As the carefree and indulgent days of summer are upon us, you might be wondering about the best spots to unwind during this season, or which spontaneous outdoorsy activities you can enjoy. Well, I did the research and made a list, so you don’t have to! This blog is essentially to spotlight the key, student-friendly, and entirely free events happening in Belfast, especially the ones that leave you feeling warm, fulfilled, and uplifted in the best ways.

If You Appreciate Music:

If you are someone who loves listening to live music, swaying to the pulsing rhythm of instruments, and letting yourself truly live those sparkly, vibrant moments that make life worthwhile, here are some important concerts/festivals to attend:

Belfast TradFest:

TITANIC CÉILÍ is an outdoor day event happening on Sunday 27 July, 1pm-5pm, and is completely free of charge. The music stage will feature many traditional acts including Pólca 4, Meadhbh Walsh, Róise McHugh, and more!

Another VERY exciting event during the TradFest is the Dunville’s Irish Whiskey Session Trail, commencing on 27 July and continuing until 3 August, across 17 of Belfast’s best pubs, offering exposure to the beauty of Irish traditional music and a chance to participate in the merriment.

Music in the Park 2025:

If you prefer a calming, green scenery around to experience traditional bands performing engaging music, this would be the perfect place to go. The free upcoming events are held in Ormeau Park (20 July), Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park (24 August), and the Botanic Gardens (14 September)! 

Radio 3 Recitals - Glenarm Festival of Voice:

Don’t even think of missing this wonderful experience of a concert recording for BBC, allowing a live audience to listen and watch for free (apply via ticket draw - 18 July). Mark your calendars - 22 August 8pm for a concert by mezzo soprano Carolyn Dobbin; 23 August 8pm by Baritone James Atkinson; and 24 August 1:30pm by Tenor Santiago Sanchez.

If Art’s What You’re After:

Love strolling through museums, exhibitions, or open spaces to observe the magic and serenity art brings to your hearts? Here are the ultimate destinations in Belfast, go on and make a note of it:

Lucian Freud’s Etchings - Titanic Belfast:

In collaboration with the Victoria and Albert Museum, this new, free event offered by the Titanic Museum is quite the talk of the city, as the exhibition of the unpredictable Lucian Freud’s art brings forth an unforgettable experience for the visitors. You will also be allowed an immersive look at the etching process and printmaking. Available to visit until 30 September.

Wild Ireland: Past, Present, Future:

I distinctly remember getting to see two art shows in the Ulster Museum last summer, Lavery and Caravaggio. This time, the Museum has come up with another exciting exhibition, featuring 50 wildlife paintings of Julian Friers. These are available for viewing until 31 August (Note: Timings are 10:00 - 17:00, Closed on Mondays). 

Nationhood: Memory and Hope:

The Belfast Exposed Photograph Gallery brings to you some amazing pieces captured by creatives from across the UK who tell diverse stories of identities, communities, and how it makes one perceive the world around. This exhibition is travelling across the UK and is held in all four nations. It stays in Belfast until the 11 July.

Belfast’s Got Pride:

There is a reason why pride events in Belfast happen in July. You know how the weather looked in June, so I will not be explaining. Anyway, the pride festival is massive here (apparently so), and I am high-key excited! We have the following:

The Pride Parade:

Being one of the largest gatherings in Belfast, this parade on 26 July is both an act of solidarity and a celebration. The route is the same as last year, it will start at Custom House Square and finish at Victoria Street. The build-up to the walk starts at 11am and the march itself starts at 1pm. Please remember to stay hydrated for this one!

Real-Talk: Lived Experiences:

An exclusive chat show, free entry, in Ormeau Avenue on 23 July, starting at 19:00. This show is hosted by Alexa Moore, with Ella Morgan as the headline guest. This is meant to be a reflective, insightful, and inspiring space for everyone belonging to (or supporting) the queer spectrum. The panel will consist of many local voices. Expect real talk. Secure your ticket in eventbrite.

Telling Our Stories, a queer creative writing workshop:

If you are a creative writer wanting to engage in and learn more about queer writing, this is where you start off. Belfast Poet and Author Niamh McNally is conducting this workshop to help the participants begin their story. At: Chat and Chill Cafe, 19:30, 25 July. 

Also, the pride village will be held at the Big Fish, Donegall Quay, this year. This is a fun space for children, with lots of entertainment, and a pride themed market. Do check it out!

I hope everyone reading this has the utmost joy attending all the aforementioned events and activities this summer. This is your cue to let loose, watch Call Me by Your Name, sip lemonades, and make sure to have fun.

Find out more

What’s Going On in Belfast This Summer?

Student Life in Belfast

Your student guide to Belfast and NI

Magdalene Natasha Charles Anthropology and English | Undergraduate Student | India I'm an undergraduate student pursuing Anthropology and English at Queen's. Originally from Chennai, India, I've now moved to Belfast for my studies. In my free time, I like to write poetry, and I've self-published my own collection ('Subdued Cries' on Amazon). I'm an aspiring novelist and I hope to inspire people through my writing journey. I also journal, and am fond of frolicking (or taking calming walks) through parks and gardens. I'm extremely passionate about reading and my current favourite is The Secret History by Donna Tartt. I'm constantly looking for ways to improve my personal and professional skills, and hope to gain meaningful experience during my time here at Queen's.