Causeway Coast and Glens Sets Out Tourism Events Programme For Next Year

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has unveiled a proposed £626,693 programme of tourism events for 2026–27, outlining an extensive calendar of festivals, seasonal celebrations and headline gatherings aimed at boosting the borough’s visitor economy.  

The report to be presented to the Leisure and Development Committee next week seeks elected members’ approval for a schedule of council-managed events, alongside permission to progress procurement linked to their delivery.

The document states the programme is designed to “provide a balanced portfolio for major events” and enhance prosperity across the borough.

The overall budget reflects a 4% uplift on 2025/26 figures due to inflation and increased operational pressures, particularly around traffic and crowd management. Officers cite rising costs for safety measures, entertainment and event infrastructure, noting that “headroom within budgets… has been challenging” in the current year.  

Some events face additional cost pressures. The Ould Lammas Fair, one of the largest gatherings in the calendar, requires increased funding for crowd control, traffic management and enhanced entertainment. Income from amusements is also expected to fall temporarily due to redevelopment works at Quay Road.

If approved, the schedule will span April 2026 to November 2026, beginning with the Ballymoney Spring Fair and culminating in the borough’s Christmas light switch-ons. Highlights include:

Ballymoney Spring Fair – April 2026

A two-day programme mixing live music, artisan markets and a town-wide parade. The event typically attracts up to 5,000 visitors. 

NW200 Race Week Festival – May 2026

The council will again support Meet the Riders, live music at Portstewart and a fireworks display. The success of the 2025 beach races means organisers hope to repeat the spectacle on Portrush’s East Strand. 

Rathlin Sound Festival – May 2026

A refreshed cultural programme is planned, expanding music and food activities in Ballycastle while maintaining the island’s maritime-themed celebrations. A possible rebrand is being considered. 

Summer Theatre and Fireworks – July & August

Street theatre across coastal resorts returns, alongside major fireworks evenings in Portstewart and Portrush. 

Ould Lammas Fair – 22–25 August 2026

Ireland’s oldest fair will again bring crowds estimated at 130,000 over four days. Expanded horse-related exhibitions, markets, family zones and music stages form part of the growing offer. 

Bushmills Salmon and Whiskey Festival – October 2026

A revitalised format will connect the food and drink sector with a borough-wide “taste trail” and extended culinary experiences. Around 5,000 attendees are expected. 

Halloween Events Across Four Towns – Late October

Fireworks, parades and themed entertainment will take place in Ballymoney, Coleraine, Limavady and Ballycastle. The Council is assessing new sites for Ballymoney due to the growing size of the event. 

Atlantic Sessions – November 2026

More than 30 free gigs will take place across Portrush and Portstewart, with a mix of emerging and established musical talent performing in intimate venues.

Christmas Light Switch-Ons – November 2026

Festive parades, live entertainment and town-centre celebrations will take place in Ballymoney, Limavady, Ballycastle and Coleraine. 

The report highlights that 2026 will also see Coleraine host Northern Ireland’s Armed Forces Day—an event that will require strategic planning support from the tourism team. This comes after a busy 2025, during which officers not only delivered the full events programme but also supported The 153rd Open Championship.