Here are ten exciting things to do 19 – 25 August
Belfast Mela, 17 – 25 August. A week-long celebration of culture, colour and creativity that comes together across a magical series of events finishing with the fabulous festival finale at Botanic Gardens. Belfast Mela is the city’s annual celebration of global cultures and sees tens of thousands of visitors come together to celebrate our people and diversity.- Ould Lammas Fair, Ballycastle, County Antrim, 24 – 27 August. Every year, thousands flock to the beautiful seaside town of Ballycastle for the Ould Lammas Fair. Traditionally held on the last Bank Holiday weekend of the summer, the town bustles with street trading, bargaining, traditional music, dancing, horse trading, amusements, artisan markets and more. The fair launches with a spectacular fireworks display at the Seafront on Saturday 24th August, complemented by live music and a twilight market. There is also a live music concert in The Diamond on Sunday 25th August. Don’t forget to pick up some Dulce or Yellow Man – a local sweet speciality.
- Museum Late: Keep ‘Er Lit at Ulster Museum, Belfast, 22 August. Expect the unexpected at the Ulster Museum Late from 18:00 to 22:00 – an experience for adults only. Get creative with life drawing, watch adult science shows and try the museum’s VR and experimental synth stations. Explore the Archaeology Neolithic Minecraft world and follow a Trad Trail with An Droichead, plus so much more.
- Summer of Play at Florence Court, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, until 1 September. Join the fun at Florence Court this summer with ‘all the fun at the fair’ games, and the new obstacle course just beside the mansion. Don’t forget to pick up an ‘eye spy’ sheet at reception for some added fun for the little ones as they explore the estate. Normal admission applies.
- Hillsborough Castle Summer Fair, Royal Hillsborough, County Down, 24 – 26 August. Celebrate the bank holiday weekend at the magical Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. Explore a variety of stalls with the finest local produce and crafts as our artisan producers bring you the best in gourmet foods and unique handmade items. Soak up the atmosphere and relax with live music all weekend against the picturesque backdrop of the castle.
- Full Moon Paddle, Killinchy, County Down, 19 August. Join Strangford Lough Activity Centre for a Full Moon Paddle. Departing at twilight you will be guided by an instructor for a paddle out onto the water and around the lough’s maze of islands. With a favourable forecast, they hope to have a great view of the stars and moon, with the aim to stop and have a chat with a physicist who will entertain you with lots of night sky-related facts and folklore. After that, you’ll return to base for some hot chocolate & treats.
- Foyle Tribute Festival, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 23 August. Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening as the city plays host to a spectacular tribute concert in aid of three incredible charities, Foyle Search and Rescue, Foyle Pride, and the Foyle Hospice. Some top tribute acts are taking to the stage to deliver a show-stopping spectacular that will make you feel like you’re watching the real -stars. This event is family-friendly with a special, separate area dedicated to children and families who wish to attend in a fun and safe environment for fans of all ages.
- International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition at the Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 24 – 25 August. The Ulster American Folk Park will mark the UNESCO International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition. Learn how products like tobacco, cotton and sugar, cultivated by enslaved people, became part of the local economy in Ulster. Visit the Rogan House and find out how the former enslaved people created their own community in the face of many difficulties after gaining freedom in 1865.
- Summer Seisiún 2024, Omagh, County Tyrone, 20 August. One of the longest running summer shows of its kind, Sesiún attracts increasing numbers of visitors from overseas and nearer home with a show that captivates its audiences and welcomes participation. After the show of authentic Irish traditional music, song, dance and storytelling, light refreshments are served during the short interval. The second part of the evening’s entertainment unfolds, and guests are invited to join the Comhaltas Seisiún experience, taking to the floor as they wish, with a step, tune, song, or story.
- Armagh City Summer Walking Tours, County Armagh, visit website for available dates and times. Armagh is an ancient compact city soaked in myths, legends, history and heritage. Unearth hidden gems with Armagh Guided Walking Tours by taking part in a walking tour of the city centre or a guided tour of the Archbishop’s Palace.
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.