Exciting programme of events to mark 25th anniversary of The Maiden City Festival

2023 marks the 25th anniversary of The Maiden City Festival and it is back this year, bigger and better than ever this weekend!

The Festival has expanded it's activities this year and has been out and about across Northern Ireland, plus a special visit to the Battle of the Boyne Centre, over the last six weeks with a series of roadshows, showcasing the history and culture of the famous Siege of Derry in 1689.

As well as this the festival has been touring a play into communities throughout the City and District Council area entitled "A Funny Thing Happened On The Way From The 12th" which takes a humorous look at perceptions and misconceptions around the history and the commemoration of the siege.

Commenting on these new initiatives Festival Producer Jonathan Burgess said, "It was felt that as we enter a new era with the 25th anniversary that the festival should expand out more into the community and actively seek to engage with communities across the council area and country and seek to create and promote a positive, good relations message around the festival."

The Festival week from 5th - 12th August will see the programme of events switch into the city centre with living history actors on the walls representing characters from siege times, Highland dancing and piping demonstrations at Grand Parade, The Story of the Siege being told in St Columb's Cathedral daily at 11:30am, 1:30pm and 3:30pm and city centre cafes will again play host to traditional musicians.

The festival has also commissioned a new Highland dance piece entitled "Shut The Gates" to be premiered at the 25th Anniversary concert on Thursday, 10th August.

Other evening events include a Country Night featuring Fiddler Adam and hosted by Gary Wilson on Saturday 5th, an Ulster Scots night on Tuesday 6th.

James Lecky as Governor George Walker in The Siege Story at St Columb's Cathedral.  (Picture Martin Mckeown)

Comedian Tim McGarry and historian Dr. David Hume will be entertaining and informing at The Memorial Hall on Wednesday, 9th August and a further highlight will be the new Maiden City Challenge Football Cup between The Oxford Bulls and Apprentice Boys Select Team to be held on Thursday, 10th August at 6.00pm at The Fountain Primary School football pitch.

Further details of the programme and booking details can be found at The Maiden City Festival Facebook page.