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! 

May Day Steam Rally (4 - 5 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.

North West 200 Race Week (5 - 10 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? 

The Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival (23 May - 1 June) 

Vikings, pirates, seadogs and more at Ballycastle. Join the festival that 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. Become immersed in the people, culture & heritage of the causeway coast for 10 full days of arts, music, storytelling, food and drink. 

The Race of Legends in Armoy (25 - 26 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. 

Ould Lammas Fair (23 - 26 Aug) 

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.  

Salmon and Whiskey Festival, Bushmills (3 - 5 Oct) 

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. 

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.