Bangor Vibes: A Weekend of Music and Fun

Bangor is set to come alive with music and fun for all ages this summer as Bangor Vibes transforms the city into a vibrant seaside destination on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August.

Bangor Vibes takes place ahead of Belfast hosting the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, the world’s biggest celebration of Irish music and culture, from Sunday 2 August to Sunday 9 August 2026.

The weekend-long celebration will showcase the very best of Bangor’s creativity and hospitality through a varied programme featuring the 73rd Ulster Pipe Band Championships, Bangor Beats and Rhythms, The Queen Magic Experience and live entertainment in various locations across the city.

With visitors expected from across Northern Ireland and beyond, Bangor Vibes will offer opportunities to enjoy music and local experiences while supporting businesses across the city.

73rd Ulster Pipe Band Championships

The 73rd Ulster Pipe Band Championships will return to Ward Park on Saturday 1 August from 11am to 6pm as a major highlight of the Bangor Vibes programme. The long-running competition will welcome pipe bands from across the region and further afield, with the sound of pipes and drums filling the park throughout the day.

Bangor Beats and Rhythms to Take Centre Stage

Also on Saturday 1 August, Bangor Beats and Rhythms will bring music and dance to Holborn Square in the city centre from 1pm to 9pm. Hosted by Cool FM’s Rebecca McKinney, the free, family-friendly event will feature performances and interactive experiences for audiences of all ages, including:

Performances by Ards CCÉ musicians, showcasing the next generation of traditional talent

Interactive set dancing sessions led by Oisín McCann

A special appearance from Riverdance principal dancer Lauren Smyth and her dance school

Songs from the Big Blue, celebrating coastal-inspired traditional music

A finale performance, The Hoolie Hootenanny, bringing audiences and performers together

Don't miss the Artisan Bar and food stalls for a perfect blend of local flavours, refreshments and festival atmosphere.

Visitors can watch, listen, take part and enjoy a range of activities in the city centre throughout the afternoon and evening. Please note that this event is free to attend; however, spaces are limited. If capacity is reached, a one-in, one-out system will operate, and attendees may be required to queue before gaining entry.

The Queen Magic Experience

Adding a different musical flavour to the weekend, The Queen Magic Experience, presented by Open House, will bring the music and spectacle of one of the world’s most iconic rock bands to Ward Park Bandstand, Bangor, on Sunday 2 August from 3pm to 5pm.

Audiences can look forward to an energetic live performance celebrating Queen’s greatest hits, adding to a weekend with something for everyone.

Plan Your Bangor Vibes Weekend

From outdoor performances and hands-on activities to food, hospitality and live entertainment, Bangor Vibes offers a varied weekend programme designed to appeal to residents, families, visitors and music lovers of all ages. Many events are free; please check individual event listings.

On Saturday 1 August, visitors can use the dedicated shuttle service to travel between key locations and enjoy the entertainment on offer throughout Bangor. This free service requires no ticket and will operate on a first come, first served basis.

Shuttle Service Stops

Balloo Park & Ride (NIE Building / Elim Church)

Bloomfield Shopping Centre

Bangor Hospital (for Ward Park and The 73rd Ulster Pipe Band Championships)

Bangor Bus Station

Mills Road, Bingham Street (for Holborn Square and Bangor Beats and Rhythms)

Two additional car parks will also be open from 8am to 7pm at Glenlola Collegiate and Bethany Baptist Church.

Further details are available at www.visitardsandnorthdown.com/bangorvibes, with updates shared across official Council channels.

Image caption:

L to R: Plunkett McGartland, Bangor Beats and Rhythms and Daniel McBlain, Piper with Cleland Memorial Bangor, Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Craig Blaney

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