The Foyle Maritime Festival is returning this year with a fresh look for 2024. Join us for a 4-day festival that will transform the riverfront into an international marina. Relax at our urban beach or get stuck into some on-water activities, there will be something for everyone. With a packed programme you will be spoilt for choice, so we have pulled together this handy 4-day itinerary to help you kick off the summer in style!
DAY 1 - THURSDAY 27TH JUNE 2024
Getting Here -
There are plenty of ways to get to the historic Walled City of Derry! Fly direct from London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow into City of Derry Airport. Or if you travel to Belfast International or Dublin Airport, then check out the Aircoach for transport from both airports which will take you directly into the city centre! For more information on getting to the city, click here.
3pm - Arrival
There is so much choice in Derry~Londonderry when it comes to choosing where to stay, with options available to suit everyone’s budget and taste. So, whether you are looking for a family friendly hotel, or a self-catering option with space for the whole family you are sure to receive a LegenDerry welcome! Explore our Accommodation options here
5pm – Dinner
Step into Brown’s In Town, an inviting space where modern charm meets lively ambiance, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. This award-winning restaurant prides itself on serving up a culinary experience like no other with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced produce that ensures each dish is bursting with freshness and flavour.
7pm – Play Me Piano Stage
Calling all budding concerto pianists to the Waterfront where talent unleashed will know no bounds! Our maritime melodies programme is in the hands of the people at this music station – well most of the time. Feel free to take a moment and share the music and good vibes when there isn’t a bespoke collaboration happening. Keep an eye on the Rota for this one as there will be a few special surprises for these keys on the quay!
8pm – The Happy Wheel
Enjoy the festival and riverfront from a brand new perspective courtesy of the Festival Big Wheel which is returning to the event after missing a few editions.
DAY 2 - FRIDAY 28TH JUNE 2024
10am - Explore the Walled City
Derry~Londonderry is a city with a rich and varied cultural heritage. You will feel the hand of history at every step and turn as you discover the story of Derry. From a wander on Ireland’s only completely intact City Walls, to discovering our award-winning museums whose experiences will move you to the very core. Don’t forget to buy our Visit Derry pass, which means you can explore the city and enjoy access to some of the city’s top tourist attractions, the most convenient and cost-effective way of seeing the best Derry has to offer.
12pm – Lunch
Located right in the heart of the Walled City you will find Salumeria Mariuccia, an Italian delicatessen. Offering sandwiches, salads, and homemade desserts, using imported Italian ingredients, and pairing them in a simple way to maximise the flavour profiles of the ingredients themselves. This is the perfect spot for a light lunch.
1.30pm – It's in our DNA
Heading back towards the riverfront, be sure to visit the Derry~Londonderry on the North Atlantic (DNA) Museum tent. Get a glimpse of what will be included in the galleries of the new DNA Museum and a sense of what life was like for the many women who worked in our shirt factories, the heartbeat of our city. Explore the beautifully illustrated backdrop of the River Foyle and share your thoughts on the river and why this place is so special. The new DNA Museum is set to open in 2026.
3pm – Explore Visiting Vessels
Take a walk along the riverfront towards the Waterfront where everything feels a little larger than life. Sitting elegantly and commanding a dramatic presence, the two largest Tall Ships at this year's event will be berthed here alongside the Brocklebank Tugboat and Navy vessels. Learn all about the fascinating history of each vessel with daily tours available.
5pm – Dinner
The Gown is the culinary focal point of Bishop’s Gate Hotel, offering seasonally inspired menus of locally sourced ingredients, expertly prepared by their Executive Chef and his talented team. The Wig Champagne Bar also boasts an extensive drinks and cocktail menu making this the perfect spot for a relaxed evening meal.
7.30pm - Le Foyer Des Artistes
Enjoy a magical evening at this Midsummer Gala Concert, the culmination of the Concert Series in St Columb’s Hall. Get ready to be mesmerised by a night filled with dazzling talent and captivating singing. The winner of the St Columb’s Hall Concerto Prize returns to play Mozart’s Piano Concerto K414. Book Your Tickets Now
DAY 3 - SATURDAY 29TH JUNE 2024
12pm – River Foyle Fun Run
Take a walk down along the river, taking in the sights and sounds of the festival buzz on your way to the Lough Agency tent on Queen’s Quay. Hop aboard the Lough Agency’s boat for a fun run along the River Foyle. Soak in the scenic beauty while enjoying the atmosphere of maritime from the water.
2pm – Merchant Market
Head to the Boardwalk for the ultimate culinary experience. The Merchant Market brings an emporium of continental cuisine and a taste of the exotic to the festival, taking patrons on a culinary voyage across Europe and beyond the Silk Road to experience some of the finest culinary flavours in the world as well as a host of bespoke gifts and surprises.
3pm – Riding The Waves
Stay on the Boardwalk for a high adrenaline wakeboarding show courtesy of some of Ireland’s greatest water sportsmen and women. This is a fast-paced, exhilarating water sport combining surfing, water skiing and snowboarding techniques to deliver a range of breathtaking midair tricks and displays that will enthral spectators.
4pm – Starboard Stage & Bar
No trip to the festival is complete without taking time to enjoy the buzzing atmosphere of the Starboard Festival Bar, listening to a fantastic array of acclaimed local and national musicians and performers.
6.30pm - LegenDerry Food Village
Whether you are craving street food which packs a flavour punch or a chance to experience some local produce with live music and a relaxed vibe, the LegenDerry Food Village has you covered! Bringing together the very best local businesses, using the finest local, seasonal, sustainable produce and catch to create authentic international flavours with a local twist.
8pm – Beyond Blue Festival Showcase
The Foyle Maritime Festival has dreamed up a beautiful collage of sights and sounds inspired by the festival theme ‘Beyond Blue’ for this spectacular showcase. A unique choral event entitled ‘A Duck Chorus’ will begin proceedings at 8pm when a selection of choir and folk groups sing collectively along the banks of the Foyle. As dusk descends the quays will transform into a vibrant theatrical riverscape with specially lit Tall Ships anchoring out in the river creating a stunning backdrop for a bespoke light and fire show commencing at 9pm. Don’t miss this breathtaking event that promises to captivate and inspire.
DAY 4 - SUNDAY 30TH JUNE 2024
12.30pm - Foyle Race
Come and support Foyle Paddlers Canoe Club as they host their annual Foyle Race. The event will involve participants from all over the island racing in various canoe craft over set distance on the Foyle. There will be 3 race lengths running simultaneously between Prehen Boathouse and the Foyle Bridge.
2pm – SUP Yoga
Fan of yoga? Why not try your favourite yoga poses on a Stand-Up Paddle Board (SUP) all under the watchful eye and instruction of the Far & Wild experienced guides.
3pm – Maritime Market
Take one final walk down along the quay and savour the tastes and talents of our local bakers and crafters. With award-winning locally sourced produce and stunning hand-crafted goods, this is the perfect opportunity to find that something special whether it's a gift or you are treating yourself.
