1. Tonights the Night Rod Stewart Tribute
Belfast, 27 December. Shake off the Christmas turkey, grab your handbags and don your gladrags as the Rod Stewart tribute is set for a special show as Lee Hedley brings ‘Tonight’s The Night’ to Belfast’s Empire for all fans of Rod The Mod. The rocking, high energy show will see Lee bring to life the man and his music. Expect a packed house of Sweet Little Rock ‘n’ Rollers grooving along to the likes of Proud Mary, Don’t Want to Talk About It and, of course Maggie May.
2. Turkey Run Rally Ballykelly
Limavady, 28 December. The annual Turkey Run Rally, organised by the Maiden City Motor Club, has risen in popularity over the last number of years, with visitors coming from all over the island of Ireland to both compete and spectate. Visitors to the Turkey Run Rally can expect to experience an exciting day out watching high speed action. A fantastic family day out for over the festive holidays.
3. Life Cycles by Lorna Smyth
Enniskillen, 2 December – 18 April 2020. This showcase of new works, curated by renowned artist Lorna Smyth encompasses the four seasons in one year. Lorna’s art emphasises the world around us, highlights her love of nature and captures a sense of belonging regardless of the place name.
4. Lost Childhood Exhibition Derry~Londonderry
2 December – 31st January 2020. This December, take a trip to the award-winning Museum of Free Derry to see one of their most poignant and affective exhibitions yet, ‘Lost Childhood Exhibition’.
5. Ulster Rugby vs Connacht Belfast
27 December. In addition to live sporting entertainment, there will be plenty of fun activities in the fan village, before and after the game for fans of all ages to enjoy, from include player signing sessions and live music performed by local artists to inflatable games and street performers.
6. Festive Friday at Rademon Estate Downpatrick
6 – 23 December. Learn all about their foraged botanicals, unique gin and whiskey processes. Stand next to their three beautiful copper pot stills and meet the founders Fiona and David. Just remember to take time to enjoy the views in their beautiful location with a pre/post tour cocktail at the bar.
7. St-George’s Market Christmas Craft Fair Belfast
20 – 24 December. Home to some of the best local artisans from delicious foods to specialist crafts, all your Christmas shopping is under one roof at St George’s Christmas Craft Fair. With extra opening hours, there’s plenty of opportunity to stock up on festive treats and gifts. It’s even open on Christmas Eve for those who prefer to leave things to the last minute.
8. Hillsborough Castle Christmas Tours Hillsborough
23 December – 5 January 2020 (excluding 24 – 26 December). Discover the story behind the Twelve Days of Christmas on an enhanced festive tour of Hillsborough Castle’s State Rooms. Experience the castle adorned with festive cheer as the State Rooms come to life with live music, historic characters and an extra-special visit from Father Christmas. Children will also receive a sugar mouse as a Christmas treat.
9. Christmas at the Ulster American Folk Park Omagh
6 December – 5 January 2020. Walk around the winter landscape of the museum and step back in time to explore a 19th century Christmas in rural Ulster and Pioneer America. Discover the origin of a number of mid-winter customs and taste some home-baked fruit loaf or soda bread straight off the open hearth. Learn all about the making of traditional Christmas decorations such as evergreen wreaths and have a go at making your own paper and popcorn chains to decorate your tree.
10. Flowerfield Christmas Market Portstewart
23 December. There will be an opportunity to ‘meet the makers’ behind some of the market’s popular arts and crafts items, sample delicious food and enjoy the feel-good festive atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for food products, classic decorations, unique ceramics, glass, artwork or textiles, you’ll find endless treasures of bespoke gifts at this beautiful craft fair.
