September can be a challenging month – it’s marks the end of the summer holidays, the kids are back to school, and the weather is on the turn. If you’re lucky enough to be enjoying a short break in the Causeway Coast and Glens this month, there’s plenty of exciting events to enjoy when you’re not exploring our stunning landscapes!

Air Waves Portrush: 31st August – 1st September

Ireland’s biggest airshow returns for 2019! Two free days of incredible air displays and ground entertainment will take place in the beautiful seaside setting of Portrush, County Antrim.

Headlining this year are the Global Stars but spectators can also expect to see the Catalina, P-47 Thunderbolt, OV-10 Bronco, Augtogyro, Tuscano, RAF Tutor, Dakota, and Wing-walkers, to name but a few participants in this year’s annual aviation extravaganza. On the ground, visitors can look forward to an extensive range of exhibits headlined by the STEM Village where the worlds of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics come alive in an interactive and engaging way. There’ll also be a showcase of the Destination’s artisan sector at the local food and craft market along with themed areas including a fascinating look back in time with the Ulster Aviation Society.

Shamrock Rose and Thistle: The Eddie Butcher Singing Music Festival: 1st-8th September

Celebrating the life and works of Magilligan’s own traditional singer and songwriter, Eddie Butcher (1900-1980), the festival promises singing and storytelling for all ages to enjoy.

Opening night which takes place on Sunday 1st September in the Keady Clachan and will mark the 10th year of the Eddie Butcher Singing & Music Festival. During the festival, Colum Sands will perform in the newly refurbished Magilligan Community Centre on Thursday 5th. Jimmy’s Seisiún takes place in St Patrick’s Hall on Friday 6th and the festival continues in Dungiven on Saturday 7th at St Canice’s. The festival comes to a close on Sunday 8th in the Downhill Beach Hostel with a final singing seisiún.

Legend of Eireann at Riverside Theatre: 6th-7th September

Since rising to fame on ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ in 2014, the Portstewart based Innova Dance Company have appeared at numerous prestigious events in the UK, Ireland and internationally throughout Europe, The Middle East and Asia.

Their show ‘Legend of Eireann’, which debuted during a tour of China in 2017, promises an unforgettable evening where storytelling and Irish dancing are magically combined. Drawing on inspiration from Irish myths and folklore, the extended cast of 70 dancers will take you on a journey where good battles to overcome evil – all showcased through Innova’s unique style of choreography.

Castlerock Walk Fest: 7th September

This one’s for the keen hikers among us! Visitors to be Causeway Coast and Glens region can participate in a day of 11 guided walks based in the Castlerock and Binevenagh area on Saturday 7th September.

All walks are guided and feature hill treks, such as the Binevenagh hill walk, Altikeeragh walk, Bellerena to Castlerock route, Grangemore Dunes (with a National Trust Guide), and loads more!

Ballycastle Literary Festival: 21st-22nd September

The Ballycastle Literary Festival will host authors who specialise in a variety of genres to discuss their books and writing styles at the Marine Hotel this September. Afterwards there will be an opportunity for audience participation through Q&A sessions, and recently published authors will be available for book signings.

In an adjacent room there will be a selection of stalls, displays and workshops covering subjects such as writing, publishing, local history, rare books, storytelling and second hand books!

Causeway Coast Marathon: 28th September

Having established itself as one of the most scenic marathons in the world, the 2019 event is set to attract participants from across the globe that will come to compete alongside fellow runners on this fantastic route.

The entire route passes through magnificent coastline scenery with fine views of wide bays, sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs and offshore rocks, all of which characterise the Causeway Coast, making its beauty and uniqueness world famous. All events will run through the world famous Giants Causeway with the Ultra and Marathon events passing close to the actual Giants Causeway stones!


There’s lots more to see and do in the Causeway Coast and Glens, and you can find even more inspiration and ideas on our website. Don’t forget to check out our What’s On guide before your visit to find out about exciting events taking place across the Borough during your stay!