With the new school term just around the corner many of us are planning some end of summer family fun with the kids. There are plenty of exciting things right across the north for a family day out without going over budget.
Take a walk with the fairies, get up close with museum housed fossils and even help feed some goats this week.
Here are some budget friendly family days out taking place.
Ould Lammas Fair - Ballycastle
Every year, thousands flock to the beautiful seaside town of Ballycastle for the Ould Lammas Fair. Traditionally held on the last Bank Holiday weekend of the summer, the town bustles with street trading, bargaining, traditional music, dancing, horse trading, amusements, artisan markets and much more!
This year’s Ould Lammas Fair takes place from 24th-27th August 2024.
Browse the stalls at the Naturally North Coast and Glen’s Artisan Market, which features local fresh produce, quirky handmade crafts and fine art.
Experience the hustle and bustle of the horse trading village, get a thrill on one of the many funfair rides, or simply take in the atmosphere and local banter on the streets of Ballycastle!
Ireland’s oldest fair launches with a spectacular fireworks display at the Seafront on Saturday 24th August, perfectly complimented by live music and a twilight market. There is also a live music concert in The Diamond on Sunday 25th August.
Don’t forget to pick up some Dulce or Yellow Man – a local sweet speciality.
Belfast Mela Day
Belfast Mela is the city’s annual celebration of global cultures when tens of thousands of visitors come together to celebrate our people and diversity.
The Mela transforms the park into a magical global garden filled with the sights, sounds and aromas of nations right around the world.
Music, dance, arts and culture come together to create a heady, good humoured atmosphere which invites the world into the heart of our city.
The traditional Mela Day then returns to Botanic Gardens on Sunday 25 August, bringing a spectacular party in the park to close the festival once again.
End of summer party at Rowallane Gardens - Ballynahinch
If its fun for all the family why not celebrate the end of summer in style with a pack-full craft market, live music and good food.
As Summer draws to an end for another year celebrate in style with Rowallane Garden as they event local traders to take over the Stableyard. They’ll have live music across all three days including Lisburn Ukes, Adam Irvine and returning favourites Pure Blarney.
For the little ones, their face painting station will bring their favourite characters to life, while their Summer of Play offer ensures endless fun with exciting sports games spread across the grounds. And let’s not forget our furry friends – they can enjoy a special treat at the puppaccino stand!
Fascinated by fossils? Explore the Ulster Museum - Belfast
Join the Natural Sciences Education Officer and get hands-on with some natural sciences specimens from the Ulster Museum collection.
In these free sessions, you can explore a variety of museum objects up-close from animal skulls to insects.
Be sure to bring along any questions about animals you may have, our Education Team will be happy to answer them.
The Drop in session will be held on Friday 23rd August - 11:00 to 12:30 & 14:00 to 15:30
‘Discover Caravaggio’ at Ulster Museum Belfast
The Ulster Museum’s Discover Art Centre has had a makeover this summer.
With the help of artist, Deborah Malcomson, Discover Art has been transformed into a place for visitors to draw, make, and play in response to the two Caravaggio paintings currently on display in Ulster Museum.
Discover Caravaggio explores the theme of people sharing a meal while gathered around a table, drawing inspiration from the ‘The Supper at Emmaus’ (1601). It’s something that all ages can relate to – a universal experience. Children can create a 3D version of the table in our felt ‘supper party’ area where they can role play and dress up. They can also create a 2D version of the painting on our felt art wall – a playful, sensory place where families can engage with these incredible paintings.
Examine still-life elements of ‘The Supper at Emmaus’ paintings and create your own version.
Make gestural drawings using poseable wooden hands to create shadow drawings. Think like Caravaggio and consider how light and shade can play a part in creative expression.
Plus, you’ll see the winning artworks from their ‘Creative Classroom Award’ displayed in Discover Art from 10am - 5pm until Sunday 1 September.
Adventure playpark and Fionn’s Giant Adventure at Slieve Gullion Forest Park - Newry
The most ambitious children’s arts project commissioned in Northern Ireland, the brand new Giant’s Lair at Slieve Gullion, is open to boys, girls, elves and fairies alike.
The magical living storybook takes visitors on an unforgettable trail of intertwined fairy house and arts features creating a fantastical childhood land of mystery, dragons, giants, witches and fairies, all inspired by the rich tapestry of local legend and mythical folklore on over a mile of woodlands at Slieve Gullion Forest Park.
Follow in the footsteps of Flynn the mischievous fairy, who has one important job – not to allow anyone to wake Slieve Gullion; It might look like a mountain but it’s really a sleeping giant!
Situated beside the Slieve Gullion Adventure Playpark, with handy car parking available.
The Giant’s Lair is free to walk round and explore. The trail takes you into plenty of nooks and crannies so a backpack carrier or baby sling is recommended for tots.
St James’ Community Farm - Belfast
Situated between the Bog Meadows nature reserve and the terraced streets of St James in West Belfast, the community farm has been in operation for several years and has recently launched a new community hub.
The farm houses many farm animals including goats, sheep, ducks, chickens and many more.
The perfect day out for your little ones!
We are open 11-2 Farmers little helpers 11-12 Happy Saturday from Chip 🤣🤣
Posted by St James’ Community Farm on Saturday 17 August 2024
Carnfunnock Country Park - Larne
Carnfunnock Country Park has something for everyone.
If you can’t explore all the 191 hectares of mixed woodland, colourful gardens, walking trails and stunning coastline, try out the maze or head off to the family fun zone with its miniature railway, bouncy castle, bungee run, remote control boats and 18-hole mini golf course.
You’ll also find a walled garden with unique sundials; a children’s activity centre with outdoor adventure playground, snack stop, face painting and outdoor games including putting, table tennis and draughts, a touring caravan park and camp site; a family golf centre with 9-hole golf course, driving range and golf academy; barbecue/picnic areas and a modern visitor centre with gift shop and cafe. What more do you want for a family day out?
