Summer Rose Fair returns with award-winning blooms, live music and family fun this July

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Róis-Máire Donnelly joins Kohen McLaughlin and Eadie McErlean to launch the return of the Summer Rose Fair at Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park.

Thousands of roses will burst into bloom as one of Belfast’s most colourful summer events returns next month, bringing three days of live entertainment, family activities, food, music and floral displays to one of the city’s best-loved parks.

The annual Summer Rose Fair will take place at Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park from Friday 3 July to Sunday 5 July, with organisers promising a packed programme of attractions for visitors of all ages.

Running daily from 12pm to 5pm, the free event will transform the park into a celebration of colour, creativity and community, with award-winning roses taking centre stage alongside live performances, children’s entertainment and local food vendors.

The fair has long been a highlight of Belfast’s summer calendar, attracting visitors from across Northern Ireland and beyond to enjoy the famous rose gardens at their seasonal peak.

Three days of entertainment and activities

Kohen McLaughlin and Eadie McErlean play among the roses at Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park as they help to launch the return of the Summer Rose Fair

Visitors can expect a varied programme throughout the weekend, with something to appeal to families, gardening enthusiasts and music lovers alike.

A dedicated children’s zone will feature carnival rides, arts and crafts, lawn games and a range of family-friendly activities designed to keep younger visitors entertained throughout the day.

Live music will play a major role in the celebrations, with performances from local musicians and bands including a Rat Pack tribute act, a Drifters tribute band and acoustic singer-songwriter Aaron Jamieson.

The event will also showcase Irish dance performances from Trim the Velvet, helping build excitement ahead of this year’s Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.

Food lovers will be able to enjoy a wide selection of vendors serving everything from hot meals to sweet treats and refreshments, while baking demonstrations from popular social media creator Cheryl Bakes are expected to draw crowds throughout the weekend.

An arts and crafts village will operate on Saturday and Sunday, while audiences can also enjoy musical theatre performances from Fortwilliam Musical Society.

Adding to the festival atmosphere will be spectacular bubble shows and a range of roaming family entertainment.

Celebrating Belfast’s world-famous roses

Kohen McLaughlin and Eadie McErlean play among the roses at Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park as they help to launch the return of the Summer Rose Fair

While entertainment and activities will attract visitors throughout the weekend, the star attraction remains the thousands of roses on display in the park’s renowned gardens.

The judging of the prestigious City of Belfast International Rose Trials is scheduled for Monday 6 July, continuing a tradition that has helped establish the park’s reputation among rose growers and enthusiasts worldwide.

Visitors attending the fair will have the opportunity to view the extensive displays of blooms throughout the weekend, showcasing a remarkable range of colours, varieties and fragrances.

Lord Mayor encourages visitors to attend

Launching this year’s event, Róis-Máire Donnelly said she was delighted to see the fair return.

“I’m really thrilled that Summer Rose Fair is returning this year!

“Agus an chathair faoi bhláth le ceol an samhradh seo, is deis iontach sult a bhaint as bláthanna is dathanna galánta.

“It is a wonderful, free weekend out that celebrates the very best of Belfast’s vibrant community spirit and stunning green space at Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park. I encourage everyone—residents and visitors alike—to come along, join in the festivities, and experience what the fair has to offer.

“Let’s hope the sun shines too!”

A summer highlight for families

With free admission, live entertainment, award-winning floral displays and a packed programme of family activities, organisers are hoping the Summer Rose Fair will once again draw large crowds to one of Belfast’s most picturesque public parks.

The event offers a chance for residents and visitors alike to enjoy the height of the summer season while experiencing one of Northern Ireland’s most established community celebrations in full bloom.

For more information, visit:

www.belfastcity.gov.uk/parkevents