Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival opens on 23 May

The Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival opens with an evening parade at Ballycastle seafront on Friday 23 May and continues through the week and both weekends until the closing event of music and The Big Lunch on Rathlin on Sunday 01 June 2014.

At the very heart of the spectacular Causeway Coast and Glens the communities of Ballycastle and Rathlin Island extend a very warm welcome to enjoy the stunning scenery, diverse attractions and local culture. The celebrations are designed to bring out the rich and diverse maritime culture  and will be centred on Rathlin Sound, the body of water that lies between Rathlin Island and Ballycastle.

Download the programme for a guide to the activities and events that are part of this year’s Festival. From the adrenaline rush of the Sailing Regatta and races as well as exciting have a go activities, to tempting food and craft markets, seriously scenic guided walks, exciting and informative talks and tours, exhibitions and demonstrations, fun competitions, laid back lunches, friendly giants, curraghs and Viking ships, there’s plenty to choose from including fantastic family friendly events.

There’s a fun filled and packed programme of events at the 2nd annual celebration of our rich maritime heritage. Why not catch a cabaret night headlined by Kaz Hawkins in the Marine Hotel, a family friendly evening of traditional Irish song and dance at Sea Sounds on the Promenade or why not catch the ferry and relax on Rathlin Island and listen to the Idylicc Dolls, Skippinish and the immensely popular Goats Don’t Shave. The local bars and restaurants will have sea food themed menus, Ballycastle Town Market will be showcasing some fantastic local arts, crafts and local produce both in Ballycastle and Rathlin Island. Or why not watch the community boat building projects were local volunteers will be using their skills to build two Drontheims over the course of the festival ... Or for those adrenaline junkies why not watch the JetMan use the power of water to soar into the air or take a hair-raising ride in a powerboat ... There is something for all at this year’s Festival ...