Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is working with Ballycastle Community Development Group and Rathlin Development and Community Association to bring this celebration, inspired by the Rathlin Sound – the body of water between Rathlin and Ballycastle.
Events include a variety of live music performances, dance displays, have-a-go activities, crafts, walks, talks, cookery demonstrations and lots of artisan produce at the Naturally North Coast and Glens Market, all of which celebrate the area’s rich local history, culture, music and food.
The festival runs until Sunday, June 4.
Check out these great photos from the first few days of the festival.
25. Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival
Tall ship Pheonix pictured at the Blessing of the Boats at Ballycastle. Photo: McAuley Multimedia
26. Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival
Christine Mitchell and Tracy Freeman at the Blessing of the Boats. Photo: McAuley Multimedia
27. Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival
Enjoying the spectacle of the festival. Photo: McAuley Multimedia
28. Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival
Pictured at the Blessing of the Boats at Ballycastle as the Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival opens. Photo: McAuley Multimedia