A Weekend Summer Festival Coming To Killyleagh

Killyleagh is Ready To enjoy a weekend summer festival – and all events are free

Sean O’Brien, Chairman of the Killyleagh Community Association, has said that the annual community festival is ready to roll.

“Our Killyleagh Summer Festival is fast approaching so it is time to reveal our plans and we hope that once again it captivates the Killyleagh community spirit.

“Below is the programme for the summer festival and thanks to the committee, the volunteers and sponsors for making this festival happen.”

Killyleagh Summer Festival – Press Release Celebrating Community, Creativity, and Summer in the Castle Courtyard Saturday 15 & Sunday 16 August 2026

Killyleagh is set to come alive this August as the village hosts two flagship days of its 2026 Summer Festival – an open‑air Shakespeare performance on Saturday 15 August, followed by a vibrant Family Activity Day and Artisan Market on Sunday 16 August in the historic courtyard of Killyleagh Castle.

All events are free to attend, with voluntary donations welcomed in support of Off the Ground Theatre Company and the Killyleagh Community Association.

A Shakespeare Evening at the Castle – Saturday 15 August, 7pm.

The festival weekend begins with Twelfth Night, performed by the acclaimed Off the Ground Theatre Company. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Killyleagh Castle, this energetic and family‑friendly production promises laughter, music, and a magical summer atmosphere.

Venue: Killyleagh Castle Courtyard

Time: 7pm

Entry: Free (donations appreciated)

Family Activity Day & Artisan Market – Sunday 16 August, 12–4pm

The castle courtyard will transform into a lively community space filled with music, colour, and family fun.

Highlights include:

• Artisan Market: 20 stalls featuring local crafts, produce, and handmade goods.
• Children’s Entertainment: A professionally staffed bouncy castle/slide for under‑12s and face painting throughout the afternoon.
• Music Performances:
  • Reely Jiggered – Scottish award-winning folk/rock band.
  • Deborah Fitzsimons – local singer‑songwriter
  • Mark Braidner – blues guitarist and singer
• Community Catering: Tea, coffee, and delicious traybakes served by volunteers from three of Killyleagh’s churches, raising funds for local initiatives.

The festival committee has worked closely with local groups to ensure a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable day for all ages.

Music Trail Events Across the Village

In addition to the castle‑based festivities, the Killyleagh Summer Festival features a week‑long series of free music and arts events hosted in venues throughout the town:

• Fri 14 Aug – 8pm, International Bar The Booze Bros – Party band
• Tue 18 Aug – 8pm, Dufferin Arms Not Safe with a Razor – Live music in the pub
• Wed 19 Aug – 2.30pm, Killyleagh Library Finn McCool & Patricia Weir – Storytelling for children (7 – 11 years’ old and young adults)
• Thu 20 Aug – 7–9pm, Hans Sloane Centre Vinyl Night with Brian & Robert – Bring your favourite vinyl and share the story behind it
• Sun 23 Aug – 2pm, Killyleagh Football Club The Speed Kings – Classic rock and blues

These events form part of the wider Killyleagh Music Trail, celebrating the creativity and diversity of the village’s community spaces.

A Festival for Everyone

The Killyleagh Summer Festival is organised by local volunteers and supported by community partners across the town. The committee extends a warm invitation to residents, families, and visitors to join in celebrating local talent, shared spaces, and the spirit of summer.

For updates, follow the Killyleagh Community Association on social media or check local noticeboards.

Killyleagh Summer Festival 2026 – Free, friendly, and for the whole community.

Sean O’Brien added: “This is very much a family-oriented weekend and everyone is welcome to join in the fun.”

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RELATED POST: April 2026.