Official tourism website for Northern Ireland

Irish Game Fair and Fine Food Festival
Antrim, County Antrim

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What's On in Antrim

Antrim, or the land of the ‘lone-ridge’, is a land steeped in legend and myth. Fairies and giants have pranced and pounded their ways through the famous Nine Glens and along the rugged coastline. All the while they’ve existed alongside the residents of towns like Ballymena and Cushendall who honour and celebrate them in their annual fairs and festivals. Just like the fairies and giants, the people of County Antrim are always up to something fun and fantastical!

Get your heart racing with North West 200 (May)

Did you know that Northern Ireland is the home to a number of world class motorcycle racing events? The biggest of all, the NW 200, is in fact Ireland’s largest outdoor sporting event. 90 years since its introduction, this world-famous motorcycle road race has gone from strength to strength; producing decades worth of iconic Northern Ireland racing heritage. Nestled within the coastal towns of Portrush, Portstewart and Coleraine, the relaxed access of the NW200 paddock will allow you to experience close proximity to the world’s best racers, personalities and race teams, a unique opportunity in comparison to the usual segregated & corporate world of modern sport. The NW 200 is valued around the world as being unique to the Causeway Coast area of Northern Ireland but why not see for yourself?

Step into garden heaven at Antrim Castle (May)

Just one giant’s stride down the road is another stunning citadel. Antrim Castle in Randalstown is the backdrop to the annual Garden Show Ireland. This is one of the most popular festivals of its kind on the island and attracts well over 30,000 visitors over three days in May. Green fingered gardeners and budding enthusiasts gather to admire the floral displays and catch expert advice. There is plenty for the more passive gardener to enjoy too with tips on outdoor cooking, growing your own and ongoing music performances at the castle bandstand.

All aboard for the May Day Steam Rally (May)

Shanes Castle on the banks of beautiful Lough Neagh, plays host to two of Antrim’s best-loved country festivals. The May Day Steam Rally attracts families and lovers of steam power to a grand exhibition of vintage tractors, cars and steam engines. You can enjoy a jolly on a steam train or seek more thrills at the huge fairground. Bargain hunters will delight in rummaging through the jungle of jumble and bric-a-brac for sale and when it’s time to eat that means it’s time for traditional fish and chips.

Vikings, pirates, seadogs and more at Ballycastle (June)

The Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival celebrates this mystical body of water between Rathlin Island and Ballycastle. As well as a colourful sailing regatta and an ‘invasion’ by a Viking ship, you can expect to experience what will surely be your first currach race. If your sea legs aren’t up to it, then you might prefer the guided walks and tours of the scenic coastline. Of course, no festival in Northern Ireland would be complete without food so keep your eyes, ears and noses peeled for cooking demos and food markets packed with local produce.

Whiskey and fish in Bushmills (June)

Set your taste buds alight during the Bushmills Salmon and Whiskey Festival which celebrates the local heritage and fine produce of the area. Enjoy celebrity and local chef demonstrations and whiskey tastings at the world-famous Bushmills Distillery. Other highlights include Naturally North Coast and Glens Artisan Market, tours of Bushmills Salmon Station as well as live music and dance performances. Even if you aren’t a fan of fish or a drop of the gold stuff, you’ll still be thoroughly entertained.

A Race of Legends in Armoy (July)

July brings motorcycle racing to the fore again with the Armoy Road Races.

The club event which started off as a bit of craic and a £20 bet down the local pub, went on to spark the idea of an annual tribute race to the Armoy Armada, Legends of Road Racing. If you’re a racing enthusiast this is certainly one not to be missed. Find the perfect perch along the 3.03 miles long race circuit and make some legendary memories.

Are you game for the game fair? (August)

Towards the end of August the very same spot is home to the Irish Game Fair and Fine Food Festival. Though it has changed much in its forty plus years, the essentials of this weekend hooley remain the same - promoting the importance of country sports and the rural way of life. Expect to see lots of events around shooting, fishing and all matters equine as well as displays of medieval jousting, archery and falconry. Of course, you won’t want to miss the curious Northern Ireland Stick Making Championship or the much-anticipated Ireland’s Fastest Ferret Race.

Music to your ears in the heart of the glens (August)

Those with music in their souls would do well to visit the beating heart of Antrim during The Heart of the Glens Festival. This nine-day extravaganza takes place in the town of Cushendall under the shadow of the dramatic Lurigethan Mountain. A highlight of the event is the Dalriada Sounds concert showcasing local talent in music, singing, poetry and dance. Other events include the Lurig Challenge Run, Food Fest night and the Grand Finale Ceili with displays of Irish Dancing and music and Ireland’s longest Waves of Tory!

A golfing Open in Galgorm (August)

Previously known as the Northern Ireland Open and an important stop on the challenge tour, the ISPS Handa World Invitational played at the Galgorm Castle Golf Club in Ballymena is one of the most innovative events in world golf where men and women compete together. The event is the first of its kind event in NI and with the introduction of the competition’s new format, adopted in 2019, it is garnering significant interest globally and looks to see major development from 2020 onwards.

Ould Lammas Fair (August)

Every year thousands flock to Ballycastle for Ireland’s oldest Fair. Traditionally held on the last weekend of the summer, the Old Lammas fair sees the seaside town bustling with street trading, bargaining, traditional music, dancing, horse trading, amusements, artisan markets and much more. The streets are lined with more than 400 stalls selling a wide variety of goods, from livestock to painted scrolls. Visit and sample famous local favourites Dulse and Yellow Man or wander around the Naturally North Coast and Glens artisan market featuring fresh produce, handmade crafts and fine art.

Antrim might be home to Northern Ireland’s capital Belfast, but its market towns, villages and country castles offer lots to see, lots to eat and even more to experience especially in Summer. As they might say in these parts, get stuck in.

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Number of results: 36

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Belfast 2024

Belfast

Address

Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 5GS

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9032 0202

belfast2024@belfastcity.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Culture & Heritage

Crafted by the people of Belfast, for the people of Belfast, this year-long celebration brings together a diverse range of local projects, events, and initiatives. We invite everyone to join us in envisioning a future where creativity thrives,…

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2024to31 Dec 2024

More Info
Drawing Support: Murals, Memory and Identity

Belfast

Address

Ulster Museum, Stranmillis Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT9 5AB

Telephone
02890440000

info@nationalmuseumsni.org

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Exhibition

See political mural photography by Bill Rolston in the ‘Drawing Support: Murals, Memory & Identity’ exhibition, now on display at the Ulster Museum.

Dates

From:

29 Apr 2024to1 Feb 2025Various Opening Times

Price
Free

More Info
A Causeway Safari Tale Exhibition

Ballymoney

Address

Ballymoney Museum, Ballymoney Town Hall, 1 Townhead Street, Ballymoney, County Antrim, BT53 6BE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2766 0230

museums@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Exhibition

Once one of the biggest and much-loved attractions on the Causeway Coast, this exhibition looks at the history of the park and those who both worked in it and visited it, reflecting the joy the Park gave to all.

Dates

From:

16 Aug 2024to1 Mar 2025Various Opening Times

Price
Free

More Info
The Wiggle Room

Belfast

Address

The MAC, 10 Exchange Street West, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2NJ

Telephone
028 9023 5053

tickets@themaclive.com

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Family Fun

The Wiggle Room is where Belfast's kids are taking charge! Picture this: a digital ball pit that springs to life with every wiggle, hop, and twirl - created by kids, for kids.

Dates

From:

19 Sept 2024to5 Jan 2025Various Opening Times

Price
Free

More Info
Antechamber: Mary McIntyre

Belfast

Address

Ulster Museum, Stranmillis Road, Botanic Gardens, Belfast, County Antrim, BT9 5AB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9044 0000

info@nationalmuseumsni.org

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Exhibition

See new intervention by Northern Irish Artist Mary McIntyre in the Spotlight Gallery at Ulster Museum.

Dates

From:

27 Sept 2024to26 Jan 2025Various Opening Times

Price
Free

More Info
Tappi Odu (Flee)

Belfast

Address

Ulster Museum, Stranmillis Road, Botanic Gardens, Belfast, County Antrim, BT9 5AB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9044 0000

info@nationalmuseumsni.org

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Exhibition

Explore Tamil artist Anushiya Sundaralingam's installation தப்பி ஓடு Tappi Odu (Flee) in the Window on Our World gallery at the Ulster Museum.

Dates

From:

4 Oct 2024to5 Jan 2025Various Opening Times

Price
Free

More Info
RUA Annual Exhibition

Belfast

Address

Ulster Museum, Stranmillis Road, Botanic Gardens, Belfast, County Antrim, BT9 5AB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9044 0000

info@nationalmuseumsni.org

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Exhibition

The 143rd Royal Ulster Academy Annual Exhibition of Art is taking place at Ulster Museum.

Dates

From:

18 Oct 2024to5 Jan 2025Various Opening Times

Price
Free

More Info
BEUYS

Belfast

Address

Ulster Museum, Stranmillis Road, Botanic Gardens, Belfast, County Antrim, BT9 5AB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9044 0000

info@nationalmuseumsni.org

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Exhibition

See BEUYS 50 Years Later: Action, Society, Performance and Change at Ulster Museum.

Dates

From:

18 Oct 2024to18 May 2025Various Opening Times

Price
Free

More Info
Belfast Christmas Market

Belfast

Address

Belfast City Hall, Donegal Square, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 5GS

generalenquiries@belfastcity.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Christmas Events

The Belfast Christmas Market returns to City Hall Gardens in November 2024, bringing with it a traditional taste of Christmas.

Dates

From:

17 Nov 2024to22 Dec 2024Various Opening Times

Price
Free

More Info
Lisburn Elfie Tour

Lisburn

Address

Lisburn City Centre and Bow Street Mall, Lisburn, County Antrim, BT28 1AG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9244 7452

Price
Price £5.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Christmas Events

Journey from Lisburn to Lapland with the magical Elfie Walking Tour. Santa’s elves will take you on a journey filled with mischief and magic through Lisburn City Centre.

Dates

From:

22 Nov 2024to21 Dec 2024Various Opening Times

Price
Price £5.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Off site parking
Facilities

Accessibility
- Ramp / Level Access
Lisburn Light Trail at Castle Gardens

Lisburn

Address

Lisburn Castle Gardens, Lisburn, County Antrim, BT28 1XZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9244 7544

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Christmas Events

Come and wander through our spectacular light trail in Castle Gardens this Christmas and take in the wonderful sights of the light show.

Dates

From:

22 Nov 2024to23 Dec 2024Open 16:00 - 20:30

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Off site parking
Facilities

Accessibility
- Ramp / Level Access
Festive Fayre at Titanic Belfast

Belfast

Address

1 Olympic Way, Queens Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT3 9EP

Telephone
02890766386

marketing@titanicbelfast.com

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Christmas Events

Titanic Belfast's Festive Fayre returns this winter!

Dates

From:

24 Nov 2024to22 Dec 2024Various Opening Times

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
A Magical Christmas Experience

Belfast

Address

1 Olympic Way, Queens Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT3 9EP

Telephone
02890766386

welcome@titanicbelfast.com

Price
Price £25.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Christmas Events

A Magical Christmas Experience is back! Watch the excitement unfold as Father Christmas and his Elves count down to their favourite night of the year on a guided tour of our Magical Christmas Experience from 27th November - 23rd December!

Dates

From:

27 Nov 2024to23 Dec 2024Open 10:00 - 19:30

Price
Price £25.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Enchanted Winter Garden

Antrim

Address

Antrim Castle Gardens, Randalstown Road, Antrim, County Antrim, BT41 4LH

Telephone
0300 123 7788

culture@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

Price
Price £10.50 to £32.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Christmas Events

As the winter sun sets over Lough Neagh, Antrim Castle Gardens comes alive with lights and magic for the perfect Christmas experience suitable for everyone.

Dates

From:

29 Nov 2024to21 Dec 2024Open 16:30 - 21:30

Price
Price £10.50 to £32.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Santa's Elf Academy

Belfast

Address

W5, The Odyssey, 2 Queens Quay, Belfast, County Antrim, BT3 9QQ

Telephone
00000000000

media@w5online.co.uk

Type

Type:

Christmas Events

Join Santa and his elf-bot Bud-E for an all-new live-action show, Elf Academy! Children and adults are invited to participate in fun games and activities to prove they have what it takes to become one of Santa's helpers.

Dates

From:

30 Nov 2024to23 Dec 2024Open 10:00 - 18:00

More Info
Christmas at W5

Belfast

Address

W5, The Odyssey, 2 Queens Quay, Belfast, County Antrim, BT3 9QQ

media@w5online.co.uk

Type

Type:

Christmas Events

Magical Christmas experiences for the whole family at W5!

Dates

From:

30 Nov 2024to23 Dec 2024Open 10:00 - 18:00

More Info
Victorian Santa Experience @ Whitehead Railway Museum

Whitehead

Address

Whitehead Railway Museum, Whitehead Excursion Station, Castleview Road, Whitehead, County Antrim, BT38 9NA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9358 6200

gm@steamtrainsireland.com

Type

Type:

Christmas Events

Come to Whitehead Excursion Station for a magical Santa experience, featuring a heritage steam train ride and a search for Santa. Enjoy Victorian-style decorations, spot hidden animals, and meet Santa's sleigh and reindeer. Children will receive…

Dates

From:

1 Dec 2024to22 Dec 2024Various Opening Times

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- On site parking
Facilities

Leisure Facilities
- Wifi
Establishment Features
- Wi-fi available
Carrickfergus Festive Artisan Market

Carrickfergus

Address

Carrickfergus Town Hall, Joymount, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 7DN

Telephone
03001245000

towncentres@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Christmas Events

The market will take place on Saturday 7 December from 11am-3pm in Carrickfergus Town Hall. The Market will showcase a wide range of crafters, you will certainly discover that gift, crafted locally.

Dates

From:
7 Dec 2024Open 11:00 - 15:00

Price
Free

More Info
A Christmas Sing-Along with Northern Ireland Opera

Belfast

Address

The Hub, Custom House, Custom House Square, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 3AS

Telephone
028 9032 7007

info@niopera.com

Price
Price £15.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Christmas Events

A Christmas Sing-Along with the Northern Ireland Opera Chorus

Dates

From:
7 Dec 2024Open 11:00 - 12:00

Price
Price £15.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Wildlife Wonderland

Belfast

Address

Belfast Zoo, Antrim Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT36 7PN

Telephone
02890776277

info@belfastzoo.co.uk

Type

Type:

Christmas Events

On Saturday 7, Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 December, visitors will notice a touch of magic in the air at Belfast Zoo as we get into the festive spirit with the return of our Wildlife Wonderland event. Put on your preferred Christmas jumper and join…

Dates

From:

7 Dec 2024to15 Dec 2024Open 10:00 - 04:00

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking