What's On
Year-round events, festivals, and cultural experiences
Northern Ireland Events Calendar
Discover festivals, cultural events, and seasonal celebrations happening throughout the year in Northern Ireland. From traditional music sessions to international festivals, there's always something exciting to experience.
January Events
Out to Lunch Festival
Annual festival of music, comedy, theatre, art and literature in Belfast's Cathedral Quarter. A perfect way to beat the winter blues with indoor cultural experiences.
February Events
TradFest Ireland
Traditional Irish music concerts and sessions at multiple venues across Northern Ireland. Experience authentic Irish culture with local musicians and traditional instruments.
March Events
St. Patrick's Day Celebrations
Ireland's biggest celebration with parades, traditional music sessions, and family activities throughout Northern Ireland. Belfast, Armagh, and Derry host the largest celebrations.
Armagh's Home of St Patrick's Festival
Music, art, theatre, film and dance celebrating Ireland's patron saint in his spiritual home. Armagh is where St. Patrick established his first church in Ireland.
April Events
Belfast Children's Festival
Theatre, dance, music, art, and family activities designed specifically for children. A wonderful way to introduce young visitors to Northern Ireland's cultural scene.
May Events
Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival
Over 100 events including live music, comedy, literature, theatre, film, and visual art in Belfast's cultural heart. One of Northern Ireland's premier arts festivals.
North West 200
Ireland's largest outdoor sporting event featuring motorcycle road racing on the Causeway Coast. Thrilling racing through the streets of Portrush, Portstewart, and Coleraine.
Belfast City Marathon
Full marathon plus other running events through the streets of Belfast. Join thousands of runners or cheer them on as they explore the city's landmarks and neighborhoods.
June Events
Bloomsday Festival
Literary celebration of James Joyce held on June 16th, the date on which his novel Ulysses takes place. Literary readings, performances, and Joyce-themed events across venues.
July Events
The Open Championship
Major golf championship returns to Royal Portrush Golf Club on the stunning Causeway Coast. Watch the world's best golfers compete in one of golf's most prestigious tournaments.
Orange Order Parades (The Twelfth)
Traditional Protestant parades commemorating the Battle of the Boyne at 19 main locations across Northern Ireland. A significant cultural and historical event with bands, banners, and parades.
August Events
Auld Lammas Fair
Ireland's oldest traditional fair dating to the 17th century in Ballycastle. Famous for Yellowman candy and dulse seaweed, with street stalls, traditional music, and authentic Irish market atmosphere.
FΓ©ile an Phobail
Ireland's biggest community arts festival celebrating Gaelic and republican culture in Belfast. Features traditional music, dance, storytelling, debates, and cultural exhibitions.
September Events
Armagh Food & Cider Weekend
Food tastings, cider tours, and artisan experiences in the heart of the Orchard County. Experience local apple harvests, traditional cider making, and regional specialties.
October Events
Belfast Festival at Queen's
International arts festival with music, theatre, dance, and visual arts at Queen's University Belfast and city venues. Features world-class performers and innovative productions.
Derry Halloween
Europe's biggest Halloween festival with parades, haunted events, and Samhain celebrations. Derry transforms into a spooky wonderland with street performances, ghost tours, and family-friendly frights.
November Events
Belfast Christmas Market
Over 100 international and local traders with handcrafted goods and festive treats at City Hall Gardens. Traditional German-style market with mulled wine, crafts, and holiday atmosphere.
December Events
Christmas Markets and Festivals
Traditional Christmas markets, National Trust Christmas events, and festive celebrations throughout Northern Ireland. Experience the magic of Christmas with carol services, craft fairs, and seasonal events.
Year-Round Events
Traditional Music Sessions
Regular cΓ©ilithe and traditional music sessions in pubs and venues across Northern Ireland. Experience authentic Irish music culture every week.
Ulster Rugby Season
Professional rugby matches at Kingspan Stadium from September to May. Join the passionate Ulster rugby community for thrilling matches.
Game of Thrones Tours
Year-round tours of filming locations across Northern Ireland. Visit the real-world settings of Westeros and the Iron Islands.