10 things to do in Northern Ireland
Here are ten exciting things to do 6-12 November
1. ONÓIR, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 11 November. Experience the exceptional Donegal musicians; Tom McHugh, Declan Gaughan, Deane Connaghan, and Diarmaid McGee harmonising live from The Playhouse. These talented musicians with distinctive vocal styles are setting new standards with incredible musical arrangements and harmonies that makethem so unique. From their new take on traditional Irish ballads all the way through to up-tempo modern Irish classics. Enjoy the onstage chemistry, excitement, and banter in a show not to be missed!
2. Sound of Belfast, Belfast, County Antrim, 9-12 November. This annual celebration turns the spotlight on what this UNESCO City of Music has to offer. Belfast is one of only three in the UK! This festival is bursting at the seams with a mixture of collaborative, independent and partnership events hosted by Belfast's musicians, creativesand artists. You can take in a show (or several), support your local music venue and artists, take part in a workshop, join a conversation, or learn more about the music business. There is something at Sound of Belfast for all musical tastes, curiosities, and interests.
3. Traditional Irish Breadmaking, Killinchy, County Down, 11 November. Join Tracey in her kitchen on the shores of breathtaking Strangford Lough in County Down. You’ll be welcomed into her home with the aroma of homemade Fruit Soda Bannock as it comes out of the oven. You’ll enjoy this sweet treat with some award-winning Irish butter. Then it’s time for some Griddle Bread making! Aprons on and you’ll make traditional breads – Soda breads, Wheaten and Potato, all made the traditional way.
4. Fermanagh Pride Drag Weekend Extravaganza,Enniskillen, County Fermanagh,10-11 November. Fermanagh Pride has organised a two night drag weekend fundraising extravaganza. This weekend is packed with fabulous events including a drag cabaret and disco by localJohn Hamilton as drag 'Viva La Diva' and his Bar Pop team all way from Canal St, Manchester. There will also be appearances from the iconic Manchester drag queen 'Gypsy Darling'. Gypsy along with the Brian Boru Ceili Dancers will be welcoming beginners to join in on the Big Gay Ceili on Saturday night.
5. Wild Atlantic Distillery Gin School & Distillery Tour,Castlederg, County Tyrone, 10-11 November. Learn the craft of making a spirit under the guidance of award-winning master distillers and discover the origins of the botanicals including kelp and dillisk, that are hand harvested from the Wild Atlantic Ocean. Over a light meal, savour a gin and tonic served with a lunch of artisan breads, cheeses, and charcuterie. Indulge in artisan gin, great local food, the wild surroundings, and a story or two along the way.
6. Two Stacks Whiskey - Premium Blending Experience, Newry, County Armagh, 11 November. Discover what makes Two Stacks Irish Whiskey so unique. On this touryou will learn the history of blending and bonding in Ireland, the art of blending whiskey, and how to use Two Stacks in your favourite drinks at home. Enjoy a combination of informative discussion, hands-on whiskey blending experience, and sample some delicious whiskey cocktails.
7. Autumn Woodland Walk, Comber, County Down, 11-12November. Join an expert guide for a delightful dander in the woodland this weekend. Take in the fresh autumnal air and discover some of the woodland’s secrets from the life of the trees to the multitude of creatures both big and small who call this woodland home. This tour will begin in the Wild Wood play area.
8. The Ark Open Farm, Newtownards, County Down,throughout November. The Ark Open Farm is a fantastic family day out set in 40 acres of beautiful countryside between Newtownards and Bangor. This family run farm has been open for over 30 years and promises to be a fun-filled family day out for all. Enjoy a wide range of farm animals and exotic residents, indoor and outdoor play areas, nature trails, cafe, and gift shop. There is something for everyone!
9. Loving Cup Arrives at Titanic Belfast, Belfast, CountyAntrim, 6 November. Don’t miss the opportunity to see'one of the most iconic objects relating to the Titanic disaster', The Loving Cup, at Titanic Belfast. The Loving Cup was presented to Arthur Rostron, the Captain of RMS Carpathia, which came to the rescue of over 700 surviving passengers and crew the night of Titanic's sinking on May 29th, 1912. This limited time artifact will be display in the atrium, completely free for all to experience.
10. Film as Art: Brian Desmond Hurst, Film Director exhibition, Belfast, County Antrim, throughout November. As Northern Ireland's film industry thrives and continues to attract investment and creativity, now is an apt time to celebrate the life and work of a man who is often hailed as one of Northern Ireland's best film directors, Brian Desmond Hurst (1895-1986). This exhibition will display film posters, invitations, lobby cards, original press clippings from Hurst's own scrapbooks, film footage and photographs. Don’t miss this showcase of Hurst's remarkable achievements.
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/
