What’s on in NI: upcoming events to add to diaries now

A stitch in time

There’s ‘sew’ much to discover as the UK’s largest craft show returns to Northern Ireland this autumn, bringing together a vibrant community of makers, artists and enthusiasts. Knit + Stitch is back at the Eikon Exhibition Centre, outside Lisburn, from November 12-15, and will, once again, be bursting at the seams with creativity and innovation. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet up with like-minded crafters, discuss ideas, learn new skills, find inspiration and shop for your annual craft supplies, including wool, fabric and beyond, from big brands and specialist suppliers. Among the highlights at this year’s show will be the Textile Art Galleries, showcasing inspiring work from artists across the UK and Ireland. Use discount code KNITPR for £2 off standard adult/concession tickets only (not valid on two-day, VIP or child tickets. Not valid on November 15). Transaction fee per order. Tickets can be purchased at www.knitandstitchshow.co.uk

Kennedy’s Way

Dermot Kennedy will perform at Belsonic, Belfast, on June 26, 2027. The date follows a massive 2026 for the Irish singer which saw the release of his third UK/IRE number-one album The Weight Of The Woods, arena tours of the UK and Europe, two sold-out dates at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium and an ongoing North American tour. Dermot Kennedy has amassed four billion streams across platforms, having the best-selling debut in Ireland of this millennium with his album Without Fear. Tickets from ticketmaster.ie

Swift decision

As Gulliver’s Travels marks its 300th anniversary, Carrickfergus Museum is celebrating the legacy of author Jonathan Swift with a programme of special events. Audiences will be invited to journey through strange lands, encounter giants and unleash their creativity during Swift Fest, organised by Carrickfergus Museum. Swift spent time living near Carrickfergus in the 1690s while serving as a Church of Ireland cleric appointed to the parishes of Kilroot, Islandmagee and Templecorran. Swift Fest will run from October 26 until November 28. For more, see www.shapedbyseaandstone.com/whats-on/swift-and-gulliver-a-300-year-legacy

Super snack attack

NI snack lovers could win an all-expenses paid trip to the 61st Super Bowl in California next year, thanks to McCoy’s. To celebrate its third season as an official NFL partner, the crisp brand is running a massive on-pack promotion offering local shoppers the chance to win a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Super Bowl LXI, scheduled for February 14, 2027, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. The top prize also includes a crisp £5,000 in cash for the winner to spend on their trip. Running from now until November 8, 2026, the on-pack promo spans the entire McCoy’s range, including price-marked packs (PMPs), sharing bags, grab bags, multipacks and the new McCoy’s Coated Nuts.

Chorus line

Soprano Lesley Garrett CBE is returning to NI Opera on November 16 as a guest artist for CHORUS! at the Ulster Hall. Following her captivating performance as Heidi Schiller in NI Opera’s critically acclaimed Follies at the Grand Opera House in September 2025, Lesley will compère and perform at the celebration of the music of opera. During the concert, Lesley will reprise Stephen Sondheim’s poignant and beautiful duet One More Kiss with NI Opera Chorus alumna Petra Wells, which they performed together during Follies. Tickets cost £20/£15/£10, plus booking fee, and are on sale now from the Ulster Hall or www.niopera.com

Did you know?

Northern Ireland recorded 232 Premium Bonds winners of £1,000 or more in the October 2026 draw, sharing £922,000 in prizes.