ANTRIM events: Upcoming FESTIVALS in Ireland’s county ANTRIM

Fleadh Cheóil na ha hÉireann (2 to 9 August) Belfast hosts the world’s largest celebration of traditional Irish music, song, dance, and culture for the first time. Expect lively pub sessions, street performances, All-Ireland competitions, concerts, workshops, and family-friendly activities across the city, transforming Belfast into a hub of Irish heritage.
Heart of the Glens Festival (1 to 9 August). This community festival in Cushendall features a range of activities including sheepdog trials, a community parade, the Lurig Challenge Run, food events, street c√©il√≠s, and live entertainment, celebrating local culture in the Glens of Antrim.
Féile an Phobail (1 to 17 August). Belfast’s renowned “Festival of the People” offers a diverse programme of headline concerts, debates, art exhibitions, community events, and sporting activities across various city locations, blending culture, discussion, and entertainment.
Ould Lammas Fair (22 to 25 August). Ireland’s oldest traditional fair returns to Ballycastle with a historic mix of market stalls, livestock sales, traditional foods such as dulse and yellowman, fairground rides, music, and local craic, attracting thousands to this charming seaside town.
Carnlough Whiskey Festival (dates in August). This event in Carnlough celebrates whiskey with tastings from local distilleries, music, and lively entertainment, offering visitors a chance to explore Ireland’s spirit heritage in a scenic coastal setting.
Whitehead Summer Festival (running into early August). A family-oriented festival in Whitehead with two weeks of live music, heritage talks, sports, arts, outdoor adventures, and community activities for all ages.
Shoreline Festival (30 August). A free fun-filled family festival at Jordanstown Loughshore with entertainment, activities, and coastal vibes to enjoy the end of summer.
Sundays on the Maritime Mile (every Sunday in August). Free live music performances along Belfast’s Lagan riverside in the Titanic Quarter, perfect for relaxed summer evenings with views of the waterfront.

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.