NI’s Family-Friendly Festivals

Northern Ireland's Best Family-Friendly Festivals

When the sun’s out, there is nothing better than a festival to soak up the great weather with the family. A mix of music, food and laughter often brings out the best in everyone and, even if the weather doesn’t meet expectations, the festival atmosphere and long list of activities are sure to keep excitement levels high.

Find below a list of some of the best family-friendly festivals happening across Northern Ireland this summer.

Heart of the Glens Festival, Cushendall, County Antrim

4^th – 11^th August

A community festival for all ages, Heart of the Glens Festival will be run for the 28^th time this year.  The festival includes a RNLI Open Day, Community parade, a lorry display, fancy dress, sports night, food festival and various themed evenings as part of the week-long festivities.

Check out the Heart of the Glens Festival website for more details.

Portavogie Seafood Festival, Portavogie, County Down

11th August

Any foodies in the family? Portavogie Seafood Festival will be the stuff of dreams for seafood fans. The festival promises an opportunity to sample some of Northern Ireland’s best seafood along Portavogie harbour. There will also be children’s entertainment and lots of activities providing hours of fun in and around the festival.

Find out more on the Portavogie Seafood Festival website.

Stendhal, Limavady, County Londonderry~Derry

10^th & 11^th August

Voted Best Small Festival three years in a row, Stendhal’s programme looks to be as exciting as ever. Based in the beautiful grounds of Ballymun Cottage Farm, Limavady, Stendhal has a long list of music acts – local and international, comedy and food stalls to keep all the family entertained and well fed. Festival goers can camp, book into nearby accommodation or just come along for the day.

Find out more about Stendhal Festival and see if it is the festival for you and your family this summer.

Red Sails Festival, Portstewart, County Londonderry~Derry

22^nd – 28^th July

A highlight for locals and holiday-goers alike, Portstewart’s Red Sails Festival not only offers a spectacular display of fireworks on its final night but also a week-long programme full of exciting activities and experiences. All free of charge! From fancy dress competitions to live music at the town’s bandstand, this looks set to be a fun-filled week on the north coast. 

Check out the Red Sails Festival programme for more details.

Armagh’s 7 Hills Blues Festival, Armagh, County Armagh

9^th -12^th August

For Blues fans, the 7 Hills Blues Festival in Armagh City will be a feast of Blues music across 30 different venues in Armagh City. A unique and fun festival for all the family, Armagh’s 7 Hills Blues Festival attracts thousands of people every year. The festival is also near some of the city’s favourite restaurants and cafes for a special family meal to end your music-filled festival fun.

Check out Visit Armagh for updates on the annual 7 Hills Blues Festival.

Needing more ideas for the family this summer? Take a look at our list of 10 free family activities for inspiration and budget-friendly ideas.   

Island Art's Children's Arts Festival, Lisburn

Various dates

Birthed out of Young of Art, an initiative encouraging young people and children to embrace their creative side, Island Art's Children's Arts Festival will be happening throughout this summer. Have you any creative little ones who would love to learn the ideas and processes behind making great art?  Sign them up for the ISLAND galleries' wonderful workshops this summer.

Needing more ideas for the family this summer? Take a look at our list of 10 free family activities for inspiration and budget-friendly ideas.