Spectacular line-up of performers at two-weekend festival

MUSIC, poetry, craft, theatre and some dance will all be included in a spectacular cultural celebration this spring.

Armagh City will stage a brand new two-weekend mega-festival’ this March and April as part of a striking ‘fire and light’ celebration of its rich history, heritage and culture.

Bringing together the region’s thriving arts and cultural scene to a variety of iconic spaces, venues and its famous apple orchards, the first-of-its-kind landmark Fusion Festival combines a myriad of unique collaborations, big name musical acts, art, craft, theatre, dance, poetry and more.

Arguably the oldest city in Ireland, this apple-laden home of St Patrick is famed for its Georgian façades, vibrant hospitality, quality food and drink and its artistic and cultural might.

Now, this UK City of Culture contender for 2025 is preparing to unleash its power with a unique festival spectacular that sets a new standard in events and entertainment.

Backed by over 30 performers, groups and venues, Armagh Fusion Festival promises cabaret-style circus performances and powerful artistic light installations, firing up the city as part of a stellar programme of outstanding events for two full weekends starting Thursday 24 March and running until Sunday, April 3.

Turning up to take part is world acclaimed singer Ryan McMullan who with contemporary trad band Beoga and supported by local folk singer-songwriting sensation Dani Larkin will ‘reawaken’ your spring senses in a breath-taking performance at the Navan Centre against the stunning backdrop of the mystical Navan Fort.

The Greatest Show – Cirque du Cider – will land in the heart of Armagh’s uniquely beautiful apple orchards to deliver a series of captivating circus shows featuring aerial performances and jaw-dropping circus skills – the perfect accompaniment to the crisp taste of locally-produced cider, apple juice and award-winning local street food all available on site.

A special Ceilidh Fusion of music – and the chance to join in – will set your heart racing at the city’s famous Shambles Yard after you witness the extraordinary ‘Fire and Light’ show fused with art and music at the Astro Park at Armagh’s iconic Observatory and Planetarium.

Envelop yourself in ‘Art after Dark’ which showcases the city’s unique creativity at a variety of legendary venues or hear the infamous tales of Mhacha in Armagh’s Abbey Lane theatre. In a festival event that’s full of surprises, you can always get on your feet this spring and get in on the all-new walking tours which combine Armagh’s fabled tales and local tunes, faces and places.

Few stones in this great city are left unturned in a festival which includes the stunning works of JB Vallely’s paintings – lit up on the historic Market Square and accompanied by the mesmerising sound of the Armagh Pipers Club and readings from acclaimed poets Kate Newmann and Noel Monahan.

Backed by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and Tourism Northern Ireland, the festival was designed and developed in conjunction with award-winning creative event specialists MayWe and will be among the largest and most important celebratory events held in Northern Ireland this year.

Armagh City and borough is currently bidding to become UK City of Culture 2025 after making it through to the final eight of potential contenders.

For more information or to purchase tickets, jump into www.visitarmagh.com/armaghfusionfestival