10 things to do in Northern Ireland

Here are ten exciting things to do 15 – 21 July

 

1. Belfast Pride, Belfast, 19 – 28 July. Belfast Pride hosts over 150 events across 10 days. The wide-ranging programme includes the Belfast Pride Family Fun Day on 20th July, as well as a full schedule of workshops, panels, quizzes and more. The festivities culminate in a colourful display of support and solidarity during the Pride Parade and afterparty on 27th July, with music from one of Northern Ireland’s biggest Abba tribute bands The Bjorn Identity, and a crowd-pleasing performance guaranteed by former UTV presenter Julian Simmons with his Ibiza Dance Show.
2. Belfast Whiskey Week, various locations across Belfast, 19 – 27 July. Belfast Whiskey Week celebrates whiskey and Belfast’s deep-rooted history and connection in the production of whiskey spanning centuries, as well as providing experiences for all levels of whiskey drinkers, and even those who don’t. For nine days between the 19th and 27th of July Belfast Whiskey Week presents 100 events that allow you to come and experience whiskey, great food, live music, walking tours and more.
3. UEFA Under-19 European Championship 2024, Belfast, 15 – 28 July. Don’t miss the future stars of international football right on your doorstep. The UEFA Under-19 European Men’s Championship is coming to Northern Ireland this summer. Holders Italy will face Norway in the first match of the 2024 UEFA Men’s European Under-19 Championship finals.
4. Summer Seisiún 2024, Omagh, County Tyrone, 16, 23, 30 July and 6, 13, 20 August. One of the longest running summer shows of its kind, Seisiún attracts increasing numbers of visitors from overseas and nearer home with a show that captivates its audiences and welcomes participation. The evening begins with authentic Irish traditional music, song, dance and storytelling before light refreshments are served and the second part of the evening’s entertainment unfolds. Guests are invited to join the Comhaltas Seisiún experience, taking to the floor as they wish, with a step, tune, song or story.
5. Armagh Summer in the City, Armagh, County Armagh, 20 July – 7 September. Summer in the City returns to Armagh with crafts, football, pom-pom cheerleading, cooking for kiddies, dance for older kiddies, science, magic, music and lots more. All activities are free and will take place around the Market Square, McCrum’s Court and outside the Market Place Theatre.
6. Echoes of Summer at Marble Arch Caves, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 21 July. This event offers guests a unique experience with local Caritas Chamber Choir performing a selection of classical to contemporary music in the show cave. As you walk, accompanied by your guide, summer song echoes through the 340-million-year-old rock formations, carried beyond the chambers and along the rivers of the show cave. And, after you’ve worked up an appetite, why not enjoy a delicious outdoor BBQ feast, rustled up in partnership with Tully Mill Restaurant.
7. Hillsborough Castle and Gardens LGBTQ+ Tour, Royal Hillsborough, County Down 19, 21, 26 July and 2, 4 August. The Royal Residence at Hillsborough Castle is inviting people to attend LGBTQ+ tours led by an expert guide on 19th, 21st, 26th July and 2^nd and 4th August. The tours will shed light on everything from royal relationships and scandals to activism and shifting societal attitudes. The tour will fuel interesting discussions while also providing a look at the Castle’s beautiful collection of artefacts and paintings.
8. Teddy Bear’s Picnic at WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, Comber, County Down, 15 – 28 July 2024. Join Castle Espie for a delightful Teddy Bear’s Picnic when you go down to the woods today. Bring along your teddy bear or toy companion, a picnic blanket and your favourite treats and enjoy an afternoon of nature-themed adventures. Gather around for story time, rhymes and games galore. Call the centre to reserve your place on 02891 874146.
9. The Spirit of the Bann, Coleraine, County Londonderry, 21 July. Causeway Coast Foodie Tours’ ‘Spirit of the Bann’ river whiskey tasting experience is an ideal and unique opportunity to slowly savour distinctive colours and flavours, enjoy a warm glow and celebrate the beautiful blend of natural & man-made wonders our stunning Causeway Coast has to offer.
10. Wild & Fired BBQ School Beer & BBQ with Kate O’Driscoll, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 20 July. You’re invited to join an unforgettable culinary adventure at LO & SLO’s Wild & Fired BBQ School. This hands-on experience includes a bonus bespoke tour of the enchanting private estate and gardens of Brook Hall. Their BBQ experts help you get stuck-in, learn to make your own fire and cook a delicious wood-fired meal in the historic walled garden in Brook Hall estate.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Keep a look out for additional dates of the above events throughout the year.