The much-anticipated Foyle Maritime Festival is set to return to the historic walled city of Derry in Northern Ireland from Thursday, June 27th to Sunday, June 30th. This vibrant festival is expected to attract over 150,000 visitors from around the world to the picturesque banks of the Port of Foyle.
Organised by the Derry City and Strabane District Council, in collaboration with Tourism NI and Ulster University, the festival promises a packed program of nautical-themed events and activities for all ages.
Visitors can look forward to an array of maritime attractions, including boat tours, river races, and a bustling maritime village offering the finest in nautical entertainment. The event will also feature a "Legenderry" Food experience, showcasing the region's culinary delights alongside live music and a stunning lighting show by Visual Spectrum.
The festival's theme, Beyond Blue, aims to celebrate the natural beauty of the oceans and seas while exploring the potential of these vital resources within the context of sustainability and environmental conservation.
One of the festival's highlights will be the Saturday night Showcase event, featuring a mesmerizing celebration of illumination along the River Foyle. The evening will culminate in a spectacular firework display, casting a radiant glow over the water and creating a truly unforgettable experience for all attendees.
The sailing ship The Leader will visit Foyle Maritime Festival in June Photo: Courtesy of Trinity Sailing Foundation
Councillor Patricia Logue, Mayor of Derry and Strabane, expressed her excitement about the upcoming festival. She highlighted the diverse range of activities and the opportunity for visitors to explore the city's rich maritime history.
Central to the festival will be the impressive fleet of towering Tall Ships, including the Brocklebank, Phoenix, Irene, Klevia, La Malouine, and the Leader, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the fascinating history of these majestic vessels.
In addition to the maritime attractions, this year's programme will feature the vibrant Carnival of Colours festival, presented by In Your Space Circus, and the Get Up' Street Art Jam, showcasing the talents of international, national, and local street artists.
The popular LegenDerrry Street Food Festival will also make a return, offering a delectable showcase of local street food, live DJ sets, and an unparalleled dining experience.
For the latest updates and additional information on the 2024 Foyle Maritime Festival, visit foylemaritime.com, and make plans to join the festivities for an unforgettable celebration of maritime heritage and culture.
