Are you ready to dive into the lively culture and exciting celebrations of Derry, Northern Ireland this autumn? As the leaves turn and the air gets cooler, the city buzzes with festivals for all ages. You’ll find everything from the famous Derry Hallowe’en Carnival to the IMBOLC International Music Festival. Derry is gearing up for an autumn full of festivals and events for every interest.
Key Takeaways
- Derry, Northern Ireland hosts an array of exciting festivals and events throughout the autumn season of 2024
- These festivals celebrate the city’s rich cultural heritage, culinary delights, and captivating musical traditions
- From the Derry Hallowe’en Carnival to the IMBOLC International Music Festival, there’s something for everyone to enjoy
- Visitors can immerse themselves in a wide range of activities, from theatrical performances to international choir competitions
- These autumn festivals promise to create lasting memories and showcase the vibrant spirit of Derry
Indulging in Derry’s Culinary Delights
Derry, a vibrant city in Northern Ireland, is a food lover’s dream. It offers a wide range of local produce and gourmet experiences for every taste. Whether you want modern cuisine, a fine dining experience, or just a good meal, Derry has remarkable dining options that will make you want more.
Local Produce, Gourmet Experiences
Local chefs in Derry love to highlight the region’s local produce. They turn it into dishes that will excite your taste buds. You’ll find everything from rich Dart Mountain cheese to delicious Sperrins goat cheese, making the gourmet experiences here truly special.
In February, the city celebrates Love Legenderry Food Month. This month is filled with food events and experiences that showcase Derry’s local produce. Visitors can enjoy the Derry’s Famous Beer & Cheese Tour, the Dart Mountain Cheese Experience, and the Sperrins Goat Cheese Experience, among others.
Remarkable Dining Options
Derry has a wide range of restaurants, bistros, and brasseries. Whether you’re after a modern take on traditional dishes or a full-on culinary journey, the city’s restaurants and eateries have it all.
Don’t miss the Oyster & Stout Festival at Walled City Brewery. It’s a chance to enjoy local oysters with the brewery’s famous stout. For something unique, try the 7 Drinks for 7 Cheeses event at The Playhouse. It’s all about pairing the finest local produce with top-notch drinks.
“The local chefs in Derry are passionate about showcasing the best of the region’s local produce, transforming it into culinary masterpieces that will tantalise your taste buds.”
If you’re a food lover or just enjoy good food, Derry’s dining options will surely impress you. They offer a mix of gourmet experiences and local cuisine that will leave you wanting more.
Mark Your Calendars: Upcoming Festivals
Autumn in Derry is full of life, with many festivals lined up. You’ll find music, arts, food, and fashion events. Make sure to note these events in your calendar for a memorable autumn trip.
| Event | Dates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Donegal Town 550th Birthday Celebrations | 15th March – 31st December 2024 | Donegal Town will celebrate its 550th birthday with a range of events and activities throughout the year. |
| Oideas Gael Language & Cultural Courses | 15th March – 28th October 2024 | Oideas Gael will commemorate 40 years of providing Irish language courses and cultural activity holidays. |
| Donegal Music Trails | 1st May – 1st October 2024 | Visitors can explore the county’s rich musical heritage through the Donegal Music Trails programme. |
| Traditional Music Sessions | 7th July – 15th September 2024 and 21st June – 6th September 2024 | Enjoy lively traditional music sessions featuring local and visiting musicians. |
| Market At The Mews | 13th July – 31st August 2024 | This weekly market showcases a variety of crafts, Irish design, and artisan products. |
| Sliabh Liag Tours | July 2024 | Explore the stunning Sliabh Liag cliffs and other scenic spots in Donegal with guided tours. |
| Donegal Legends & Lore | 17th July – 28th August 2024 | Immerse yourself in the rich storytelling traditions of Donegal through interactive experiences. |
| Mary From Dungloe International Arts Festival | 27th July – 5th August 2024 | This annual festival celebrates music, culture, arts, and community in Dungloe. |
| Letterkenny Pride Festival | 30th July – 3rd August 2024 | A celebration of diversity and inclusion within the LGBTQ+ community. |
| 47th Ballyshannon Folk and Traditional Music Festival | 1st – 4th August 2024 | Enjoy performances by musicians from Ireland and beyond at this long-standing festival. |
| Festival of Lughnasa | 1st – 5th August 2024 | An arts event honoring the old Celtic festival of Lughnasa in Glenties. |
| Muff Féile | 2nd – 5th August 2024 | A community-driven festival offering family activities, sports, and drama workshops. |
| Breffni 3 Province Challenge | 3rd August 2024 | A charitable run, walk, or cycle challenge to raise funds for cancer research. |
| Fusion Music Festival 2024 | 4th August 2024 | A one-day festival featuring a diverse lineup of musical performers and artists. |
| Grampian Concert Orchestra Performance | 4th August 2024 | The Grampian Concert Orchestra will perform in Aberdeen, Scotland, under the baton of Tim Tricker. |
| Clonmany Festival | 4th – 11th August 2024 | A week-long summer festival offering a variety of family-friendly activities and entertainment. |
Derry is buzzing with cultural events this autumn. Whether you love music, food, or arts, there’s something for you. Start planning your trip to Derry today!
Festivals in Derry autumn 2024
The crisp autumn air brings Derry’s cultural scene to life. We invite you to explore the vibrant festivals that make autumn special. Experience the rich heritage and diverse celebrations that capture the season’s spirit.
Maiden City Festival
The Maiden City Festival starts on 3-10 August, showcasing Derry’s arts, music, and community spirit. It’s a week-long celebration of the city’s unique culture. Locals and visitors are welcome to join in the fun.
Féile
Next, Féile festival happens from 10-17 August. It’s a celebration of Irish culture, heritage, and creativity. Expect music, theatre, dance, and literature. Féile is perfect for those wanting to explore Derry’s cultural heritage.
Foyle Pride Festival
The Foyle Pride Festival focuses on Derry’s LGBTQ+ community from 15-25 August. It features a parade, discussions, and performances. The festival celebrates diversity and inclusion in a vibrant way.
Derry’s autumn is full of events, from the Maiden City Festival to Féile and Foyle Pride. Each event offers a unique glimpse into the city’s spirit. Don’t miss out on these must-see festivals.
Derry’s Musical Heritage
Derry-Londonderry is proud of its musical history. Famous artists like The Undertones and Bronagh Gallagher come from here. The city’s music scene is rich and varied, with many music festivals throughout the year.
In 2013, Derry-Londonderry was named the UK’s first City of Culture. This shows how much the city values its arts. The City of Derry International Choral Festival is a big event, featuring choirs from all over the world.
Dr. Lynch and Mr. Maurice Kelly are well-known in the music world. Dr. Lynch has worked in the US, Europe, and Asia. Mr. Kelly has been in music for nearly 30 years, making a name for himself locally and internationally.
Shane Lynch is another talented conductor from Derry. He has performed in many countries, including Scotland and South Korea. He has won awards for his work and had a piece, Joseph and Grace, premiered in Ireland.
The music scene in Derry-Londonderry is lively and diverse. The city hosts music festivals that draw people from near and far. Events like the Foyle Maritime Festival and the Carnival of Colours celebrate the city’s music and culture.
| Derry Music Festivals | Featured Artists/Events |
|---|---|
| City of Derry International Choral Festival | Dr. Lynch, Mr. Maurice Kelly, Choirs from around the world |
| Foyle Maritime Festival | NI Opera, Kila, DJ sessions, watersport taster events, Legenderry Food Village, Carnival of Colours, vintage funfair |
| Carnival of Colours | Circus acts, theatre performances |
Derry-Londonderry’s music scene is vibrant and full of talent. From choral performances to music festivals, the city offers a wide range of music. It’s a place where music brings people together.
IMBOLC International Music Festival
As winter fades and spring starts, the IMBOLC International Music Festival in Derry, Northern Ireland, welcomes music fans. It’s a chance to enjoy folk, traditional, and world music. This eight-day event, from 28th January to 4th February 2024, is perfect for those wanting to dive into the area’s musical culture.
Folk, World Music, and More
The festival celebrates Ireland’s musical traditions but has grown to include various genres. You’ll find enchanting folk and traditional music, plus jazz, contemporary, and world music. There’s something for every music lover.
- Discover the soulful melodies of Irish folk music
- Experience the captivating rhythms of world music from across the globe
- Enjoy the dynamic fusion of jazz and traditional sounds
- Participate in music and dance workshops, including Sean-nós and two-hands dance
- Immerse yourself in the weekend-long Band Camp for young traditional musicians
- Explore the festival’s extensive programme of concerts, workshops, and cultural events
The IMBOLC International Music Festival in Derry is an unforgettable experience. It showcases folk music Derry, world music Derry, and the lively music festivals Derry scene. It’s perfect for music lovers and those looking for cultural adventures.
City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival
Join us for the City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival, a yearly event that brings together music lovers from all over. Set for May 2024, it’s a chance to see the best jazz and big band acts. Artists and groups from everywhere will perform.
Over 70 venues across the city will host more than 200 live acts. This means a unique musical experience for everyone. You’ll find everything from cozy jazz bars to big concert halls. Derry becomes a center of music talent, attracting crowds ready to enjoy the festival’s energy.
“The City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival is a must-attend event for any music lover. It’s a celebration of the rich heritage and vibrant contemporary scene of jazz and big band music in this city.” – Jazz enthusiast, Jane Doe
Walking through the city, you’ll hear soulful tunes and beats that make Derry famous for jazz and big band. The Guinness Jazz Trail and main stage shows will take you on a musical journey. It’s an experience that will leave you wanting more.
Whether you’re a jazz expert or new to the scene, the festival is unforgettable. So, set your calendar and dive into Derry’s musical heritage. Let’s explore the world of jazz and big band music together.
Celtronic Festival
As autumn arrives, Derry comes alive with the Celtronic Festival’s beats. This five-day event, from March 28th to March 31st, brings together a mix of house music, techno, and more. It’s a unique chance to experience a wide range of electronic music.
The festival features big names like David Holmes, Annie Mac, Move D, KiNK, New Jackson, Cartin, Jordan Villa, Sean Den, The Cyclist, Bekuz, and Queen & Disco. These stars will perform at famous spots in Derry. They’ll mix electronic music genres in a way that will amaze everyone.
Parties will be held at places like Sandinos, St Columbs Hall, and The Nerve Centre. You’ll find everything from house music to techno beats. It’s a chance to dive into the world of electronic music.
You can buy tickets, including the Access All Events passes, on Eventbrite. More acts are still to be announced, adding to the excitement. The Celtronic Festival is set to be a memorable event for electronic music fans in Derry.
“Celtronic Festival has become a must-attend event for fans of house music and techno in Derry. The line-up this year is truly exceptional, showcasing the city’s vibrant electronic music scene.” – VRGN, female DJ and Celtronic Festival performer
Foyle Maritime Festival
Derry-Londonderry’s Foyle Maritime Festival is a big event every year. It brings over 175,000 visitors to the city’s beautiful riverfront. The festival celebrates the area’s maritime history and food.
Clipper Round the World Yacht Race
The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race is a key part of the festival. These brave yachts stop in Derry-Londonderry during their journey around the globe. Thousands will watch as they come and go, showing off their adventure spirit.
Legenderry Food Festival & Market
The Legenderry Food Festival & Market adds to the fun. It offers local foods, gourmet treats, and live music. Visitors can enjoy artisanal foods and craft beers in Derry-Londonderry’s historic setting.
| Event | Attendance | Cost | Funding |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foyle Maritime Festival | 175,000 (2022) | £440,000 | £321,000 (Council contribution) |
Foyle Port is marking 170 years of trade and industry on the River Foyle. The Maritime Festival will celebrate Derry-Londonderry’s maritime and food culture. It offers water and land activities, live shows, and a food festival. Don’t miss it if you’re in Derry-Londonderry this autumn.
Carnival of Colours
Dive into a world of colour and art at Derry’s top circus and theatre festival. This event spans two days, featuring local and international stars. It turns the city centre into a stage for amazing acrobatics and performances.
Circus Acts and Theatre Performances
The festival is a treat for all senses, with the Big Top and Baby Big Top Tents full of fun for families during the day. At night, the tents buzz with music, comedy, and cabaret for adults.
See incredible circus acts like trapeze artists and jugglers. Experience the magic of theatre with shows that take you to new places. The Carnival of Colours celebrates Derry’s unique arts scene with its vibrant colours.
This event is backed by local businesses and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. Don’t miss it on August 6th and 7th. Let’s celebrate the arts together and make unforgettable memories.
City of Derry International Choir Festival
The City of Derry International Choir Festival is a big event that celebrates Derry-Londonderry’s choral music. It’s coming up for its 12th time in 2024. We’re excited to see over 90 musical groups from all over the world.
Last year, 80 choirs took part in more than 90 events across 44 venues. This brought together 20,500 people and boosted the local economy by over 2,500 bed-nights. We expect even more visitors in 2024.
Experts from Germany, Norway, Ireland, and Hungary will judge the choirs. They’ll pick the best choir, who will win the Oak Tree of Derry Trophy at the Closing Gala Concert.
There will be more than just competitions. The Festival Chorus will perform with guest soloists and the Ulster Orchestra. The German group SLIXS will also perform with young singers from Derry, Strabane, and Donegal.
Since 2013, over 350 choirs from around the world have joined the festival. The 2024 event will be a special celebration of choral music. We can’t wait to welcome music lovers from everywhere to this exciting event, happening from October 23rd to 27th, 2024.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Number of musical groups participating in 2024 | 91 |
| Number of choirs participating in 2023 | 80 |
| Number of events held in 2023 | Over 90 |
| Number of venues used in 2023 | 44 |
| Audience size in 2023 | 20,500 |
| Bed-nights generated in 2023 | Over 2,500 |
| Number of countries represented by choirs | Over 10 |
| Size of the Festival Chorus in 2024 | 100 singers |
The City of Derry International Choir Festival shows the city’s love for music and its global choral community. We’re really looking forward to the 2024 event, which will be a beautiful celebration of the human voice.
Derry Hallowe’en Carnival
Derry-Londonderry shines every year with the Derry Hallowe’en Carnival, the biggest Halloween event in Europe. It was named the Number One Halloween Destination in the World by USA Today in 2015. This celebration honours Celtic heritage and folklore, offering a feast for the senses.
Visitors are captivated by vibrant displays, a spooky atmosphere, and unforgettable spectacles. It’s a true celebration of the city’s culture.
Awakening the Walls
The “Awakening the Walls” light festival is a highlight of the Derry Hallowe’en Carnival. It features over 30 art installations and performances. These light up the historic city walls, creating an enchanting experience.
Revellers see the walls come alive with animations and displays. They celebrate the city’s rich cultural heritage.
City of Bones Parade
The City of Bones Parade is another key event of the Derry Hallowe’en Carnival. At night, supernatural beings and the souls of the dead fill the streets. They parade with costumes, music, and pageantry.
Thousands watch this spectacular event. It shows the region’s traditions and community spirit.
The carnival has a wide range of events. These include Little Horrors shows, the Tower of Terror, Samhain Sessions, and the Legenderry Food Village. The Derry Hallowe’en Carnival is a must-see for Halloween fans.
“Derry’s Halloween celebrations are a true feast for the senses, captivating visitors with its vibrant displays, spooky atmosphere, and unforgettable spectacles.”
Foyle Film Festival
The Foyle Film Festival is a top event for film lovers in Derry. It’s one of the few festivals linked to Oscars and BAFTAs. The festival brings a great mix of films that tell stories in a unique way.
Intercultural & Anti-Racism Programme
The Intercultural & Anti-Racism programme is a key part of the festival. It includes award-winning films, special events, and workshops. These focus on important topics like racism and inequality.
It aims to make people understand and value diversity. This helps build empathy and understanding among everyone.
This year’s festival runs from 18th to 27th November. It will feature the Northern Ireland premiere of Next Goal Wins by Taika Waititi. There will also be screenings of Evil Does Not Exist by Ryusuke Hamaguchi.
Other films like Poor Things, All of Us Strangers, The Holdovers, and Eileen will be shown too.
The festival also celebrates the works of Powell and Pressburger. You can see classics like 28 Days Later and Raging Bull. Music fans will enjoy live shows and documentaries on Cyndi Lauper and Talking Heads.
The festival highlights the mix of international and Irish films and talents. Films like Next Goal Wins and The Eternal Daughter show this mix well.
There are also events for industry professionals. They can meet famous filmmakers like Christopher Morrison and Margo Harkin. The festival has a Short Film Competition with 68 films competing for awards.
Conclusion
Derry’s autumn 2024 festival calendar is full of exciting events for all interests. You can enjoy the Derry Hallowe’en Carnival or the IMBOLC International Music Festival. These events highlight the city’s rich musical heritage.
Looking to try Derry’s famous food, dive into the arts, or just enjoy the buzz? Derry has festivals and celebrations for everyone. Make sure to add these to your autumn plans for a memorable trip.
The cultural calendar is full, from the Galway International Arts Festival in July to the Cork Jazz Festival in October. There’s something for music fans and those who love traditional Irish tunes. Plus, the Fairy Thorn Festival now has a Teen Outdoor Pursuits program for all ages.
