Here are ten exciting things to do 11 - 17 November
1. Belfast Christmas Market, 16 November - 22 December. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the award-winning Belfast Christmas Market is back with a nostalgic Victorian twist. On the first weekend (November 16th to 17th) and again on the third weekend (November 30th to December 1st), step into a charming Dickensian world as you stroll through the market, surrounded by iconic characters from Charles Dickens' novels. Enjoy enchanting storytelling, lively performances, and the festive atmosphere of a bygone era. With over 100 international and local traders, the market offers a delightful selection of handcrafted goods, artisan products and festive treats.
2. Full Moon Sound Spa Experience @ Templemore Baths Heritage Space, Belfast, 14 November. Step into a journey of tranquility and rejuvenation within the walls of the former Minor Pool at Templemore Baths Heritage Space, a testament to the rich Victorian history of Belfast. Tessa Ann brings her Sound Spa Experience to this former aquatic space, under her theme of Sound Space Connect, 'Connecting People, Places and Spaces through Sound'. Prepare to embark on an ethereal experience unlike any other, as the echoes of thousands who once learned to swim here infuse the air with a sense of timeless energy.
3. One-Day Blacksmithing Course at Patterson's Spade Mill, Templepatrick, County Antrim, 16 November. History and craftsmanship combine in these blacksmithing classes. Sign up for a one-day course to develop a new hobby, you'll learn traditional forging and blacksmithing techniques, creating something bespoke under the expert guidance of the professional Blacksmith team.
4. Shakespeare's Women at The Old Church Centre, Cushendun, County Antrim, 15 November. Commedia of Errors present this new production of their smash hit Shakespeare’s Women. Described as ‘Polished, thoughtful and good fun’, the debut play by Clare McMahon returns. Seamlessly fusing modern comedy and drama with classical verse, audiences will see Shakespeare and his favourite women in a brand-new light.
5. A Dander through Davagh, Davagh Forest, County Tyrone, 15 November. Join a guided walk through the lush green, almost fluorescent woodland that is Davagh Forest. Improve your mood, reduce stress and follow the lead through the many forest paths. Along the way you can breath in all the sounds and sights nature has to offer. What better way to spend your Friday afternoon than getting out into the great outdoors. This will be a moderate walk up to 8km.
6. Seamus Heaney Exhibition, Bellaghy, County Londonderry, until 30 December. Immerse yourself in the extraordinary world of Seamus Heaney and explore through his words and imagination, the people and place that so inspired him. Previously unseen artefacts, transcripts and books kindly donated by the Heaney family are also on display, ensuring a truly unique and illuminating experience for all.
7. Irish Fly Fair & International Angling Show, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 16 and 17 November. Visitors to the Irish Fly Fair at The Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel & Lodges will have the opportunity to watch the best International Fly-dressers practice their art, whilst champion fly-casters will be available to demonstrate and advise on fly-casting techniques and fly-fishing tactics. As usual, there will be a series of talks and seminars from expert anglers on a wide range of interesting angling-related topics and of course, a massive range of top-quality trade stands selling everything the fly angler and fly dresser needs.
8. An Evening at the Earl of Enniskillen’s Table – Florence Court House, County Fermanagh, 14 November. Step back in time as you enter the historic Florence Court House, once home to the Earls of Enniskillen. Your evening will begin with a warm welcome and a glass of something sparkling in the Grand Hall. As you enter, be serenaded by the soft strains of a harpist, adding to the charm of the evening. Indulge in a meticulously curated multi-course tasting menu, inspired by the culinary traditions of the regional area and a celebration of the finest local Fermanagh produce.
9. Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch, County Down, visit website for open dates and times. A visit to Montalto Estate is the perfect way to reconnect with nature, in a natural, historical, and truly relaxing setting. It is also a great day out for families. You know when you’ve reached the natural play area at The Low Wood when you see the impressive wooden tree house towering ahead of you. The Tree House offers a range of exciting activities and areas, including a jungle bridge, a climbing tower, and rope bridges. Make sure to visit The Christmas Shop at Montalto Estate, where you will discover a luxurious collection of enchanting decorations and festive accessories, to bring the wonder of Christmas into your home.
10. 30th William Kennedy Piping Festival Opening Concert, Armagh, County Armagh, 14 November. Inaugurated in 1994, the William Kennedy Piping Festival has grown into one of the most prestigious events of its kind in the world. To celebrate the 30th anniversary, the festival is delighted to present a special evening of music featuring some local superstars plus music from further afield.
For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com.
