Here are ten exciting things to do 13 – 19 February 2023
1. Bright Sparks at W5, Belfast, 13 – 17 February. Calling all budding scientists. Bright Sparks is W5's unique and exciting week-long camp for inquisitive minds aged 11 – 14. Get hands-on in a range of exciting science-based activities, including coding, robot programming, film production, virtual reality and much more. Each of the five days will have its own theme and young experimenters will be encouraged to explore and learn in a fun and positive environment.
2. Kids Choccy Rocky Experience, Castlerock, County Londonderry, 15 – 16 February. Join the Chocolate Manor team in Castlerock for the tastiest kids experience on the Causeway Coast this half term. In this one-hour kids only experience, participants will make three fabulous chocolate creations using the finest Belgian chocolate. They will be offered a hot chocolate while their creations set and then package them up to take home and enjoy.
3. NI Science Festival, Belfast, 16 – 26 February. Over the years Northern Ireland Science Festival has striven to bring the very best of science communication to Northern Ireland, including notable names such as Brian Cox, Alice Roberts, Jim Al-Khalili and Jocelyn Bell Burnell to name a few. The festival offers a stimulating and wide range of events focusing on the wonders of science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics. These events present some of the best scientists from NI and beyond to discuss their work, cutting-edge research and what the future might hold.
4. The Family Shark Show at Hill of The O Neill & Ranfurly House, Dungannon, County Tyrone, 18 February. A great time for the family, venture into the deep blue sea and join Baby on the adventure of a lifetime. Come and help, Mummy and Daddy prepare Baby for the first day of school, with lots of exhilarating crowd interactions. Enjoy with excitement, as Baby meets new friends from different worlds, such as Olivia the Octopus and Tommy the Turtle, and much more.
5. Meet The Producer at Soda & Starch: Beer & Cheese Longtable, Derry~Londonderry, 17 February. A legenderry food event for beer, cheese and a bit of craic. Bringing together the master crafters of beer and cheese. Dart Mountain cheese and Northbound beer will supply their outstanding produce for Chef Raymond Moran's mouth-watering menu. Showcasing the quality producer and matching it up with other local seasonal produce. There will be interaction from Julie and Kevin from Dart Mountain Cheese and with David and Martina from Northbound Brewery.
6. Secret Dining by Chef Paul Cunningham, Newcastle, County Down, 18 February. Join celebrity chef, Paul Cunningham, (Great British Menu) for this extraordinary dining experience. You'll be whisked away to a secret location within the area. Enjoy drinks on arrival, followed by a sumptuous 11 course tasting menu, celebrating our amazinglocal produce. It's set to be a night to remember. Stay tuned for more events with Chef Paul Cunningham.
7. Earth Yoga - In The Heart Of The Cave, Marble Arch Caves, County Fermanagh, 19 February (more dates available). Join us for a unique experience as you get in touch with your inner yogi in a beginner-friendly 60 minutes yoga session in the depths of the Marble Arch Caves. Relax body and mind as we connect to nature inside the cave with an inviting and inspiring class welcome to all levels. This multi-sensory experience will take your yoga practice to a place it has never been, surrounded by the sights and sounds of mother earth deep in the heart of the show cave, 50 metres underground.
8. Aberdelghy Trail, Lisburn, County Antrim, 19 February. Head along the towpath from Lisburn's Island Civic Centre on this circular hike. This challenging walk will take in some of the more remote and less frequented areas of the park whilst enjoying the local and natural history along the way. Meet at Island Civic Centre (outside main door) at 2:30pm for this free event. Booking is essential due to limited places. To book, contact the Park Office on 028 90491922 or email: admin@laganvalley.co.uk.
9. The Clever Celts at Navan Centre and Fort, Armagh, 16 – 17 February. Despite living at Navan Fort around 2,000 years ago, the Celts were very advanced in their scientific knowledge. As part of NI Science Festival, join them on a visit to their Iron Age dwelling, where the clan will explain the different plants they would have used for medicinal purposes such as the bark of willow for pain relief, nettles as an anti-inflammatory and chamomile for calming. Learn how the Celts preserved their food in a time long before fridges and freezers, and how to light a fire without using a match.
10. #LOVENATURE – Big Coastal Bird Count at Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills, County Antrim, 14 February.Attention to all bird watchers. Come along and share your love of nature this Valentine’s Day. Join their Nature Engagement Officer, Dr Cliff Henry, and embark on a Coastal Bird Count. Experience the all-important count of resident birds and winter wildlife along the cliff top path leading to the Giant’s Causeway. Meet Cliff at the Visitor Meeting Point at 10:30am within the Visitor Centre. Online booking is recommended on website.
Booking is essential for most activities. Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability. For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/
