Music Events

The home of Ash, Snow Patrol, Two Door Cinema Club, Bicep and, of course, Van Morrison, Northern Ireland is renowned the world over for its music and song. 
In the late 1970s, it introduced the world to Teenage Kicks. In more recent years, Northern Ireland has become a place where music fans and festival goers can enjoy a wealth of talent and mix of musical cultures and there is something for every music taste. Not quite a gig guide, more the highlights from a music scene that gets better, and bigger, with every passing year. 

Belfast International Tattoo (5 - 6 Sep)

Experience an unforgettable celebration of music, precision, and cultural heritage at the Belfast International Tattoo 2025! Held at the SSE Arena, Belfast, this spectacular event brings together world-class performers from across the globe, including military bands, dance troupes, and musical ensembles. With roots firmly in the traditions of the Ulster Scots people, the tattoo provides a platform for local talent to shine alongside international acts, showcasing the excellence of marching bands and performers from Northern Ireland and beyond. 

Eats and Beats (6 - 7 Sep)

Another weekend to add into your diary is the Eats and Beats Festival in Newcastle. This year will feature a diverse lineup of bands and performers as well as addition events and festivities in venues right across the town, showcasing the food scene of the area. As one of the largest festivals of its kind in the region, It's a foodie’s and music lover’s paradise. 

Magical Choral Music in Derry~Londonderry (22 - 26 Oct)

The City Of Derry International Choir Festival returns. Participating choirs taking over Derry 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 northwest region. This event presents a perfect opportunity to hear a range of choral music while exploring the unique charm of Derry~Londonderry.

Belfast International Arts Festival (15 Oct - 9 Nov)

This premier arts festival has been featuring great musicians since the late 1960s when Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin and Ravi Shankar played in its formative years. You can expect an exciting, world-class programme of theatre, dance, classical and roots music, visual arts, film and digital arts, talks and literature accompanied by outreach and educational events. This festival always throws up live acts and performances which enter musical folklore and are remembered for many years after.  

Wave after wave of pulsing music in Portrush (13 - 16 Nov)

The Atlantic Sessions come to Portrush in November. You can catch dozens of Northern Ireland’s finest musicians performing in small and intimate venues over four days. Base yourself here for the festival, explore the Causeway Coastal Route by day and at night wind down with the best in Northern Irish musical talent. 

City of Derry Jazz & Big Band Festival (30 Apr - 4 May 2026)

Get ready to swing into action at the City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival! As Ireland's biggest and best jazz festival, this highly anticipated event returns to celebrate a remarkable 25 years of jazz in the historic Walled City. Keep an eye out for exciting program announcements as the festival promises a vibrant array of performances and events for jazz enthusiasts and visitors alike.

Music is everywhere in Northern Ireland and besides these great festivals, you’re likely to find some of the best of it in the most unexpected places. So keep your eyes, and especially your ears, open.