Rathlin Sound Festival 2025 returns to the Antrim Coast with 10-day cultural celebration!

Scenes from Rathlin Maritime Festival 2024

Photos: Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council

The Causeway Coast and Glens Council’s Events Team is preparing to host one of the region’s most anticipated annual events, as the Rathlin Sound Festival makes its much-anticipated return from Friday 23rd May to Sunday 1st June 2025.

Celebrating the deep-rooted cultural and maritime heritage of Ballycastle and Rathlin Island, this 10-day festival brings together a vibrant mix of land and sea-based activities in honour of the Rathlin Sound – the iconic body of water connecting the island to the mainland.

Held in collaboration with the Rathlin Development and Community Association, the event promises a rich programme designed to appeal to all ages and interests, from heritage enthusiasts and music lovers to young families and adventure seekers.

Diverse Programme for All Ages

Festival-goers can expect a packed itinerary of events including live music performances, wild cookery demonstrations, hands-on “have a go” activities, artisan crafts, educational talks, and falconry displays.

The popular Naturally North Coast and Glens Market will also feature prominently, showcasing talented local makers and food producers.

A special focus has been given to the younger audience with an exciting children’s programme that includes maritime-themed crafts, a colourful kite display, sand sculpting on Ballycastle Beach, and opportunities to try their hand at kayaking and circus skills.

For adults, highlights include traditional boat-making insights, paddleboarding experiences, and cultural talks. Visitors will also be treated to a vibrant mix of local music and culinary experiences, celebrating the natural bounty and craftsmanship of the region.

A Poignant Opening

The festival will commence on Friday 23rd May with the Blessing of the Boats, a traditional and symbolic ceremony that reflects on the ocean’s importance to the community and offers prayers for a safe boating season.

Celebrating Local Pride and Tourism

Speaking ahead of the event, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Ciarán McQuillan, said:

“I am delighted to see the Rathlin Sound Festival return for 2025, celebrating Ballycastle and Rathlin Island’s shared nautical heritage.

“It is a fantastic showcase of the area’s unrivalled tourism offering and it brings a unique vibrancy which is enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year.

“The festival has long been one of the highlights of our events calendar, and I am looking forward to seeing many of the talented artisan crafters, food producers and musicians that we have in the Causeway Coast and Glens.

“I would also encourage visitors to the festival to explore our wider Council area and enjoy some of the fantastic places and spaces we have to offer.”

Plan Your Visit

The full programme of events is now available online via the official festival page. Visitors can also contact Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre at 028 2076 2024 for guidance and planning advice.

Please note that some activities may be subject to change due to tides and weather conditions. Festival-goers are advised to follow the Rathlin Sound Festival on Facebook (@RathlinSoundFestival) and Twitter (@RathlinSoundMF) for the most up-to-date announcements and updates.

Whether you’re coming for the music, the markets, or the maritime adventures, Rathlin Sound Festival 2025 offers a truly unforgettable experience set against the stunning backdrop of Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast.