Featured Events in Belfast in December, 2023 (February Updated)

Welcome to Cuairt nan Òran, an enchanting arts event that is set to captivate the hearts and minds of visitors in the vibrant city of Béal Feirste. Taking place at the esteemed Áras Mhic Reachtain venue, this immersive experience promises to transport you to a world where the power of music reigns supreme. On the 1st of December 2023, prepare to be swept away by the melodic symphonies and soul-stirring rhythms that will fill the air. Set against the backdrop of the magnificent Antrim Road, Cuairt nan Òran offers a unique opportunity to indulge in the beauty of lyrical poetry and the harmony of live performances. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of this event as you witness the seamless fusion of traditional and contemporary musical styles. With ticket prices starting at a mere £6.13, this is an experience that is not to be missed. Join us on this extraordinary journey and let the melodies of Cuairt nan Òran transport you to a world of artistic wonder.

The NI Junior Foil Series Round 2 will take place on Saturday, December 2, 2023, at the Shankill Leisure Centre in Belfast. This event is part of the NIJFS Season 2023/2024 and is the second round out of five. Fencers from different age categories, including U10, U12, U14, and U16, will compete in this tournament. To participate, fencers must have a valid British Fencing membership (or equivalent) on the day of the competition. The entry fee is £20, and all entries must be submitted online before 10pm on November 28, 2023. It's important to note that fencers without a valid membership will not be allowed to compete. The competition will strictly enforce safety regulations, requiring fencers to wear breeches. The format of the competition, including the selection process, may be subject to change by the organizers. At the end of the competition, there will be presentations for the best overall fencers in each category. Fencers should be aware of the specific fencing kit requirements for each age category. Poules and direct elimination rounds will follow different rules depending on the age category, with fights to a certain number of hits and time limits. This event is being run in accordance with British Fencing policies and guidelines, including the Fair Play Code. By participating in the competition, fencers agree to abide by these policies and ensure that their friends, family, and supporters do the same. Don't miss this exciting opportunity to witness some top-level fencing at the NI Junior Foil Series Round 2 in Belfast. Get your tickets now for £20 and join us at the Shankill Leisure Centre on December 2, 2023.

Deers Head presents an unforgettable evening of fresh comedy in Belfast. Join James Downey and a lineup of talented comedians at The Deer's Head for a night filled with laughter and new material. Prepare to be entertained as various comedians take the stage to showcase their brand spanking new songs, jokes, and sketches. This lively event promises a night of craic and laughs that will leave you in stitches. Be sure to mark your calendars for December 6, 2023, and head to 1-3 Lower Garfield Street, Belfast, BT1 1FP. It's an opportunity you won't want to miss. Best of all, admission is free! Come and witness the comedic brilliance that will have you rolling in the aisles. Deers Head: A Night of New Comedy is a must-attend event for all comedy enthusiasts.

Michael Trimble is a Clinical Reader in the Centre for Medical Education at Queen’s University, Belfast, and a Consultant in Acute Medicine at the Royal Victoria Hospital. With a background in General Internal Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Michael has a deep understanding of delivering acute care. In fact, he was the first person to be appointed as a Consultant in Acute Medicine in Northern Ireland. Throughout his career, Michael has been involved in postgraduate medical training and has held various important positions, including Training Programme Director for Acute Medicine and Head of School of Medicine at NIMDTA. In 2016, he took on his current role as a clinical academic, where he focuses on internal medicine, clinical ethics, and clinical reasoning. Additionally, Michael served as the editor of the Ulster Medical Journal from 2020 to 2023. If you're interested in learning more about his work and expertise, you can attend the upcoming event, "Sir William Whitla and the Apocalypse," which will be held on December 7, 2023, at the Medical Biology Centre in Queen's University Belfast. It's a free event that offers a unique opportunity to gain insights into the fascinating intersection of medicine and history. Join us for an enlightening experience!

Experience an enchanting evening of carols and readings from the archives at PRONI, the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland, located in Belfast's scenic Titanic Quarter. Immerse yourself in a festive atmosphere filled with music, history, and celebration, all brought to life by the mesmerizing melodies of Belfast-based chamber choir Cantiunculae. With a repertoire of beautiful carols, Cantiunculae will serenade you with their angelic voices, accompanied by captivating readings from the fascinating documents held within the PRONI archives. As part of PRONI's centenary celebrations, the choir will showcase a selection of documents handpicked for the momentous occasion. These featured treasures, carefully chosen from PRONI's impressive collection, offer a glimpse into the rich heritage and cultural legacy of Northern Ireland. In addition to these extraordinary readings, Cantiunculae will unveil an exclusive piece of music composed by David McCann and written by Jim Johnston, inspired by PRONI's momentous 100th birthday. Mark your calendars for this unforgettable evening on December 7, 2023. Admission is absolutely free, ensuring that everyone can partake in this magical event. Join us at PRONI and be transported through time as carols resonate through the hallowed halls, accompanied by the echoes of history captured within the archives. Don't miss out on this extraordinary celebration that promises to be an enchanting experience for all.

The New Seasonal Somatics Series - Autumn 2023 offers monthly sessions that cater to individuals of all abilities seeking to enhance their connection with the natural world. This somatic movement series provides a platform for exploring the profound impact of embodied movement on creativity, well-being, and self-awareness. Delving into the inner and outer lives of participants, the series investigates the relationship between somatic practice and the desire for artistic expression, fostering an understanding of our place within the larger context of existence. Throughout the sessions, various aspects of somatic movement, including experiential anatomy, visualization, and authentic movement practice, will be covered. Participants will have the opportunity to explore the benefits of grounding, alignment, centering, energy channeling, stillness, attention, and presence. By incorporating these techniques into their lives, individuals can effectively support their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. The New Seasonal Somatics Series - Autumn 2023 will take place on December 9, 2023, at Belmont Park in Belfast. The event promises to provide a serene and enriching environment for participants to embark on this transformative somatic journey. Tickets for the event are priced at £10. Join this remarkable series and unlock the power of mindful movement, awakening your relationship with the natural world.

Experience the joy of the holiday season with an exciting lineup of diverse characters! Still I Rise proudly presents an enchanting storytelling event that will transport you to different corners of the world. Immerse yourself in a world of captivating narratives, carefully curated to celebrate the beauty of diversity. Taking place at the esteemed 2 Royal Ave in Belfast, this event promises to leave a lasting impression on attendees. From heartwarming tales to thought-provoking stories, this festive event will showcase the rich tapestry of cultures that exist across the globe. As you listen to these mesmerizing stories, you'll be transported to different lands and connect with characters from all walks of life. Still I Rise: Storytelling is set to take place on December 10th, 2023. Best of all, this incredible experience is completely free of charge. Mark your calendars and get ready to be captivated by the power of storytelling at Still I Rise: Storytelling in Belfast.

This Saturday, the Ballynafeigh Community Development Association (BCDA) presents Saturday Night Improv @ Ormeau. This exciting comedy event features two ensembles: Pals and French Cassettes. Doors open at 6:30pm, and the show starts promptly at 7pm. The venue, located at 283 Ormeau Road in Belfast, offers a side entrance on Candahar St for easy access. If you need assistance finding the entrance, please message the organizers on their Instagram page. Don't miss out on this evening of laughter and entertainment. Tickets are priced at just £3, so make sure to mark your calendars for December 16, 2023. Join in the fun and experience the comedic talent of Pals and French Cassettes at BCDA.

Don't miss the incredible double bill gig featuring Perlee and A.S. Fanning live at The Sunflower in Belfast. A.S. Fanning, the Irish multi-instrumentalist, has received high praise for his latest album Mushroom Cloud, released on May 26th, 2023. With a brooding baritone reminiscent of Matt Berninger and a remarkably eclectic sound, Fanning combines dark lyricism with soaring orchestration, creating beautifully melancholic music. Each track on the album is thoughtfully layered, ornately poetic, and delicately intimate, showcasing Fanning's distinctively warm baritone vocal. This cosmic album channels the spirit of Leonard Cohen's 'The Future', with Fanning acting as the level-headed chronicler of a perishing world. Joining Fanning on stage is Perlee, one of Ireland's most singular talents. Their music weaves spells that are virtually impossible to escape from, generating a thrill ride of woozy, wistful, and wonderful sounds. With influences from dream pop and slow core, Perlee's music is reminiscent of bands like the Cocteau Twins, Low, and Beach House. Having released two EPs and an LP to critical acclaim, Perlee has captivated audiences across Germany, Ireland, and the United States. Their new album 'Speaking From Other Rooms' will be presented in Germany after sold-out shows in Ireland. Don't miss this special event at The Sunflower in Belfast on December 17th, 2023. Tickets are available for only £9.41.