10 things to do in Northern Ireland
Here are ten exciting things to do 12 – 18 August
1. Foyle Pride Festival, Derry~Londonderry, 15 – 25 August. The annual Foyle Pride Festival returns. Join for a celebration of diversity and inclusivity in the heart of Derry~Londonderry, with this year’s theme being Community: Local & Global. The parade will take place on 24 August and departs from North WestTransport Hub at 2:00pm.
2. Open House Festival, Bangor, County Down, until 31 August. Don’t miss the Open House Festival in the beautiful seaside city of Bangor. The festival has an eclectic programme of free and ticketed events throughout August. There is something for everyone, from ticketed music, comedy, and film events at Bangor Castle Walled Garden and The Court House. Free events include Picnic in the Park concerts at Ward Park every Sunday afternoon in August.
3. Moira Speciality Food Fair, Moira, County Down, 17 August.Moira Speciality Food Fair returns to Moira Demesne this summer to showcase the rich food heritage and innovative producers of the village and wider region. You'll get to meet food producers at the top of their game, making delicious creations and award-winning products. Chat to farmers from across Northern Ireland who are committed to sustainable farming methods and heritage breeds, vegetable growers working with the seasons and artisan producers using the best locally sourced ingredients to make exceptional foods.
4. Wake The Giant, Warrenpoint, County Down, 17 – 18 August. Nestled on the picturesque shores of Carlingford Lough, Warrenpoint is a town steeped in history and culture, and the annual Wake the Giant Festival is the perfect opportunity to experience it all. This vibrant festival celebrates the town's unique heritage and legends and offers visitors a weekend ofexciting events and activities. From live music and performancesto Giants food feast and children’s activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Fionn Mac Cumhaill, the towering figure of the Wake the Giant Festival will make a spectacular return to Warrenpoint this year with the theme, ‘The Land of Giants’. This year’s festival promises even more excitement with the arrival of two new Giant Guardians, Wee Binnian and Carley.
5. Armagh Summer in the City, Armagh, County Armagh, until 7 September. Summer in the City is in full swing in Armagh this year with crafts, football, pom pom cheerleading, cooking for kiddies, dance for older kiddies, science, magic and lots of music. Activities change each week so there is always something new to experience. All activities are free and will take place around the Market Square, McCrums Court and outside the Market Place Theatre.
6. Steam Whitehead at Whitehead Railway Museum, County Antrim, 17 and 24 August. Visit the picturesque seaside town of Whitehead to experience the magic of steam. On the historic 1907 platform at Whitehead Excursion Station you’ll board thetrain for a short (10 to 15 minute) trip within the premises. Hauled by a 104 year-old locomotive No.3BG "Guinness", you will travel in a carriage which a certain famous wizard would feel at home in. Included in your ticket price is a train ride and admission to the 5-gallery Museum (allow at least an hour). Includes activities for children in "The Stables" and "Carriage Gallery".
7. ROOTS by Off the Rails Dance Company – Belfast 2024, 10-11 and 14-18 August. Step into the newly planted interactive community garden at the Black Mountain Shared Space project and experience ROOTS, a unique performance that blends dance, poetry, storytelling and active participation. Guided by captivating sound design, you will watch, listen, move, touchand connect in an engaging journey through the Garden.
8. August Craft Month in County Fermanagh, various locations, County Fermanagh, until 31 August. Enjoy a month-long celebration of local craft across the island of Ireland, launchingwith a host of exciting events taking place throughout Fermanagh. Events include workshops, exhibitions, open studios and festivals to allow audiences to immerse themselves in local craft. There is something for everyone, of all ages, and all levels of expertise. August Craft Month celebrates a rich craft heritage with artisans keeping ancient traditions alive and new talented makers bringing real vibrancy to the scene.
9. Lumarina, Ballyronan, County Londonderry, 17 August. This annual spectacular illumination has gained a reputation for amazing entertainment, with the picturesque backdrop of the Lough providing a unique atmosphere at this family themed event, which makes a welcome return for 2024. The highlight of the night will be an illuminated fireworks display at approximately 9:45 PM, designed to dazzle audiences of all ages. This spectacular show will be a fitting finale to an evening brimming with entertainment and magical experiences.
10. Summer Textile Craft Activities at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, until 29 August. Join drop-in textile craft sessions where you can make traditional clothes peg dolls using sustainable materials. Try your hand at mini rag-rug weaving using a cardboard loom and reused yarn, inspired by the traditions of Ulster settlers in America. Learn about the Victorians' ethos of recycling and what type of toys children played with in the past. Please note, while they hope to deliver these activities every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday throughout summer, there might be times when these activities aren't available. Speak to the visitor guides on arrival to find out what is on that day.
For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Keep a look out for additional dates of the above events throughout the year.
