Belfast Lord Mayor Councillor Ryan Murphy has helped to launch this year’s EastSide Arts Festival, which returns July 27 – August 6 with an exhilarating celebration of the arts.

Over 11 days, festival-goers will have the opportunity to enjoy unique events that showcase east Belfast’s vibrant cultural scene and creative talent.
With 60+ events spread across every corner of the east, audiences of all ages will be treated to an extraordinary array of music, comedy, dance, theatre, cabaret, talks, tours, film, and family events sure to inspire and engage.
As ever, the festival provides a platform for local artists, entertainers, and performers to shine, whilst bringing people together to enjoy the best of the east. Residents and visitors will have the opportunity to experience thought-provoking theatre and literature, revel in unforgettable music and cabaret, and uncover the hidden gems and historical landmarks that make up east Belfast’s rich heritage.

Roisin McDonough, Chief Executive, Arts Council of Northern Ireland and principal funder, commented: “EastSide Arts has lifted the entire profile of the arts in east Belfast and created an environment where artists can flourish. They have shown how a lively arts, culture and entertainment scene can play a leading role in bringing people and communities closer together through shared creative experiences. All of the tremendous work throughout the year is brought into sharp focus through the annual flagship EastSide Arts Festival. The Arts Council, as principal funder of EastSide Arts through our National Lottery funds, is proud to support the festival, as it reinforces the reputation of east Belfast as a place rejuvenated, full of character and creativity.”
Director of the EastSide Arts Festival, Rachel Kennedy added: “We are thrilled to present this year’s EastSide Arts Festival, showcasing the extraordinary talent that resides within our community. The festival is a celebration of our diverse artistic landscape, where individuals of all backgrounds can come together and experience the transformative power of the arts, reinforcing east Belfast’s position as a thriving hub of creativity. We are continually grateful for the support we receive from our Principal Funder, Arts Council of Northern Ireland through the National Lottery, and Principal Sponsor, Translink, as well as the commitment and support from sponsors, funders, participating venues, artists and the dedicated festival team and volunteers who work hard to ensure that everyone has the best time. We really hope you can join us this year - we would love to see you there!”
The EastSide Arts Festival is supported by the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, funders Paul Hamlyn Foundation, Belfast City Council, Department for Communities, National Lottery Awards for All and Halifax Foundation of Northern Ireland, Principal Sponsor Translink and sponsors Connswater, Hewitt & Gilpin and Third Source.
For the full festival programme and ticket information visit www.eastsidearts.net. Early booking is advised. Follow EastSide Arts festival on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram #ESAFest23.