Life

What's on...festive family fun in Bangor

Jacqueline McGonigle of whatsonni.com shares her pick of family events across the north this week

Santa will be making an appearance at the Christmas lights switch on in Magherafelt on Saturday November 23
Santa will be making an appearance at the Christmas lights switch on in Magherafelt on Saturday November 23 Santa will be making an appearance at the Christmas lights switch on in Magherafelt on Saturday November 23

Down

This Saturday in Bangor, expect family fun, food and craft market and seasonal entertainment, all leading to the lights switch on at McKee Clock arena with extra special guests The Snowman and The Snowdog followed by a fireworks finale.

Antrim

This year’s Courtyard Theatre Newtownabbey’s pantomime will be the 10th Anniversary Production of the Courtyard Theatre and Mr Hullabaloo Productions bringing timeless magic to your Christmas treat. Prepare to soar away on a magical carpet ride of non-stop laughs and thrills in one of the most spectacular pantomime adventures of all time – Aladdin. Run from November 23 to December 21.

Armagh

Enjoy a magical evening of festive song, dance and merriment with performances for all the family, including carol singing from local primary schools at the Portadown Twilight Market and Christmas Lights Switch On this Friday evening November 22 from 6pm.

Derry

Join in the fun in Magherafelt on Saturday November 23 for live entertainment and the Christmas market, before the street party kicks off and countdown begins to this year's Christmas lights switch on. The market is back again for a second day on Sunday November 24.

Fermanagh

On Sunday November 24, Share Slalom is back for the 16th year in a row at Ballyconnell Lock Gate. Waterways Ireland has developed this area with canoe steps and assisted flow boulders to provide a superb venue for this Paddle 4 Sport League event.

Tyrone

It's time to get signed up for Dog Trails NI’s next race event in the magical and wild grounds of Lissan House, Cookstown this Sunday November 24. Muddy Mutts comprises a 5K, 3K and kids race. This is a canicross race... but one with a twist. As a location for equestrian events, Lissan House is going to be a muddy one, with jumps and swamps to challenge you and your dog.

Belfast

Every Sunday evening comedic improvisers at the Accidental Theatre, Shaftesbury Square put together scenes, songs, and stories from audience suggestions. All scenes are created in the moment, and no two shows are ever the same.

For further 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 for news, competitions and what’s on near you.