Dive into Northern Ireland’s brilliant Atlantic Sessions

Music Session in Springhill, Portrush

Showcasing some 40 artists over four days in venues across the seaside towns of Portrush and Portstewart in Northern Ireland, Atlantic Sessions (14–17 November) is a celebration of original music.  

Now in its fifteenth year and firmly established in the Irish music calendar, Atlantic Sessions has a reputation for excellence among performers and music lovers alike. The event is a platform for emerging talent and established artists from Northern Ireland and cuts across multiple genres including traditional and contemporary folk, bluegrass, americana, electronic, indie, and acoustic singer-songwriters. 

Most of the performances are free, enabling music lovers to dip into a smorgasbord of talent to discover something new or enjoy familiar favourites. 

This year’s line-up includes the Paul Casey Trio, veteran Irish singer Mary Coughlan, Spuds Revisited 79–81 and Johnny Brady with more names to be released soon. One of the headline ticketed shows features two of the most promising young acts in Northern Ireland, the alternative folk band Polar Bolero and the mesmerising voice of Taylor Lally and her band. 

There is also a special tribute to the late John Prine which will be the final headline event of the weekend. Backed by the Orange Blossom band on the stage, special guests will perform a range of Prine’s finest songs. 

Couple on Portrush Beach

There will be free music trails across the music venues, restaurants, hotels and bars of Portstewart and Portrush, with a live performance every hour by Northern Ireland's finest musicians.  

In between savouring the sessions there is plenty to enjoy in Portrush and Portstewart which are located on the famous Causeway Coastal Route. Both towns have great beaches that are perfect for an autumn walk. Portrush is also a top surfing spot and a top golfing destination being home to one of the world’s top links at Royal Portrush.  

Causeway Coast Aerial, Co Antrim

A short distance from Portrush is one of the most iconic places on the island of Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway with its remarkable hexagonal stone formations. Near to it are the atmospheric remains of Dunluce Castle perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean. And a little further along the coast is the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge that sways 30 metres above the ocean and invites the brave of heart to make the crossing. 

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