About
The Maiden City Festival is back for its 28th year, a vibrant celebration of history, heritage, culture and community in th heart of our historic Walled City.
From the 31st July to the 8th August, the streets, walls and venues of Londonderry will come alive with music, dance, theatre, storytelling, pageantry and family friendly entertainment. Whether you're a first time visitor, or a long-standing supporter, we invite you to immerse yourself in a week of events that honour our past will celebrating the people and traditions that continue to shape our city today.
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:-
The Siege Tales | 1st & 3rd - 7th August | 10am-4.30pm | City Walls
Find a multitude of characters from the city's past wandering the walls, including the Grocer's daughter (who's cooking up some suspect pies), the Gunner'e wife, an Apprentice Boy and a French prisioner who's begging to be released... Stop with each of them to hear their tale.
USA250 Characters | 1st & 3rd - 7th August | 10am-4.30pm | Guildhall Square
Listen to stories from the time of the American Declaration of Independence, through the eyes of characters who lived it.
The Siege Story | 1st & 3rd - 7th August | 12pm, 2pm & 4pm | St Columb's Cathedral
Hear the story of Th Siege through powerful monologues, set against the historic backdrop of St Columb's Cathedral.
Skirl of the Pipes | 3rd - 7th August | 11am - 3pm | City Walls
Experience the unforgettable sound of the bagpipes resonating through the walls as the Sollus Highland Dancers perform
Culture Bites | 3rd - 7th August | 12pm - 2pm | Various Cafes in the City Centre
Enjoy traditional music in cafe venues across the city centre.
Guns of the Siege | 1st & 7th August | 11am, 1pm & 3pm | Society Street
Come and hear the cannon fired in real life.
Tea Dances | 3rd - 6th August | 2pm - 4pm | Memorial Hall
Enjoy a trip to yester-year when The Mem was one of the hippest dance halls in the city! Relive the memories, enjoy and dance!
A Country Gala Night | 1st August | 8.30pm - 11.30pm | 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.
Special Festival USA250 Lecture | 4th August | 7pm - 8pm | 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. Led by Dr. William Roulston. Lecture will be followed by entertainment from Baron Accordian Experience.
Open Mic Night | 5th August | 8pm | 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
Echoes of the Siege | 7th August | 8.30pm - 10.15pm | Meeting Point: London Street
Join us for a walking trail, where you can experience the stories and songs of the Siege. Trails will start every 15mins, last tour departs at 10.15pm.
The Siege Pageant | 8th August | 12pm | 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!
