10 things to do in Northern Ireland
Here are ten exciting things to do 8 – 14 May
1. Storytelling Myths and Legends, Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim, 13 May. If you haven't yet had the opportunity to join storyteller Keith on his bespoke Myths and Legends tour, National Trust is pleased to announce that you will not have long to wait! Next Saturday, May Keith will be revealing the untold myths and legends associated with Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will learn about magnificent ghost ships, leprechauns, our very own Finn McCool, and even his granny. Tours will be running at 11:00am and 2:00pm.
2. Good Vibrations, Belfast, 9 May – 20 May. Belfast’s greatest punk story Good Vibrations, the stage musical version of the popular movie charting the life of Belfast punk legend Terri Hooley, is back! The smash-hit Lyric production will run at the Grand Opera House Belfast 9 - 20 May 2023, directed by Des Kennedy (Piaf, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child), written by Colin Carberry and Glenn Patterson, and with musical direction by Katie Richardson and choreography by Jennifer Rooney.
3. Balmoral Show, Lisburn, County Antrim, 10 May – 13 May. The Show takes place over 4 days at Balmoral Park, Lisburn. Local agriculture is very much at the heart of the event, with livestock competitions, show jumping and the latest advances in agriculture on display, there is so much to be enjoyed. Visit the NI Food Pavilion to sample the best local produce, be wowed by the spectacular entertainment, enjoy fantastic shopping, music and even a fun fair.
4. Enniskillen International Market, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 12 – 14 May. Organised by Market Place Europe, the Enniskillen International Market is returning to Enniskillen Castle. On the shores of the River Erne, you can enjoy tasty treats and crafts from a range of cuisines.
5. Éigse na hÉirne - Literary Festival, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 12 – 14 May. Delve into the depths of the Annals of Ulster, with the Éigse na hÉirne festival. Explore the history of the Medieval Irish as recorded within the Annals of Ulster on the banks of the Erne.Enjoy a weekend of medieval talks and gatherings centred around the history of Fermanagh.
6. Sunset SUP & Beach BBQ, Greencastle, County Down, 12 May. Paddle with the gentle heat of the setting sun on your face, relax after a busy day and reconnect with nature by taking a plunge into crystal clear waters. Bring people with you or come alone and meet new like-minded friends.
7. The Spirit of the Bann, Coleraine, County Londonderry, 12 May. Causeway Coast Foodie Tours' 'Spirit of the Bann' river whiskey tasting experience is an ideal and unique opportunity to slowly savour distinctive colours and flavours, enjoy a warm glow and celebrate the beautiful blend of natural & man-made wonders our stunning Causeway Coast has to offer.
8. Storm Chasing, Davagh Forest, County Tyrone, 13 May. Do you know shelf clouds from wall clouds, or the difference between cumulus and cumulonimbus? Would you like to learn how to identify convective clouds, storm structures and thunderstorms? There will be a discussion on storm modes, funnel clouds and tornadoes and how they form. With a visual presentation and advice from amateur storm chaser and photographer Martin McKenna, you'll be able to identify an unstable sky and instinctively know when to reach for your camera to capture the dramatic footage for yourself.
Lurgaboy Adventure Centre is an outdoor activity centre located in the beautiful Armagh countryside. It boasts a range of activities including Ireland’s longest zip-wire and high ropes course.
10. Vegan Table Tour, Belfast, 13 May. A combined vegan food and walking tour of Belfast City Centre, for vegans, vegetarians and those who want to taste a growing food movement. Meet your guide and allow them to fascinate you with stories of Belfast’s people, industry, inventors and hidden rivers one bite at a time. Explore the colourful streets and vibrant City centre on the tour, taking in sights you might otherwise have missed. Hear about the range of foods Northern Ireland is famous for, while eating and drinking your way through a plant-based menu.
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/blog/read/2023/04/bank-holiday-ideas-for-families-b262
