10 things to do in Northern Ireland
Here are ten exciting things to do 13-19 November
1. Belfast Christmas Market, Belfast, County Antrim, 18 November. This festive village makes a welcome return to the City Hall. It’s 18 years since it first added extra sparkle to the city’s skyline. Traders, representing up to 30 nationalities from across the globe, offer a variety of authentic international food, everything from Greek gyros to bite-size Dutch pancakes. There is an array of handcrafted goods and artisan products which will cover many a wish list! Visitors can spend the day or wind down after work with a glühwein, hot chocolate or local brew. A wonderful way to take in the magic of a Belfast Christmas.
2. Foyle Film Festival, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 17-26 November. Established in 1987, this event brings the best of cinema and industry players to venues across the city. Over ten days the festival will bring together all the expertise of the local Nerve Centre in film, music, creative learning, and culture, in a unique celebration of local, national, and international cinematic excellence.
3. The Magical Christmas Shop & Experience, Coalisland, County Tyrone, throughout November. Enjoy the Magical Grotto experience which is great fun for adults and children alike. Full of fantastic props, sets and special effects, including a wonderful, simulated train journey and theatre shows including animatronic elves. Then, get the chance to meet Santa in his courtyard. There’s also a wonderful Christmas shop with decorations from around the globe. Check website for availability.
4. Festive Fair, County Antrim, 14-15 November. Get yourself in the mood for all things festive from unique handmade crafts to delicious homemade treats. This event will be held in the drawing room and ballroom of the Magheramourne Estate, creating the perfect ambiance for a delightful Christmas experience. Discover the perfect gifts for your loved ones or treat yourself to something special while supporting local businesses. Enjoy live Christmas entertainment and fabulous festive food from Jane’s Kitchen pop-up café. Check website for availability.
5. Indigenous History Month: Curator-led Tour, Omagh,County Tyrone, 19 November. Want to find out more about the link between Ireland, Irish migrants, and Indigenous Native Americans? The Ulster American Folk Park will give you lots of answers with this curator lead talk and tour to mark Indigenous History Month. There will also be the chance to look at the Murmuration’s art piece which was created in part with help Indigenous Native Americans.
6. Guildhall Craft Fair, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 17-19 November. Celebrating its 29th anniversary, this event showcases an exquisite range of bespoke craft and artisan food producers from across the island. This is the perfect way to get the creative and present giving juices flowing before the festive season gets into full swing!
7. The William Kennedy Piping Festival, Armagh, County Armagh, November 16. An international festival of bagpipe-based traditional music which celebrates the legacy of a blind craftsman from Tandragee, near Armagh. William Kennedy, who died in early 19th made several important innovations in the design of uilleann pipes. Beginning as a one-off event in the early 1990’s it is now afirm fixture in the city’s autumn calendar.
8. Boutinot Wine Evening at Culloden Estate, Holywood, County Down, 16 November. This special event will be held at The Culloden Estate & Spa alongside Julien Dugas, winemaker at Boutinot Winery. A drink’s reception will kick off the evening followed by a sumptuous six course tasting menu using locally sourced produce which will be accompanied by specially paired wines. Cooked by Executive Head Chef Mark Begley and served in the opulent surroundings of the Vespers restaurant.
9. Clement McAleer Exhibition, Banbridge, County Down, throughout November. The F.E. McWilliam Gallery is presenting a major exhibition of Northern Irish painter, Clement McAleer. Born in County Tyrone, McAleer studied in Belfast, Canterbury and the Royal College of Art and was based in Liverpool for 25 years before returning to Northern Ireland. Don’t miss the chance to view the wonderful works of art inspired by the landscapes of the Irish coast.
10. Lough Navar Magho Cliffs, Derrygonnelly, County Fermanagh. Part of Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark this walk is demanding but well worth the effort! This steep climb of around 700 feet consists of 370 steps. Take advantage of the benches on the way to rest and enjoy the beautiful woodland scenery. This limestone escarpment overlooks the western reaches of Lower Lough Erne and offerswonderful panoramic views as far as Donegal. A great way to blow away the cobwebs!
For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/
