ANTRIM events: Upcoming FESTIVALS in Ireland’s county ANTRIM

Here are the upcoming festivals and events in County Antrim from 20 March to 1 May 2026, featuring a dynamic mix of thought-provoking festivals, literary gatherings, orchestral and traditional music, high-profile boxing, trail running, and community celebrations across Belfast, Larne, the Sperrins, and beyond. This spring period highlights Antrim’s vibrant arts scene, cultural heritage, and outdoor pursuits, with Easter (3-6 April) boosting family and seasonal activities.

Major Festivals

Imagine! Belfast Festival of Ideas and Politics (23-29 March): A city-wide festival across various Belfast venues exploring politics, culture, social issues, and the future through debates, talks, interactive performances, workshops, exhibitions, film, humour, lectures, music, and theatre-encouraging curiosity and bold conversations.
Magheramorne Literary Festival (21-22 March): The inaugural festival at the historic Magheramorne Estate near Larne, bringing together notable authors, journalists, and public figures (including Nicola Sturgeon, Miriam O’Callaghan, Adrian McKinty, Jo Spain, and others) for talks, readings, discussions, and events in a scenic coastal setting, with food options and overnight stays available.
Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival (starting 29 April, running into May): One of Belfast’s premier arts festivals in the Cathedral Quarter, featuring a diverse programme of music (e.g., opening concert by Robert Finley), comedy, literature, theatre, walking tours, and visual arts across iconic venues-delivering over 100 acts in a lively urban atmosphere.
Sperrins Festival (20-22 March): A new three-day celebration of landscape, heritage, and community in the Sperrin Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with a hub at Gortin Activity Centre-offering guided walks (various abilities), storytelling, talks (e.g., on ancient languages), music, crafts, and a family fun day for all ages.
Queerphoria (28 March): Belfast’s first queer music festival at Banana Block on the Newtownards Road, headlined by the band TRAMP, with 10 performers including George Houston, Beauty Sleep, Strange New Places, Klyda, Ciunas, Lord Jane, and Uptight Dad-celebrating euphoric queer sounds and community.

Music & Performance

Ulster Orchestra: Of Rivers and Mountains (20 March): A grand orchestral concert at the Ulster Hall in Belfast, conducted by Emilia Hoving with guitarist Sean Shibe, featuring works by Falla (The Three-Cornered Hat Suite), Francisco Coll (Turia), and Smetana (from M√° vlast)-evoking rivers and landscapes through music.
Scott’s Jazz Club: Kristine Mills (20 March): A jazz tribute to Blossom Dearie at a Belfast venue, delivering smooth vocals and classic standards.
Metal 2 the Masses – Heat Six (20 March): A competitive heavy metal battle of the bands at Voodoo in Belfast, with local acts vying for a slot at the Bloodstock festival.
Brendan Mulholland and John Carty (22 March): A world-class traditional Irish music session featuring flute and fiddle mastery at Maddens in Belfast.

Sports & Outdoor Activities

Conlan v Walsh – Championship Boxing (20 March): A high-profile WBC International title clash featuring Irish star Michael Conlan against unbeaten American Kevin Walsh at The SSE Arena in Belfast-expect intense action in a sold-out atmosphere.
Belfast to Derry 75 Mile Race (11 April): An ultra-endurance running event covering 75 miles from Belfast to Derry, testing stamina on challenging routes.
EnduranceLife Giant’s Causeway (11 April): A trail running event along the iconic Causeway Coast, offering scenic and demanding paths with stunning views.

Special Tours & Family Events

Hero of Belfast: Mary Ann McCracken Walking Tour (starting 20 March): A historical guided tour in Belfast exploring the life and legacy of abolitionist and social reformer Mary Ann McCracken.
Arts Across Belfast Bus Tour (29 March): A half-day guided bus trip visiting major arts centres, galleries, and street art spots across the city.
Easter Movie Day: Peter Rabbit (2 April): A seasonal family screening in Antrim, perfect for holiday entertainment.

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.