Sunday 25 – Monday 26 October 2026
Newtownards
Ards Puppet Festival transforms Ards Arts Centre into a magical world of puppetry each October — with puppet‑theatre shows, a puppet exhibition and hands‑on puppet‑making workshops.
Ahoy, me hearties! Ards Puppet Festival sails back into port on Sunday 25 and Monday 26 October 2026!
Once again, Ards Arts Centre will come alive with the magic of puppetry as world-class performers bring a host of colourful characters and captivating stories to the stage. This year's seaside-themed festival is packed with pirates, puffins, beachy fun, underwater adventures, deep-sea shenanigans and plenty of family-friendly entertainment.
Enjoy unforgettable puppet shows, get creative in hands-on workshops, discover fascinating puppets up close, and join the excitement of a giant puppet parade.
With a mix of bookable performances and free activities on offer, there's something for all ages to enjoy during the October break.
Events take place at Ards Arts Centre, Newtownards.
Ticket prices vary, with a mix of bookable performances and free events on offer.
Find out more here
Keep up to date
Sign up to our e-newsletter and follow our social channels...
Sign up | Facebook | Instagram
Please note
- Online booking fees apply where relevant. None when booking in person or by phone via our Visitor Information Centres.
- Details are subject to change.
- This event is being photographed/filmed. Images may be used in Ards and North Down Borough Council promotional material. If you do not want your image to be used, please inform our event staff
Make a Break of it and Stay a While
Stay a while and take a break on our shores. Relax in the beauty of this place, offering everything from 5 star luxury to cosy guest houses or unique self-catering options, maybe camping and caravanning is more your thing, let us help you plan your perfect getaway.
Find out more in our Plan Your Trip section.
Sustainability
Ards and North Down Borough Council is committed to reducing our carbon footprint. We encourage visitors to travel via public transport, there are fresh water stations on site bring along refillable water bottles, reusable bags to pick up goodies at the event and please dispose rubbish in the correct bins when on-site.
Read more about Sustainability
