Traffic and travel advice issued for Foyle Maritime Festival
22 June 2026
With only days to go until the Foyle Maritime Festival 2026, preparations are well underway as Derry’s waterfront begins its transformation into a vibrant maritime hub ahead of the four-day celebration, from Thursday June 25 to Sunday June 28.
The city’s quayside is set to come alive with music, animation and entertainment as tens of thousands of visitors gather for one of the region’s most popular events. This year’s festival will once again celebrate the city’s strong maritime connections under the banner ‘Forged on the Foyle – it’s in our DNA’ focusing on the river’s pivotal role in driving trade, industry and global connections with the North West region.
The event boasts an exciting programme packed with live performances, artisan markets, family-friendly animation and a wide variety of activities on and around the water.
As final arrangements are put in place, organisers are encouraging attendees to plan their journey in advance. A number of temporary traffic measures will be introduced to support the revised festival layout, including road closures, diversions and parking restrictions across the city centre. Visitors are strongly advised to consider public transport options where possible to help reduce congestion and ensure easier access to the event.
Looking ahead to the festivities, Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Grace Uí Niallais, said the city is ready to welcome visitors for an unforgettable weekend.
“There is a real sense of anticipation building across Derry and Strabane as we prepare to host the Foyle Maritime Festival,” she declared. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase everything our city has to offer, from our rich maritime heritage to our warm welcome.
“With large crowds expected, I would encourage everyone to plan ahead when travelling and to allow plenty of time for their journey. By working together and following the guidance in place, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all who attend.”
To facilitate the event, Queen’s Quay will be closed from Harbour Square roundabout to Queen’s Quay Roundabout from 8pm on 22nd June until 7am on 30th June.
Boating Club Lane from Quayside Medical Practice to Queen’s Quay will also remain close from 8pm on Monday 22 June to 7am Tuesday 30 June, while Lower Clarendon Street will close from Strand Rd to Queen’s Quay from 8pm Monday 22nd June to 7am on Tuesday 30th June.
Timed daily closures will be in place on Baronet Street/Fletcher Avenue/McFarland Quay from Thursday 25 June to Sunday 28 June from 11am to midnight. Clearly signposted diversion routes will be in operation throughout.
A spectacular fireworks display will take place on Sunday evening at 11pm, visible from both the Cityside quays and Ebrington. Spectators are advised to arrive early and that there are viewing points the length of the quayside, so plenty of space to watch in comfort.
On-street parking restrictions will also apply during the festival period. While a number of city centre car parks will remain open, Queen’s Quay car park will be unavailable throughout the event to accommodate festival activity along the waterfront.
Additional parking is available at Fort George, where free event parking will be provided. Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of this facility and avoid using private car parks such as Sainsbury’s. Parking is also available at other city centre locations, with paid parking available at sites including Magee College on Rock Road.
Jacqueline Whoriskey, Head of Culture at Derry City and Strabane District Council, highlighted the importance of accessibility at this year’s event: “We are committed to making the Foyle Maritime Festival as inclusive and welcoming as possible for everyone. This year we’ve introduced a number of enhanced facilities to support accessibility, ensuring all visitors can comfortably enjoy the programme of events on offer.
“We would encourage people to familiarise themselves with the information before attending so they can make the most of their visit.”
Dedicated accessible parking will be available at Strand Road Car Park, alongside additional facilities including a Quiet Space and accessible toilets, located close to Council’s Strand Road building.
Cyclists are encouraged to travel to the festival by bike; however, for safety reasons, they will be asked to dismount when entering busy event areas, and electric bike and e-scooters will not be permitted.
At peak times, further traffic management measures may be introduced. The public is advised to keep up to date by listening to local radio and following Council’s social media channels for the latest travel information.
Festival infrastructure will include clearly signposted Information Points and toilet facilities along the quayside, with stewards and event staff on hand to assist visitors throughout the weekend.
To support travel plans, additional late-night bus services will operate to selected destinations on Saturday June 27, the festival’s main showcase evening. Journey planning and ticket information can be accessed via www.translink.co.uk/special-events/foylemaritimefestival or by calling 90 66 66 30.
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.
For full details on traffic arrangements, travel guidance, and information for residents and businesses, please visit:
www.foylemaritimefestival.com