Festivals in Northern Ireland 2026: Lineup, Dates, Tickets & Guide

Northern Ireland festival scene in nostalgic vintage travel poster design with mountains and festive crowd

Festivals in Northern Ireland 2026 offer a dynamic mix of music, tradition, and stunning natural backdrops. From Belfast’s urban energy to the serene Causeway Coast, the country hosts some of the most atmospheric music festivals in Northern Europe. Expect vibrant cultural events, open-air concerts, and legendary Irish hospitality from spring to autumn.

Top Festivals in Northern Ireland 2026

AVA Festival 2026

An electronic music festival rooted in creativity and Belfast pride, AVA is a platform for local and global DJs. Expect immersive visuals and a buzzing industrial venue.
Location: Belfast
Date: June
Genres: Techno, House, Electronic, Experimental

Stendhal Festival 2026

Set in the lush landscapes of Limavady, Stendhal is a family-friendly cultural event blending music, arts, and community. A multi-genre showcase with a homegrown feel.
Location: Limavady
Date: August
Genres: Folk, Indie, Rock, Acoustic, Pop

Belfast International Arts Festival 2026

A prestigious event featuring music, theatre, film, and visual arts from across the world. An essential celebration of creativity in the capital.
Location: Belfast
Date: October
Genres: Classical, Jazz, World Music, Contemporary

Camp Dalfest 2026

Held in the stunning Glenarm Castle estate, Camp Dalfest mixes pop and rock acts with gourmet food, glamping, and family activities.
Location: Glenarm
Date: July
Genres: Pop, Rock, Acoustic, Family-friendly

Sunflower Fest 2026

A vibrant, eco-conscious festival focused on wellness, arts, and good vibes. Yoga, healing spaces, and alternative music complete the bohemian atmosphere.
Location: Hillsborough
Date: July
Genres: Reggae, Indie, World, Electro, Ambient

What to Expect from Festivals in Northern Ireland 2026

Festivals in Northern Ireland 2026 combine raw landscapes with spirited crowds and eclectic line-ups. Events range from urban electronic showcases to countryside celebrations with a grassroots soul. Prices are generally affordable compared to UK mainland festivals, with weekend tickets averaging £80–£180. Audiences are warm, diverse, and community-driven, making the vibe welcoming for both locals and visitors.

Tips for Enjoying Festivals in Northern Ireland

Weather: Bring waterproofs and layers—rain is frequent, even in summer.
Transport: Plan ahead, especially for rural events—car hires or shuttle buses are common.
Language: English is spoken everywhere, but Irish and Ulster-Scots heritage may be present in signs and music.
Cash/Card: Contactless is common, but some food or artisan stalls may prefer cash.
Culture: Respect local customs—many festivals are rooted in strong community traditions.
Sustainability: Many events promote eco-practices. Reuse cups and avoid single-use plastics.

How to Get to Northern Ireland in 2026

The main airport is Belfast International Airport (BFS), with connections to the UK and Europe. George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD) offers more regional access. Ferries connect from Liverpool and Cairnryan, Scotland. Trains and buses run from Dublin, making cross-border travel easy. Driving gives the most flexibility, especially for remote festivals.

What to See in Northern Ireland Beyond the Festivals

Giant’s Causeway: A UNESCO World Heritage site of surreal volcanic formations on the coast.
Derry/Londonderry: A walled city rich in history, murals, and cultural landmarks.
Mourne Mountains: Ideal for hiking, with panoramic views and ancient trails.

Tickets Festivals in Northern Ireland 2026

Tickets for festivals in Northern Ireland 2026 vary from free-entry cultural events to paid weekend passes. Many offer early-bird discounts and group rates. Some smaller festivals may sell out quickly, especially those with limited capacity or glamping options. Always check the official page of each festival for up-to-date info on availability and pricing.