Searching for the best music, food, theatre and art in the Northern Irish capital? Look no further than this handy guide
The city of Belfast has a rich history of cultural events and its music and art scenes are the stuff of legend. But that’s not to say it’s stuck in the past. The Northern Ireland capital is a hotbed of activity, and has a buzzy feel to it – whether you’re in the shiny and new Titanic Quarter or going off the beaten track in the student-filled Queen’s Quarter. Stuck for ideas? Here’s our round-up of great activities happening this month, plus some year-round highlights. Remember: if you revisit this page in early April, you’ll find an all-new selection of events. Enjoy!
The neat thing about Belfast’s Botanic Gardens is how conveniently located they are in the city, especially if you’re planning a trip to the Ulster Museum. Unlike most Botanic Gardens, these ones are now a public park used for concerts and other large-scale events. If there’s a chill in the air, stop off at the Tropical Ravine or Palm House to get warm.
This candy factory and shop is the place to go if you plan to fill your coffers with boiled sweets, honeycomb, fudge, chocolate and other delights. Or book in to see how these sweet-toothed favourites of yesteryear are made. They’ve also unveiled a cafe where you can grab a coffee and a lollipop at the same time.
Frankly, you're unlikely to see anything like this anywhere else in the world, so take it in on a day trip from Belfast. The UNESCO World Heritage Site’s towering pillars were formed after a volcanic eruption. But the Gaelic myth – about an Irish giant who built the causeway across the North Channel so he could fight a Scottish giant – is much more fun. (PS: Go easy on the wet rocks, they can be slippy.)
A 1920s style restaurant and cabaret venue, you’re guaranteed some vintage glitz and glam with your meal. The Cabaret Supper Club gives its guests a decadent meal served by their own butler, then a mixture of burlesque, comedy, music, acrobatics and general merriment. Definitely one not to miss.
