The festival, which celebrates the unique mix of Irish and Scottish traditions in Northern Ireland, was a massive success when it took place for the first time last year.
The festival is an extension to the annual two-day Highland Games Event that takes place on the grounds of Glenarm Castle Estate and celebrates the history of Glenarm and the strong Irish-Scottish cultural connection.
The award was presented by the UK’s largest outdoor trade association, the National Outdoor Events Association Awards, which celebrate the creativity and innovation of event organisers.
The body commended the Dalriada Festival for celebrating the rich heritage of the local area and rebuilding bridges within the local community.
The festival is set in the coastal village of Glenarm, County Antrim, an area of outstanding natural beauty that was once part of the ancient kingdom of Dal Riada, which was centred around the west coast of Scotland and its many islands, but also comprised most of the north coast of County Antrim in Northern Ireland.
This year the Dalriada festival will run from 13–21 July and will include a Festival of Food, a Festival of Music and a Festival of Sport.
Dalriada kicks off with the two-day Highland Games and is followed by a week of family-friendly activities including fancy dress, vintage rally, a horse hunt chase, triathlon, kids duathlon and a rowing regatta.
The Festival of Music will include Irish and Scottish dancing, piping and drumming competitions.
There will also be evening concerts featuring international pop stars Ronan Keating and Sharon Corr.
Fine food from Ireland and Scotland will be on offer and visitors will have the opportunity to sample local specialities as well as enjoying ‘cook-offs’ between Irish and Scottish chefs.
Glenarm is located in one of Northern Ireland’s famous nine glens, not far from the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Northern Ireland’s most famous visitor attraction.
Adrian Morrow, Glenarm Castle Estate Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to be recognised at these prestigious awards and we hope to build on the success of last year with an even bigger and better festival this July.”
www.discoverireland.com
www.dalriadafestival.co.uk
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