Enjoy this clip of the supremely talented Rick Swan at a recent Belfast Jam and name that tune!

Northern Ireland’s biggest cultural family event The P&O Ferries Dalriada Festival in partnership with UTV, 18 – 25 July, officially launched today with the announcement that ‘Rollermania’ is set to take over when Bay City Rollers starring Les McKeown headlines the music concert on Saturday 18^th July.

As usual the festival will feature the world famous Highland Games along with a jammed packed programme featuring top quality sport, music and food in the grounds of Glenarm Castle, with community events taking place in Glenarm Village throughout the week – so make sure you get the dates in your diary and don’t miss out!

Following a record crowd last year, the main event of the festival, the Glenarm Castle Highland Games, is back on Saturday 18^th & Sunday 19^th July.  New to the games this year is the County Antrim Pipe Band Championships which will feature numerous bands from across N.Ireland and Scotland, as well as an expanded action packed programme of events to include live wrestling, additional music stages, more local foods, pop-up restaurants, shopping, displays, and back by popular demand, the ‘world’s only’ sheep fashion show. On Saturday 18^th July the evening music concert will rock with nostalgia as Bay City Rollers starring Les McKeown take to the main stage along with Bagatelle, Hothouse Flowers and support from Rob Strong, Runabay and XOD dancers.

After the weekend festivities celebrations will continue for the rest of the week in the stunning village of Glenarm and wider community.  An action packed programme of events will take place which will reach a spectacular finale with the ever stunning fireworks display.

Adrian Morrow, Festival Director, commented;
“We are delighted to get our ‘shang-a-lang’ on and officially launch The P&O Ferries Dalriada Festival in partnership with UTV for 2015. Whilst we saw record crowds last year and received fantastic feedback from visitors from across Northern Ireland and beyond we are pushing ourselves to raise the bar and ensure we pull out all the stops to make 2015 our biggest and best festival yet. With an incredible line up across sport, music and food – we have something for all the family.  From amazing highland games and local strongmen to our every popular sheep fashion show to even more food events and a brilliant music showcase featuring Bay City Rollers, Bagatelle – to name but a few. As usual we couldn’t stage the festival without the continued support from our official sponsor P&O and our media partner UTV and this year we are delighted to welcome Decathlon as a new partner.  We also appreciate the support from our many other partners as well as the commitment and enthusiasm of the staff, volunteers and the local community.  Without this support the festival just wouldn’t be possible – to all of them we say a huge thank-you.”

Joanna Walsh from P&O Ferries, title sponsor of the event, said;

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“P&O Ferries is proud to be title sponsor for the 2015 Dalriada Festival. Each year, the festival improves more and more with the promise of fantastic food, great music and sporting action to keep the whole family entertained. It is sure to be another successful year!

“As operators of the shortest, fastest and most frequent crossings between Larne, Cairnryan and Troon, P&O Ferries is looking forward to welcoming many visitors from Scotland on board our sailings this summer to bring them across to the event. We wish the festival every success!”

Michael Wilson, Managing Director UTV, added;

“UTV has been a part of the P&O Ferries Dalriada Festival in Glenarm for the last four years and we are delighted to be lending our support once again this year. UTV is all about family entertainment and the Dalriada Festival is a perfect partnership. The event is first class family entertainment with the caliber of the musical line up, the food on offer and events surrounding the week. The Festival just gets better. It will be an event for all the family to enjoy.”

Day passes for Glenarm Castle Highland Games, Saturday evening concert tickets and camping packages are on sale from 9am on Thursday 12^th March. Visit www.dalriadafestival.co.uk. Book online and SAVE 20% on day passes. Car parking is FREE. Saturday night concert tickets can also be purchased at www.ticketmaster.ie priced at £28.50.
Further information on the festival visit www.dalriadafestival.co.uk.

The Market Place Theatre in Armagh is hosting another of its ever-popular Jazz Supper Evenings.

Taking centre stage at this evening’s Jazz Supper Club is Lesley Brooks and The Guinness Jazz Band. They have played numerous jazz festivals including ‘Queen’s’, Derry Jazz and Cork Jazz and have played with some major headliners from Jazz history – Scott Hamilton, Joe Newman and Ruby Braff. This is top class jazz and entertainment straight from The American Song Book. Enjoyable toe tapping exciting music, you will not be able to sit still.

The Jazz Supper Evening will take place on Friday 20^th March at 8.30pm. Tickets are priced £10 for music only, and £20 for music and supper. Supper is served before the performance at 7pm. The menu for the evening will consist of Maryland southern fried chicken filet with chilli butter | New York style BBQ sticky ribs | Braised beef with wild mushrooms and ‘Jack Daniels’ sauce.

The following evening will see innovative new drama from the company that brought you last year’s acclaimed production ‘Arrivals’ about the lives of immigrants to Northern Ireland; now the story continues with ‘Arrivals2’, all about their children. Five plays, featuring four actors, by five of Northern Ireland’s most exciting local writers, all in one great night of theatre. The writers for the project include award-winning playwright and screen writer Daragh Carville, James Meredith and Deirdre Cartmill who made such successful contributions to ‘Arrivals’ last year, and newcomers Maggie Cronin and Finn Kennedy. Once again, Composer and Singer Songwriter Anthony Toner will provide a new score for the night.

In Arrivals2, you will have the opportunity to experience a haunted house; a budding romance; the challenging first meeting between a long lost half-brother and sister; a funny and terrifying monologue set on the hills outside Belfast; and a drunken Halloween party where God might just be one of the party guests.

Arrivals 2 will be staged on Saturday 21^st March at 8pm. Tickets are priced £12.50 and £10.50 (concession). Tickets for all events can be booked through the Box Office on [028] 3752 1821, or online at www.marketplacearmagh.com And to keep up-to-date with the latest news at the Market Place Theatre, you can follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/marketplacearmagh) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/mptarmagh) where you will find all the latest information, special offers and video previews.

Tourism Northern Ireland has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland this week (March 16 – 22).

• St Patrick’s Day, Slemish Mountain, Ballymena, Co Antrim, March 17. Follow St Patrick’s footprints at Slemish Mountain also knows as the first known home of St Patrick.  Shuttle buses will operate from the Ecos Centre and Buckna to Slemish throughout the day. There will be entertainment with light refreshments including Irish stew on sale at the Ecos Centre from 12 noon until 3.30pm.

• La Traviata, Grand Opera House, Belfast, March 18 and 20. Profoundly moving music, fervent passion and sweeping drama, Verdi’s ‘La Traviata’ is widely considered the most popular opera of all time. Violetta is courtesan to the rich, but her superficial world is turned upside down when she falls for the young Alfredo. But when her past life catches up with her, she is soon forced to sacrifice what may be her only chance of real love. From 7.15pm.

• St Patrick’s Day Traditions and Legends, Guildhall and the Tower Museum, Co Londonderry, March 17. Enjoy a short comedic sketch show on how traditions and legends have developed down the years. This laugh-a-minute sketch show will explore stereotypes, favourite foods from soda bread to Tayto crisps, the things we say, the dialect and accents, the songs, the dances and much loved music, and the great ability to laugh even through troubled times. 12 noon to 5pm.

• Spring Book Fair, The Argory, Moy, Co Armagh, March 21-22. Browse through hundreds of second hand books and stock up on all your essential reads – you may even come across a first edition of a much-loved author. There’s something for everyone including live music and Punch and Judy shows on Sunday. From 12noon to 5pm.

• St Patrick’s Day Cruise at Share, Share Discovery Village, Lisnaskea, Co Fermanagh, March 17. Celebrate St Patrick’s Day in style with a cruise around the green islands of Lough Erne. Wholesome homemade Irish stew will be served and you can soak up the atmosphere with live traditional music on-board. From 12.30pm to 2.30pm.

• St Patrick’s Eve with McPeake, Lyric Theatre, Belfast, March 16. The ‘McPeake Family’ are one of those rare Irish gems and are hailed as ‘folk-royalty.’  Fans describe this band as fresh, authentic, original, and dazzling which makes this a perfect event on St Patrick’s eve. Begins at 7.45pm.

• St Patrick’s Eve Variety Concert, The Lodge Cultural Centre, Castlewellan, Co Down. March 16. Join in on this fun filled concert. With story tellers, comedians, singers and traditional Irish musicians who will have you tapping your feet and humming the night away. This is your chance to enjoy a good night’s entertainment among friends, and enjoy a bowl of Irish stew along with a hot cup of tea. Doors open 7.30pm, Concert starts at 8pm.

• Punjana St Patrick’s Tea Dances, Ulster Hall, Bedford Street, Belfast, March 17. Put on your dancing shoes and enjoy an afternoon of old time dancing in the wonderful surroundings of the Ulster Hall including refreshments and music from the ‘John Trotter’ band. Free tickets are available from the Ulster Hall Box Office. Dances begin 12 noon – 2pm and 3pm – 5pm.

• The Legends of American Country, Theatre at The Mill, Newtownabbey, Co Antrim, March 18. This show features the music of the biggest names on the American country scene. The performers include Evan O Donnell, Anthony McBrien, and Rod and Tracey McAuley, whose glittering careers span over 30 years. Each singer will perform a string of hits, complete with authentic costumes and in the company of a live five piece band that will include some of Ireland’s top musicians. Begins at 7.45pm.

• Strabane Drama Festival, Alley Theatre, Strabane, Co Tyrone, March 13 – 21. Over nine evenings, the Alley Theatre will come alive with memorable moments that will feature productions from all over Ireland, all eager to take the title of “Best Play”. Begins at 8pm every evening.

Please note some of the events require pre-booking.

Ireland’s premier Star Wars costuming club, The Emerald Garrison, return to W5 for a weekend of fantastic photo opportunities in Invasion Belfast: Episode VII on March 7th & 8th.

Join W5 in a celebration of The Emerald Garrison’s creativity, dedication and professionalism in what is always a hugely popular event! The attention to detail in their costumes, sets and props has to be seen to be believed. Visitors of all ages will love meeting and posing with dozens of costumed characters including legions of Storm Troopers, Jedi Knights, Bounty Hunters, Clone Troopers, Darth Vader, Wookies and many, many more!

Fans also have the opportunity to meet actors for autographs and signings. Actors confirmed include Anthony Forrest who played the role of Fixer and a Sandtrooper in STAR WARS. W5 will also welcome David Prowse who played the iconic Darth Vader in the original STAR WARS trilogy. Please note that the actors charge a fee for photographs and autographs.

Young visitors will once again have the opportunity to experience Force Training with the Emerald Garrison’s Jedi and Sith instructors. This event is always hugely popular during Invasion weekend and W5 are delighted to give Jedi apprentices another opportunity to become strong in the ways of the force!

Invasion Belfast is an event for Star Wars fans put on by fans. The event is FREE with admission to W5 – for opening times and further information, please visit www.w5online.co.uk

Northern Ireland has a unique collection of irresistible places to stay including quirky B&Bs, luxurious spa hotels and hidden gem properties for the perfect short break and Tourism Northern Ireland has selected the best offers of the week for you to choose from.

• Irish Open Offer, Travel Solutions, Lisburn, Co Antrim. Coach and ticket prices from £49pp. Luxury coaching from local pick-up points to and from Royal County Down on May 28-31. Coach only prices also available. Discounts available for seniors and under 21 year olds. Subject to availability. To book call (028) 9045 5030.

• Game of Thrones Break, The Cottage Schoolhouse, Downpatrick, Co Down. The Cottage was built as a School house in 1804. This delightful white walled cottage with private south facing garden is the perfect retreat for two people. From here you can Visit WinterFell, home of the Stark family, and Robb’s Camp at Castle Ward and step into the world of Game of Thrones which is just 5 minutes from the cottage. Free admission to Castle Ward for National Trust members (you can join on the day) or admission prices apply. From £50 per unit.  Available until 31 August. To book call (028) 4488 1185.

• Mid Week Offer, An Creagán – Evishatrask, Sixmilecross, Omagh, Co Tyrone. Enjoy a three nights stay mid week in Evishatrask Cottage for the price of two nights. Includes 3 bedrooms that sleeps 9 and spacious ground floor kitchen/living/dining area. From £160 per unit. Available until 31 March 2015. To book call (028) 8076 1112.

• Winter Warmer for couples, Tavnaghoney Cottages, Cushendall, Co Antrim. Special two night couple’s retreat in double ensuite for two people, with a complimentary voucher to enjoy vintage tea and a home-made scone with fresh cream and jam in Cushendall Village tea-room. From £125 per person sharing. Available until 28 March 2015. To book call (028) 2177 2416.

For further information, contact TNI on 028 9023 1221 or view on www.discovernorthernireland.com/offers.

Tourism Northern Ireland has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland next week (March 9 – 15).

• An Evening With Feile, Down County Museum, Irish Street, Downpatrick, Co Down, March 11. Join the Friends of Down County Museum for this special St Patrick’s Festival event featuring the Feile choir who sing a selection of international songs. Come along and enjoy music from around the world showcased by an amazingly talented choir.

• Dana Masters: Live, Lyric Theatre, Belfast, March 9. Fresh from wowing the 11,000 strong crowd at Proms in the Park and a recent performance on BBC NI “The Arts Show”, Dana Masters plays the Lyric Theatre for the first time as a solo artist with the backing of Linley Hamilton and band. Dana covers Soul classics and Jazz standards filling her numbers with a redemptive power.

• Armagh’s Saint Patrick’s Festival, various locations, Co Armagh, March 12-17. Armagh will once again come alive over the Saint Patrick’s Festival period. The city will host numerous events in a variety of venues from Thursday the March 12 right up to the big day itself on Tuesday 17 when the city centre will be filled with colour and music as the Carnival Procession makes its way through the streets. Music, song, dance, storytelling and much more – there is sure to be something for everyone to enjoy.

• St Patrick’s Weekend Barn Sessions, Orchard Acre Farm, Irvinestown, Co Fermanagh. March 13. If you enjoy traditional music, singing, dancing and Irish stew then you will love an evening of family entertainment at Orchard Acre Farm.

• Féile an Earraigh, Féile an Phobail, Falls Rd, Belfast, March 10-17. Féile an Earraigh, Belfast’s Spring Festival returns and features the very best music, spoken word, debates, discussions as well as a series of stunning musical headlining nights at Writer’s Square. As well as great live music, book launches, family and community events, there will also be a wealth of your favourite Féile an Earraigh annual events such as the Slemish Walk.

• Blood Brothers The Play, Theatre at The Mill, Newtownabbey, Co Antrim, March 12 -13. Following three sell-out biennial tours, Premier once again brings Blood Brothers – The Play to the stage. Willie Russell’s powerful depiction of the story of twins separated at birth educates and entertains to the highest level.

• St Patrick’s Day Festival, Strule Arts Centre, Townhall Square, Omagh, Co Tyrone, March 6 – 17. This year is sure to be the liveliest outdoor parade and concert Omagh has seen. Enjoy the amazing display of creative talent as the St Patrick’s Day Parade weaves through the town centre creating an exciting multi-cultural carnival atmosphere. Before and after the Parade, listen to the best of traditional and contemporary music and dance. There will also be arts and crafts fairs to browse through and pick up a variety of authentic Irish items including a mixture of ceramics, jewellery, tapestry and much more!

• Shamrock Shenanigans, Springhill, Moneymore, Magherafelt, Co Londonderry, March 15. With free entry for anyone who can prove they are called Patrick, this is sure to be a fine way to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day.  Discover the Shamrock Trail around the grounds and enjoy crafts, food and music. There will be an additional charge for Shamrock Trail.

• Spring Walking Festival, Cuilcagh Mountain and Marble Arch Nature Reserve, Florencecourt, Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh, March 14. The family walk will be held in the Marble Arch Nature Reserve where you will meet some real-life cavers, search for fossils, discover tree trunk inhabitants and much more…

• Temple – An Artichoke Project, Bards Hill, Derry~Londonderry, Co Londonderry, March 14 – 21. An extraordinary structure will appear in Derry~Londonderry. ‘Temple’ is the vision of Californian artist David Best, whose soaring ornately-carved temples are ceremonially burnt at the end of the annual Burning Man event in the Black Rock Desert, Nevada, USA.

Please note some of the events require pre-booking.

A new pilgrim walking trail linking key Patrician and Christian Heritage sites from Armagh to Downpatrick was launched at Navan Fort in Armagh on 2^nd March.

Supported by Tourism NI in conjunction with Armagh, Down, Banbridge and Newry and Mourne District councils, the trail offers an 82 mile pilgrim walk highlighting the life, landscape and legacy of St Patrick.

Seasoned pilgrim walker, Alan Graham, who has completed classic trails in the Alps and has frequently walked the Camino de Santiago in Spain, approached Tourism NI with a vision for a Pilgrim walk based on the theme of Saint Patrick.  His dream was turned into a reality as he set off from Navan Fort to experience the route for himself.

Laura McCorry, Tourism NI’s Director of Product Development said: “Tourism NI has been working closely with Alan and the local councils to capitalise on one of our unique assets, Saint Patrick, and develop an authentic trail which will bring a new pilgrim offer to Northern Ireland.

The St Patrick’s Way Pilgrim Walk will showcase the scenic beauty of the area and its reputation as an attractive tourist destination, whilst ensuring that pilgrims and visitors alike get the best from their activity.”

Cathy Rafferty, Lord Mayor of Armagh City & District Council, said:

“Armagh City is at the heart of celebrating the life of Saint Patrick.  It was in Armagh that Patrick began his mission in Ireland and founded his first great stone church, establishing it as the Ecclesiastical Capital of the island.

Patrick’s legacy is evident in Armagh to the present day and the St Patrick’s Way Pilgrims Walk is a significant and welcomed tourism project highlighting the many important Patrician and Christian Heritage sites in the area. It is indeed fitting the Pilgrims Walk should begin at Navan Fort or Emain Macha as Saint Patrick’s arrival in Armagh and the importance of Navan as a significant pre-Christian site are interlinked.”

A Pilgrim’s Passport which includes a map of the trail is available at Navan Fort and local visitor information centres to guide walkers along the signposted route.

Jam-packed schedule of events and activities promise most memorable St Patrick’s Festival yet!

Around 20,000 visitors are expected in Armagh for a six-day festival of events to celebrate Ireland’s Patron Saint, St Patrick, and which features a jam-packed programme of more than 25 music, song, dance, comedy, art, literature, theatre and family events across a variety of venues from Thursday 12^th to Tuesday 17^th March.

Supported by Armagh City and District Council, Ireland’s oldest city and world famous as the ‘City of St Patrick’, this year’s festival promises to be the biggest yet, with first-time performers Mary Coughlan, Stockton’s Wing topping the bill as part of a series of musical events at the Market Place Theatre in the run-up to the big day and the famous St Patrick’s Day Carnival Procession, concert and family fun day on Tuesday 17^th March.

As one of the largest St Patrick’s events to take place anywhere on the island of Ireland, this year’s lively weekend of celebrations takes in 20 of the city’s best venues, as well as a busking festival on Saturday 14^th March where musicians from across Northern Ireland will gather for the annual outdoor jamboree.

A four-day musical ‘Session Trail’ which features unrivalled live entertainment including traditional music and family-friendly sessions sets a lively tone when it kicks off on Friday, with performances taking place in many of Armagh’s welcoming bars, cafes and restaurants.

Featuring the very snakes which St Patrick tried to banish, Armagh’s historic Navan Fort will become a life-size interactive storyboard with an exciting dramatization, telling the story of the life of St Patrick and his decision to choose Armagh as the site of his first church.

For little festival-goers, Ireland’s foremost storytelling and song duo, Billy Teare and Kathleen O’Sullivan bring the magic of ‘The Story Tellin’ Man and the Songstress’, with their treasure trove of tall tales, myths and songs, to Armagh Public Library for a Friday event that children of all ages will enjoy.

The Market Place Theatre, Armagh City’s flagship performance centre, will be transformed into an official festival venue complete with three unique staging areas to accommodate the finest music, comedy and dance entertainment which includes performances from renowned acts including Ireland’s Mary Coughlan, Stockton’s Wing, PJ Gallagher and Kila, as well as Scotland’s Clanadonia, Celtic Storm and The Whistlin’ Donkeys.

Other highlights of Armagh’s legendary celebrations will also include performances by Belfast’s Arco String Quartet and one of Northern Ireland’s largest ensembles of traditional Irish music sessions by the 300 musicians that make up the world famous Armagh Pipers Club.

For a full list of everything that’s on and what events will require pre booked tickets, visit www.armagh.co.uk/saintpatrick.

Armagh Lord Mayor, Cathy Rafferty, says excitement surrounding the Festival – one of the biggest of its kind in Ireland – is already starting to build.

“We are exceptionally proud to be named Saint Patrick’s chosen city and we love welcoming the thousands of people who come each year to experience the electric atmosphere that always accompanies the festival.

The official programme for the 2015 event will appeal to all ages and interests and it is always a treat to watch everyone – young and old – get involved to celebrate our famous city’s legacy together.”

Armagh City is a perfect destination for a short break this Saint Patrick’s Festival as the place has something to suit every taste. Visitors have a wide range of accommodation options to choose from, including high quality hotels, bed & breakfast and self-catering accommodation.

Enjoy wonderful restaurants, take in an act at The Market Place Theatre, follow the session trail across the City and enjoy the Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations as you soak up the atmosphere of Ireland’s oldest City!

National Trust is opening its spectacular houses, gardens and industrial heritage sites across Northern Ireland for free on Saturday 7 March.

With spring on its way, the free day is an opportunity to explore the great outdoors, step back in time at an historic mansion or experience industrial heritage in action.

Heather Thompson, National Trust Director for Northern Ireland, said:

“Our free day on 7 March is the chance to get outdoors to breathe in the spring air or take inspiration from the unique stories of our many special places. It’s a perfect opportunity for those that have not been to National Trust places to discover what Northern Ireland has to offer.

“We encourage you, with your friends and family, to join us on Saturday where you can discover the amazing work that goes on behind the scenes conserving collections and caring for spectacular landscapes, grand mansions and beautiful gardens.

“As Northern Ireland’s largest conservation charity we are committed to looking after our places for ever, yet conservation costs rise faster than inflation every year. By visiting National Trust places you’re helping to protect Northern Ireland’s natural and built heritage for future generations. So we really do appreciate the support of our visitors and members.”

Here’s a taster of where to go for your FREE day out:

In County Fermanagh there is something for all the family to enjoy at Florence Court, set against a beautiful backdrop of mountains and forests. You can also savour the stately grandeur of Castle Coole with its Lake Walk carpeted in stunning snowdrops. Or escape to the breathtaking Crom demesne where BBC show Blandings was filmed. (Note – National Trust places in Fermanagh will also be open for free on Sunday 8 March.)

Described as one of the best gardens in the world, the impressive garden at Mount Stewart in County Down makes the most of the unique microclimate of the Ards Peninsula – did you know it is the sunniest place in Ireland? Return in April and see the Londonderry family home restored to its former glory after a three year £7 million restoration programme.

Also on the shores of Strangford Lough is Castle Ward, with miles of walking and cycling trails and stunning views. Nearby, Rowallane Garden in Saintfield is a captivating natural garden with a dazzling variety of rare trees and shrubs from across the globe.

Along the North Coast follow in the footsteps of giants at the Giant’s Causeway, visit the stunning landscape of Downhill Demesne or stroll along Portstewart Strand and White Park Bay. Note: Carrick-a-Rede is normal admission on 7 March.

In Mid Ulster a tour of The Argory reveals this Neo-classical masterpiece has unchanged since 1900. You can also visit the charming 17th-century Ardress farmhouse or Springhill in Moneymore which has a beguiling spirit that captures the heart of every visitor.

For a flavour of our Industrial Heritage visit the unique Patterson’s Spade Mill in Templepatrick or Wellbrook Beetling Mill near Cookstown.  Note: Gray’s Printing Press is closed.

For more information on the work of the National Trust, how to become a member and where to visit see www.nationaltrust.org.uk