What’s on in Northern Ireland
It’s one of Ireland’s top holiday destinations so you’re probably assuming there’s plenty going on. Well you’re right, of course, but we reckon you’ll still be pleasantly surprised at the huge variety of special events in Causeway Coast and Glens… from strong man contests to piping competitions, from gymkhanas to air shows… the list goes on…
Some of our events have been running for centuries. The Auld Lammas Fair in Ballycastle is one of the oldest in Ireland and horses, sheep and cattle are still sold along the village street at fair time. It’s the place to try the traditional ‘yellow man’ toffee.
Fairs and festivals also bring past and present together with carnival atmosphere, while almost every town and village has its own Festival, packed with fun. While many such Festivals are intended for the locals, they have decided visitor appeal, particularly as they often showcase traditional music and arts as well as providing sporting and family craic.
Sports enthusiasts will find any number of games and events to attend, from regular weekend matches to the once a year Dale Farm Milk Cup – International Youth Football Competition which brings young soccer teams from across the world to the North Coast. That coastline is also the venue for one of the biggest annual outdoor sporting events in Ireland: the North West 200 (15th -19th May) motor cycle road race. You don’t need to be a bike enthusiast to join the huge audiences which line the route for this is one of Northern Ireland’s great family festivals and the traditional start to the holiday season.