THE Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland over the next week (November 25 – December 1).
Christmas Wonderland, The Jungle NI, Moneymore, Co. Londonderry, November 22 – December 24: Make sure you book your tickets early for Santa’s Cottage in the Mourne Mountains which is the official residence of Santa in Ireland. See the elves at work, enter Santa’s igloo, meet Rudolph and Santa and receive a present.
Little Red Riding Hood, Waterfront Hall, Belfast, November 23 – January 4. What’s happened to Grandma? Why has she got that big toothy grin, why has she stopped cutting her nails and why has her bed shrunk? Little Red Riding Hood is bursting with catchy songs and a fabulous cast of characters that includes The 3 Little Pigs.
Thanksgiving Day, Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, Co. Tyrone, November 28. Celebrate the cherished American holiday of Thanksgiving by tasting seasonal dishes of succotash and pumpkin pie at the table of the Partridge Family. The year will be 1863 and you’ll find the family busy preparing their Thanksgiving turkey.
Lumiere, various locations in the city of Derry November 28 – December 1. This festival will transform the city landmarks, buildings, hidden spaces, parks and waterways into a magical nocturnal landscape of artworks made from light. Translink will also be providing special family rail services from Belfast for Lumiere complete with onboard entertainment including a visit from Santa Claus.
Cinderella, Courtyard Theatre, Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim, November 29 – December 21. Polish off your glass slippers and get ready to have a ball. Cinderella will be a fun-filled family adventure that will have you and your family dancing and clapping along with an outstanding cast, dazzling sets and lavish costumes.
Christmas Craft Fair, St Mary’s College, Co. Londonderry, November 30. Admire the stunning variety of arts and crafts including glass designs, cosmetics, homemade jams, cakes and lots of other seasonal offerings.
Georgian Day, Armagh Town Centre, November 30. See Armagh in all its festive glory, sparkling with lights and bustling with music, as the historic city goes back to its Georgian roots. Finding the perfect Christmas gift will be a delight as more than 70 festive stalls, hosted by traders in Georgian costume, line the narrow streets for a unique experience that cannot be missed.
Santa Steam Train, Central Station, Belfast or Portadown, Co. Armagh, various dates between November 30 – December 15. Meet Santa on this special festive steam train journey from Belfast to Whitehead or from Portadown to Lisburn. All children will receive a present.
Santa’s House, Castle ward Estate, Co. Down, November 30 –December 22. You will be welcomed by Mrs Claus who helps you waken Santa as he sleeps by an open fire. While Mrs Claus serves some shortbread and pies, Santa will tell a story about Christmas at Castle Ward.
Belle Isle Christmas Craft Fair, Belle Isle Estate Co. Fermanagh, December 1. Enjoy local crafts and pick up that something special for a loved one while relaxing in the surroundings of Belle Isle Estate with a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie – the perfect start to your Christmas festivities.
For more details on these and other events click on www.discovernorthernireland.com/events, visit your local tourist information centre or log onto http://www.facebook.com/discovernorthernireland
