Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is set to celebrate Seachtain na Gaeilge, the world’s largest festival of Irish language and culture, which takes place from 1–17 March 2026. This year’s programme features a mix of bookable public events, school activities, and creative initiatives designed for all ages and abilities. Whether you know a cúpla focal, are fluent, or simply want to discover more about the Irish language and culture, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The exciting range of free events include:
- Dianchúrsa – One Day Irish Language Courses: Saturday 7 March at Dunsilly Hotel, Antrim (09.30am–2.30pm) and Ionad Teaghlaigh Ghleann Darach, Crumlin (10.00am–2.30pm). Full-day courses for beginners, advanced beginners, and those reconnecting with a cúpla focal, featuring lessons, guided conversation, and practical activities. Lunch and refreshments provided.
- Ciorcal Comhrá – Conversation Circle: Saturday 7 March, 10.00am–12.00pm at St Enda’s GAA, Glengormley, a relaxed space to practise Irish with tea, coffee, and refreshments provided.
- Comhrá, Ceol & Cupán Tae – Conversation, Music & a Cup of Tea: Wednesday 11 March, 11.00am–2.00pm at Ionad Teaghlaigh Ghleann Darach, a drop-in event combining Irish conversation, music, and social connection.
- Children’s Irish Language Stories and Rhymes: Saturday 14 March, 10.30–11.30am at Glengormley Library, led by storyteller Martina Caughey, with lively stories, playful rhymes, and interactive activities for young children and families.
In addition to these events, the Council is creating a playful children’s animation featuring the voices of pupils from Irish-medium schools and nurseries across the Borough including Naiscoil na Fiobha, Naiscoil Ghleann Darach, Gaelscoil Ghleann Darach and Gaelscoil Éanna. It will promote language visibility and empower children to act as teachers by sharing everyday Irish words and phrases with the wider community. It will be shared across the Council’s social media channels throughout the event.
Children from local schools will also take part in fun Céilí events at Theatre at The Mill featuring live music from McAuley Céilí Band and in the Old Courthouse, with Céilí caller, Ronan Eastwood. The Good Relations Team is coordinating further Irish
language activities for nursery and primary schools, including story packs, daily Irish words and phrases, and an optional themed Irish Myths & Legends dress-up day.
Deputy Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Julie Gilmour said: “Seachtain na Gaeilge is a wonderful opportunity for people of all ages to experience the richness of our language and culture. From fun workshops and storytelling to music, dance, and even animation, there really is something for everyone. We encourage everyone in Antrim and Newtownabbey to join in and enjoy the festivities this March.”
All activities are supported through the District Council Good Relations Programme, funded by The Executive Office as part of the Together: Building a United Community (T:BUC) Strategy. Seachtain na Gaeilge 2026 offers something for everyone in Antrim and Newtownabbey, from first words in Irish to fluent conversation.
More information, including booking details, can be found at: antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/SnaG26
