Launch of 2026 Mid Ulster Pipe Band & Drum Major Championships which will take place at Cookstown
The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association Northern Ireland Branch Mid Ulster Section with the support of Mid Ulster District Council has announced the launch of the 2026 Mid Ulster Pipe Band and Drum Major Championships.
This event will again be held in the excellent and familiar grounds of Cookstown High School, just minutes from the town centre and will take place on Saturday, June 6, from 10am.
Following last year’s temporary relocation to the top pitches, the Championships will return to their original area of the school campus, with essential maintenance on the lower pitches now fully completed.
Ample parking will be available throughout the main school grounds, and a shuttle bus service will operate all day to assist visitors travelling up and down the hill between car parks and the contest arena.
Accessible Parking for those with a blue badge will be available for booking in advance through the Branch website at www.rspbani.org/event/midulster26, where all event information will be updated regularly.
Whilst the Mid Ulster Section strives to keep events free and accessible to all, a small parking charge of £5 per vehicle will apply for those parking within the school grounds. Cash, card, and contactless payments will be accepted at the entrance gate. All proceeds directly support the running of the event, and volunteers will be on hand to guide visitors throughout the day.
A full selection of food and drink vendors will be available on site. Catering tender applications remain open until 8 May 2026, with further information accessible via the Branch website at
Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Frances Burton said: “The Council is proud to support the Mid Ulster Pipe Band and Drum Major Championships once again. This event highlights not only the spectacle and atmosphere, but the dedication, discipline, and commitment of every piper and drummer, whose hard work makes the competition so special. It is also a testament to the hard work that the Mid Ulster section carries
out to put on such a wonderful display for our enjoyment. This event is of great value to Cookstown, boosting the local visitor economy while welcoming competitors from near and far. I wish everyone taking part the very best of luck and a successful day.”