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Join us at North Down Museum for an afternoon showcasing traditional craft skills and techniques that have been passed down through generations.- 2 Aug 2026
- Join us for an evening of arts activity at Ards Arts Centre and a Twilight Market tented craft village in Conway Square.
- 7 Aug 2026
- Each Sunday, and some Saturdays, throughout the summer until 13 September will see activities and entertainment visiting Cockle Row Cottages in the seaside village of Groomsport to provide an afternoon of FREE fun!
- 1 Aug 20262 Aug 2026
- 9 Aug 2026
- 15 Aug 202616 Aug 2026
- 22 Aug 202623 Aug 2026
- 29 Aug 202630 Aug 2026
- 5 Sep 20266 Sep 2026
- 13 Sep 2026
We have put together a list of highlights in the borough that you can do or visit for free, no matter the season, whether you are a local resident or a visitor to the borough. There is plenty to be enjoyed for all, for little to no money.
Discover even more to see and do across the Borough...
From Tree to Tone invites visitors into the world of Avalon Guitars, where wood, skill and sound come together to create something really special. Meet John McCartin, the celebrated traditional Irish guitar player, and the craftsmen behind the brand as they share the story of how each guitar is crafted.- 31 Jul 2026
- 6 Aug 2026
- 6 Aug 2026
- Portaferry Sails & Sounds Maritime Heritage, Shanty and Ulster-Scots Festival 2026 takes place from 31 July to 3 August on the shores of Strangford Lough. Proudly recognised as Northern Ireland's only dedicated sea shanty festival, the event offers four days of live music, sailing, storytelling, heritage, boat trips, family activities and community celebration in the heart of Portaferry.
- 31 Jul 20263 Aug 2026
- Join Botanical Artist Ali Walker as she guides you in the art of drawing a range of Summer subjects from Mount Stewart's beautiful gardens.
- 1 Aug 2026
- Each Sunday, and some Saturdays, throughout the summer until 13 September will see activities and entertainment visiting Cockle Row Cottages in the seaside village of Groomsport to provide an afternoon of FREE fun!
- 1 Aug 20262 Aug 2026
- 9 Aug 2026
- 15 Aug 202616 Aug 2026
- 22 Aug 202623 Aug 2026
- 29 Aug 202630 Aug 2026
- 5 Sep 20266 Sep 2026
- 13 Sep 2026
- Belfast Lough is set to come alive with over 100 boats from across the world as the spectacular GP14 World Championships sail into Northern Ireland in August 2026 - promising a week-long celebration of world-class racing, coastal energy and true regatta spirit.
- 8 Aug 202615 Aug 2026
- The Donaghadee Community Development Association is proud to present the annual Summer Festival Programme for 2026, running 20 June until 9 September.
- Make special memories this summer. Dart down to WWT's first-ever Dragonfly Festival this summer.
- 30 Jun 202630 Aug 2026
- Every August, the Borough of Ards and North Down comes alive with art and craft — a month long celebration featuring exhibitions, open studios, live craft demonstrations, and workshops where visitors can view, buy or even make unique handmade pieces.
- Open House Festival - a month-long programme of music, comedy, literature, film, and fiid & drink
- 1 Aug 202631 Aug 2026
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