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

Down

Charity Walk & Run in aid of the USPCA Animal Hospital Newry, Saturday 4th May. Registration from 11.00am with the walk starting at 11.30am. Walk, jog or run for animals on the 4th of May. The walk will start from the Animal Hospital and continue down the Newry Tow Path, before returning back to the centre with refreshments provided at the finish line.

Armagh

Immerse yourself in life as an ancient Celt as Navan Fort in Armagh prepares for the Beltaine Festival of Fire; a time of purification and transition. Saturday 4th – Monday 6th May, 11.00am to 4.00pm daily. Normal admission charges apply.

Fermanagh

Enjoy the first May Bank Holiday Weekend, at Castle Archdale with live entertainment by Strule River String Band on Saturday 2.00pm to 4.00pm, CC Cooper Country Saturday Evening and Praise in the Park Sunday from 3.00pm.

Tyrone

Buckle up as Jamboree in the Park is back!  Ireland’s biggest indoor country music festival returns to the Ecclesville Centre, Fintona on Saturday 4th May for an unmissable night of Country Music with Derek Ryan, Cliona Hagan and All Folk’d Up.  Doors open from 7.00pm.  

Derry

The sensational new Stage Musical “My Sweetheart and Me” is a rip-roaring, funny romantic comedy set during the Summer of Love 1967, in and around a popular cornerstone of the community Public house (The Suntree bar) in the fictional sleepy town of Cheerysville, Ireland.   Riverside Theatre Coleraine, Saturday 4^th May.

Antrim

Cushendun’s Big Arts Weekend is a four day festival, from 3^rd to 6^th May, of music, drama, poetry, art, walks, workshops and family fun in one of the most beautiful villages in Glens of Antrim. The programme has something for everyone and many of the events are free. 

Belfast

Join Poetry NI and The Crescent as they present Purely Poetry Open Mic Night on Friday 3^rd May.  Welcoming readers of all styles and experiences, from first timers to old pros, Purely Poetry Open Mic Night fosters an open, laid back and encouraging atmosphere for people to read their work, and to listen in comfort. Quite simply, we want your poems, and they want you to enjoy the experience of reading them!

 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

Isosceles Theatre Company returns to Bangor’s Studio 1A this Thursday after a sell-out performance of Murder, Just What The Doctor Ordered in 2018 for this fast-paced adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel that has enthralled audiences throughout Britain and Ireland, The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde

Armagh

Egg and Spoon is an interactive romp through the seasons where you come in and out of a magic circle and get to open all the gifts of nature. Percy and April get you settled on comfortable cushions and introduce you to Birdy, still hiding in his glowing egg. Market Place Theatre, Saturday 27th April.

Fermanagh

Fundraising choir Caritas will perform at the Ardhowen Theatre this Friday 26th April, singing a variety of works from classical to pop, Abba, Disney, Musicals…music for every taste! Caritas will be joined on the night by Claire McGrath (traditional Irish tutor) and her Grúpa Ceoil from St Aidan’s Derrylin.

Tyrone

Learn with Revolve Comics how to tell your story through comics this Saturday at Ranfurly House Dungannon. Hints and tips that all the top professionals use. How to draw, how to layout a story, and bring it to life with colour! If you are interested in comics or storytelling then this is right up your street for a taster of how to make awesome comics.

Derry

Run DC returns on Sunday 28th April at The Workspace Recreation Centre in Draperstown with a 10k run, a 5k run and a 5k walk.  Every runner will receive a medal and every runner registered before 24th March will also get a race vest.  Every walker gets a medal. Every pre-registered runner will get a goody bag thanks to O’Kanes Chemist and Revive Active. Limited entries are available on the day so arrive early!

Antrim

Join RSPB NI warden and islander Liam McFaul to explore the Roonivoolin reserve on the southern arm of Rathlin Island this Saturday. You’ll enjoy stunning scenery as far as the eye can see, including views of Fair Head and the Mull of Kintyre, and with a bit of luck you’ll also spot Irish hares.

Belfast

DU Dance (NI) are once again delighted to present Unanimous – the eighth platform event showcasing great new youth dance theatre at The MAC, Belfast Sunday 28 April 2019.  This event brings together some of the best youth dance groups from across the island of Ireland with other inspiring companies in a non-competitive arena.

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

Bangor’s BIG Easter weekend will feature some of your favourite storybook characters, Mr McGregor’s Garden, children’s workshops, Hotch Potch Tiny Tours, the Easter Bunny, storytelling, Puppet Shows and more!  The highlight of the weekend will be Milkshake Live! Monkey’s Milkshake Musical on Saturday 20th April at the McKee Clock Arena.

Armagh

Join the living history team at the Navan Centre’s live action interpretation of the Three Billy Goats Gruff 20th to 23rd April  – the perfect Easter experience for all the family!  Trip-trap went the Three Billy Goats Gruff on their adventure to find some lovely green grass! 

Fermanagh

On the 20th and 21st April Share Discovery Village invites you to join them on their Happy Easter Family Cruise.  Come on board the Inishcruiser for a 1.5 hour cruise on Upper Lough Erne, while cruising enjoy light refreshments and Easter themed entertainment.  A perfect Easter day out.

Tyrone

On the 20th April, drop in to Ranfurly House, Market Square in Dungannon and create a cute little bunny this Easter. Using lots of collage materials and your imagination, you will create a colourful bunny to take home. 

Derry

Join resident sand sculptor Tony on Portstewart Strand Saturday 20th April, as he demonstrates the art of sand sculpting. Have a go at creating your own! The theme is ‘creatures of the sea’. Usual National Trust site admission charges apply.

Antrim

Hop aboard the Easter Eggspress for an egg-citing adventure from Belfast to Whitehead this Easter, 20th to 22nd April. You’ll be greeted by the bouncing Easter Bunny and made comfortable on board the steam train. With fun for all the family and, of course, lots of yummy Easter eggs for those egg-cellently behaved little ones, it’s a trip that you won’t want to miss out on!

Belfast

Hop on over to Belfast Zoo this Easter for a ‘zooper’ day out from 20th to 28th April.  Visit all your favourite animals for their Easter treats at feeding times and call by the keeper talks to find out more about the species that the zoo cares for.  Don’t forget to search high and low for the Easter egg trail to be in with the chance of winning a special prize, and pose with our mascot characters for a seasonal selfie.

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

Los Dramáticos (Chile, Spain, Ireland) invite you to accompany them on a musical journey through the cultures of the Latin world at the Chamber, Bangor Castle, Friday 12^th April.  Enjoy the stunning arrangements of well-known songs played with soul and bravura from around Latin America and Spain on 10-string charango (Victor Henríquez), flamenco guitar (Paddy Anderson) and percussion (Steve Davis and Marty McCloskey) are interspersed with surprising and humorous stories from their personal encounters with Latin music and culture.

Armagh

Build your Easter Bunny with Bear Essentials at the Market Place Theatre this Saturday. Join the Bear Essentials team for this fun interactive workshop where you will choose, stuff and sew your very own top quality Easter bunny and tailor him/her the way you like it. Your new furry companion will receive their very own birth certificate completed by you so you’ll have a chance to name your new Easter bunny ready for taking home just in time for the Easter Holidays. Before you leave you and your new bunny will take part in a very special Easter egg hunt for some yummy goodies!

Fermanagh

Join Bernie Jones on her crazy ‘Dirty Dancing’ themed hen party and get ready to meet her madcap family and friends while you have ‘The Time Of Your Life’. Nobody Puts Bernie in the Corner comes to the Ardhowen Theatre this Saturday 13^th April. Suitable for 16+.

Tyrone

Don’t miss the Ultimate Ladies Night this Saturday 13^th April at the Kinturk Cultural Centre, Moortown.  There will  live demonstrations by Make up by Julie, Mairead Quinn, Aesthetic 53 and The Klean Kitchen. Spot prizes on the night, drinks reception and a fork supper.  Tickets are £25 available from Boutique 68, online at boutique-68.myshopify.com/ and local shops. 

Derry

Enjoy unique adventure activities at budget prices at the Jungle NI, Moneymore this Sunday!  Similar to a fun-fair, The Jungle’s Family Fun Day  is an open-park day and offers a range of outdoor activities by token. Simply 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!  Suitable for all ages and abilities – book online today!

Antrim

Explore the Easter trail at Monkstown Wood Newtownabbey, enjoy a chocolate treat and make a crafty animal mask this Saturday 13 April from 11.00am – 3.00pm. £6 per child, £2 per accompanying adult.  Booking is essential – online booking only. Book your place at woodlandtrusttickets.cloudvenue.co.uk/eastermonk. Parking is limited, dogs are allowed on lead. Please note paths are unsurfaced and can become muddy or slippery during wet weather.

Belfast

Join Amanda St John and some of Northern Irelands finest songwriters for a night of music, banter and friendship in aid of The Macmillan Cancer Unit in Antrim hospital this Saturday at the Crescent Arts Centre. Amanda and her band will be joined on the night by some of her great friends; Anthony Toner, Gareth Dunlop, Brigid O’Neill, Matt McGinn and Ciara O’Neill for a night of music and connection with solo sets, collaborations and unique performances of some of your favourite soul songs.

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

Down

The Ards International Guitar Festival is back with a bang from 3rd to 7th April, with a fresh new programme of guitar inspired gigs, free fringe events, guitar clinics with industry professionals and an exhibition In Your Town featuring Rory Gallagher memorabilia.  Expect a jam-packed line-up of, blues, folk, rock, bluegrass and classical and contemporary music for guitar aficionados across the borough.

Armagh

Frock Around The Clock Fairs announce a beautiful new venue for 2019 – Brownlow House, a stunning country manor overlooking the scenic surroundings of Lurgan Park. The first event at Brownlow House will be The Spring Fling Fair on Saturday 6th April. This event will feature 30 fantastic stalls of original handmade, vintage and holistic loveliness including fashion, home, jewellery, sweet treats & artisan food, art, crafts and gifts.

Fermanagh

The Suffragettes, Scholars, Sisters and Spies Exhibition comes to an end on the 6th April at Enniskillen Castle. Discover what life was like for women at this pivotal time in national and international “herstory:” from the war to winning the vote. The unique selection of artefacts on display reminds us of the valuable contributions made by women to society, the home and working life. 

Tyrone

Movie Magic at the Burnavon Theatre Cookstown  this Saturday 6th April is a family show from the talented staff and pupils of Mid Ulster School of Music. The show celebrates popular movies such as ‘the greatest showman’ ‘mamma mia’ And ‘the wizard of oz, plus many more surprises.  Tickets available directly from the Box Office at the Burnavon Theatre.

Derry

Heaney HomePlace Bellaghy is the venue for The World’s Wife with Bronagh Gallagher, Susan Lynch and special guests this Saturday 6th April. In conjunction with the visit by Carol Ann Duffy, HomePlace are delighted to present this staged reading of arguably her most famous collection of poetry.  Behind every famous man is a great woman, and from the quick-tongued Mrs Darwin to the lascivious Frau Freud, from the adoring Queen Kong to the long-suffering wife of the Devil himself, each one steps from her counterpart’s shadow to tell her side of the story in this irresistible collection. 

Antrim

Larne Carnegie Free Library was officially opened on 2nd April 1906 by Colonel J M McCalmont, M.P. Join in the fun at the Family Fun Day to celebrate on Saturday 6th April with Edwardian themed activities including a quilting demonstration by Loose Thread Quilters as part of their exhibition ‘Around the World in 40 Quilts’, a ‘Make and Take’ lavender sachet craft session, walkabout entertainers and a magician (12.00pm-2.00pm), hula hooping, teddy bear clinic and doll hospital, arts and crafts, dress up, games, activity sheets and more.  This a free drop in event with activities for the whole family!

Belfast

Belvoir Seniors will wow you with their interpretation of the smash hit Broadway and West End Musical Legally Blonde. Based on the best loved movie, it follows beautiful and popular sorority sister Elle Woods who loves to be pampered and is passionate about pink. When she is dumped by her boyfriend Warner Huntington III for a more serious girlfriend she puts down the credit cards and picks up the books. Packing up her trusty pooch, Bruiser, she bags herself a place at the prestigious Harvard Law School to try and win him back. With the support of her new friends she learns that you can be both smart and fashionable.  2nd to 6th April daily.

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

Jacqueline McGonigle