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The sights, smells, and sounds of Market Place’s Spring Continental Market are set to return to the Belfast City Hall gardens from the 22 – 26 May.

Traders will be showcasing an array of tantalising flavours from across the globe and unique handcrafted gifts, during the five-day event. 

This year’s market is hosting over 70 stalls, offering food enthusiasts, families, and everyday explorers the very best international cuisine, artisanal products, and handmade goods. In addition, the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF) Young Traders Market will form part of the Spring Continental Market on the 24th, 25th and 26th May, giving twenty-five young, local entrepreneurs the chance to showcase their products to thousands of visitors.

Visitors to the market can enjoy exquisite flavours from France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland, and further afield. Firm foodie favourites include exotic meat burgers and loaded dirty fries. The Dutch pancake stall will be serving mouth-watering delicious bite-size pancakes with lashings of butter and sugar, an extravagance native to their homeland. Sip on refreshing beers or chilled soft drinks from Lavery’s beer tent or the Continental Bar, perfect for relaxing, soaking up the spring sunshine, and enjoying a bit of people-watching.

In addition to the delicious food and drink offerings, the market will also feature a range of artisan products and handcrafted goods such as luxury soaps and fragrances,  vibrant flowers and garden accessories, beautifully crafted pottery from Tunisia and original paintings and prints.

Market Place Manager, Andy Pidgen said:

“We are delighted to be returning to Belfast, the city that has become our second home and is without doubt one of the friendliest cities we visit. The energy, enthusiasm, and warm welcome from both locals and visitors make it a true highlight in our events calendar. We are also thrilled to be supporting young traders in Northern Ireland through our partnership with the NMTF. It’s a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on the next generation of entrepreneurs, giving them a platform to showcase their creativity, talent, and passion.’’

There is lots happening across the city over the month of May, including the return of the highly anticipated Twilight Market on Monday 20th and Tuesday 21st May from 4 – 10pm. Taking place in the iconic St George’s Market, the event will shine a spotlight on some of Northern Ireland’s finest local traders and artisans, offering local produce, live music, great food, and community spirit.

The Spring Continental Market at City Hall runs from Thursday 22 – Monday 26 May and will be open from:

Thursday – Saturday 10am – 9pm

Sunday 12noon – 6pm

Monday 10am – 6pm

Gathering Stitches, a two-day festival of yarn, textiles and sustainable fashion which brings together local and small businesses showcasing textile artists and craft supplies, supported by Ards and North Down Borough Council, will take place on Saturday 17^th and Sunday 18^th May at WWT Castle Espie Comber.

Across the two days festival-goers can enjoy a marketplace of vendors with high quality unique goods, craft workshops including brioche knitting, flower pounding (Tataki-zome), embroidery and weaving, as well as a panel discussion on Saturday 17^th May highlighting how creativity, community, and conscious choices can shape a better future. Each day between 10am – 11am, is designated as a sensory friendly time for festival-goers who require a calmer, less crowded environment.

Entry to Gathering Stitches includes standard admission to WWT Castle Espie, allowing festival-goers to enjoy both the immersive natural beauty of the wetlands and the vibrant creativity of the event in one visit.

Gathering Stitches organised by Ards based social enterprise Inspiring Yarns, was formed through a shared passion for yarn.  As well as supporting small independent businesses, all proceeds from their events go directly to support their work to improve mental health and social isolation.  The festival marks an ongoing collaboration with WWT Castle Espie, helping to connect people with community and nature with a focus on supporting mental health and well-being.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, said:
“Ards and North Down Borough Council is pleased to support the inaugural Gathering Stitches festival. Held within the beautiful grounds of WWT Castle Espie, this tranquil location provides the perfect backdrop for a festival that will showcase local textile businesses and local people with a focus on sustainable practices. I am sure it will be a fabulous event with something for everyone to enjoy.”

Claire Anketell organiser of Gathering Stitches, from Inspiring Yarns, said:
“We are so grateful for the support from Ards and North Down Borough Council, and very excited for the opportunity to host our first Gathering Stiches festival. It’s been something we’ve planned for some time, being able to support and showcase people working in textiles is something we’re very passionate about. Also, with our ongoing collaborative work with WWT Castle Espie, we are delighted we can showcase such an amazing place which highlights the beauty of the area, and the importance of wetlands and wildlife – especially for mental health and well-being.”

Centre Manager at WWT Castle Espie, Paul Stewart added:
“We’re thrilled to be working with Inspiring Yarns to bring the Gathering Stitches two-day festival to WWT Castle Espie. This event speaks to the heart of what we do — connecting people with nature in meaningful ways. Whether you’re passionate about sustainable living, love supporting local makers, or simply looking for a weekend of inspiration in a beautiful setting, Gathering Stitches Festival promises something for everyone.”

For further details and ticket prices visit www.gatheringstitches.co.uk  for any further queries e:mail hello@gatheringstitches.co.uk. Follow Gathering Stitches on Facebook: gatheringstitchesfestival and Instagram @gathering_stitches_festival.

Visit Armagh is on the hunt for an adventure-seeking family in a new ‘Family Explorer’ competition set to showcase the very best of family-friendly attractions and experiences across the Armagh, Banbridge, and Craigavon region.

Just in time for summer, families with children aged 16 and under are invited to apply by sharing in 100 words or less why they should be chosen. Applications can be submitted online at visitarmagh.com/familyexplorer, with the competition closing on May 18.

As the destination’s official Family Explorer, the selected family will kick off their journey with a stay at Tepee Valley – a one-of-a-kind glamping experience set in the heart of the Orchard County’s countryside. The adventure continues with VIP access to standout attractions, including the Armagh Planetarium and Observatory – the only facility of its kind on the island of Ireland – and an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Tayto Castle in Tandragee, home of the iconic crisps.

Throughout 2025, they will be invited to attend a vibrant calendar of festivals and events. From the Georgian Festival, where Armagh’s 18th century charm comes to life with family-friendly events and festive markets, to the Food and Cider Festival celebrating the area’s rich harvest and its famed PGI-certified Armagh Bramley apple and the return of the Wickerman event in August, a dramatic Lughnasa celebration featuring music and crafts.

This latest initiative reflects the region’s commitment to families seeking memorable, high-quality experiences.

Sara McGeary, Tourism Manager at Armagh, Banbridge, and Craigavon Borough Council, said, “As a region, we’ve made it a priority to invest in experiences that speak directly to families – not just as visitors, but as a core part of our tourism proposition. This competition is just one example of how we’re bringing that to life, offering a chance to experience the very best of what Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon has to offer. We’re continuing to evolve our attractions and activities to reflect what modern families are looking for. In fact, we’ve just launched a range of new experiences designed to cement Armagh’s status as a must-visit destination for families to connect, explore, and make memories together. Our aim is simple: to create meaningful, accessible experiences that don’t have to come with a hefty price tag.”

The region’s newest offerings give families the chance to explore the heritage of the area including the ancient art of road bowling in Armagh City to Dan Winter’s Cottage, where children and adults alike can learn about traditional weaving in one of Ireland’s oldest thatched homes. Young adventurers can enjoy a brand-new activity sheet filled with fun and educational content, while families can embrace the local food scene and the outdoors with orchard tours, outdoor cooking experiences, adventure play trails in Gosford Forest Park and Moo Valley Artisan Gelato’s farm-to-table tastings.

Lord Mayor, Councillor Sarah Duffy, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, said, “Summer is one of the most exciting times to visit our borough – the energy, the colour, and the sense of welcome are second to none. We see families returning year after year because they know they’ll find something special here. Whether that’s stepping behind the scenes at the Game of Thrones Studio Tour, delving into ancient myths at Navan Centre & Fort, or indulging in some retail therapy at The Boulevard, we truly believe this is the best place on the island for a family escape – and during the summer months, there’s simply no better time to experience it.”

Families are invited to visit visitarmagh.com/familyexplorer and to submit an entry. T&Cs apply.

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Museums Services is thrilled to announce the official opening of the Joey 25 Exhibition, a tribute to motorcycling legend Joey Dunlop, at Ballymoney Museum.

This free exhibition opens to the public from Tuesday 6^th May 2025 and commemorates 25 years since the passing of one of Northern Ireland’s greatest sporting icons, and forms part of the Joey 25 celebration taking place in his home town this May.

Joey Dunlop, born in Ballymoney in 1952, was revered as the “King of the Roads” and his extraordinary career boasted 26 Isle of Man TT wins, five Formula One World Championships, 13 North West 200 victories, and 24 Ulster Grand Prix triumphs.

Beyond his racing prowess, Joey was honoured with an MBE in 1986 and an OBE in 1996 for his humanitarian work with children in Eastern Europe. The Joey 25 Exhibition celebrates his enduring legacy as a local hero and global ambassador for motorcycling.

The exhibition showcases a unique collection of artifacts and memorabilia, many on loan from the Dunlop family archives and others loaned specifically for this display.

Highlights include rare photographs, racing leathers, trophies, and personal items that chronicle Joey’s remarkable journey.

Of particular note is the racing leathers Joey wore during the 1981 Isle of Man TT, where riders wore all black as a protest. The exhibition also features the very gloves Joey wore when he lost the tip of his left-hand ring finger in a crash during the 1998 Tandragee 100 race meeting.

Visitors will be able to explore restored and original racing bikes, alongside interactive displays and video tributes that capture his courage, humility, and passion for the sport.

The official launch was attended by Joey’s wife, Linda Dunlop, and many of the Dunlop family, who joined Councillor Ciarán McQuillan, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, to open the exhibition which will run daily Monday – Saturday 9am-5pm from Tuesday 6^th May – Saturday 30^th August 2025 (excluding bank holidays).

“We are deeply honoured to host this exhibition in Joey’s hometown,” said Councillor Ciarán McQuillan.

“Joey Dunlop was not just a sporting legend but a beloved figure who put Ballymoney on the world stage. This exhibition is a heartfelt tribute to his achievements and the profound impact he continues to have on our community and beyond.”

The Joey 25 Exhibition is part of a series of events commemorating the 25th anniversary of Joey’s passing and Jamie Austin, Councils Museum Officer said: “Thank you to Linda and the Dunlop family for sharing their cherished items with us for this iconic exhibition.

“I would also like to thank William McComb and Ian Waddell who have loaned bikes that Joey rode for the exhibition, in addition to Clifford Stewart who has also kindly loaned bikes to the museum which will be showcased as part of a display on the history of motorbike racing.

“The Museums team is very much looking forward to showing members of the public this exhibition and the legacy that Joey has left for us all.”

On May 24, 2025, the Joey 25 Celebration will feature over 25 motorcycling legends, including World Superbike Champions Carl Fogarty and Jonathan Rea, riding Joey’s iconic bikes in a closed-road parade through Ballymoney’s town centre.

“Joey’s memory lives on through the love and support of his fans and our community,” said Linda Dunlop.

“This Joey 25 exhibition is a beautiful way to honour his life, and we’re grateful to Ballymoney Museum staff and the Council for making it happen.”

Longing to travel but tight on time? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. With increasingly busy lives holi-dayers of all ages are finding the best way to satisfy their wanderlust is with a daycation.

Same-day travel offers an affordable and convenient way to experience the best of new places. It eliminates the need to book accommodation, removes luggage worries and minimises the amount of time you need to take away from work and all of life’s other responsibilities.

And, thanks to Stena Line, a day-trip to the Scottish seaside has never been easier.

Whether you’re hoping to enjoy an afternoon filled with picnics and sandcastle building on one of Scotland’s best beaches, put your putting skills to the test with some mini-golf at Pirate Pete’s Family Entertainment Centre or get your cultural fill at Robert Burn’s birthplace museum, there is no shortage of fantastic experiences to be had in Ayr on the country’s west coast.

Crossing the Irish Sea in just over two hours, passengers can leave their car, and cares, at home while they relax, unwind and enjoy the unrivalled style and comfort of Stena Superfast and a return coach trip to Ayr.

Your holiday starts the second you set foot onboard and passengers seeking instant relaxation are invited to take a dip in the jacuzzi or enjoy some time out in the sauna at the Pure Nordic Spa, where day-trippers are also entitled to 20% off all treatments.

Start your day with a great value meal in the Taste Restaurant and bag yourself a bargain in the Onboard Shop, where you’ll also receive a £5 off shopping voucher if you spend at least £30.

Or simply relax and unwind in The Living Room or upgrade your trip and enjoy the luxury of the Stena Plus Lounge or the Hygge Recline Lounge.

Departing Belfast at 7:30am, guests will arrive in Cairnryan and take a one-hour coach trip to the seaside town where they will enjoy six hours of free-time, before they return to Belfast at 9:45pm.

Prices start from just £28 per adult and £22 per child. Stena Line passengers will be able to enjoy a day out in the beautiful seaside town of Ayr on select Thursdays and Saturdays from April 24 to September 25.

For more information visit stenaline.co.uk/special-offers/day-trip-to-ayr.

The City of Derry Jazz Festival swings into town once again over the May Bank holiday with a stellar line up of talent all set to celebrate jazz in all its forms.

From Thursday 1^st May – Monday 5^th May musicians from across the world will descend on the city to mark 24 years of Ireland’s biggest Jazz extravaganza. Final preparations are now well underway to deliver an unsurpassable programme featuring almost 400 live performances – most of them free!

Music legend Billy Ocean tops the festival bill, performing his iconic hits including ‘Get Outta My Dreams’ and ‘When the Going Gets Tough’ in the Millennium Forum on Saturday and Sunday May 3^rd and 4^th.

This year’s programme includes old jazz favourites, local legends and plenty of new talent, ready to deliver five days packed with entertainment, from jazz workshops to live concerts and drama performances.

It all kicks off in the Guildhall on Thursday evening at 6pm with the ‘Live Launch’ led by the crème de la crème of local performers, with all donations going to the Mayor’s chosen charity the Bud Club.

A number of dedicated jazz hubs will host performances by some of the very best names on the jazz circuit over the course of the weekend. Popular jazz hotspot Bennigans Bar welcomes a number of acclaimed artists this year, including the Murray Brothers Quartet, the Kevin Brady Trio, Shuffle Boil Quartet and Sara Oschlag.

The Playhouse will also showcase a whole host of talent including Tom Ollendorff, Robert Mitchell, Victoria Geelan, and Albuca featuring Phil Robson.

Swing on over to St Columb’s Hall on Friday night for a fabulous show by Saturdays sensation Una Healy with Luke Thomas and the Swingcats. Fly Me to the Moon will pay tribute to some of the most iconic artists from Ella Fitzgerald to Louis Armstrong. On Saturday and Sunday the EY Jazz Lounge will be hosted by local favourite Paul McIntyre with top talents Curtis Efoua Ela, Brian Questa and Phil Robson, as well as special guest vocalist Winnie Ama.

There will be beats on the streets with a variety of al fresco acts, bringing the vibrant sound of jazz to the entire city. Check out the fantastic line up all set to get the Craft Village swinging from 11am on Saturday and 12noon on Sunday. Younger performers will also have the chance to show off their talents performing live on the Gay McIntyre Stage, showcasing some of the finest jazz talent in the historic Guildhall Square. And don’t forget to catch the DLD Second Line Parade as it weaves its musical magic through the city centre on Saturday morning from 11am.

The City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival is organised and funded by Derry City and Strabane District Council with support from Diageo and EY.

For more information go to www.cityofderryjazzfestival.com and for regular updates follow the City of Derry Jazz & Big Band Festival on Facebook, Instagram and X @derryjazzfest.

A superhero-themed fun day will take place at Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park on Saturday 10 May to support one of the Lord Mayor’s chosen charities this year, Depaul.

The family event, from 1pm-4pm, will feature free activities for all ages, including archery, bouncy castles, face painting, crafts and carnival games.

Depaul is one of four charities chosen by the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray, for his year in office. They support individuals coping with homelessness and addiction and their families, through counselling, family support and accommodation.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray, said: “Depaul do amazing work in Belfast – most of which goes unseen.

“Having worked in the sector myself, I know the vital role they play in the lives of those they work with. I’m delighted to take this opportunity to support these real-life ‘superheroes’ and highlight the services they provide.

“Everyone is welcome to come along to Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park next Saturday 10 May and enjoy all that we have planned, while supporting this worthy cause.”

David Carroll, CEO with Depaul, said: “We are proud to have been chosen by the Lord Mayor to be one of his charities – we have hugely enjoyed working with him during this partnership.

“The Lord Mayor’s charity fun day gives us a great platform to shine a light on the crucial issue of homelessness, which continues to grow across Northern Ireland – particularly for families and children.

“By the end of 2024, there were 5,378 children living in emergency accommodation – now more than ever, our mission remains clear and we have an unwavering commitment to ending homelessness and changing lives.”

For more information on Depaul, visit www.depaulcharity.org

The next concert in the series of Music in the Chamber events at Bangor Castle, is taking place on Friday 16 May and will feature the Irish folk group Cua.

Cua are musicians John Davidson, Shane Booth and Ros O’Meara. They bring together dynamic and contrasting instrumentation and voices. The group have an expansive acoustic soundscape blending guitars, fiddle, bouzouki, percussion and three-part harmony arrangements to create a folk styling that incorporates elements of music from the plains of Ireland to the mountains of Scotland and much farther afield both east and west.

Cua truly pride themselves on their diversity, with subtle nods to many genres, whilst keeping a folk, world, roots and traditional line throughout. All members are multi-instrumentalists and are inspired by many aspects of the musical spectrum including roots, blues, gospel, jazz fusion, traditional, bluegrass and more. Their approach to music is inspired by the history, landscape and peoples of the Atlantic areas.

The band have been recognised on a European and national level following their first two successful studio releases and are receiving national and local radio airplay across the UK, Europe and America.

“An unclassifiable band that weave together different musics into something that is their own, crackling with life, energy and spark.” 

– Marc Higgins – Fatea Records 

Tickets cost £15 and are on sale now at: Music in the Chamber: Cua | AND Culture