About
Celebrate the rich heritage of Ulster-Scots culture this summer at the Hairtlan Festival 2025 in Kilkeel, County Down. Taking place on 11th July, this vibrant family-friendly event offers a full day and evening of immersive activities, performances, and historical showcases. From the Afternoon Ulster-Scots Family Fun Day in Queen Elizabeth II Park to the Night Pageant in Kilkeel Town Centre, the festival brings traditional music, storytelling, drumming, and dance to life. With free entry and a packed programme designed for all ages, it’s the perfect day out for those seeking authentic cultural experiences in Northern Ireland.
Family Fun and Ulster-Scots Heritage Activities in Kilkeel
The afternoon celebrations from 11am to 2pm include children’s cookery competitions, Ulster-Scots arts and crafts, Highland games, petting farms, and drama performances. Historical re-enactments, military vehicle displays, and storytelling add a powerful educational element. Kids can enjoy inflatables, face painting, football (in partnership with the Rangers Soccer Academy), and bonfire lighting at 1:30pm. This engaging programme makes it one of the top family events in County Down, combining heritage tourism, interactive history, and traditional Ulster-Scots entertainment.
11th Night Pageant, Concert & Fireworks: A Spectacular Summer Evening in County Down
As evening falls, the streets of Kilkeel come alive with the 11th Night Pageant at 7:30pm, followed by the Open Air Night Concert at 8:30pm, featuring live music from Glasgow Rangers singer Robyn Keen, fire breathers, a beacon lighting ceremony, and a spectacular fireworks display. The celebrations culminate with “Drumming Out the 11th Night” at 11:30pm under the town arch. Whether you’re searching for Ulster-Scots festivals 2025, summer events in Mourne Mountains, or the best 11th July celebrations in Northern Ireland, the Hairtlan Festival offers an unforgettable experience for locals and visitors alike.
This event is supported by The Ulster-Scots Agency, Newry, Mourne & Down District Council, NMDDC PCSP and the National Lottery Community Fund.
The Schomberg Society's 11th July Celebrations is one of the highlights of the Society's Ulster-Scots Hairtlan Festival.
Key times for this year's 11th July Festivities in Kilkeel:
11am - 2pm
Afternoon Family Fun Day: Queen Elizabeth II Park, Manse Road, Kilkeel
Featuring a huge range of Ulster-Scots activities and fun for all the family. This year's will be bigger and better with some exciting new additions!
7.30pm
11th Night Pageant : Kilkeel Town Centre
Bringing Ulster-Scots to life through pageantry and music! New additions in this year's Pageant including special features to mark important anniversaries!
From 8.30pm
11th Night Open Air Concert: Queen Elizabeth II Park, Manse Road, Kilkeel
Featuring Glasgow Rangers Singer Robyn Keen, Bonfire, Fireworks Display & MUCH MORE!
This is a free event and everyone is more than welcome to come along!
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