Down

Come along to Ballycopeland Windmill for a special access tour of the windmill tower from 14^th to 28^th July.  These tours will last approximately 25 minutes and will be led by a member of the conservation team involved in the recent conservation of the windmill.

Armagh

Returning this summer is Armagh Planetarium’s popular Minecraft workshop.  In conjunction with STEM Aware, children taking part in this workshop will have the chance to explore the Moon using the platform of Minecraft.  Each child will have their own laptop gaming station and will be set team challenges in these workshops.  11^th to 13^th July.

Fermanagh

The second annual Belleek Regatta takes place on the 14th July 2019. Competitors will race in the Lough Erne’s indigenous wooden boat the ‘Lough Erne Cot’. The races form part of the league of regatta’s taking place this summer with the winning teams competing in the final in Enniskillen on 15th September 2019.

Tyrone

This Sunday 7^th July visit a range of animals at Casey’s Creatures, Ranfurly House Dungannon,  including a meerkat, snake, skunk, hedgehog, owl, giant frog, armadillo and a raccoon dog! Pet and hold interesting and unusual animals while learning all about them at this interactive show.

Derry/Londonderry

If you go down to the woods today…. on Sunday 14^th July, at Carrowmena, you can enjoy a Teddy Bear’s Picnic and Family Fun Day. Opens at 12.00pm and runs until 3.00pm. Includes Story Telling, Face Painting, Teddy Bear Hospital, Teddy Bear Hunt and Inflatables,

Antrim

This Sunday in Ballycastle, take the perfect outdoor adventure!  You will go on a 1 Hour Kayaking tour from Ballycastle Visitor Centre and experience this beautiful part of the coastline from a totally unique perspective and have some adventure out in Ballycastle Bay.  When you have finished your kayaking tour you will then join Nine Glens Walking Tours for a wonderful historical walking tour around Ballycastle where you will learn some of the many myths and legends.

Belfast

Directed by Miss Caroline Goodall, students from Beaconsfield High School’s wind band and chamber groups will be performing from a varied repertoire from swing to film music and ‘80s pop hits at the Belvoir Players Studio.  Join them for some fabulous music making this Saturday 13^th July!  A collection will take place on the day of the concert for a charitable cause.

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

Seaside Revival is a vintage festival celebrating Bangor’s heyday as a thriving seaside resort. This FREE event will take place on Bangor Seafront on Saturday 6th July, 2019 1-10pm.  One of the highlights will be a special resurrection of the legendary ‘Pickie to Pier Swim’ – a summer staple on Bangor’s calendar from 1910 to the 1970s.

Armagh

The “Heroes and Legends” exhibition makes its return to Armagh Observatory and Planetarium kick-starting their summer programme on 6^th and 7^th July.  Come along anytime between 10:00am and 4:30pm and journey into the Copernicus Hall to meet some of the most iconic costumed characters from your favourite movies.

Fermanagh

Sit back and relax by the shores of Lough Erne for Music at the Lake at the National Trust’s Crom Estate this Friday evening, 5th July, featuring local musicians the ‘Hand Me Downs’.

Tyrone

This Sunday 7^th July visit a range of animals at Casey’s Creatures, Ranfurly House Dungannon,  including a meerkat, snake,skunk, hedgehog, owl, giant frog, armadillo and a raccoon dog! Pet and hold interesting and unusual animals while learning all about them at this interactive show.

Derry/Londonderry

It’s the season of Butterflies and Moths!  Portstewart Strand is home to 18 different species of butterfly and moths and is among the top 3 locations in Northern Ireland for finding some of these unique species. There will be fun for all the family this Saturday as you join the rangers on the hunt to catch and identify the dunes’ fluttering residents. Nets provided. Booking is essential as space are limited.

Antrim

Organised in partnership with the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, Northern Ireland Branch, approximately 70 pipe bands and 45 drum majors from UK, Ireland and Australia are set to showcase their skills to battle for the prestigious All Ireland Pipe Band Championship title this Saturday at Ballymena Academy Playing Fields.

Belfast

Summer with Claude is a fun filled workshop by Sixteen South where there will an opportunity to make an ice cream scratch art magnet, paint an ice cream money box,  get seaside tattoos, watch an exclusive Claude episode, take part in colouring competition and take home a special Claude gift.

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

Join James Tanner at the  Comber Earlies Food Festival this Saturday.  There is plenty of foodie-inspired fun celebrating the Comber Earlies potato, local produce and artisan producers happening which all the family will enjoy!

Armagh

All are welcome, every Thursday in June to the Walled Garden in Armagh, whether it is to lend a hand, pick your own fresh vegetables to take home, or just to have a friendly chat with staff and volunteers. 

Fermanagh

The Enniskillen Road Races return for a second year. The quiet country roads will come alive to the sounds of motorcycle racing on closed public roads. This 2 day event will see a full days practice on Friday 28th June with an 11 race schedule for Saturday 29th June. Roads close at 12 noon on Friday and 10.00 am on Saturday. 

Tyrone

The annual Omagh Food Festival is back and this year it promises to be bigger and better than ever. The festival will take place over two days, this Saturday and Sunday,  under a festival marquee in the carpark located adjacent to Main Street, Omagh.  The event is aimed at bringing together local producers and people with a love for food and there is something for all the family.

Derry/Londonderry

The Parish of St. Lurach’s, Maghera & Killelagh are holding their Garden Fete & Vintage Rally on Saturday 29th June at Maghera Rectory from 12pm – 4pm.  There will be all the usual attractions including Display of Vintage Cars & Tractors with prizes for best in class, free children’s entertainment, music all day, stalls and food including teas and barbecue.

Antrim

Bring your little one and their favourite teddy for a fun ride on vintage steam train at Whitehead Railway Museum this Saturday. There will be plenty of children’s activities hosted throughout the day for the perfect family day out, including a bear hunt and the chance to win a prize!  Steam train rides will run between 12.00pm and 4.00pm every 15 mins

Belfast

Visitors on the autism spectrum and those with sensory requirements can enjoy the peace and quiet of Belfast Zoo during Quiet Hour this Saturday. The zoo will open at 9.00 am, 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

The 4^th annual Portaferry Sails & Sounds festival takes place from 20^th to 23^rd June.   This is an action packed weekend of sailing, rowing, racing & trips on Strangford Lough, with lots of free events on offer across the weekend.

Armagh

Celebrate the the longest day of the year with the Celts as they prepare for Mid-Summer at Navan Centre and Fort this Friday.  Join the Celtic camp, mingle and help set up for the evening’s festivities, dine at 9.00pm on something quite wild then sing, dance and listen to stories of the years gone by while watching the sunset.

Fermanagh

Share Discovery Village are hosting a celebration the Summer Solstice on Trannish Island  on Upper Lough Erne this Friday. Paddle out for a tasty BBQ and a variety of fun activities and watch the breath-taking sunset on Upper Lough Erne on the longest day of the year!

Tyrone

An Creagán are holding their annual mid-summer 5K on Wednesday 19th June at 7.30pm. This is a chipped event suitable for all runners, expert or beginners. If you would like to be part of An Creagán Mid-Summer run, and enjoy the beautiful scenic track, please contact An Creagán on 02880761112 or email info@ancreagan.com to register, £5 per person.

Derry

Join The Playhouse on Saturday 22^nd June for the heartening tale of Pamplemousse’s identity crisis, set against evocative and playful music by local composer Greg Caffrey. The opera will be performed by the young talents of the NI Opera Studio and the Hard Rain Soloist Ensemble.  Suitable for children 7+ Duration: 30 minutes.

 Antrim

Join Mr Hullabaloo, the magical storyteller and his colourful puppet friends at the Courtyard Theatre Newtownabbey this Saturday 22^nd June.  In this brand new show, Jingles the Jester and Bobbin the Bear visit the seaside to hear tales of Pirates and Mermaids. Then pay a visit to Fairy Twinkles summer garden in fairy glen but watch out for the naughty little rascal trampling on all the summer flowers!

Belfast

On Friday 21st June  The Priests will present a concert in St. Bernadette’s Church, Rosetta Road, Belfast. This iconic 1960s fan-shaped building, with its huge wall of stained glass and clear view of the performers for everyone in the audience, promises to be an ideal venue for this concert on the longest evening of the year.

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

Family Day out at Bullsbrook Farm, part of the Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend. Taking place across 15th and 16th June, the initiative is hoping to attract upwards of 16,000 visitors from rural and urban towns and cities. 21 participating farms will also have fun activities throughout the weekend such as petting farms, pony rides, competitions, live music and demonstrations.  

Armagh

Discover the ancient Chinese practice of Qi Gong with Fiona Jennings this Sunday  at the Elmfield Institute, Gilford. Find out how to give your body, breath and mind a full workout, at your own pace and level. This class is suitable for all. 

Fermanagh

The USPCA is recruiting participants to climb the stunning ‘Stairway to Heaven’ Cuilcagh Boardwalk on Sunday the 16th of June.  Cuilcagh is 665 metres high and is located on the border between Fermanagh and Cavan. It is the highest point in both counties. The starting point for the Cuilcagh boardwalk is at the Marble Arch Caves at 11.30am.

Tyrone

A charity Tractor and Truck Run will leave Kinturk Cultural Centre on Sunday 15th June 2019 at 5.00pm in Aid of Macmillan Nurses.  This will be followed by a barbecue and dance in Kinturk Cultural Centre at 8.00pm with music by Tiny Lions.  Admission is £10.

Derry

Join the Everglades Hotel on Sunday 16th June from 12.30pm – 3pm for a Father’s Day Medieval Banquet Sunday Lunch, with a selection of live performers including a Court Jester! Adults £28 | Children £16, with a gift for every dad!

Antrim

This Saturday 15th June, join RSPB NI Rathlin warden Liam McFaul on board a specially chartered boat to enjoy a tour of Rathlin Island from the water. Setting off from Rathlin Harbour, look out for gannets, gulls and guillemots. Keep your eyes peeled for seals and eider ducks too – they can often be seen lazing around the harbour. In summer, seabirds including puffins, guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes and fulmars gather in their thousands to jostle for space. Please book ferry to and from Rathlin prior to booking.

Belfast

Belcycle is back!  Belfast’s family-friendly festival dedicated to all things cycling will take place on Saturday 15th June at CS Lewis Square in East Belfast. Be inspired to get on your bike – whatever your age or ability and join in the FREE festival.

Down

Join Exploris Aquarium in Portaferry for World Ocean Day this Saturday 8^th June. Protecting the World’s Oceans is extremely important to everyone at the  Aquarium  and they want to share their knowledge on how you can help. On World Ocean Day you can do your part through workshops and craft activities throughout the day. Dive on in!

Armagh

Visual Artist Nathan Nesbitt presents ‘Smoke in Motion’, an exploration of the unique surrealist technique fumage – the art of drawing with smoke at the Market Place Theatre, 7th June to 13th July.  Utilising an open flame to deposit trails of black smoke on paper Nesbitt sculpts the plumes to capture the delicate, passionate motion of his subject. 

Fermanagh

The Enniskillen 10k Road Race and Leisure Walk will take place on Saturday 8^th June commencing at 2.00pm from the Fermanagh Lakeland Forum, Enniskillen.  Kiddies Fun Run starts at 12 noon. This year’s Enniskillen 10k has been included within the Novosco 10k Grand Prix. 

Tyrone

St. Michael’s Church in Castlecaulfield, are hosting a flower festival on the theme of “All things bright and beautiful” on the weekend 7^th –  9th June.  A community festival of flowers, handcrafts and music!  Lady Eames will be the speaker at the official opening of the Flower Festival on Friday 7th June, 7.00pm.

Derry/Londonderry

The Health, Wellbeing & Natural Therapies event takes place at the Guildhall, in the heart of Derry City on the 8th & 9th June.  Speak to and learn from exhibitors, attend free inspirational seminars and workshops, book yourself a psychic reading, try some body pampering, watch the free stage performances, join a free meditation session and taste some delicious health foods!

Antrim

The Bushmills Salmon & Whiskey Festival makes a welcome return this weekend. Enjoy two days of fantastic entertainment and activities will spread across Bushmills Main Street, Milliennium Park, Bushmills Distillery and The Salmon Fisheries. Come along for the weekend, bring the family, try some new food, see some new sights and have a wonderful foodie experience!

Belfast

A compelling new comedy-drama exploring our capacity to accept change – in others as well as ourselves – All Mod Cons engages directly with current conversations in Ireland and beyond about our complex relationship with gender, consent, and individual responsibility. All Mod Cons runs at the Lyric Theatre until Sunday 9th June.

For more 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

Strangford Sea Safari Whirlpool and Wildlife Special,  Sunday 2nd June. See Angus Rocks Lighthouse, surface whirlpools and some of the many seals at Cloughy Rocks Nature Reserve. You might see a pod of porpoise or even a basking shark!  12 seats per trip. Pre-booking is essential.

Armagh

Visit the walled gardens at the Argory this Summer. With its unique character, one can imagine the family events or garden parties which may have been held here and the kitchen garden produce which would have fed the family and servants on the estate.  Open every Thursday in May and June.  Lend a hand, pick your own vegetables to take home, or have a friendly chat with staff and volunteers.

Fermanagh

The brand new Water Park at Share Discovery Village is not to be missed!  Take your group out on to the beautiful Lough Erne and bounce and jump to your hearts content! Take on the many fun obstacles  as well as using the amazing trampoline! Wet suits and buoyancy aids are provided. Every Saturday until the end of August.

Tyrone

Cookstown will go continental on the 1st and 2nd June 2019 when the food, flavours, sights and sounds of Europe return to Cookstown’s town centre for a two day spring festival! The Continental Market takes place along William Street in Cookstown from Saturday 1st  to Sunday 2 June.

Derry/Londonderry

World of Owls Fun Day at the Jungle is this Sunday 2nd June. Similar to a fun-fair, The Jungle’s Family Fun Days are an open-park day and offers a range of outdoor activities by token. Buy as many tokens you wish, exchange your tokens for the activity, or activities, of your preference and enjoy a fun family experience day unlike any other!

Antrim

This Sunday, Strictly Come Dancing favourites Ian Waite and Vincent Simone are joining forces in 2019 with their brand new production – THE BALLROOM BOYS at the Theatre at The Mill, Newtownabbey. Expect dances like the Waltz, Quickstep, Paso Doble, Foxtrot and of course, the Argentine Tango!

Belfast

This summer, get ready to explore Northern Ireland like never before. Step into ‘AMAZE’, W5’s brand new, truly unique, technological space and join them for the immersive experience ‘Land of Legends’.  Runs from 1st June until 1st September & is FREE with general admission to W5.

For more 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

Newtownards is preparing for a puppet invasion this month when the Ards Puppet Festival returns to Ards Arts Centre and Conway Square. The popular festival which is taking place on Sunday 26th and Monday 27th May presents a full-programme of puppet mayhem and will be fun for all ages!

Armagh

Armagh Craft Fair returns for the ninth year to the wonderful surroundings of The Market Place Theatre and Arts Centre on Saturday 25^th May.  Bringing high quality craft to the heart of Armagh City this annual event offers something for everyone.

Fermanagh

The Country Fair at Florencecourt takes place this Sunday 26th May. Enjoy this annual Country Fair with dog shows, rare breeds, live music, craft stalls and much more. It’s an event not to be missed!

Tyrone

‘Spirit of Folk 2019’ is a unique festival  taking place this Sunday 26^th May in The Moy.  This year will showcase the best folk trad in Ireland, combining traditional festival shenanigans that embody inclusiveness for everyone. ‘Spirit of Folk 2019.

Derry/Londonderry

This Sunday 26th May explore the great outdoors with a Canoe & Picnic Trip on the River Roe with Carrowmena Activity Centre.  Carrowmena  transport you to an entry point in Limavady where you will paddle back to Swanns bridge, fully immerse yourself in the outdoors, taking in beautiful sights such as Binevenagh Mountain.

Antrim

RTE Dancing with the Stars contestant and Irish Country Sensation Cliona Hagan makes her debut performance at the Marine Hotel on Sunday 26th May for the Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival.  Doors open 9pm. Tickets can be purchased over the phone by calling the Marine Hotel Ballycastle on 02820762222 or online from Eventbrite,

Belfast

Shhhh! Visitors on the autism spectrum and those with sensory requirements can enjoy the peace and quiet of Belfast Zoo during Quiet Hour on Monday 27^th May.  The zoo will open at 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 more 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

Join Montalto Estate this Sunday 19^th May  for La Dirindina’s adventurous journey to La Scala with a scandalous libretto by Girolamo Gigli, set to music by 18th century composers Domenico Scarlatti and Giovanni Battista Martini.  Performed by the NI Opera Studio and an instrumental ensemble.

Armagh

Get in the groove this Saturday at the Market Place’s swinging Jazz Club. Topping the bill for this gig is Michael Barkley, a rising jazz star, a trumpeter who, along with his young rhythm section, has been receiving great reviews.

Fermanagh

Join the RSPBNI this Saturday morning from 10.00 am aboard the Lady of the Lake double-deck cruiser for a guided boat tour of the stunning Lough Erne for a Curlew Cruise.  Hear all about the year-round work that goes on across the RSPB-managed islands on Lough Erne for the benefit of breeding waders. And if you’re lucky there’s also the possibility of sighting skylarks, a kingfisher, a peregrine falcon or even an Irish hare.

Tyrone

Kevin McAleer has recently been voted ‘Most Humble Guru in the Universe’ for the eighteenth year running. To celebrate this modest achievement, Guru McAleer has announced a majestic schedule which includes the Square Box in Dungannon on Saturday 18^th May.   An evening of divine light entertainment not to be missed!

Derry/Londonderry

The Thomas School of Jewellery in Derry are offering an opportunity to design and create your own piece of jewellery this Saturday morning.  This fun and informative class is the perfect introduction to jewellery making.  No previous experience necessary. Materials included.

Antrim

Cheerleading try outs will take place this Sunday  at the Sixmile Leisure Centre in Larne from 1.00pm to 5.00pm.  Try it out & have fun. Limited spaces are available. Open to anyone in the Ballymena/Larne area.

Belfast

Balmoral Show is Northern Ireland’s largest agri-food event, promising a fun-filled day out for all the family 15^th-18^th May.  There really is something for everyone to enjoy!  Come along and see for yourself; sample fantastic local food, browse amongst over 650 trade stands, visit the fun fair and be entertained by top names on the Downtown Show Stage.

For more 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

The Ards and North Down Pipe Band and Drum Major Championships will take place on Saturday 11 May 2019 at Newtownards Airport, 11.00am – 5.00pm. It promises to be a day of music, colour and pageantry that will culminate in a spectacular Grand Finale March Past and Salute to the Chieftain, before the presentation of prizes.

Armagh

This Apple Blossom weekend, 10^th to 12^th May, call in to Dan Winter’s Cottage in Loughgall and enjoy a tour and some amazing tastes!  See Mrs Jean Patterson making soda bread and potato apple bread on the old griddle over the open turf fire in the farmhouse kitchen.  Enjoy a taste or take a treat home.

Fermanagh

Enniskillen plays host to the 4th annual Comic Fest on Friday 10th and Saturday 11th May, with guests signing and sketching through the day alongside a programme of panel discussions, photo opportunities, gaming, interviews, exhibitors and merchandise. Special guest include Mick McMahon, John Wagner, Ian Kennedy, Nigel Parkinson, Simon Furman, Mike Dorey, Clint Langley, Simon Bisley & more. 

Tyrone

DMC Promotions present the Kilkennys this Friday 10th May at the Burnavon Theatre Cookstown. The Kilkennys will provide an unforgettable, energy filled, toe tapping and hand clapping night of entertainment sprinkled with some of Ireland’s most prolific songs and ballads. 

Derry

Termoneeny Running Club invite you to the 11th Termoneeny 10k / 5K Race on the evening of Friday 10th May. Registration on the night available. Join TRC for a few hills and  their legendary hospitality!  Bespoke medal for ALL runners.  This year’s race will be supporting Charis Cancer.

Antrim

Get ready for a collection of inspirational adventure films coming at you from the wildest corners of the globe as the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour comes to the Theatre at The Mill Newtownabbey on 10th and 11th May.  These brand-new films are taken from the world’s most prestigious mountain festival, held every year in Canada. 

Belfast

Keep Telling Me Lies at the Mac, 9^th to 12^th May,  tells of the journey of two Belfast women.  Set against the backdrop of the crumbling Floral Hall, they recall the fateful night they met their future musician husbands. This is a story driven by the music of the Showbands, the people who made the magic happen, and those left on the sidelines.

For more 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