Featured Events in Belfast in May, 2025 (April Updated)

On May 2, actor Patty Gallagher (California Shakespeare, Rogue Theater Tucson, University of California Santa Cruz Performance, Play, and Design) and pianist/composer Ben Leeds Carson (Sideband Records, University of California Santa Cruz Creative Technologies) take the stage at Brian Friel Theatre in Lisa Peterson and Denis O'Hare’s AN ILIAD—a monologue re-telling of the Trojan War, which is also a telling of the catastrophe of war, and a telling of our telling of war ... ceaseless, comedic, compulsive, and mournful. Gallagher's and Carson's stage presence is guided by practices rooted in Beckett, Shakespeare, clowning, and by the study of Hellenic musics, and their Egyptian and Mesopotamian origins—traditions which this play’s terrifying questions: What words to say, what strings are there to pluck, and what sighs and screams are suitable to sing, for the description of war? Kirsten Brandt’s deep, insightful direction compels Gallagher and Carson to join as a manifestation of Homeric inspiration; Gallagher the celebrated poet grounding her audience in the wars that give shape to their place in the world. The Brian Friel Theatre production team, with lighting designed by Mary Tumelty, taking inspiration from the pioneering lighting designer David Lee Cuthbert (1965-2025), alongside Costa Rican costume and stage designer Pamela Rodríguez Montero, have developed a world that channels Gallagher's words into, and out of, the wordless forces of the muse: the piano reimagined as a lyre, and a sense of harmonia that connected the story to the ethereal. Information Source: School of Arts, English and Languages | eventbrite

Ireland's Strongest Man is the smash hit RTE TV show featuring Ireland's Strongest battling it out for the title. A brilliant Family show which is suitable for all ages. Show starts at 1pm. Children 2 and under go FREE (sitting on a parent/guardians knee) .Children's tickets 3-15 years old. Tickets start from £30 for Adults and £20 for Children. VIP Package available including a welcome drink on arrival ,Q&A with a Strongman Legend and then meet the stars of the show after the event. Information Source: Ultimate Strongman Productions Limited | eventbrite

In 1991, the curator and art historian S.B. Kennedy published his seminal volume Irish Art & Modernism, 1880-1950. This was the first major text to survey the relationship between modern Irish artists and their European counterparts, tracing the impact of a collection of aesthetic preoccupations loosely termed “modernism” within Ireland. Kennedy’s volume examined themes central to the study of Irish art: the relationship between the local and the transnational in Irish artistic movements; the mobility of aesthetic influences across geographies, institutions, and art networks; the existence, or otherwise, of an “Irish school”; and the tensions between modernity, the nation, and the past in formulations of Irish identity. In the thirty years since the publication of Kennedy’s text, the field of modernist studies has undergone rapid transformation. Historians of modernism have conclusively challenged the notion of a single, hegemonic modernist tradition while dismantling many of the implied hierarchies of the field. Most notably, investigations of modernism have been fruitfully expanded by the application of urgent methodological lenses, including the critical perspectives of postcolonial, queer, ecocritical, feminist, and diasporic studies. How have such viewpoints impacted the study of Irish modernism? What work is still to be done? Honoring S.B. Kennedy’s career as both an art historian and a long-time curator at the Ulster Museum, this conference examines modernism in the Irish visual arts from 1880 to the present day. Who were the audiences, protagonists, allies, and antagonists of modern art in Ireland? How did Irish art across the island—north and south, east and west—champion modernism in the arts, broadly construed, across shifting political and economic milieus? And what new narratives of Irish modern art might be written by considering decolonial, gendered, and intersectional perspectives? AGENDA* The schedule is subject to change. Please see the KNI website for most up-to-date information. Day 1 (Thursday, 22 May 2025)Belfast Room, Ulster Museum 10:00 Registration & Coffee Reception 10:30 Welcome 10:40 Panel I: Defining Modernism, Part I Dr. Fintan Cullen (University of Nottingham)—“Modernism, Whistler, and Irishness”Dr. Hannah Baker (Trinity College Dublin)—“Sarah Cecilia Harrison (1863-1941): A Traditionalist in Modern Ireland”Dr. Judith Stapleton (University of Notre Dame)—“‘Among the Radicals’: Staging Irish Modernism at Home and Abroad, William Orpen, 1910-1914”12:00 Break 12:30 Panel II: Defining Modernism, Part II Dr. Gavin Murphy (Atlantic Technological University)—“Unfinished Business: Jack B. Yeats, Modernity and the Avant-Garde”Dr. Niamh NicGhabhann Coleman (University of Limerick)—“Catholic Modernism in Ireland: Perspective and Interpretations”13:30 Lunch 14:30Panel III: Spheres of Influence Katie Buckley (Prints & Drawings, National Gallery of Ireland)—“The Student Surpassing the Master? William Orpen and his Students at the Dublin Metropolitan School of Art (1902-1914)”Dr. Michael Waldron (Crawford Art Gallery)—“‘She gave them of her best’: Tracing Mainie Jellett’s Sphere of Influence”Sarah McAuliffe (National Gallery of Ireland)—“An soluble Puzzle: creating and interpreting a vision of Ireland, 1920–1950”16:00 Tour of the Collection Anne Stewart, Senior Curator of Art, Ulster Museum. By registration only17:00 Keynote (Lecture Theatre, Ulster Museum) In Conversation: Dr. Riann Coulter, Curator F.E. McWilliam Gallery and Visiting Professor, Belfast School of ArtDr. Fionna Barber, Reader in Art History, Manchester School of ArtDr. Róisín Kennedy, Associate Professor of the School of Art and Cultural Policy, University College DublinRespondent: Dr. Joseph McBrinn, Reader in Art and Design History at Belfast School of Art of the University of Ulster 18:30 Reception (Belfast Room, Ulster Museum) Book Launch: The Routledge Companion to Irish Art (2025) edited by Fionna Barber and Fintan CullenDay 2 (Friday, 23 May 2025)Canada Room and Council Chamber, Queen's University Belfast 9:30 Registration & Coffee Reception 10:00 Panel IV: Paper Modernisms Marie Lynch (Centre for the Study of Irish Art, National Gallery of Ireland)—“A Pixie in Irish Art: Pamela Colman Smith and the Yeats Family”Chiara Harrison Lambe (Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin)—“‘My Own Work Made Me Happier': Stella Steyn, James Joyce, and the Boundaries of Irish Modernism”Dr. Angela Griffith (Trinity College Dublin)—“Blurred lines: Irish Artists and Modern Illustration: Tradition and Innovation”11:30 Break 12:00 Panel V: Exhibiting Ireland Dr. Billy Shortall (Trinity College Dublin)—“Irish Visual Art and Artifice in the Early Years of the Irish Free State”Dr. Philip McEvansoneya (Trinity College Dublin)—“‘Cultural Expression in Time of War’: Seeing Modern Continental Art in Emergency Ireland”Dr. Elisabeth Ansel (University of Jena)—“The Story of an Unknown Exhibition: Jack B. Yeats and Irish Modernism in Germany 13:30 Lunch 14:30Panel VI: Queer Visibilities and Geographies of Exchange Seán Kissane (Irish Museum of Modern Art)—“Revisiting The White Stags”Dr. Edwin Coomasaru (Independent Scholar)—“(Anti-)Colonial Ecologies between Northern Ireland and Sri Lanka: Song of Ceylon (1935) at the Ulster Museum”Dr. Cai Lyons (Independent Art Historian)—“Mary Swanzy’s Exhibiting Practice as Transnational Modernist Exchange, c. 1900-1947”16:00 Break 16:30 Panel VII: Irish Modernisms Now?: Contemporary Perspectives Dr. Kate Antosik-Parsons (Trinity College Dublin)—“Disruptive Encounters: Protest, Performance and Politics in Array Collective’s The Druthaib’s Ball (2021)”Dr. Joseph McBrinn (Belfast School of Art of the University of Ulster)—Respondent Remarks: “Thinking through Irish Art and Modernism”17:30 Closing Remarks Information Source: Keough-Naughton Institute for Irish Studies | eventbrite

Boulderworld Fun Comp - Thursday 1st May 6pm - Friday 2nd May 10pm Making the most of our new comp wall set! Come down for a fun, friendly and motivating day. Test yourself in a competition setting :) 45 climbs of all difficulties. Unlimited attemtps with a 1 point reduction per attempt. Full range of age categories : 14+/21+/30+/40+/50+/60+ Small entry fee to fund some spot prizes spread throughout all categories. Get your ranking in your age group and get motivated :) Lets get together and make it great ! Spot prizes picked out of a hat from score card entries. You must be registered here to gain a score card. *Please note the climbs will be up on the comp wall before the compeittion starts. If you are taking part, please do not climb them until the Thrusday* Just get excited !! Information Source: Lucy Mitchell (BoulderWorld Belfast) | eventbrite

Boulderworld Fun Comp - Thursday 1st May 6pm - Friday 2nd May 10pm Making the most of our new comp wall set! Come down for a fun, friendly and motivating day. Test yourself in a competition setting :) 45 climbs of all difficulties. Unlimited attemtps with a 1 point reduction per attempt. Full range of age categories : 14+/21+/30+/40+/50+/60+ Small entry fee to fund some spot prizes spread throughout all categories. Get your ranking in your age group and get motivated :) Lets get together and make it great ! Spot prizes picked out of a hat from score card entries. You must be registered here to gain a score card. *Please note the climbs will be up on the comp wall before the compeittion starts. If you are taking part, please do not climb them until the Thrusday* Just get excited !! Information Source: Lucy Mitchell (BoulderWorld Belfast) | eventbrite

Tom Gee & Friends is back following a short hiatus and we have a stellar line up for the first session of the year! This time we're at The Wee Bar on the 2nd floor of Queens SU. This time it's a little bit different, acoustic sets with all 3 artists before a full band line up! Sarah McCreedy Sarah McCreedy is an indie-folk singer-songwriter from Northern Ireland, known for her soothing yet vulnerable soundscapes. Her songwriting delves into themes of meaningful relationships and existential questions, beautifully capturing the complexities of human experience. In 2024, Sarah released her debut album, Why am I still here? , which showcases her emotive songwriting and distinctive vocals. Sarah is a former NI Music Prize nominee has already been a surprise guest at the Sunflower Sessions and is joining us again for a full set! Rory Nellis Rory Nellis is a Belfast-based singer-songwriter celebrated for his introspective lyrics, melodic craftsmanship, and engaging storytelling. Known for blending indie-folk and alternative influences, Rory's solo work, including albums like There Are Enough Songs in the World and Written & Underlined , showcases his skill in creating thoughtful, heartfelt songs that resonate with a wide audience. As both a solo artist and a member of the band Seven Summits, Rory has established himself as a prominent figure in Northern Ireland's music scene and is a welcome addition to the bill for our very first Wee Sessions! Tom Gee Tom is a singer-songwriter known for his dynamic fusion of soul, blues, americana and folk. Based in the sunny Belfast, he has gained recognition for his energetic performances and smooth, soulful vocals. Tom's music is characterized by catchy hooks, groovy rhythms, and heartfelt lyrics that often explore themes of love, life, and relationships. His releases, including Better Things to Do and Swapping Stories , have met with critical acclaim. Tom's live performances come with one promise; you'll either laugh or you'll cry. Nominated Charity: Medical Aid for Palestinians 50% of Tom Gee Band CD sales and 100% of profits from Tom Gee Band t-shirt sales will be donated to Medical Aid for Palestinians, to read more about the work they do click the hyperlink above. Information Source: TGB & Friends | eventbrite

Information Source: The Jam International | eventbrite

​ “Rock’n’Roll’s favourite magician” - a title given to him from being a magician that had toured with bands such as Paul Weller, The Libertines, Reverend and the Makers, Pete Doherty and The Brian Jonestown Massacre. The mod brings his love of music and magic together in one action packed show that is not to be missed. A proud member of the world-famous Magic Circle Ben has also been on a few tv shows including a program made about one of his heroes Tommy Cooper What do you get if you put Tommy Cooper, Liam Gallagher, Paul Daniels and Paul Weller into a mixer? You get the magic mod ! Information Source: The Ulster Society of Magicians | eventbrite

Information Source: Voodoo Belfast | eventbrite

At Turnstyle you'll see new and experienced performers try fun, silly ideas that you may never see again! This month, copious amounts of hot sauce plus comedy. This month we are back in Sunflower Public House. Doors open at 7:30pm; Show starts at 8pm. Line-up TBA. Keep an eye on our instgram for more info. @turnstylebelfast Information Source: Turnstyle | eventbrite

Red Eye Pariah UK Tour 2025 - Belfast Expect a high energy performance filled with Indie bangers as Red Eye Pariah bring the Tequila King UK Tour to The Oh Yeah Centre, Belfast. For fans of Sam Fender, Kings of Leon, and Arctic Monkeys, this is a fast rising act you don't want to miss! Information Source: Red Eye Pariah | eventbrite

Don't miss the upcoming Urban Connect event in Belfast at 193 Falls Rd on May 2, 2025. Immerse yourself in a dynamic urban atmosphere with a range of activities and entertainment. Ticket prices range from £10 to £16.96, offering great value for a memorable experience. Join like-minded individuals in celebrating urban culture and community at this exciting event.

Residents Maz & Pony all night long. Saturday 3rd May Tickets £8/£10 - Doors 10.30pm - 3am Ulster Sports Club Last admission for ticket holders 1.30am Limited walk ups at the door, £10 cash Ponyhawke is a Queer club night, please respect people’s space. Homophobic and transphobic behaviour that will not be tolerated. Information Source: Ponyhawke | eventbrite

History The Tibbs originally took off in 2012 - fronted by the amazing Elsa Bekman – covering a lesser-trodden path, combining special soul classics with rare beat instrumentals. Their increasing popularity quickly led to a natural desire to expand their repertoire, beyond the confines of others’ inspirational endeavours towards their own soulful creations. Produced by Paul Willemsen (Beans & Fatback, Lefties Soul Connection, Michelle David & The True-tones), the resulting EP Cleaned Out debuted in 2014 . Later that year, the German funk and soul label TrampRecords released their debut single – Footprints In The Sand /Cleaned Out – delivering deserved international airplay for The Tibbs. Two years later, famous Italian label Record Kicks released The Tibbs’ first LP, Takin’ Over. The first single from the album, Next Time/ The Story Goes – again produced by Paul Willemsen – received critical acclaim on radio stations throughout England, Italy, The Netherlands, Germany, France, Canada and Australia. Though the talent was obvious much earlier, the release of Takin' Over delivered the band far richer rewards. Playing sold-out venues in both Milan and Frankfurt, The Tibbs’ profile rose further still with wonderful festival performances in Germany and Hungary, followed by a successful sold-out tour of Spain. Throughout this period, more new music was being created; the Lies 45 released in December 2017 , and six months later, This Strange Effect was included on the celebratory Record Kicks 15th compilation album. After some deliberation, in late 2018 Elsa decided to follow her heart and focus on a solo career. The Tibbs duly began their search for a truly worthy successor, bringing astonishing vocalist Roxanne Hartog and the band together for the first time. With a selection of incredible new tunes and an album ( Another Shot Fired ) drawing fantastic reviews, The Tibbs played sold-out shows in The Netherlands, Italy, Germany and Spain. In January 2024 their latest album Keep It to Yourself came out, a true tour deforce that left listeners awe-inspired, foot-tapping and heart-soaring. On this 12-track album The Tibbs once again prove that the passionate sounds of the past can have a fresh and vibrant place in the music of today. Whether you're a devoted soul aficionado or new to the genre, just get ready for a musical journey that will revive your spirit! ‍ The Tibbs are: Roxanne Hartog - vocals Henk Kemkes - guitar Anton Titsing - Hammond / keys Michael Willemsen - bass Bas de Vries - drums Berd Ruttenberg - baritone sax Frank Stolwijk - tenor sax Siebe Posthuma de Boer - trumpet Information Source: eventbrite

Information Source: AMD ROCKHOUSE | eventbrite

LEARN THE FOUNDATIONS OF GRAFFITI LETTERINGHOW TO BUILD YOUR PIECECHOOSE THE RIGHT CAP FOR THE RIGHT TECHNIQUEHOW TO ADD 3DHOW TO CREATE THE GRAFFITI AESTHETIC Information Source: Seedhead Arts | eventbrite

Due to popular demand, International Stage Hypnotist Poldark returns to the city of Belfast to perform a show, full of extraordinary wonderment. With scenes to demonstrate hypnotic style phenomena for scientific research, the power of the mind and the sixth sense. Choose how you enter the hypnotic world; as a spectator watching in the audience or as a volunteer on stage to bring the entertainment to life as one of the ‘stars’ of the show, albeit volunteers must be 18+ and can choose to leave the performance at any time. Special guests, musical duo Small Corner, part of Stonewall Music will open the night. Known for their take on well known tracks, as well as performing some original music, guaranteed you’ll be toe tapping and singing along as they hit the first notes, through to the last notes at the end of the night. Due to popular demand, early booking is encouraged. Information Source: Poldark Show | eventbrite

Improv is the art of spontaneously performing comedy and theatre without a script. Works in Progress was conceived as an antidote to writer’s block, a space in which anyone can have fun making up characters, scenes and stories in an encouraging environment. This session runs in the Wolfson Lecture Theatre at the Seamus Heaney Centre from 4-6pm. It will be a mixture of classic short form games (think Whose Line Is It Anyway) and long form montage performances. No performance experience is required, and there is no pressure to perform; you are welcome just to watch. Information Source: School of Arts, English and Languages | eventbrite

Test ride your chosen inclusive bike* in a supervised safe cycling area just beside the main ozone building, then take off round the Ormeau park paths with your family, friends, siblings alongside a Cycling Ireland Coach. *Bikes available: Trikes (various sizes), Hand Cycles (adult & junior), Side by side tandem, Wheelchair transporter bike & standard tandems. Event organised by Disability Sport NI, Belfast City Council and supported by Progressive Building Society & Cycling Ireland. Information Source: Disability Sport NI | eventbrite

The Belfast City Marathon is one of the leading marathon events in the UK and Ireland, with a marathon walk, relay and wheelchair races also taking place. The race route covers all areas of Belfast and has strong support from local residents.

The Belfast City Marathon is one of the leading marathon events in the UK and Ireland, with a marathon walk, relay and wheelchair races also taking place. The race route covers all areas of Belfast and has strong support from local residents.

The Belfast City Marathon is one of the leading marathon events in the UK and Ireland, with a marathon walk, relay and wheelchair races also taking place. The race route covers all areas of Belfast and has strong support from local residents.

Nikola Arkane Belfast born Nikola has captivated audiences and viewers across the world with a unique, fresh and theatrical style of magic. She has performed in The Magic Castle, on Penn and Tellers’ Fool U and Sweden’s Got Talent as well as many famous venues around the world. Nikola picked up the 2023 International Slaight Rising Star Award in Canada and the Grand Prix Stage Award at the Swedish Championships in Magic where she came 1st in General and Parlour Magic. Tom Stone Tom Stone, from Stockholm, Sweden, has been a full-time magician for 34 years, since September 1990. As an innovator and expert in the field, Tom has written many books and articles about the art of conjuring, consulted for theatre and TV, lectured all over the world, and been the main instructor at advanced further educations in magic. He has been nominated for three FISM Special Awards and is the recipient of the 2015 Creative Fellowship Award. Romany As the ‘Diva of Magic’, Romany is the first and only woman to be named The Magic Circle Stage Magician of the Year, the only British winner of the prestigious Las Vegas World Magic Awards, and a member of the exclusive inner circle of The Magic Circle. She has performed on Penn and Teller’s Fool Us and by personal invite for King Charles Fay Presto As well as being the Ulster Society of Magicians’ President, Fay Presto is arguably Britain's premier close-up magician. Voted The Magic Circle Close-up Magician of the Year 2012 and a former Tatler 'Party Entertainer of the Year' Fay has been personally requested to entertain the late HM The Queen on no less than six occasions, as well as performing for every other senior member of the Royal family. A Gold Star Member of The Inner Magic Circle, her powerful personality-based magic and ability to connect with an audience has set a standard within the magic industry. Quentin Reynolds Over the past 40 years, Quentin Reynolds has probably performed more kids shows in the United Kingdom than any other magician. Accomplished in children’s magic, cabaret magic, mentalism and close-up. He is known by magicians around the world for his brilliant approach to Children’s Magic and is the current President of The Society of Irish Magicians. Information Source: The Ulster Society of Magicians | eventbrite

Luke Skywalker wiles away his youth sipping blue milk and farming moisture for his Aunt and Uncle on the desert planet of Tatooine - but a chance encounter with a precocious droid hurls Luke into battle against the evil Galactic Empire. Will he rescue the beautiful princess? What will become of his Uncle and Aunt and their moisture farming business? The cast at Belfast Improv take on a sci-fi classic and add a comedic spin to it. All songs will be improvised in the moment, with musical accompaniment throughout the show. .................................. Doors at 6.30pm Show starts at 7pm and ends at 9pm, with a 15 minute intermission. Information Source: Belfast Improv | eventbrite

Luke Skywalker wiles away his youth sipping blue milk and farming moisture for his Aunt and Uncle on the desert planet of Tatooine - but a chance encounter with a precocious droid with a hidden message hurls Luke into battle against the evil Galactic Empire. Will he rescue the beautiful princess? What will become of his Uncle and Aunt and their moisture farming business? The cast at Belfast Improv take on a sci-fi classic and add a comedic spin to it. All songs will be improvised in the moment, with musical accompaniment throughout the show. .................................. Doors at 6.30pm Show starts at 7pm and ends at 9pm, with a 15 minute intermission. Information Source: Belfast Improv | eventbrite

All classes focus on progression through the coloured circuits and difficulties, building a strong technical, physical and mental base. Fundamental skills in climbing - footwork, movement, technique, strength, power and endurance and routereading will all be covered. Whether you are wanting to to beat that plateau, get back into it after a break or an injury, get a better understanding and confidence to use the centre and make this your hobby or meet some freinds to climb with ... these clases are for you :) All courses run for 3 consecutive weeks from the start date listed on the event. Sundays are Beginner / Intermediate Level (Blue - Yellow climbs) Mondays are Beginner / Intermediate Level (Blue - Yellow climbs) Tuesday's are Intermediate / Advanced Level (Yellow - Red Climbs) Thursdays are Intermediate / Advanced Level (Yellow - Red climbs) £20 for those with pre paid entry (DD, annual, 30 day pass, 10 visit pass) - please use promo code BWBMEMBER to discount the amout at checkout. £50 for regular PAYG members (entry for the night is included) Information Source: Lucy Mitchell (BoulderWorld Belfast) | eventbrite

Belfast Playwrights presents Play Club - monthly play readings of local scripts by professional actors. Our first script - As We Drift by Heather Martin. A great way to hear new work and build connections. Free to attend, though donations are welcome as we strive to pay the playwrights and the actors for their time. Information Source: Belfast Playwrights | eventbrite

Belfast Playwrights presents Play Club - monthly play readings of local scripts by professional actors. Our first script - As We Drift by Heather Martin. A great way to hear new work and build connections. Free to attend, though donations are welcome as we strive to pay the playwrights and the actors for their time. Information Source: Belfast Playwrights | eventbrite

Explore Northern Knights v North West Warriors sporting information for 7th May, as well as links for Cricket tickets and more with Fixture Calendar. The Northern Knights cricket team is one of the most competitive and accomplished teams in the world of cricket. Representing the Northern regions of Ireland, the team has participated in various top-level competitions such as the Interprovincial Cup, the T20 Blast, and the Northern Knight's Shield. With a track record of consistently performing well in these competitions, the team has proudly claimed the title of champions in multiple occasions. Comprised of highly skilled and talented players, including the likes of James McCollum, Gary Kidd, and Luke Georgeson, the Northern Knights are known for their exceptional teamwork and strategic game plans. The team calls the iconic Stormont stadium in Belfast their home ground, which adds to their already impressive fan following and formidable home-field advantage. TheNorth West Warriors is a first-class cricket team that represents the North West region of Ireland. Established in 2013, the team competes in the annual Irish inter-provincial cricket tournament, the Inter-Provincial Championship. The Warriors have been consistent performers in the competition, having finished as runners-up in 2015 and 2018. The team boasts a talented roster of players, including international stars such as Stuart Thompson and Craig Young. They are led by experienced and successful coach Ian McGregor. The North West Warriors play their home matches at the Bready Cricket Club, a state-of-the-art facility with a capacity of 3,000 spectators. The team has a strong fan base and is known for their aggressive yet calculated style of play, making them a force to be reckoned with in the Irish cricket scene. Information Source: fixturecalendar.com