09:30
Talks & books in Belfast
38 approved listings over the next two weeks.
Friday 30 October 0 listings
That's today done. See tomorrow.
Saturday 31 October 5 listings
Morning 2
11:00
Belfast’s Statues and Sculptures - from Frink to the Big Fish | Walking Tour
A walking tour of some of the best sculptures in Belfast, starting outside the Ulster Museum and ending at the Big Fish on Donegall Quay. These fascinating works of art also provide an intriguing insight into the culture and thinking of the city when they were created. They are in effect, a snapshot of what Belfast thought was important down the ages. Does something that was trendy in the 60s have anything worthwhile to say to us now? Is what was important in 1880 important today? Visit a dozen of the best sculptures of Belfast, then decide which you feel have stood the test of time.
Afternoon 3
14:00
Belfast’s Statues and Sculptures - from Frink to the Big Fish | Walking Tour
A walking tour of some of the best sculptures in Belfast, starting outside the Ulster Museum and ending at the Big Fish on Donegall Quay. These fascinating works of art also provide an intriguing insight into the culture and thinking of the city when they were created. They are in effect, a snapshot of what Belfast thought was important down the ages. Does something that was trendy in the 60s have anything worthwhile to say to us now? Is what was important in 1880 important today? Visit a dozen of the best sculptures of Belfast, then decide which you feel have stood the test of time.
14:00
Eoin McNamee
Details Eoin McNamee presents his new short story collection, The Comets . The Comets is a richly textured collection of stories, set in Ireland and Northern Ireland, that explore working-class lives teetering on the borderlands between violence and love. McNamee tells these haunted stories with precision and care, cementing again his position as one of the most loved literary stylists of contemporary Irish writing. The author of eight novels including Resurrection Man and The Bureau , McNamee has been nominated for theMan Booker Prize, and has won the Kerry Fiction Prize and the CWA Steel Dagger. Liam McIllvaney said of McNamee's prose that it has the 'cadenced majesty of McCarthy or DeLillo, but the vision it enacts is all his own.' Most recently, Eoin was part of the writers room for Netflix’s Vikings Valhalla series. Programmed as part of the Belfast International Arts Festival.
16:00
Bel Trew: From the Front Lines
Details Bel Trew is The Independent's multi award-winning Chief International Correspondent, documentary filmmaker, commentator and photographer. Born and raised in the Gulf and Eastern Europe, Bel has covered some of the biggest conflicts and crises of our time since the start of the Arab Spring in 2011. She is a documentary filmmaker, specialising in uncovering evidence of international law violations and the plight of civilians, making films that range from the disappeared in Ukraine war to the deadly impact of unprecedented aid cuts in sub-Saharan Africa. Bel was named Foreign Reporter of the Year at the UK Press Awards and also won the Marie Colvin Award. She has lived across the world from Cairo to Berlin. Her forthcoming book focuses on reframing war reporting by telling the stories of crises and conflict through the eyes and experiences of the extraordinary ordinary people forced to endure it. Age Guidance: 14+ Programmed as part of the Belfast International Arts Festival.
Sunday 1 November 4 listings
Morning 1
11:00
Look Up! | Walking Tour Sold out
When walking around Belfast city centre we usually don't stop to 'look up' and take the time to 'look up' at some of the fine carvings or ghost signs (signage that alludes to the original usage of the building) above street level. This new tour led by Peter McCabe takes a leisurely stroll around the perimeter of City Hall pointing out features that some of us have walked past literally hundreds of times but have perhaps never noticed. A highlight is the sad story of the bust of Princess Victoria Adelaide Mary Louisa, the eldest child of Queen Victoria.
Afternoon 3
14:00
Bette A. & Brian Eno
Details Why do we need art? In this special event, artist, musician and activist Brian Eno and writer and artist Bette A. explore the ideas behind their acclaimed book What Art Does: An Unfinished Theory . Through conversation, they examine how art is made by all of us; how it creates communities, expands our worlds and has the power to transform how we see the future. Bette A. is on stage and joined by Brian Eno via videolink for this fascinating exploration of the vital role of art in our lives. Programmed as part of the Belfast International Arts Festival.
14:00
Look Up! | Walking Tour
When walking around Belfast city centre we usually don't stop to 'look up' and take the time to 'look up' at some of the fine carvings or ghost signs (signage that alludes to the original usage of the building) above street level. This new tour led by Peter McCabe takes a leisurely stroll around the perimeter of City Hall pointing out features that some of us have walked past literally hundreds of times but have perhaps never noticed. A highlight is the sad story of the bust of Princess Victoria Adelaide Mary Louisa, the eldest child of Queen Victoria.
16:00
Sebastian Barry
Details Regarded as one of the foremost novelists of our time, Sebastian Barry joins Alex Clark to discuss his powerful new book, The Newer World . The author of novels including Days Without End , and The Secret Scripture , Barry was Laureate for Irish Fiction 2018-21 and is a two-time winner of the Costa Book of the Year Award. The Newer World follows the life of Tennyson Bouguereau – freed man, devoted brother, nascent singer, conflicted soldier and wanted man – as he journeys to find meaning and belonging in the aftermath of the American Civil War. Programmed as part of the Belfast International Arts Festival.
Monday 2 November 2 listings
Morning 1
10:30
Poetry Club
Share and read your selected poems and then if you wish discuss, within a pleasant and relaxed group of likeminded people. Very informal all welcome with tea and coffee. Every Monday from 10:30am - 12 noon.
Tonight 1
18:30
Finaghy Book Group
Come along to our friendly monthly book group. First Monday of the month at 6:30pm Everyone welcome No need to book
Tuesday 3 November 2 listings
Tonight 2
18:15
QUB Peter Rice Lecture 2026 - Jane Hall - ASSEMBLE
Supported by Arup, Architecture at Queen's are delighted to welcome Jane Hall of ASSEMBLE to give this years Peter Rice Lecture 2026.
19:00
Rattlebag x Gento Torigata (Waltz, London)
“The Japanese Art of the Bar”. We are delighted to welcome Gento Torigata of Waltz, London to Belfast for the second instalment in our Rattlebag seminar series. Founder of Waltz, the acclaimed London cocktail bar, Gento has quickly established himself as one of the leading voices in contemporary bartending, winning Bartender of the Year at the 2026 CLASS Bar Awards. Waltz was also named New Bar of the Year at the same awards and entered the global top 50 list at No. 32, placing Waltz among the world’s very best bars. Drawing on Japanese bartending traditions, precision-led technique, and a considered approach to hospitality, Gento will share insights into the philosophies and practices that shape his work at Waltz. The seminar will be an incredible opportunity for Belfast’s drinks community to learn from one of the industry’s most exciting talents, exploring the art behind the serves and discovering a profound dedication to the guest’s ultimate experience. Following the seminar, Gento will be giving guests the chance to experience some of the drinks and hospitality that have put Waltz firmly on the global cocktail map. Tickets for the seminar are available now.
Thursday 5 November 5 listings
Morning 1
10:00
The Future of Creative Work: Creating Conditions for Creative Collaboration
What will the future of creative work look like and what do we need to create the conditions for it to thrive?
Afternoon 2
13:30
AI: What's next for Legal Technology?
Explore the future of AI, law and legal technology with leading experts, innovators, students and industry leaders at Ulster University.
15:00
Anthropology Research Seminar
Prof Boudina McConnachie [in person] and Dr Dominique Santos [remotely] (Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa)
Tonight 2
17:00
Inaugural Lecture, Debbie Lisle, Professor of International Relations
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20:00
Tenx9 Storytelling - Themed: 'Wild'
Sponsored by the Green Fund and organised by LawPod, this in-person Tenx9 storytelling event explores sustainability.
Friday 6 November 4 listings
Morning 2
09:00
AI: What's next for Legal Technology?
Explore the future of AI, law and legal technology with leading experts, innovators, students and industry leaders at Ulster University.
11:00
Belfast’s Statues and Sculptures - from Frink to the Big Fish | Walking Tour
A walking tour of some of the best sculptures in Belfast, starting outside the Ulster Museum and ending at the Big Fish on Donegall Quay. These fascinating works of art also provide an intriguing insight into the culture and thinking of the city when they were created. They are in effect, a snapshot of what Belfast thought was important down the ages. Does something that was trendy in the 60s have anything worthwhile to say to us now? Is what was important in 1880 important today? Visit a dozen of the best sculptures of Belfast, then decide which you feel have stood the test of time.
Afternoon 2
14:00
Belfast’s Statues and Sculptures - from Frink to the Big Fish | Walking Tour
A walking tour of some of the best sculptures in Belfast, starting outside the Ulster Museum and ending at the Big Fish on Donegall Quay. These fascinating works of art also provide an intriguing insight into the culture and thinking of the city when they were created. They are in effect, a snapshot of what Belfast thought was important down the ages. Does something that was trendy in the 60s have anything worthwhile to say to us now? Is what was important in 1880 important today? Visit a dozen of the best sculptures of Belfast, then decide which you feel have stood the test of time.
14:30
Shared Reading Group
Every Friday 2:30pm - 3:30pm. Come along and enjoy listening to literature being read aloud in real time and be part of a shared reading group discussion. You will enjoy listening to a great story or poem, with no pressure to talk or read. Refreshments provided.
Saturday 7 November 3 listings
Morning 1
11:00
Graveyard Drama at Friar's Bush | Walking Tour
This tour of this ancient and atmospheric graveyard will introduce you to many remarkable people who are interred here. Their stories will be brought to life by a professional actor who will share compelling tales of hardship & death, of fame & success. You will be drawn into their world. Stand before the nameless Friar, listen in on a cheeky Frenchman in the courtroom, stand deferentially before the Marquis and his Butler. Hear from the dodgy grave digger, the flamboyant actor, Belfast’s favourite baker and many others. Step through the Gothic gateway and meet the colourful characters of early Belfast.
Afternoon 2
14:00
Graveyard Drama at Friar's Bush | Walking Tour
This tour of this ancient and atmospheric graveyard will introduce you to many remarkable people who are interred here. Their stories will be brought to life by a professional actor who will share compelling tales of hardship & death, of fame & success. You will be drawn into their world. Stand before the nameless Friar, listen in on a cheeky Frenchman in the courtroom, stand deferentially before the Marquis and his Butler. Hear from the dodgy grave digger, the flamboyant actor, Belfast’s favourite baker and many others. Step through the Gothic gateway and meet the colourful characters of early Belfast.
14:00
Saturday Reading Group
Join us once a month to discuss your favourite books with fellow enthusiasts. First Saturday of every month from 2:00pm – 3:00pm Booking essential. t: 028 9266 9345 Tea and coffee provided Ask Staff for details
Sunday 8 November 2 listings
Morning 1
11:00
Queen Victoria in Belfast | Walking Tour
During the reign of Queen Victoria, Belfast developed into the beating heart of Ireland, with thriving industries and commerce. The prosperity of the town led to the granting of a Royal Charter. The short visit of the royal couple in 1849 was celebrated with great pomp, but what do we really know about this occasion? This walking tour offers a glimpse into the legacy of that day. Starting at Queen’s University Belfast, it leads us to the places of her visit, continuing to the City Hall, and ending at the Albert Memorial Clock.
Tonight 1
19:30
Lemn Sissay
Lemn Sissay is bringing Let the Light Pour In LIVE at Waterfront Hall Studio on 08 November 2026! Spend an evening with a master of the spoken word, BAFTA award-winning author, activist, performer and Sunday Times number one bestseller, Lemn Sissay OBE as he returns to the stage with this acclaimed show. Every morning for 10 years Lemn has written four lines and shares them on his socials with no explanation and no title. After catching the public’s attention, they have been transformed into murals, quoted in books, made into songs and even tattoos. He chose the best of them for Let the Light Pour In which became an instant Sunday Times Bestseller- and now a live show. With live readings from his books, Lemn will unravel some of the original stories behind the poems, and how they have been used in people’s lives and his own. Expect the unexpected. A night bursting with light to stave off the dark. With the unique chance to pepper Lemn with questions, this thought-provoking and entertaining show on the power of creativity can’t be missed. An evening full of truth, humour and hope, Lemn will allow us into his morning poetry practice and show us all how he lets the light pour in. I will build an embassy In your heart over time There is a plot of land inside me Build one in mine "I am not sure I've read a more beautiful poetry book." Fearne Cotton VIP Information - Lemn will be signing books after the show. Copies of Let the Light Pour In (RRP £9.99) and additional bestselling titles will be available for purchase at the show.
Monday 9 November 1 listing
Morning 1
10:30
Poetry Club
Share and read your selected poems and then if you wish discuss, within a pleasant and relaxed group of likeminded people. Very informal all welcome with tea and coffee. Every Monday from 10:30am - 12 noon.
Tuesday 10 November 1 listing
Tonight 1
18:00
Out There, By William Keohane
Join us to celebrate the launch of William's Keohane's 'Out There.'
Wednesday 11 November 1 listing
Tonight 1
19:30
Harry Baker and Hollie McNish
Harry Baker and Hollie McNish The Whitla Hall Wednesday 11 November, 7.30pm After years of sold-out solo shows, two of the UK's most-loved poets Hollie McNish and Harry Baker are finally coming together for a series of special gigs, reading from their latest collections and best-loved poems in some of their favourite cities to celebrate ten years of friendship. Expect sunflowers, croissants, wolves, wellies, myths and mashed potato. A perfect date night. A perfect party of friends. A perfect book club outing. A perfect way to spend time with your slightly smutty grandma, wholesome grown-up children, or just the mate who won't stop sending you clips of Harry and Hollie’s poems on Instagram. Adult content warning 14+ / Book signing after the gig. Doors 6.30pm | Unreserved seating Harry Baker World Poetry Slam Champion Harry Baker is a poet, a maths graduate, and a new father. His work has connected with millions online, from being shared on TED.com to making people cry through their TikTok and Instagram feeds, but he thinks it is even better in person. His previous collection Wonderful was accompanied by a 40-date sellout UK tour two years in a row, including headlining the Poet’s Revival at the Royal Albert Hall. His new collection Tender is published with Canongate in March 2026 alongside another national tour, and he can’t flipping wait. He lives and writes and swims and runs and takes his baby to nice coffee shops in Margate. Spectacularly Witty” ***** (Whatsonstage) “Blistering wordplay” ***** (Threeweeks) “Not one syllable out of place” ***** (The Wee Review) “The Spell Over The Audience Is Tangible” ***** (Broadway Baby) “ Simply put... The greatest performer on earth” ***** (BBC Radio 1) He uses words like a painter uses colours’ - JOHN BISHOP ‘Harry Baker’s way with words is entirely fascinating’ - DONNA ASHWORTH "He's a champion.” - Ed Sheeran "I'm in the Harry Baker fan club" - Jacqueline Wilson Hollie McNish Hollie McNish loves writing poems and has done since she can remember. She was the first poet to record at Abbey Road Studios, London and to sell out Hackney Empire with her solo poetry tour, and won the Ted Hughes Award for New Work in Poetry for her poetic parenting memoir – Nobody Told Me - of which The Scotsman stated ‘The World Needs this Book’. She has published five further collections of poetry – Papers, Cherry Pie, Plum, and Slug and Lobster, both Sunday Times bestsellers and inspired primarily through conversations with her grandma about sex. Her latest collection is Virgin. She tours in English, French and is trying to learn Spanish. "Warm, relatable, smart and funny" - Sophie Ellis-Bextor “like Pam Ayres on acid” – Lemn Sissay "bold, hilarious and tender" - Salena Godden “Her writing is sublime” – Ellie Taylor “Makes me cry and howl with laughter” - Paapa Essiedu “One of the best poets we have”. – Matt Haig ''Never have we needed her more' - Stylist "Funny, so smart and refreshingly honest" - Sarah Millican
Thursday 12 November 4 listings
Afternoon 1
14:30
BORN TO PRANCE: The Book Drop aw26
Thurs 12 Nov | 2.30pm Studio Theatre | £7.50 An afternoon set to entertain and amuse as Anthea McWilliams revisits her own challenge to dance along Ireland. Back in 2008, to mark her milestone 50th birthday, Anthea danced from Malin to Mizen – it took three months to dance the length of Ireland and 15 years to write the book! Come and find out why Anthea was Born to Prance – and take home a copy of her book - available to buy at the event (£20 - cash only please). Running time 90 mins Date: Thursday 12 Nov Time: 2.30pm Cost:£7.50 Location: Studio Theatre An afternoon set to entertain and amuse as Anthea McWilliams revisits her own challenge to dance along Ireland. Back in 2008, to mark her milestone 50th birthday, Anthea danced from Malin to Mizen - it took three months to dance the length of Ireland and 15 years to write the book! Come and find out why Anthea was Born to Prance - and take home a copy of her book - available to buy at the event (£20 - cash only).
Tonight 2
17:00
Seamus Heaney and Latin Poetry, lecture by Stephen Harrison
Join us for a talk by Professor Stephen Harrison (University of Oxford) on Seamus Heaney and Latin Poetry.
18:30
Adult Reading Group 2 libraries
Adult Reading Group meet 2nd Thursday of the month from 6.30pm – 7.30pm t: 028 9070 1620
- 18:30Newtownbreda Library
- 18:30Tullycarnet Library