Everything worth getting out for in County Down this weekend — 14 events on Saturday 12 September and Sunday 13 September. This page rebuilds every hour, so it is current.
Best first, not soonest first. These are ranked by how much of a moment they actually are — one-off festivals, markets and shows come above things that happen to be open anyway.
Spread across the country on purpose. We cap how many listings any one town can take, so this is not just twenty things in Belfast. If nothing here is near you, the map will find what is.
Always check the organiser’s page before you travel. We list what has been published, but times change, tickets sell out and outdoor events get cancelled for weather. Every listing links straight to the source.
Free is marked. Anything showing “Free” costs nothing to attend. Northern Ireland has a lot of these — markets, trails, park events and council days out — and they are usually the best of a weekend with children.
1
European Heritage Weekend (EHOD) 2026
Mount Stewart, Newtownards · Sat 12 Sep & Sun 13 Sep, 10:00
Join us this EHOD and explore Mount Stewart, with free entry for all visitors on 12 and 13 September 2026.
Come and meet our staff and volunteers, and learn more about the amazing places we look after.
The Wee Binnian Walkers, the Social Club that walks, warmly invites you to join us for our 2026 hillwalking festival. Throughout the weekend you will have the opportunity to hike in the Mourne and Cooley mountains, both areas of outstanding…
Mount Stewart, Newtownards · On now, until Sun 27 Sep, 11:30
The Temple of the Winds is one of the historic features to explore at Mount Stewart, a National Trust estate on the Portaferry Road near Newtownards, opening from 11:30 with last entry at 3pm. A visit also takes in the mansion house, formal gardens and woodland trails, with a tea-room, second-hand bookshop, gift shop and baby-changing and accessible toilets across the site. With under 5s going free and family tickets available, it suits families wanting an outdoor day out with plenty of walking and things to see.
Castle Ward, Strangford · On now, until Sun 27 Sep, 13:30
Watch the lovingly restored water-powered cornmill at Castle Ward fired up as it turns wheat into edible grains, with the massive grindstones in action and the machinery clunking and whirring. Volunteers are on hand to demonstrate and answer questions, bringing everyday 18th and 19th century mill life to life. Children are very welcome, and both floors of the building can be reached without steps.
AADE Teachers Art & Design Exhibition — Holywood Library
Holywood Library · On now, until Sat 19 Sep, 10:00
A unique exhibition featuring original work by over 50 art and design teachers and lecturers. Discover over 100 pieces of original art that will include paintings, sculpture, jewellery and ceramics while supporting a children's mental health charity.
National Trust Castle Ward, Strangford · Sat 12 Sep
Castle Ward is considered one of the National Trust’s most eccentric properties. Historically the family seat of the Viscounts Bangor, it is notable for its breath-taking landscape and celebration of 18th century theatricality and playfulness.
Ormeau Park, Belfast · Sat 12 Sep & Sun 13 Sep, 09:00
"My Belfast Window", a workshop delivered by local artist Shauna Fox which is designed for children and families from multicultural backgrounds.The session welcomes all those who wish to celebrate and learn about the cultural diversity that shapes Belfast.Suitable for ages 5 – 12. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.Booking essential. t: 028 9050 9150e: [email protected]
Castle Ward, Strangford · Sat 12 Sep & Sun 13 Sep, 10:00
The Argory will be celebrating European Heritage Open Day (EHOD) on 12 September 2026 with FREE ENTRY into the estate. Come and meet our staff and volunteers, and learn more about the amazing places we look after.
Shakti Wellness Studio & Clinic, Belfast · Sun 13 Sep, 18:30
A one-hour guided sound bath at Shakti Wellness Studio, where calming tones from singing bowls and other instruments wash over you to help release tension, quiet the mind and settle into deep relaxation. No experience is needed, but you'll want to bring a yoga mat, comfy clothing, a blanket, pillow and water; it's aimed at adults and teens (ages 16+), and there are health restrictions, so it isn't suitable for young children.
Audlesytown Road, Strangford · Sat 12 Sep & Sun 13 Sep
*CANCELLED* This 15th century tower-house was built by the Audley family, but passed to the Wards in 1646 and was used as an eye-catching focus of the long vista along Castle Ward's Temple Water.
Every Saturday from 11:00am - 11:30am.Rhythm and Rhyme sessions introduce parents and children aged 0 - 4 years to the wonder of rhymes, songs and stories.Each session offers an entertaining opportunity for children to engage with others, provides a good foundation to develop their reading, listening and language skills and of course to have lots of fun! · Recurring 02/05/2026 11:00am – 26/06/2027 11:30am
Every Saturday from 10:30am - 11:00am. Rhythm and Rhyme is an exciting free programme to introduce children aged 0 - 4 years to the wonder of rhymes, songs and stories in the library. Rhythm and Rhyme is a great opportunity for children to have fun and learn in a relaxed venue while giving parents and carers the chance to socialise. Booking essential. t: 028 9127 0591e: [email protected] · Recurring 02/05/2026 10:30am – 26/06/2027 11:00am
This page lists 14 events happening on Saturday 12 September and Sunday 13 September in County Down, ranked best first. It is rebuilt every hour from our live events feed, so it reflects what has been published right now.
Are there free things on this weekend?
Yes — 4 of the events listed here are free to attend. Free events are marked with the word “Free” on the ticket line.
How often is this page updated?
Every hour. The site rebuilds itself from our live events feed on an hourly schedule, so new listings appear and finished ones drop off without anyone having to edit the page.
What if nothing here is near me?
Use the map — it has around 2,000 family days out across Northern Ireland with a near-me search, so you can find something close even on a weekend with nothing big on locally.
Not sure where to start?
Pick your weekend in one line
Weather looking bad? See the best rainy-day days out — museums, soft play, pools and indoor adventure across NI.
Spending nothing? Anything marked Free above, plus fifty more free days out that run all year round.
