Here are ten exciting things to do 23 to 29 December
1. Festive family trail at Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down, until 6 January - visit website for open dates and times.Embark on Mount Stewart's festive trail, circling the serene lake. Celebrate the season's joy surrounded by winter wonders.
2. Wild Welly Walks at WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, Comber, County Down, until 7 February. Pull on your welly boots and get exploring the wetlands to complete all of the adventures in your checklist. Can you identify 5 birds in the Aviary? Climb to the top of the play tower? And spot fabulous fungi? Pick up your Wild Welly Walk trail card from admissions for the full list of challenges. Then, get ready to have fun, run wild and learn something new.
3. Christmas Afternoon Tea at Downpatrick & County Down Railway, County Down, 29 December. Enjoy a journey in their ‘Derry Girls’ heritage diesel railcar to Inch Abbey before enjoying a special Christmas Afternoon Tea. They will offer a mouth-watering selection of fresh handmade sandwiches, luxury home scones with jam and cream, and some special Christmas treats. Enjoy a choice of teas and coffees, soft drinks and something alcoholic for the 18+ non-drivers in the group. This event is running in association with Mange Tout.
4. Planetarium Sound Journey Under the Stars at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, County Armagh, 29 December. Embark on a journey to explore the Youniverse at this unique Sound Spa, "Sound Journey Under the Stars," within the Armagh Planetarium Dome. Immerse yourself in a unique experience as you listen to soothing sounds while journeying under the stars and through the expansive cosmos. Let the music transport you to another world as you gaze up at the night sky. It's the perfect way to end your weekend and start the week ahead.
5. Festive Roller Rink at Share Discovery Village, Lisnaskea,County Fermanagh, 27 December - 4 January 2025. Strap on your skates and get ready for an unforgettable festive adventure at Fermanagh's only roller-skating rink. This 70-person rink is the perfect destination for families, friends, and thrill-seekers of all ages. As you glide across our purpose-built rink, their Christmas themed roller rink will fill you with festive cheer.
6. Ulster Museum, Belfast, check website for open dates and times. Explore the Ulster Museum and make sense of the past, the present and the future through collections of art, natural science and history.
7. Live Music Nights at the Bushmills Inn, County Antrim, 27 – 30 December. If you're looking for somewhere to let your hair down and enjoy some live music, the Gas Bar at The Bushmills Inn is a perfect choice. This bar is steeped in rich history and lit by gas light for a cosy atmosphere that's rustic and romantic. Catch up with old friends by the open peat fire and relax in a comfortable chair as you listen to some great tunes over a pint of Guinness.
8. ABBA Sensations - Roe Valley Arts Centre, Limavady, County Londonderry, 28 December. Leading ABBA tribute show, selling out venues with their stunning tribute to ABBA. Brilliantly performing all of ABBA's timeless classics and bringing you the authentic ABBA sound with stunning vocals and beautiful harmonies. This must-see show features choreographed dance routines and fabulous costumes in an electrifying and dynamic performance. Limited tickets available and are selling fast.
9. Christmas Cracker at The Lodge Hotel, Coleraine, County Londonderry, 27 December. Celebrate the festive season at The Lodge Hotel’s Christmas Cracker event on Friday, 27th December.Enjoy a night of live entertainment with Curtis Magee and special guests. Tickets are £15 per person and can be purchased from the Hotel Reception.
10. Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 28 and 29 December. (On the 23rd December, you can enjoy Christmas at the Ulster American Folk Park). Journey back in time at the Ulster American Folk Park, from Ulster to America. Wander the well-trodden pathways and traditional farmhouses, learning what life was like in rural Ulster. Step on-board the full-scale emigrant ship, experience what the cramped quarters were like on the dangerous journey to America and find out how Ulster people’s emigration had a lasting impact through North America.
For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com.Subject to availabilities with select dates.
