Swell Festival 2025 - showcasing the creative energy of Portrush

THOSE fine people of Swell Portrush have been busy throughout 2025 inviting our community to connect and create together.
Now they are thrilled to announce a wonderful programme of activities in store for you this October.
“There’s so much happening that we couldn’t fit it all into a weekend and as such we are fully embracing FESTIVAL status,” commented Gemma.
“We have a wide range of events taking place between 7th and 12th October across Portrush - there will be something suitable for all ages, abilities and interests.
“Most events are free, all are affordable, and the best thing is that it is all made possible by your local community for your local community.
“We’re delighted that Portrush Library has joined in the fun this year, with an array of activities for people from 0 to 100, running the full week of the festival.
“We’re really excited about Let’s start a Seed Library, with Conor O’Kane from Community Garden Support, and a gorgeous textile art project celebrating Portrush culture and heritage, with local artist Karen Douglas.
“We’re also thrilled to host the launch of Repair Café North Coast, through which a wonderful group of volunteers are helping people repair and reuse, rather than throw away.
“Bring along a faulty lamp or toaster, or much-loved bicycle, jumper or fluffy toy, and the fixers will do what they can to breathe more life into it,” added Gemma.

EXCHANGE
Swell is an active member of the North Coast Community Exchange, a growing movement where people exchange skills, time and goods - all without the need for money.
NCCE has partnered with Portrush Film Theatre for a special screening of The Vula Connection, the inspirational story of founder of the exchange system, Tim Jenkins, and his role in the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa.
“We continue to support the skatepark campaign in Portrush,” continued Gemma “and this year we will be showcasing a nostalgia fest of skate films past and present with Causeway Association of Urban Sports.
“There’s more films to enjoy from the Wave Project and a very special art workshop for teens with local artist Sarah McKay.
“Join The Causeway Shantymen for a roving performance celebrating local maritime traditions and look out for a special book reading from doctor-turned-author Heidi Edmunson, at the White House.
“If you ever fancied giving an open mic night a go, head to Kontiki Cocktail Bar at Kelly’s.
“On top of all of that, there’s music, dance, singing, art, crafting, sketching, poetry, spoken word, creative writing, heritage tours, a Pop-Up Museum, storytelling, circus, yoga, breathwork – all the things you’ve come to know and love about Swell Festival.
“And if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by it all, there’s even some time for a restorative nap with Tree & Tide at the Arcadia,” added Gemma.

PROGRAMME
Download the full programme via the QR code or find out more by following @swellportrush on Facebook, Instagram and Eventbrite.
Swell Festival is delivered in partnership with Portrush Heritage Group and has been jointly supported by the Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council Festival Fund (through the Department of Communities) and Portrush Community Enterprise. The organisers are also grateful for additional support from Morelli’s.