Let’s be honest — Derry~Londonderry doesn’t need much convincing. With its stunning 17th-century walls, riverside walks, buzzing pubs, vibrant art scene, and people so friendly you’ll think you’ve wandered into a family reunion — it’s the kind of place that sticks with you long after you leave. But if you do need a little nudge to pay a visit (or explore more of your own hometown), this summer has rolled out the red carpet.
From live music and food feasts to cultural celebrations and sport for days; the city is bursting with things to do! So, whether you are a local looking to fill long summer days, or a curious first-time visitor, here are our top picks of what not to miss this summer...
Walled City Music - International Academy
Various Locations | 11th – 18th July
The city will come alive with the sound of music as we host 30 exceptionally talented young pianists from across the globe, all set to train, perform and compete under the guidance of a world-renowned faculty of master musicians.
Don’t Miss: The Piano Multiplied on 16th July for unique piano performances of a rich variety of works for multiple pianists at one instrument – with combinations for four, six and even eight hands
The River Running By Festival
St Columb’s Cathedral | Monday-Saturday | 10am-3pm
This exhibtion recalls a mix of historical events with roots along the River Foyle and its strong connection with the life of the city over the last 400 years! Marking the 130th Anniversary of Cecil Francis Alexander’s death; the team behind this Festival have drawn inspiration from her hymn ‘All things bright and beautiful’ reminding us to consider the need for water for our survival and the huge part the river has played in the history, culture and heritage of our city!
Top Tip: If you can, visit on a Thursday in July and enjoy a lunchtime Organ Recital at 1pm!
Lines of Inheritance
The Alley Theatre, Strabane | Monday – Saturday | 10am – 4.30pm
A special exhibition celebrating the work of Michael Ó Nualláin. Highlights include Brian at Work, a portrait of his brother, writer Flann O’Brien. This exhibtion is a unique tribute to two of Strabane’s most creative sons brought together by DCSD Museum Services Collection and will be available until 30th September.
Did you know? Flann O’Brien whose real name was Brian O’Nolan, also wrote under the pen name of Myles na Gopaleen.
St Augustine’s Summer Lunchtime Concerts
St Augustine’s Church | Tuesdays throughout July & August | 1pm
St Augustine’s (or the ‘wee’ Church on the walls as it is affectionately known) provides the perfect intimate setting for these lunchtime gigs that will feature a vibrant mix of jazz, folk, pop, Brazilian, Scottish and Irish traditional music. This is a unique and wonderful opportunity to take in the city’s rich heritage and music culture.
Did you know? St Augustine’s is also a filming location for the popular Channel 4 & Netflix comedy ‘Derry Girls’
LegenDerry Street Food Festival
Guildhall Street & Harbour Square | 18th & 19th July | 2.30pm-10pm
Coinciding with the 153rd Open Championship that is taking place ‘just up the road’ at Royal Portrush; the LegenDerry Street Food Festival returns for two delicious days of food, fun and vibrant city vibes! Expect bold flavours, craft brews and a buzzing atmosphere with family fun by day and live DJs by night.
Don’t Miss: Fun for all the family with stilt walking waiters to entertain the kids
O’Neill’s Foyle Cup
Pitches across the Northwest | 21st-26th July
From its humble beginnings of a one-day tournament back in 1992, this year will see over 900 teams compete in the tournament that now spans 6 days! Truly an international event, this year will welcome teams from across the UK, Ireland, Spain, America and even some travelling from Australia! With no fewer than 2000 matches taking place on pitches across the North West; there will be plenty of opportunity to catch some exciting games!
Don’t Forget: The Foyle Cup Parade will make its way through the city from Ulster University Magee to Guildhall Square at 10am on Monday 21st
Frieldays: A Homecoming 2025-2029
Various Locations | 1st - 31st August 2025
This five-year centenary celebration of local playwright Brian Friel explores the rich literary and theatrical legacy of Friel through performances in locations that inspired his work. Curated by Ireland’s Arts Over Borders, FrielDays will bring 29 plays to locations of resonance across Brian Friel’s homeland of the three north-west border counties of Donegal, Tyrone and Derry. The festival will begin with performances of Dancing at Lughnasa, Faith Healer, Translations and Volunteers as well as special anniversary readings of Seamus Heaney’s poetry collection ‘North’
Did you know? Brian Friels play Translations premiered right here at Derry’s Guildhall on 23rd September 1980 and starred none other than Liam Neeson (known for his roles in Schindler’s List, Michael Collins and Taken)
Maiden City Festival
Various Locations | 2nd-9th August
The 27th Maiden City Festival is 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 rhythm of traditional pipe bands move your feet and discover hidden stories in the hallowed walls of St Columb’s Cathedral.
Don’t Miss: Guns of the Siege – join crack gunners as they demonstrate the muskets and cannons that defended the city during the Siege.
The Rocky Horror Show
Millennium Forum | 18th – 3rd August | Various times
The Millennium Forum are excited to welcome this legendary rock ‘n’ roll musical as part of a new world tour. The Rocky Horror Show is the story of two squeaky clean college kids whose car breaks down outside a creepy mansion whilst on their way to visit their former college professor; where they meet the charismatic Dr Frank’n’Furter. It is an adventure they will never forget, filled with fun, frolics, frocks and frivolity!
Top Tip: Why not enhance your theatre experience with some pre-show nibbles and cocktails at the Speakeasy!
Live at the Square
Ebrington Square | 22nd – 24th August
Live at the Square are proud to present a weekend of live music with their biggest line up to date! On Friday 22nd – the city welcomes four-time BRIT Award winner Emeli Sande for her Walled City debut. Saturday 23rd will see Ebrington Square transported to the Spanish island Ibiza as Ibiza Orchestra present their own unique take on a number of classic dance music tracks that have been made iconic from DJs and nightclubs across Ibiza. The weekend concludes with multi-platinum selling, two-time BRIT Award nominee Ella Henderson!
Top Tip: Why not make a proper night of it and book dinner in one of the many restaurants dotted around Ebrington Square!
This is just a small selection of what is happening across the city this summer! For a full list of all events taking place across the district check out our 'What's On' page!
