What's On in Derry Londonderry

What’s going on in Derry-Londonderry

Though Derry-Londonderry is one of the oldest cities in Ireland, the home of Teenage Kicks and Derry Girls has always been young at heart. Northern Ireland's second city has a proud musical pedigree with The Undertones, Nell McCafferty, Bronagh Gallagher, Willie Doherty, singer-songwriter SOAK and Snow Patrol's Johnny McDaid all hailing from Derry-Londonderry. With so much musical talent around, it should come as no surprise that here you will find a host of music festivals to suit all tastes throughout the year - from jazz, electronic to choral and beyond.

When it comes to what’s happening in Derry-Londonderry, the best way to find out is to ask the locals as often this will lead you to unknown treasures. But here's a few ideas to get you started...

Kick the summer off with Jazz & Big Bands (Thurs 1 May - Mon 5 May)

The City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival in May features artists from all over the world for an annual celebration of jazz and big bands. Around 70 venues play host to more than 200 live acts to packed audiences. The full programme will be unveiled early in 2025, offering an array of performances sure to get your feet tapping. It will be jam packed full of international and homegrown talent, bringing together a heady mix of Jazz, Blues, Soul and Rock. There is truly something to suit all ages and tastes.

Ballyscullion Park Book Festival (Sat 10 - Sun 11 May)

The Ballyscullion Park Book Festival returns to Bellaghy to bring together readers, writers and art lovers for an unforgettable weekend of cultural delights in the heart of Seamus Heaney country. This a celebration of literature is one for the books. With a line-up of both new and returning authors, children’s writers, historians, poets, musicians and artists. Choose from nearly 50 different events, all while enjoying the live music and local food stalls.

City Of Derry International Choir Festival (Wed 22 - Sun 26 Oct)

The Choir Festival returns for its 13th year to the city of song with participating choirs taking over Derry and its surrounding areas with a tidal wave of magical choral music! Get ready for a superb programme of guest artist concerts, competitions, workshops, pop-up choral trail performances and community concerts in venues across the city and northwest region. This event presents a perfect opportunity to hear a range of choral music while exploring the unique charm of Derry~Londonderry. It is a key event in the city's cultural calendar.

Derry Halloween (Tues 28 - Fri 31 Oct)

Europe’s Largest Halloween Festival will return to welcome the spirit of Samhain through its historic gates for a festival like no other! The story of Halloween is brought to life over four nights as the worlds of past and present collide to bring you a dazzling street celebration like no other. Celebrate all things spooky in the official home of Halloween. Join the festivities and help bring magic and mischief to the streets.