AVA Festival 2025: Belfast’s Titanic Slipways to host world-class electronic music & arts celebration

Ciaran Bittles, Marketing and Events Producer at the AVA Festival pictured with Emily Magee, Events Development Manager at Tourism NI.

Belfast is gearing up for a pulsating celebration of electronic music and visual arts as the AVA Festival 2025 returns to the iconic Titanic Slipways on Friday 30 and Saturday 31 May.

Supported by Tourism Northern Ireland, the festival promises an electrifying line-up featuring global heavyweights such as Underworld, Overmono, Ewan McVicar, KI/KI, and Sally C, alongside a host of homegrown and internationally acclaimed electronic music artists.

Now in its second decade, AVA Festival has solidified its reputation as a “global cultural catalyst” and Belfast’s “first ever grassroots electronic music and visual art festival”.

What began in a modest warehouse at T13 has grown into a multi-stage outdoor spectacle, blending cutting-edge music with stunning Irish visual arts exhibitions and installations. The event is broadcast to a global audience of 25 million viewers, cementing Belfast’s place on the international cultural map.

A Showcase of Music, Art, and Innovation

This year’s festival will feature an outdoor multi-stage setup at the Titanic Slipways, offering a dynamic platform for electronic music performances and immersive visual art displays.

Complementing the main event, AVA will host a series of talks, workshops, and live sessions on Thursday 29 May at the Printworks, 35-39 Queen Street, Belfast.

These sessions will spotlight local creatives and include a nightlife roundtable with policymakers, councillors, promoters, venues, and artists, fostering discussions on the future of Belfast’s vibrant nightlife scene.

The festival’s economic and cultural impact is significant. Last year, AVA attracted over 16,000 visitors, supported by more than 1,000 artists, partners, press, staff, traders, and volunteers. The 2024 event generated nearly £1 million for Northern Ireland’s economy and resulted in over 6,000 commercial bed nights booked across hotels, B&Bs, guesthouses, and self-catering accommodations.

Tourism Northern Ireland’s Support

AVA Festival 2025 is one of 14 events to receive funding through Tourism Northern Ireland’s International Tourism Events Fund (ITEF), which supports initiatives that draw significant visitor numbers and generate international media coverage.

The festival’s setting in the Titanic Quarter, a symbol of Belfast’s industrial heritage, enhances its appeal as a must-visit destination.

Emily Magee, Events Development Manager at Tourism NI, said:

“Tourism NI is proud to support the AVA Festival this year. Set against the iconic backdrop of the Titanic Quarter, it showcases Belfast as a destination for celebrating electronic audio-visual arts with the best in local artists and musicians. We look forward to welcoming visitors to share this unique, independent festival experience in Northern Ireland.”

A Movement Built on Passion

Sarah McBriar, Founder and Creative Director of the AVA Festival, highlighted the event’s growing popularity:

“This year has seen unprecedented demand, both from Northern Ireland and beyond. As an independent festival known for pushing the boundaries in programming and production, we’re proud of the movement AVA has built in Belfast and on the global stage.

“Huge thanks to Tourism Northern Ireland for their ongoing support, and to our incredible partners and team who make AVA possible. If you haven’t already got your ticket, head to our website now.”

Why AVA Festival Matters

The festival’s unique blend of electronic music, visual arts, and community engagement sets it apart. By championing both local talent and global stars, AVA not only entertains but also fosters a sense of pride in Northern Ireland’s creative scene.

Its international broadcast reach ensures that Belfast’s cultural vibrancy is showcased to millions, encouraging tourism and highlighting the region’s dynamic arts and nightlife offerings.

With tickets in high demand, organisers urge music and art enthusiasts to secure their passes promptly via the official website, avafestival.com.

Plan Your Visit

The AVA Festival 2025 promises an unforgettable experience, combining world-class performances with the historic backdrop of the Titanic Slipways. Whether you’re a fan of electronic music, an art aficionado, or simply looking to immerse yourself in Belfast’s thriving cultural scene, this event is not to be missed.

For more information, including ticket details and the full line-up, visit avafestival.com.

Join the thousands set to descend on Belfast for a weekend of music, art, and innovation at one of Northern Ireland’s most celebrated festivals.