Foyle Maritime Festival 2026 set to make waves as programme officially launches
22 May 2026
Derry’s internationally acclaimed Foyle Maritime Festival is set to return from 25–28 June 2026, transforming the city’s riverfront into a spectacular celebration of maritime culture, heritage and innovation.
Attracting over 100,000 visitors along the River Foyle, the four-day festival will once again deliver a vibrant, large-scale programme of live music, water-based activity, international vessels, markets, food experiences and family entertainment. This year’s theme, “Forged on the Foyle, it’s in our DNA”, will celebrate the vital role the river has played in shaping the city and region, as a centre of trade, culture and connection across generations.
The Foyle Maritime Festival is a free, family-friendly event offering something for all ages, with a strong focus on accessibility, inclusion and shared cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy a packed programme of visiting Tall Ships and international vessels, a dynamic programme of water sports and river activity and free family entertainment, including workshops and performances, live music, street theatre and city-wide animation. The popular LegenDerry Food Village and artisan markets will also make a welcome return.
Among the many new experiences and major highlights for 2026 will be the Sails of Solas event, a brand-new illuminated night-time spectacle transforming the riverfront and visiting vessels into a stunning light installation. The Galeón Andalucía, full-scale replica 17th-century Spanish galleon that will be open for public tours and a festival fireworks finale moving to Sunday night for a high-impact closing celebration.
The festival will play host to a new Big Wheel on Queen’s Quay and expanded festival footprint with extended opening hours each night until 11pm, creating a stronger evening and overnight visitor appeal. The big wheel, called the “Earhart Eye” is bigger and better than before and will be placed front and centre of the festival providing patrons with an opportunity to experience the riverfront from a whole new perspective! You are encouraged to watch out for some living history characters, including Amelia Earhart herself, who will be wandering into our 21st century with an amusing perspective on how times along the waterfront have changed over the years.
There is a chance for visitors to get a preview of the city’s future £15m DNA Museum in a dedicated showcase marquee and an opportunity to find out more about some of the transformative City Deal programmes.
The festival continues to play a key role as a major driver of tourism and economic activity for the city and wider region, supporting local businesses, hospitality providers and creative industries and sustainability remains at the core of the 2026 festival, with measures including a ban on single-use plastics, water refill stations, and initiatives to reduce waste and promote active travel.
The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Ruairí McHugh speaking at the launch said: “We are delighted to officially launch the Foyle Maritime Festival 2026 and welcome the return of one of our city’s most anticipated and vibrant events. This year’s theme, “Forged on the Foyle – it’s in our DNA”, perfectly reflects the deep connection between our river, our history and our people. The festival continues to grow in scale and ambition, showcasing everything that makes our city unique, from our rich maritime heritage and cultural creativity to our world-class hospitality and welcoming spirit.
“As a free, family-friendly event, it provides a fantastic opportunity for residents and visitors alike to come together and experience the very best of Derry and Strabane, while also delivering real economic benefits for our local businesses. I would encourage everyone to mark the dates and come along to enjoy what promises to be an unforgettable four days on the River Foyle.”
Siobhan McGuigan, Head of Events with Tourism Northern Ireland said: “A flagship event like the Foyle Maritime Festival plays a vital role in showcasing the very best of the North West to visitors from near and far. Tourism NI is proud to support an event that celebrates the region’s rich maritime heritage while driving economic impact and enhancing Northern Ireland’s reputation as a must-visit destination.”
Sharon McMahon, Loughs Agency CEO, said: “We are delighted to play a key role once again in the Foyle Maritime Festival, one of the largest events of its kind in Ireland. It provides a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the rich natural and cultural heritage of the River Foyle, while bringing communities together to enjoy and better appreciate our shared waterways. We are especially pleased to offer the public a range of engaging and safe experiences, both on and off the water, helping more people connect with this unique marine environment.”
The Foyle Port said it is proud to play its part in event saying it offered a valuable opportunity to showcase the River Foyle and highlight the vital role the Port continues to play in the region’s growth and vitality.
Mark Mulholland head of commercial Northern Ireland from Diageo added that it is also very proud to be part of the Foyle Maritime Festival. “It is an event that brings people together to celebrate the heritage and vibrancy of this city. Supporting local festivals like this allows us to connect with communities, showcase our brands responsibly, and contribute to the continued success of major cultural events in the Northwest.”
The full programme will be available online, with further announcements and daily highlights to follow in the lead-up to the festival at www.foylemaritime.com
The festival is delivered by Derry City and Strabane District Council in close partnership with the Foyle Port and Loughs Agency with funding from Tourism NI and Diageo.