12 things to do in Northern Ireland

For all events in ni2012 click on www.discovernorthernireland.com/events, visit your local tourist information centre or log onto http://www.facebook.com/discovernorthernireland

Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival, various venues, Belfast, May 3 - 13. This festival brings the streets to life with cultural revelry including readings, live music and performances.

Beltaine Festival of Fire, Navan Centre and Fort, Co. Armagh, May 7. Celebrate the ancient festival of Beltaine with traditional bread, butter and cheese making and test your strength against the warriors.

Half Price Canoe Rental, Castlewellan Forest Park, Co. Down, May 7. Have a go at this adventure sport activity for half price.

Fifteen Second Film Festival, Ulster Hall, Belfast, May 8. A series of new and exciting 15-second micro-shorts along with a few older classics and a panel of industry experts talking about the processes involved in short movie-making.

Sleeping Beauty, Waterside Theatre, Co. Londonderry, May 10. This spectacular production uses Tchaikovsky’s glorious music and stunning classical choreography to reawaken the magic of the world’s famous fairytale in an enchanted world of castles, curses, forests and fairies.

Clothes Clinic, Ulster Museum, Belfast, May 10. Refresh your wardrobe and your image for spring by learning how to customise and update old clothes.

Jamboree in the Park, Ecclesville Park, Fintona, Co. Tyrone, May 10 – 12. Three nights of non-stop, world class entertainment featuring a great line up of top country music.

Lisburn Mayor’s Parade and Family Fun Day, Lisburn City Centre, Co. Antrim, May 12. The city’s largest civic event returns with a host of international acts, performers and community participants.

Ramble Gullion, Forkhill, Co. Armagh, May 12. Explore the jewel in the crown of the Ring of Gullion on a guided walk and enjoy breathtaking views and the beautiful landscape.

Bloomin’ Brilliant, Ardress House, Portadown, Co. Armagh, May 13. Set in the middle of the rich apple-growing county, Ardress House will be celebrating the Apple Blossom with musical entertainment, apple treats and fun for all the family.

Basking Shark – Inistrahull Island Sea Safari, Portstewart, Co. Londonderry, May 13. Experience a spectacular trip to spot basking sharks and visit the deserted island of Malin Head which was last inhabited in 1929.

M.V. Kestrel, Lough Erne, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, every Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday at 2.15pm or 4.15pm. Relax, sit back and enjoy the tranquil panoramic view while cruising the Lough Erne with live commentary.