Something for Everyone as Belfast Learning Festival Returns for Ninth Year

Belfast Learning Festival returns from Monday 8 June to Sunday 14 June, offering a full week of free lessons, workshops, talks, classes and events across the city. From yoga and sound baths to combat robotics, sewing, art, languages, guided walks and Belfast history, the festival celebrates lifelong learning for all ages and abilities.

Belfast Learning Festival returns for its ninth year this June, bringing a packed programme of free activities to venues across the city.

Running from Monday 8 June to Sunday 14 June, the festival invites people of all ages and experience levels to take part in lessons, workshops, classes, talks and events. The programme has been designed to show that learning can happen anywhere, from classrooms and libraries to cafés, community centres, cultural venues, workplaces and waterfront spaces.

Belfast Learning Festival Offers Free Events Across the City

The Belfast Learning Festival is built around the idea that learning is for everyone.

This year’s programme includes a wide range of free activities covering health, creativity, culture, practical skills, discussion, movement and personal development.

Visitors can relax with meditation, yoga and sound baths, or get active through exercise classes, dance sessions and guided walks.

There are also opportunities to try something completely new, including language sessions, discussion groups, music, sewing, mending, painting, gardening, woodwork and willow weaving.

A Festival for All Ages, Abilities and Interests

One of the key strengths of the Belfast Learning Festival is its variety.

The programme includes activities for people who enjoy hands-on learning, creative workshops, physical activity, history, wellbeing or simply meeting others in the community.

Some of the more unusual events include combat robotics, an art project involving old cameras, and a session exploring the feminist history of Belfast.

You do not need qualifications to take part. You also do not need previous experience. All festival events are free, although registration may be required for selected activities.

Learning as One of the Steps to Wellbeing

The annual celebration of lifelong learning is delivered through the Learning City Collective, working alongside Belfast City Council.

Community organisations, Belfast Met, Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University all play an important role in delivering the programme.

The festival is also co-funded by the Public Health Agency, recognising that learning is one of the five steps to wellbeing.

High Sheriff Welcomes Festival Return

High Sheriff of Belfast, Alderman Frank McCoubrey, welcomed the return of the festival and said Belfast’s status as a UNESCO City of Learning reflects the city’s commitment to lifelong learning.

He described the festival as being “a bit like a taster menu”, giving people the chance to try different activities and discover something they may enjoy.

Alderman McCoubrey also praised the partners involved in delivering the festival and encouraged residents to look through the programme.

He said the event celebrates learning in all its forms, connects people throughout the city, and proves that learning can happen anywhere.

How to View the Belfast Learning Festival Programme

Anyone interested in taking part can view the full Belfast Learning Festival programme online.

Why the Belfast Learning Festival Matters

The Belfast Learning Festival gives people the chance to try new things without cost being a barrier.

It also helps connect residents with local organisations, community venues, colleges and universities.

Whether someone wants to improve their wellbeing, learn a practical skill, get creative, meet new people or explore Belfast’s history, the festival offers an accessible way to get involved.

Take a look at the Belfast Learning Festival programme and register for any free events that interest you. Whether you want to move, make, create, explore or simply try something different, there is something for everyone across Belfast this June.