Big Arts Weekend

1 to 4 May 2026

4 days of music, drama, art, poetry and fun for all the family in one of the nicest villages in the Glens of Antrim

Welcome to the Cushendun Big Arts Weekend 2026.

We’re delighted to launch this year’s programme — four packed days of music, comedy, poetry, art and family fun, taking place from 1–4 May in one of the most beautiful villages in the Glens of Antrim .

Now in its 13th year, the Big Arts Weekend continues to grow, bringing together artists, performers and the community for a celebration of creativity, heritage and place.

This year’s programme features a strong mix of live performance and community-led events. Highlights include stand-up comedy with Emer Maguire, Music for a May Evening with the Ulster String Quartet, and a magical Walk in the Woods with Dance Encounters. Our much-loved Family Fun Day at Glenmona returns with live music, an artisan market, children’s activities, and a real petting zoo with pony rides, making it a centrepiece of the weekend once again.

Alongside these, there are opportunities to enjoy poetry and spoken word at our Share-a-Poem session, explore local creativity through art and wildlife photography exhibitions, and take part in guided walks, talks and open mic sessions. The weekend also includes a comedy quiz night and plenty of moments to relax and take in the atmosphere across the village. Our Pop Up Tea Rooms will be open throughout, serving homemade treats and offering a warm welcome to visitors and locals alike.

Whether you’re joining us for a single event or planning to make a full weekend of it, there is something here for everyone.

You can download the full programme using the link below and start planning your visit or scroll down to book events directly.

We look forward to welcoming you to Cushendun this May.

Events

Today

  • Big Arts Weekend – Wildlife Photography Exhibition

    The Old Church Centre 1 Church Lane, Cushendun

    Photographs selected from open submission, celebrating the wildlife of the Glens of Antrim. Time: 12noon to 4pm (except during events) Location: The Old Church Centre Free

  • Stand Up Comedy with Emer Maguire

    Emer Maguire is currently one of Northern Ireland's fastest-rising stand-up comedians, known for her unique blend of musical comedy, sharp wit, and storytelling, often focusing on her life as an […]

  • Big Arts Weekend – A Walk in the Woods with Dance Encounters

    Cregagh Wood 67 Glendun Road, Cushendun, United Kingdom

    Join Philip Johnston and Maiden Voyage Dance Company for a walk through magical Cregagh Wood and encounter dance performances en route. The walk lasts approx 1.5 hours and involves steep […]

  • Big Arts Weekend – Local Artist Exhibition

    Glenmona House 10 Glendun Rd, Cushendun

    The annual exhibition of paintings by local Glens artists returns to Glenmona House for the Big Arts Weekend. Browse a wonderful variety of local pieces from the Cushendun Painting for […]

    £1

  • Big Arts Weekend – Pop Up Tea Room

    Glenmona House 10 Glendun Rd, Cushendun +1 more

    Come and taste our range of homemade treats throughout the weekend at Glenmona House on Saturday and Sunday and the Old Church Centre on Monday.  Time: 11am - 2.30pm

  • Big Arts Weekend – Share a Poem

    The Old Church Centre 1 Church Lane, Cushendun

    Join us once again at the Old Church Centre for this lovely afternoon of poetry and spoken word. Come along to share favourite poems (of your choice or your own […]

  • Big Arts Weekend – Movie Night – The Greatest Showman

    The Greatest Showman follows the rise of visionary entertainer P.T. Barnum as he transforms his humble beginnings into a dazzling spectacle that celebrates imagination, individuality, and ambition. After losing his […]

  • Big Arts Weekend – Music for a May Evening

    Music for a May Evening with the Ulster String Quartet Enjoy a varied programme of contemporary and classical arrangements from one of the leading string quartets in Northern Ireland. Time […]

  • Big Arts Weekend – Baby & Toddler Disco

    The Old Church Centre 1 Church Lane, Cushendun

    Sensory overload for 3-year-olds and under, with contemporary music, dance and colourful lights. Fancy dress optional. Time: 10 to 11am Location: The Old Church Centre Pay at the door £3

    £3

  • Big Arts Weekend – Family Fun Day

    Glenmona House 10 Glendun Rd, Cushendun

    A day of fun for all the family featuring the award-winning Naturally North Coast & Glens Artisan Market as well as local groups Marquee.  We will have a special performance […]

  • Big Arts Weekend – Dog Show

    Glenmona House 10 Glendun Rd, Cushendun

    Back by popular demand....The Big Arts Weekend Dog Show, featuring a simple Agility Course and Dog Fancy Dress . Bring your pampered pooch and join in with the fun. Prizes […]

  • Big Arts Weekend – Sandcastle Competition

    Cushendun Beach Bay Road, Cushendun

    Bring your buckets, spades and loads of creativity, and join the annual Cushendun Sandcastle Competition for ages 3-14. First prize: £20 book token Time: 10.30 am Location: Meet on the […]

Thanks to the support of our funders, many of our family events are FREE for all to enjoy.