The Heart of the Glens Festival, a cornerstone of cultural life in Cushendall, County Antrim, will take place over the next week, offering a diverse programme of events celebrating the heritage and community spirit of the Glens of Antrim.
Held annually in this coastal village, at the foot of Lurigethan Mountain and within the Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the festival draws locals and visitors alike to a week of music, sport, and family-friendly activities. This year’s event, rooted in the traditions of the region, promises a varied schedule that reflects the area’s rich cultural tapestry.
The festival kicks off with a community parade, a vibrant display of local pride featuring over 20 community groups and businesses, accompanied by approximately 90 lorries and children in fancy dress. A highlight of the programme is the Lurig Challenge Run, a demanding off-road race to the summit of Lurigethan Mountain, offering participants panoramic views and a warm welcome from the Glens community.
Limited to 400 runners, this event, now in its 33rd year, remains a focal point of the festival. Other key events include the Food Festival, showcasing local produce with live music, and the Vintage Family Fun Day, a nod to the area’s agricultural past with traditional displays and activities. The festival concludes with the Ping Pong Ball Race and a street céilí, featuring traditional Irish dances such as the Walls of Limerick and Waves of Tory, accompanied by live music.
Visitors can expect a welcoming atmosphere in Cushendall, a village known for its Georgian architecture and proximity to the scenic Causeway Coastal Route. The festival offers something for all ages, from children’s workshops and sports camps to historical walks and treasure hunts. Outdoor events, including sheepdog trials and cycling time trials, make the most of the Glens’ natural beauty, though organisers note that some activities are weather-dependent, with updates provided via the festival’s Facebook page or at the Festival Office in the Old Schoolhouse, Mill Street. The programme also includes a themed fancy dress night, with this year’s theme yet to be announced, encouraging creativity among attendees.
The Heart of the Glens Festival was first established in 1990, emerging from a community desire to celebrate the unique identity of Cushendall and the surrounding Glens. While specific founders are not widely documented, the festival was born out of local initiatives, with early support from community leaders and organisations like the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, which continues to provide funding alongside the National Lottery and local business sponsorship. The festival’s enduring success is attributed to the dedication of its volunteer committee, which ensures its continuation as one of the region’s largest community festivals.
Since its inception, the festival has grown to include over 100 events, evolving from a small community gathering into a significant cultural event that attracts visitors from across Northern Ireland and beyond. Its historical significance is tied to Cushendall’s role as a cultural hub in the Glens, with past events reflecting the area’s storytelling, music, and sporting traditions. The festival’s ability to blend modern entertainment with traditional elements, such as Irish dancing and local folklore, has cemented its place in the region’s cultural calendar. Visitors are encouraged to explore the village’s historic sites, including the Curfew Tower and Layd Church, during their stay, enriching their experience of this picturesque corner of County Antrim.
