase and Over 60 Exhibitors.

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

Pride in Newry Festival 2019 takes place from 24th August to 1st September.  Pride in Newry is the proud host of UK and Ireland Pride 2019.  A variety of engaging and family friendly events populate the programme of events spanning over a week.

Armagh

The Planetarium is being taken over by Jedi and Sith on the 24th and 25th August.  Bring your younglings down and train them up in the ways of the force, or the dark side at Force Academy Training.

Fermanagh

This Friday 23^rd August, come to SHARE for a fun-filled evening at their Charity Colour Run!  This fun, 5k run takes place on their estate and you will have to take on a number of obstacles while getting covered in powdered paint!

Tyrone

A travelling theatre group are set for a night of music and entertainment, when suddenly the lights go out and the mysterious Phantom appears at the Murder Mystery evening “The Phantom Strikes Again” at the Alley Theatre Strabane on Saturday 24^th August. 

Derry/Londonderry

The Banks of Foyle Festival presents Open Air Cinema showing ‘The Greatest Showman’ on a  50ft screen at the Vale Centre Greysteel on Friday 23^rd August. Donation £5 per adult, £2.50 u16s.

Antrim

History comes to life at Dunluce Castle this Saturday afternoon.  If you’ve ever wanted to try shooting a longbow, this dramatic Castle jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean is the perfect place to have a go at archery, meet some Medieval characters and experience the atmosphere and unique beauty of Dunluce.

Belfast

The first Ukulele BBQ with the Belfast Ukulele Jam in the BOHO Garden at the Botanic Inn takes place this Saturday from 1.00pm to 4.00pm. This is a free music event.

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 in the fun and raise vital funds for TinyLife, Northern Ireland’s premature baby charity. Run or walk the 2k circuit of Kirkistown Race Track and get showered and splattered with coloured paint powder during the Colour Run this Friday 16^th August.

Armagh

Dinosaurs are coming alive at Slieve Gullion! A T-Rex and Velociraptor have been spotted prowling around the Walled Garden. Are you brave enough to track them down at the Lúnasa Festival Geotastic Extravaganza this Saturday 17th August.

 

Fermanagh

This Saturday 17th August,  treat yourself and your friends to Share Discovery Village’s final Afternoon Tea of the season, served on board the pleasure cruiser the Inishcruiser, whilst meandering through the stunning islands of Upper Lough Erne.

Tyrone

THE ever-popular Belvoir Players return for their now legendary Summer Theatre tour with a rip-roaring Sam Cree comedy, “Wedding Fever”, this Saturday at the Strule Arts Centre in Omagh.

Derry/Londonderry

On Friday 16th August, from 6.00pm – 10.00pm Mid Ulster District Council will shine a light on the beauty of Lough Neagh, as Ballyronan Marina provides the backdrop for an evening of illuminations and entertainment at their annual Lumarina event.

Antrim

Bring your picnic, chairs, and table with you to the Parterre at Antrim Castle Gardens and enjoy a magical evening with the Courtyard Community Choir with special guest Clover Watts-Kerr this Saturday evening.

Belfast

Summer Fair On The Square at the Skainos Centre this Saturday is a fantastic event brought to you by the folks behind Frock Around The Clock. Entry is free to browse 25 fantastic stalls of quality handcrafted goods and artisan crafts, including fashion accessories, home wares & decor, jewellery, sweet treats & artisan food, art, health & beauty, well-being, craft demos and much 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

The Portavogie Seafood Festival takes place  Saturday 10th August, 12 noon – 5pm.  Jean-Christophe Novelli, will be delivering cooking demos in the festival kitchen. Buy, sample and even have cooked on site! – an array of seafood delights from NI’s biggest fish market and artisan food stalls. 

Armagh

History comes to life at  Armagh Friary this Saturday. Join this fun and educational Living History event, suitable for all the family.  Franciscan Friars walk the ancient ruins of this once grand foundation. Try your hand at writing with the quill pen!

Fermanagh

The Shoreline Music Festival takes centre stage at Enniskillen Castle from 9th to 11th August and is a must see for all Music Lovers. 3 nights, 3 different musical genres, international DJs, and live bands.

Tyrone

Make a minion this Saturday at Ranfurly House,  Dungannon. Create your own minion from various materials with tutor Louise Campbell.   Have fun making your very own character to take home!  Tickets are £6. 11am – 12.30pm.

Derry

Fun day out for all the family at Springhill, Moneymore, Sunday 11^th August. Get outdoors and closer to nature this summer at Springhill. Enjoy traditional lawn games, Little Ranger fun, face painting, live music, BBQ and lots more!

Antrim

Join RSPB NI warden and islander Liam McFaul to explore the Roonivoolin reserve on the southern arm of Rathlin Island on Saturday.   Booking essential by calling 028 9064 5630. Please book your ferry crossing in advance on 028 2076 9299.

Belfast

Bollywood Baba, led by Bollywood Dancers and special early years facilitators,  is a dazzling dance experience for families to enjoy together in the magical surroundings of the Big Top in C.S. Lewis Square. Part of this year’s Eastside Arts Festival, Sunday 11th August.

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

History comes to life at Dundrum Castle this Saturday at the Living History event.  Meet the Norman Knights and their Household as they wield their swords and tell you a little about their lives 700 years ago.

Armagh

Navan Fort’s celebration of the Celtic festival of Lughnasa returns this Saturday.  Join the clan as they prepare to honour the Celtic Sun God, Lugh, culminating with the fire ceremony finale!

Fermanagh

Visit Devenish Island this Summer.  The Devenish Island Ferry Service operates daily during July and August from Trory jetty on an hourly basis . The ferry can accommodate up to 12 people, and is accessible for persons of limited mobility.

Tyrone

Join children’s favourite Tom Sweeney for a fun filled hour of songs and stories for the Tots and their Teddy Bears this Saturday at the Alley Theatre Strabane.  It’s a sunshine party-time and don’t forget to bring Teddy!  

Derry

This Sunday 4th August is Star Wars Family Fun Day at the Jungle, Moneymore!  Available from 11am to 4pm with both kids activities and adult adventures to be had, there is something for everyone at Northern Ireland’s leading Outdoor Adventure Centre.

Antrim

The Heart of the Glens Festival in Cushendall in the Glens of Antrim runs from 3rd to 11th August with a fun packed programme of over 100 events.  Main events include the famous Lurig Challenge Run, food fest night, adult treasure hunt, fancy dress night and the Vintage Family Fun Day.

Belfast

The University of Atypical gallery, presents the debut solo exhibition by emerging Mid-Ulster, visual artist, Fiona Stewart.  Francis, reflections & roses – A life magnified,  launches on Thursday 1st August 2019, 5-8pm,  and  will remain open until 23rd August.

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

North Down Museum will host their Summer Market this Saturday and Sunday. The galleries and courtyard of the museum  will be filled with market stalls selling unique craft and handmade items by local craftspeople. You can also enjoy some live music or grab a coffee and a bite to eat in the museum café.

Armagh

Experience the traditional art of basket weaving with the assistance of experienced craft tutor and basket maker Sabine Wolniczak from Beaghmore Baskets at the Market Place Theatre on Saturday 27th July.   Learn the techniques and skills involved in this ancient craft to complete your own traditional Irish skib using locally grown, harvested and seasoned willow. 

Fermanagh

Share’s ever popular summer schemes are back Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:30pm each day for 6 to 8 year olds, 8 to 12 year olds, and 12 to 16 year olds. Offering multi activity weeks and skill specific weeks in Canoeing, Kayaking, Sailing, Windsurfing.  Schedule of Schemes available at www.sharevillage.org. Runs until 30th July.

Tyrone

Enjoy ‘An Evening At Down Royal’ at the Mellon Country Inn this Friday 26th July.  Package Includes: BBQ Lunch,  transport to and from the race course, entry into the races, live music on return. Contact the hotel for more information.

Derry

Enjoy the beautiful sounds of local musicians in Mussenden Temple any time between 12 noon and 2.00pm on Sunday July 28th.  What better way to compliment your Sunday afternoon stroll at Downhill? Normal admission applies. NT members free.

Antrim

Take a walk in the country at one of Northern Ireland’s best known regional one-day agricultural shows and its beautiful location on the shore of Lough Neagh. The Antrim Show takes place Saturday 27th July at Shanes Castle from 9.00am – 5.00pm. Admission is £10 per Adult, £5 for 12-17 year olds, and U12s and car parking are free. Admission is payable at the gate, and discounted adult tickets can be purchased online for £9 until Wednesday 24 July. Further info at www.randoxantrimshow.com.

Belfast

Visitors on the autism spectrum and those with sensory requirements can enjoy the peace and quiet of Belfast Zoo during Quiet Hour this Sunday 28th July.  The zoo will open an 9am, an hour before normal opening times. Visitors can expect reduced crowds and lower levels of noise, helping to create a more relaxed atmosphere.

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

Heartbreak Productions presents the iconic tale, Wuthering Heights, at Bangor Castle Walled Garden, 18^th July. Step into the desolate realm of Wuthering Heights, home to the Earnshaw family and the mysterious orphan, Heathcliff. While under the care of the wealthy Mr Earnshaw, Heathcliff’s relationship  with the gentleman’s daughter, Catherine, blossoms into an unruly and passionate romance.

Armagh

To celebrate Neil Armstrong’s One Giant Leap, Armagh Observatory will be showing the award winning 2018 movie ‘First Man’ at the Johnson Building, Shambles Yard, Friday 19th July. Ryan Gosling stars in the riveting story behind the first manned mission to the moon, focusing on Neil Armstrong and the decade leading to the historic Apollo 11 flight.

Fermanagh

The Lady of the Lake Festival in Irvinestown, is celebrating its 41st anniversary and continues until the  21st July with a range of outdoor and indoor events taking place, including sports, music, dancing, arts & crafts, gardening and water sports. 

Tyrone

In the double activity workshop of slime making and nerf games at Ranfurley House Dungannon this Saturday,  children will be guided through the process of making their own slime and clay models, using air drying clay and a few safe everyday household ingredients, which they get to take home with them at the end.

Derry/Londonderry

The inaugural LegenDerry Street Food Festival will run from Friday 19th July to Sunday 21st July.  Set in Guildhall Street this 3 day festival will bring together the very best of local street food, complemented by craft drink producers. Live DJ music sets, beers served from a double decker bus and a totally unique dining experience.  

Antrim

The Carryduff Forklift Down Rally is back at the Eikon Exhibition Centre and Balmoral Park this Saturday for a second year and promises to be an action packed day filled with adrenaline fuelled fun for all the family. Why not come along and avail of the free kids activities, including bouncy castles!

Belfast

As excitement for The Open builds across Northern Ireland, The Lost City Adventure Golf at Cityside in Belfast is set to go ‘crazy’ to mark the momentous golf competition taking place on home soil.  From Thursday 18th July to Saturday 21st July, NI’s first indoor adventure golf course will offer visitors dressed in ‘crazy golf’ gear a 20% discount after 12pm across the weekend.

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