Life

What's On: Christmas carols, festive markets and Ulster orchestral sing-alongs

Jacqueline McGonigoe of whatsonni.com shares her pick of family-friendly events on this week across Northern Ireland

The Ulster Orchestra is taking its hugely popular Christmas sing-along concerts across the north this month
The Ulster Orchestra is taking its hugely popular Christmas sing-along concerts across the north this month The Ulster Orchestra is taking its hugely popular Christmas sing-along concerts across the north this month

DOWN

Are you looking for something to do with the kids this Christmas? Get yourself along to Co Down’s Winter Wonderland at Clandeboye Estate, Bangor, from December 16-23. There will be markets and attractions including an ice rink, indoor cinema, arts and crafts, bouncy castle, face painting, Santa’s grotto, Mother Christmas, elves, snow machines and more – including Santa.

ARMAGH

Join Cara Dillon for what will undoubtedly be a magical and memorable festive experience this Thursday at the Marketplace Theatre. Having recorded her Christmas album, Upon A Winter's Night, Cara and her band will be performing classic carols, Celtic hymns and other Christmas songs to celebrate and share in the Christmas spirit.

FERMANAGH

Castle Coole transforms into a magical Christmas wonderland until Sunday December 17. Visit Castle Coole to check on how the elves are preparing for Christmas and visit Santa and Mrs Claus by the range in the kitchen. Each child receives a present and grown-ups can enjoy warming mulled wine and mince pies.

TYRONE

The Ulster Orchestra is taking its hugely popular Christmas sing-along show across Northern Ireland. Soprano Marcella Walsh joins the party to bring you well-known festive classics and carols in this Christmas cracker of a night. Join them at the Alley Theatre Strabane this Saturday at 8pm.

DERRY

It’s December, so it must be time for the Roe Valley’s annual Christmas film screening of It’s a Wonderful Life! Join them this Saturday for what is now a Roe Valley festive ritual – escape the hustle and bustle for a few hours, sit back and enjoy one of the most beloved films of all time with complimentary mulled (non-alcoholic) wine and seasonal refreshments. Tickets £5.

ANTRIM

Caroline Curran and Julie Maxwell return with a madcap Christmas comedy, set in the A&E of the local hospital. Make an appointment at Theatre at The Mill this Christmas and meet a heavenly host of hilarious characters, as they celebrate this very special holiday period. Until the December 31.

BELFAST

Stormont School of Singing is back with their annual Christmas concert in aid of NI Chest Heart & Stroke. Join them this Friday evening at the Belvoir Players Studio for a magical evening of festival favourites and music. Featuring students alongside professional performers. Ticket price includes mince pies and non-alcoholic mulled wine.

:: For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.