Buskfest returns with £4,500 prize pot as Co Antrim performers invited to take the stage

(L-R): Ralph McLean (BBC Radio Ulster), Daniel Coulter, Luke Bell and Páidí Muldoon (last year’s winners, 4AM Club), Chris Nelmes (The Boulevard Banbridge), and Alderman Stephen Moutray, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.

Musicians, singers and street performers from across County Antrim are being urged to grab their instruments, warm up their voices and head for Banbridge later this month as Buskfest 2026 returns with its biggest prize fund yet.

Now entering its 22nd year, the annual festival is once again transforming Banbridge town centre into an open-air stage on Saturday 20 June, with organisers promising a packed day of live entertainment, family attractions and a boosted £4,500 prize pot aimed at attracting both emerging and experienced performers.

This year’s event also introduces a new youth category, giving younger musicians and entertainers an opportunity to perform in front of large crowds and compete alongside more established acts.

Performers from Ballymena and across the wider County Antrim area are now being encouraged to register before entries close at 4pm on Friday 19 June.

Banbridge town centre to become a live music stage

Buskfest has become one of Northern Ireland’s best-known street music festivals, drawing hundreds of spectators annually and creating a carnival-style atmosphere throughout the town centre.

From solo singers and acoustic musicians to full groups and street entertainers, performers will take over Banbridge’s streets throughout the afternoon and evening as crowds move between acts across the town.

The festival runs from 12pm to 5pm, with Bridge Street and Scarva Street hosting an artisan market featuring food vendors and handcrafted goods from local businesses.

Family entertainment including face painting and puppet shows will also form part of the day’s attractions, helping turn the event into a wider community celebration rather than simply a music competition.

The evening programme will continue with a prize-giving ceremony and concert in Banbridge town centre, where the day’s top performers will be recognised before live performances continue until 8.30pm.

The official busking performances themselves are scheduled to begin at 2pm.

BBC Radio Ulster presenter among judging panel

A panel of 12 judges will oversee this year’s competition, including BBC Radio Ulster presenter Ralph McLean.

Speaking ahead of the event, McLean described Buskfest as one of the standout dates in the local music calendar.

He said:

“Buskfest is one of the highlights in both the Banbridge and local music calendar. No matter what side of the performance you’re on, the streets are immersed in an unmatched environment of musical creativity and community spirit, making it a fantastic day out for all.

“It also provides a particularly important platform for emerging local talent, introducing hundreds of individuals to their work.

“With awards across an array of categories, the festival celebrates talent of all kinds, recognising the outstanding array of performers we have right here at home.”

The event continues to provide a significant platform for local artists seeking exposure, with many performers using the festival as an opportunity to build audiences and gain live experience in front of large crowds.

Previous winners highlight boost for emerging artists

One of last year’s winners, Luke Bell from 4AM Club, said the competition can provide a major confidence boost for developing acts.

He said:

“I know firsthand just how special an experience Buskfest can be for any artist. Music as a medium brings both peers and the wider community together.

“Winning last year gave us a real boost and showed us that people continue to connect with our music and enjoy what we do.

“Even if you’re not competing, but just starting out, it gives you an amazing opportunity to expand your audience and gain some experience, so I’d encourage any musician to sign up.”

For performers across Ballymena and County Antrim, the festival offers a rare opportunity to perform before large public audiences while competing for substantial prize money in a high-profile regional event.

How to register for Buskfest 2026

Registration for Buskfest 2026 is now open and will close at 4pm on Friday 19 June.

Performers wishing to take part can register online at www.buskfest.com

Further information about the festival is also available at www.buskfest.com

With live music, street entertainment, artisan traders and thousands expected to descend on Banbridge town centre, organisers are preparing for another lively celebration of local talent — and a major showcase for performers from across Northern Ireland.