Life

What's On: Christmas tree lights about to be switched on all over the north

Jacqueline McGonigle shares her pick of family friendly events taking place across Northern Ireland this week

Christmas tree lights are being switched on all over the north this weekend
Christmas tree lights are being switched on all over the north this weekend Christmas tree lights are being switched on all over the north this weekend

DOWN

Join in the festive fun and entertainment at the Christmas Lights Switch on in Dromore town centre this Saturday. There will be carol singing and festive fun in the market square, followed by free Santa's grotto and a craft market with lots of entertainment.

ARMAGH

The Market Place Theatre takes you on a high-flying magical carpet ride, with Aladdin. Join a cast of well-loved characters including old Widow Twanky and her poor son Aladdin, and let your imagination take flight with this action-packed pantomime. December 1-23.

FERMANAGH

This Saturday will see the Christmas lights switched on in Irvinestown. Come along and enjoy the festivities with a fun day and bazaar in the Church of Ireland Hall with Santa in attendance.

TYRONE

Little Red Riding Hood & The Silly Billy Wolf comes to the Burnavon Theatre Cookstown this Sunday afternoon. This colourful, fast-paced show is a fun and gentle retelling of the classic fairytale. Children will have great fun joining in on the action, singing songs and playing games and meeting some amazing characters.

DERRY

Join Seamus Heaney HomePlace for some Christmas celebrations on Friday and Saturday. Opening times are: Friday 3pm-7pm (last admission 6pm); Saturday 10am-4pm (last admission 3pm). Listen to Mrs Claus read tales of Christmas adventure, take part in the sparkling arts and crafts, get your photograph taken with Santa Claus and receive a special present. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

ANTRIM

Colin Glen Forest Park hosts its annual Santa Run & Walk this Saturday. Take on the 5K Santa Run & Walk at Colin Glen Forest Park and help raise funds for two great causes. All you need is a Santa hat and your running gear. Santa Hats are provided! Registration Open from 11:15am, race starts at 12 noon sharp. Price: £12pp. Entry fee includes medals, prizes, timing chip and bib, Santa hat, and a goody bag. Profits will be split between Colin Glen Trust and Glen Parent 'families in need appeal'.

BELFAST

Be a Claus for a good cause! This year’s Santa Dash is on Sundayat 10am, kicking off from Writers Square in Belfast City Centre. It’s a fun-filled morning for families and friends. There are two options to get involved in. Join Santa and the Cool FM Breakfast team on his sleigh as they sing carols and wander on the 2K family walking route. Or take part in the official verified and timed new 5K route and get your PB in a Santa suit. Registration £7.50 per adult for the Original 2K Dash and £25 for the 5K, and includes your free Santa suit. Visit cancerfocusni.org to register. Every pound from registrations and sponsorship will go towards the Family Support Service.

:: 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.