News

Mayor meets with traders at the Foyle Maritime Festival

27 June 2026

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Grace Uí Niallais, has encouraged everyone to make the most of this weekend’s Foyle Maritime Festival after spending Friday afternoon touring the festival with her young son, Faolán, meeting local traders, exhibitors, charities, and members of the public.

The Mayor said she thoroughly enjoyed experiencing the vibrant atmosphere along the city’s waterfront and praised everyone who has helped bring the festival to life.

She said: “It has been a fantastic afternoon. It was especially lovely to experience the festival through my son’s eyes, seeing the excitement on his face as we explored everything that was on offer together. The atmosphere has been fantastic, with thousands of people enjoying everything from the food and entertainment to the family activities and exhibitions. It has been a real celebration of our river, our city and the incredible community spirit that makes this festival so special.”

During her visit, the Mayor met many of the local businesses showcasing the very best of the region’s food, drink, crafts and hospitality, including Lo & Slo, Wild and Fired, Mena’s Woodfired Pizzas, Redgate Cider, Notorious Street Food, Exchange Alfresco, The Sandwich Co., Sukhi’s Kitchen, Walled City Brewery, Cloud Wine Cooler, House of Scents, Stix and Patricia’s Coffee Shop.

Mayor Uí Niallais said: “It was fantastic to meet so many talented local traders and entrepreneurs who are showcasing the quality, creativity and innovation that we have right across our district. Events like the Foyle Maritime Festival provide a wonderful opportunity to support local businesses while sampling some of the fantastic produce and products they have to offer.”

The Mayor also enjoyed visiting the popular DNA Museum marquee, where visitors can step back in time through fascinating historical displays, interactive exhibits and family-friendly activities celebrating our rich maritime and cultural heritage.

She also toured the City Deal Fest tent, which is giving festival-goers an exciting glimpse into the future of the district through interactive displays highlighting the transformative projects being delivered as part of the Derry and Strabane City Deal. The exhibition showcases how investment in innovation, education, tourism and regeneration will help create new opportunities, support economic growth and shape the future of the city and district for generations to come.

Another highlight of the afternoon was a visit to The Loughs Agency tent, where visitors can learn more about the unique natural environment of Lough Foyle and the wider Foyle catchment through engaging activities and educational displays for all ages.

The Mayor also welcomed the opportunity to meet representatives from Hive Cancer Support, AWARE and the Western Health and Social Care Trust’s Research and Development team, recognising the invaluable work they do in supporting local people and communities throughout the year.

Adding to the fun, the Mayor and her son also met the festival’s colourful roving pirates from In Your Space and even took on the challenge of the Stix activity range, demonstrating that there is something for everyone to enjoy throughout the festival.

Mayor Uí Niallais concluded by encouraging anyone who has not yet visited the festival to come along over the weekend.

She said: “If you’ve not been down yet, I would really encourage you to come along. There truly is something for everyone, whether you’re interested in food, music, history, family activities or simply soaking up the incredible atmosphere on our riverfront. As always, I would encourage visitors to plan their journey in advance, make use of the event parking available at Fort George where possible, keep an eye on the weather forecast and dress accordingly so you can enjoy the festival experience. I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend and enjoys everything that the Foyle Maritime Festival has to offer.”

Full festival information, including programme details, travel advice, parking information and the latest updates, is available on the Foyle Maritime Festival website  www.foylemaritime.com

The Foyle Maritime 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.