2024 Rathlin Sound Festival brings seaside music and fun to Ballycastle and Rathlin

The 2024 Rathlin Sound Festival has kicked off a fantastic 10-day programme celebrating the area's people, culture, and heritage.

Ballycastle and Rathlin welcomed attendees to the newly rebranded festival, and the Naturally North Coast and Glens artisan market proved popular as always.

The crowds who attended were treated to a fantastic array of music, craft, and maritime stories. The weather did not dampen spirits, with families enjoying kite displays, paddleboarding, and arts and crafts.

Wild Walk Bushcraft treated visitors to cookery demonstrations using locally sourced food and foraged herbs from the ‘air, earth and sea’, and those brave enough had the opportunity to taste unusual flavours such as coal-fired eel.

On Sunday, visitors were treated to a haunting performance from guitarist and singer/songwriter Erin Doherty, who wowed audiences with her own versions of popular songs set against the stunning backdrop of Fairhead. The Causeway Shantymen provided much entertainment for crowds at Ballycastle Sea Front, making the atmosphere electric.

This week, the focus will move to the stunning backdrop of Rathlin Island in the lead-up to the last few days of the festival. Visitors will be treated to a Lunchtime Concert with Wendy Jack and Tuned In Collective on Wednesday, the 29th of May, and a pub quiz in aid of the Mayor’s Charity RNLI in McCuaig’s Bar in the evening.

Join Sarah Hardy on Thursday or Friday for some gentle yoga that’s free and suitable for all, with model boat building with Stornoway artist Christine Morrison at the Richard Branson Centre.

The 2024 Rathlin Sound Festival continues until Sunday, 2nd June. For more information visit www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com