Here are ten exciting things to do 5 – 12 May
The Briggs Equipment North West 200, Coleraine, County Londonderry, 5 – 10 May. Northern Ireland is the home of motorcycle road racing on closed public roads and every May, the stunning Causeway Coast plays host to one of the sport’s most spectacular events, the Briggs Equipment North West 200. Witness the world’s top competitors in a mass-start as the grid lights turn green, engines scream and feel the vibration through the ground, as the multi-coloured machines and riders race to the first corner at Millbank Avenue, reaching it seconds; it’s a breath-taking sensory experience full of power and skill.
- The Epic Journey to The 153rd Open, Derry~Londonderry, 7 May. Tourism Northern Ireland invites you to join the Epic Journey to The 153rd Open as it extends a giant welcome to the world ahead of the Championship’s return to Royal Portrush from 13 – 20 July. The Epic Journey teed off at Belfast City Hall on April 28th, before arriving at Kerr Street Green in Portrush on May 2nd and it’s now approaching Derry~Londonderry’s Ebrington Square on May 7th. This free public event will showcase how Northern Ireland is ‘Made for Golf’ and sports fans will have the chance to take photos with the world-famous Claret Jug.
- Ballyscullion Park Book Festival, Bellaghy, County Londonderry, 10-11 May. Following the success of its debut festival, the Ballyscullion Park Book Festival is set to become a key event in the literary calendar. The festival, held in the picturesque surroundings of Ballyscullion Park, near Bellaghy, will bring together readers, writers and art lovers for an unforgettable weekend of cultural delights. This year’s festival promises to be bigger and better, with a line-up of both new and returning authors, children’s writers, opinion formers, historians, poets, musicians and artists. Over two days, attendees can choose from up to 50 talks, readings and panel discussions, as well as enjoying live music, local food stalls, artisan products and an art exhibition.
- Wee Critters at Whitehead Railway Museum, Whitehead, County Antrim, 10 May. Come along and enjoy a great family day out at Whitehead Railway Museum in conjunction with Wee Critters, an interactive animal education experience. Your ticket includes the following: a 10-minute steam train ride up and down our own site hauled by the 106-year-old engine No. 3BG ‘Guinness’, a 45-minute interactive experience with ‘Wee Critters’ in their education room and entry to their 5-Gallery Museum to explore at your leisure.
- May Day at Ulster Folk Museum, Holywood, County Down, 5 May. May Day, also known as ‘Bealtaine’, is one of the most important days in the Celtic calendar and marks the returning of light. This day is full of traditions, superstitions and tales of mischievous fairies. At this time of year, the hedgerows, woodlands and verges of the Ulster Folk Museum are bustling after the long winter months.
- Merry May Day at Holywood Town Centre, Holywood, County Down, 5 May. Always a popular family day out, the Merry May Day celebrations have become a long tradition in the bustling gateway town of Holywood. The town will be transformed into a pedestrianised hub of activity. Expect delicious savoury and sweet treats on offer from a food stall market and browse and buy from the bric-a-brac stalls.
- Cookstown Continental Market, Cookstown, County Tyrone, 10-11 May. The much-loved Spring Continental Market is making its grand return to Cookstown this May. Visitors can look forward to an exciting selection of international cuisine, handcrafted goods and artisan delicacies from around the world, all in a lively and vibrant atmosphere.
- Marble Arch Caves – Guided Tour, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, visit website for dates and times. Explore this underworld labyrinth as you trace the journey of the Owenbrean River and discover its energy as the waters gurgle and splash venturing deeper into the black abyss. Enlighten your senses as you smell, hear and feel this active living cave around you. This exciting tour follows the Yorkshire Ramblers exploratory route of 1935 past hidden tunnels, still pools, delicate formations and stunning reflections.
- Naturally North Coast & Glens Artisan Market at Ballycastle Sea Front, Ballycastle, County Antrim, 11 May. The flagship artisan market by Naturally North Coast & Glens on the beautiful Ballycastle Seafront is an excellent showcase of local food, culture, heritage, and traditions. These markets aim to keep things authentic, providing an opportunity to meet some of Northern Ireland’s many producers and creative small businesses. The market features approx. 60 small businesses, showcasing a range of local food, art and handmade crafts.
- South Armagh Folk & Trad Trio, Armagh, County Armagh, 10 May. Join Briege Murphy, Joanna Doran, and Martha Guiney for an unforgettable evening of folk and traditional music, as they bring their rich musical heritage to the stage. Together, these three exceptional women promise a night full of beautiful melodies, captivating storytelling, and unparalleled musicianship.
For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Subject to availabilities with select dates.