Ten things to do across the north from June 27 – July 3

THE summer has officially begun, which means there's no better time to sample all the events the north has to offer. Whether you enjoy the theatre or a great gig or simply some quality food and drink, there's bound to be an event for you this week.

Co Antrim

River to Lough Festival

Antrim Castle Gardens

Saturday July 2

Showcasing the unique cultural heritage of Lough Neagh & its waterways, this award-winning event celebrates the ancient fishing tradition associated with the area.

This year’s festival will include cookery demonstrations, story-telling sessions with fishermen and lots of entertainment throughout the day. 

Pirates off Portrush

Portrush Amphitheatre

Saturday July 2 – Sunday July 3

Discover the shenanigans of Tavish Dhu, a Scottish Pirate through drama, costumed characters, floats, music, street parade and children’s entertainers.

A medieval tented village will play host to a display of ancient crafts, skills, tastes and sounds while you can sample locally-caught fish in cookery demonstrations on Sunday.

Smiley

Lyric Theatre, Belfast

Until Thursday Jun 30

A former professional footballer puts a five-a-side soccer team together to win a lucrative competition but things don’t always go to plan.

A witty comedy from the highly acclaimed Gary Mitchell, Smiley promises to be a high octane production.

Stretcher Bearer

Linen Hall Library

Belfast

Until Thursday July 30

New and exclusive to the Linen Hall, artist Leslie Nicholl unveils a series of stunning and intricate paintings exploring the humanity shown by Irish, Ulster, British, German and French stretcher bearers in the Battle of the Somme.

Co Derry

Celtronic

Various locations

Until Sunday July 3

Ireland’s premier electronic music festival, Celtronic returns to the city this year for its sixteenth anniversary.

As always, the festival will feature some of the best DJs from across the electronic music spectrum.

Co Down

Hillsborough Farmers Market

The Courthouse

Saturday July 2

Stock up on your favourite products and discover a wealth of talented artisan food producers that are springing up across the north.

There will be something for young and old, big and small, with face painting, potato printing and music from local musicians. There will even be a picnic area to kick back and sample some of the food on offer. 

Remember the Somme Walks

Somme Centre

Saturday July 2 – Sunday July 3

Step back in time to 100 years ago to 1916 and the Battle of the Somme. 

Learn about the soldiers from the 36th Ulster Division and follow in their footsteps as you walk through their training camp to Helen's Tower. 

Co Fermanagh

Battle of Somme Commemoration

Enniskillen Castle

Friday July 1

An iconic 100-year-old Bugle belonging to Drummer Downs will be sounded at Enniskillen Castle to mark the Somme Commemoration as part of special service. 

Cuilcagh Mountain Jeep Safari

Sunday July 3

Jump on board one of the Geopark Landrovers and explore the stunning scenery of Cuilcagh Mountain Park.

Ranging from the rugged upland cliffs to the weathered limestone landscapes on the lower ground, this safari is a chance for you to experience and explore the patchwork of landscapes found on Cuilcagh Mountain. 

Co Tyrone

American Independence Celebrations

Ulster American Folk Park

Saturday July 2 – Monday July 4

Celebrate the 240th Anniversary of the Declaration of the United States of America in the unique setting of the Ulster American Folk Park.

With live Bluegrass and American Folk music, traditional Punch and Judy Shows and American games, this will be a great family day out this summer.