Maiden City Festival
Date: 31 July 2026 - 8 August 2026
Venue: The Siege Museum, 13 Society Street, Derry~Londonderry, BT48 6PJ
The Maiden City Festival - bringing the old city to life through music, dance, theatre and pageant - returns 31st July - 8th August 2026!
Join us for the 28th Maiden City Festival, a week-long celebration of the city's rich history and vibrant culture.
Witness the drama unfold as characters from the famous siege come to life on the city walls. Let the infectious rhythms of traditional pipe bands sweep you off your feet. Discover hidden stories in the hallowed walls of St Columb's Cathedral. And don't forget to dust off your dancing shoes for our unforgettable tea dances! With a packed program of events for all ages, there's never a dull moment.
Join us 31st July to 8th August 2026!
Some highlights already announced are:-
1st & 3rd - 7th August | 10am-4.30pm | The Siege Tales | City Walls
Learn about the Siege of Derry from those who were there as these characters wander along the Walls keen to share their story.
1st & 3rd - 7th August | 10am-4.30pm | USA250 Characters | Guildhall Square
Discover the connection between Ulster Scots & American Independance
1st & 3rd - 7th August | 12pm, 2pm & 4pm | The Siege Story | St Columb's Cathedral
Enjoy this promenade performance telling the story of the Siege from the closing of the City Gates in December 1688
3rd - 7th August | 11am - 3pm | Skirl of the Pipes | City Walls
Enjoy piping, drumming and Highland Dance demonstrations along Grand Parade
3rd, 7th & 8th August | 11am, 1pm & 3pm | Guns of the Siege | Society Street
Hear the Siege guns roar during these musketry & canon firing displays
1st August | 8pm | A Country Gala Night | Memorial Hall
Enjoy an evening of Cabaret and dancing with Hugo Duncan, John Rafferty, Curtis Magee, Country Harmony and Comedian Gary Wilson.
Tickets are £10 and are available for purchase from the Siege Museum.
3rd - 6th August | 2.30pm-4.30pm | Tea Dances | Memorial Hall
Enjoy an afternoon filled with dancing, live music, tea and cakes.
4th August | 8pm | Special Festival USA250 Lecture | Memorial Hall
Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking lecture exploring the links between North West Ulster emigration and the foundations of American Independence. Lecture will be followed by entertainment from Baron Accordian Experience.
5th August | 8pm | Open Mic Night | Memorial Hall
Calling all singers, musicians, storytellers, comedians, poets and dancers - now is your time to shine! All talents and ages are welcome to what is sure to be a fun evening filled with a great variety of performances. Admission is Free
8th August | 12pm | The Siege Pageant | Carlisle Circus
On the final day of the parade there will be a re-enactment of the story of the Siege before the Annual Relief of Londonderry Parade
Still many more details to be announced - so keep your eyes peeled!