ANTRIM events: Upcoming FESTIVALS in Ireland’s county ANTRIM

Naturally North Coast & Glens Makers Market at Ballycastle Seafront (e.g., 21 June and other summer dates): A popular dog-friendly artisan market on the seafront featuring local food producers, craft makers, handmade goods, and regional produce. Ideal for visitors exploring the Causeway Coastal Route.
Friends Goodwill Music Festival, Larne (27–28 June): A weekend music event starting with an Irish music concert (featuring The Shamrocks and Briana Corrigan) followed by a free family-friendly day in Curran Park with petting farm, circus workshops, crafts, food trucks, and a bar.
Stendhal Festival, Ballymully Cottage Farm near Limavady (2–4 July): The region’s largest independent music and arts festival with multiple stages, live music across genres, comedy, poetry, visual arts, workshops, and family activities in a scenic rural setting.
Belfast TradFest (26 July – 2 August): A celebration of traditional music with world-class concerts, pub sessions, summer school, talks, lectures, céilís, and festival clubs across Belfast, a UNESCO City of Music.
Féile an Phobail (West Belfast Festival) (late July to early/mid-August, around 25 July – 9 August): Ireland’s biggest community arts festival with a wide programme of inclusive arts, cultural events, music, family activities, and community celebrations, mainly in the Falls Road area.
Armoy Road Races (Race of Legends), Armoy (24–25 July): Exciting motorcycle road racing on public roads in the Glens of Antrim, known as the home of the Armoy Armada, with free entry and spectator stands available.
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, Belfast (2–9 August): The world’s biggest celebration of Irish traditional music, song, dance, and culture, featuring competitions, pub sessions, street performances, concerts, workshops, and more across the city.
Ould Lammas Fair, Ballycastle (around 22–25 August, traditionally last Monday and Tuesday of August): One of Ireland’s oldest traditional fairs with street entertainment, music, heritage celebrations, agricultural traditions, stalls, and a lively seaside atmosphere.
Other recurring or smaller events may include additional makers’ markets, local music gatherings, and community activities. Dates can shift slightly; check official sites like Discover NI or Visit Belfast for the latest details and tickets.

Annual & recurring festivals

NI Science Festival (February) A large-scale celebration with over 200 events across the county focusing on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Belfast St Patrick’s Music Festival (March) A multi-day celebration in the city featuring a festival village, traditional music concerts, and a carnival parade.
Magheramorne Literary Festival (March) A weekend event at the Magheramorne Estate featuring talks from prominent writers, journalists, and historians.
Ards International Guitar Festival (April) An annual event dedicated to guitar music, featuring performances from international and local artists across various genres.
Glenarm Castle Tulip Festival (May) A colorful display of over 15,000 tulips within the historic walled gardens, accompanied by craft stalls and live music.
Ballyscullion Park Book Festival (May) A literary weekend in Magherafelt that includes readings, workshops, and a dedicated children’s book festival.
Ballymena Charity Vehicle Show (June) One of the largest vintage vehicle rallies in the country, showcasing classic cars, tractors, and steam engines at the Ballymena Showgrounds.
Éigse na nGlinntí (June) A cultural festival held in Cushendall celebrating Irish language, heritage, and the arts within the Glens of Antrim.
Stendhal Festival (July) A multi-award-winning music and arts festival located on the scenic Limavady/Causeway Coast border.
Six Mile Festival (July) A family-oriented weekend festival in Antrim town featuring live music, a street carnival, and food markets.
Ould Lammas Fair (August) One of Ireland’s oldest traditional fairs, held in Ballycastle and famous for “Yellowman” (honeycomb) and “Dillisk” (dried seaweed).
Heart of The Glens Festival (August) A nine-day community festival in Cushendall featuring a massive street céilí, parades, and local food stalls.
Bushmills Salmon & Whiskey Festival (October) A celebration of local heritage and produce centered on the Old Bushmills Distillery, featuring food stalls and whiskey tasting.
Belfast International Arts Festival (October/November) A world-class contemporary arts festival featuring international theatre, dance, and music performances across the city.
Antrim Enchanted Winter Garden (December) A festive light trail and Christmas experience held in the historic Antrim Castle Gardens.